During the pandemic, Isabella Diaz-Borrello branched out starting her own jewelry business. (Courtesy, Wyoming Wolf Pack Press)
Over the past couple of years, a Wyoming high school student has worked to develop her own line of alternative jewelry, Dusk Shoppe, that is affordable to all.
In 2020, during the first quarantine, Isabella Diaz-Borrello decided to start up a business as a way to make money and express herself through jewelry. It all started when her father gave her money and told her to “make something out of this, try to double what I gave you and make more.”
While brainstorming ideas, she came across videos on TikTok of other people making handmade jewelry.
She felt inspired.
“I thought, I can do that too,” she said. Dusk Shoppe came to life at this moment. Originally, Dusk Shoppe started off as just an earring business: charms, toys, and other accessories. Eventually, Isabella expanded to wire-wrapped earrings, more intricate designs, polymer clay earrings, and resin earrings as well.
As her business evolved, Isabella started to experiment with other types of accessories. She now makes beaded necklaces with chain details and charms, bracelets, keychains, and stickers (which are her very own design). There may be more additions as well.
“I hope to make and sell ceramic at my shop sometime soon,” she said.
For handmade jewelry, her products are fairly priced. Resin earrings are $10, polymer clay earrings are $15, wire-wrapped earrings are $8, necklaces are $25, bracelets and keychains are $6, and her stickers are $3.
The challenges of having your own business
Although her business has grown, there have been struggles. Advertising has been one. She advertises on Instagram and TikTok through her business accounts.
Earrings created by Isabella Diaz-Borrello (Courtesy, Dusk Shoppe)
“I tried making a TikTok once, but it didn’t work out,” she stated.
Isabella hopes to advertise Dusk Shoppe more in the new year through Instagram and TikTok posts. She is also planning more advertisements about her Depop shop and looking at other art markets.
Advertising has not been a huge hit, but her art markets have. At art markets, her business can run itself.
“I’ve only been doing art markets for a year, I did about six last year,” she said.
She hopes to do way more art markets this year, but her real goal is to partake in a market at the yearly Pride Festival.
“There was a booth that was selling jewelry, but it looked like mass-produced jewelry,” she said. “It had a huge line.”
She believes her business needs to grow in size and get better at advertising, that’s the milestone. “It can be expensive and you need a lot of products,” she said.
Dusk Shoppe has had its ups and downs, but Isabella has succeeded in her past goals. Stay updated on new additions to her shop, and remember, if you’re wanting to start a business, think of the wise words of Isabella: “I can do that too.”
Isabelle Mosher is a senior journalism student at Wyoming High School. She plans to study biochemistry at Michigan State University.
Wyoming senior Aaliyah Ratliff poured in a season-best 30 points to help lead the way for the Wyoming girls basketball team as they overcame a slow start to defeat Zeeland East 55-33.
After falling behind 12-2 to start the game, Wyoming went on a 12-0 run to end the first quarter and get back in the game.
“It was a big win for us coming off two tough losses to Muskegon and Zeeland West,” Wyoming Coach Jesse Vasquez said. “To bounce back against a good Zeeland East team gives us a real shot of momentum going into next week.”
The sizzling shooting from Ratliff also provided a big boost of momentum during Friday’s game. Ratliff connected on five three-point shots in a row during a span in the third and fourth quarter that turned the game around.
“She had a couple of 20-point games this season,” Vasquez said. “She averages about 13 points per game, but she shows in practice every day that she has the ability to make tough shots. She got in a rhythm in the third quarter where everything was falling.”
The Wyoming offense also received a boost from Maddie Longoria, who finished with 10 points for the game including a pair of three-point shots.
With the win, Wyoming improved to 8-7 overall, 3-4 in the conference.
“I thought our girls did a real good job of responding to adversity,” Vasquez said. “The girls did a really good job of staying together and staying the course and ended up pulling it out.”
The Wyoming Hall of Fame introduced nine new members in between the girls and boys basketball games against Zeeland East on Friday,
The new members include Pam and Jim Brower, long-time Wyoming Public Schools Boosters who volunteered at multiple athletic events.
K’Brio Kimble, one of the all-time best basketball players at Wyoming Park who finished with 1,252 career points.
Emily Holt Wallace, one of the best all-around athletes to come out of Wyoming, who lettered in five different sports.
Orlando Villarreal, A multi-sport athlete at Wyoming Park who was a standout on some of the best baseball teams in Wyoming Park history.
Whitney Hudson Sharkey, a three-sport athlete who was a two-time, all-state softball player and led the Rogers softball team to the 2005 state championship.
Shawn Veenstra, a three-sport athlete at Wyoming Park who was a member of the 1994 state semifinal basketball team and was one of the best baseball players in school history.
Justin Vasquez, a three-sport athlete who was one of the best swimmers in school history and holds career records in baseball for strikeouts and wins.
Jeff Klomparens, a three-sport athlete at Rogers who stood out in football, wrestling and baseball.
South Christian Coach Kim Legge summed up her team’s 65-64 OT victory over Grand Rapids Catholic Central Tuesday with three words.
“What a game.”
Down by two points in regulation with five seconds remaining, South Christian’s Lily Nitz sank two free throws to tie the game at 56 apiece.
The Cougars, however, weren’t quite ready for overtime.
After the free throws, they inbounded the ball and took it downcourt for a chance to win. Catholic Central made a layup at the buzzer, but it was called off sending the game into overtime.
Off to overtime
“In overtime, both teams went back and forth with scoring,” explained Legge. “With 1:30 on the clock it was once again all tied up at 62. We hit 4-of-8 field goals and they had 2 out of 5, but also had 3-for-6 on free throws.
“We always have a lot of respect for Catholic Central. Going into the game we knew we would have to put together four solid quarters in order to compete. We have been learning from each game we play and seem to build on those experiences. Our team has talked a lot about consistency and composure in the past few weeks and the team really leaned into that last night.”
Legge talked about Catholic Central’s inside/outside game.
“Grace McKinney and Emily VanTimmeren are both extremely talented and have great moves in the paint,” Legge said. “They also have kids that can shoot the ball so we worked a lot on our closeouts in order to be ready for their shooters.”
VanTimmerman led the Cougars with 20 points.
Ashley Raredon had 16 points and 14 rebounds for the Sailors. (Courtesy, South Christian)
“We are a team that also has an inside and outside game with Ashley Raredon inside and shooters like Ashley Thomasma and Lizzie Wolthuis to name a few.,” Legge explained. “We shot extremely well in the first quarter connecting on 4-of-5 3-pointers.”
Thomasma led South Christian with 20 points, including six 3-pointers. Her biggest trey of the night came with 1:13 left in overtime from the corner on an assist from Raredon to give the Sailors a three-point lead.
Raredon had 16 points and 14 rebounds, while Sophia Prins added 13 points and six boards.
After a four-game winning streak, including a “Battle of Wyoming” championship over the holidays, the Wyoming girls basketball team was cooled off by Mona Shores 58-49 Tuesday.
Coach Jesse Vasquez said every time his Wolves cut into the lead, Mona Shores would build it up again.
“In the fourth quarter, Mona had us by 14 points and we cut it down to seven, but couldn’t get over the hump,” said Vasquez, whose team fell to 6-4 overall. “They would make a big 3 to put it back at 10 points.
“We just couldn’t get in a rhythm. They did a real good job defensively against us, and we couldn’t find a bucket when we needed one.”
Last year, Mona Shores finished atop the OK Green at 12-2 and were 19-4 overall.
Wyoming freshman Myah Nabors led in scoring with eight points.
Vasquez said La’Anna Griffin, Shakya Anderson and Meneliza McGee are “some big pieces for us this year.”
Turning things around
Vasquez said recently winning the Potter’s House holiday tournament, the “Battle of Wyoming,” was a cool experience.
“It was a great atmosphere; really loud and great that our girls found a way at the end to win,” said Vasquez, whose Wolves were 4-17 overall last year and have won two more games at this early point in the season.
“I didn’t come in to a bare cupboard; the cupboards are very full,” continued Vasquez, in his first season. “We’re getting them to rely on their teammates, trust one another and they definitely put the work in every practice.
The fall 2022 Alpha Wolf recipients. From left, sophomore Berlinda Pablo-Pablo, junior Gage Behrenbrinker, freshman Zander Creamer, junior Dominik (Buster) Cross, sophomore Tarren Calvert, senior Bryce Bosovich, and freshman Omar Resendiz-Parra. Not pictured is Jesus Valadez Cano. (Courtesy, John Doyle)
Along with the addition of the freshman and sophomore classes, the school welcomed 170 students from other schools, of which 47 students were from different countries, and 28 new staff members.
To represent the high school body, 1,300 paper chains were strung together across the gym’s ceiling.
“Every paper chain represents you. It represents our staff,” said teacher John Doyle, who helps to organize the Alpha Wolf program. “There are over 1,300 chains and they are all connected because that is what we are about.”
A11 Moment Ahead
Guess speaker Mark Kuiper, from the Wyoming High School staff, focused on the second part of the Alpha Wolf theme, “What is your A11 Moment Ahead?”
“An Alpha Wolf Moment Ahead is when you chose not to judge someone based on the color of their skin or that they talk different than you and they may share a different view of the world.” Kuiper said. “Instead you get to know them, know their story…An AW Moment Ahead of kindness, compassion, and graciousness usually appear in the usual, in the mundane, ordinary day-to-day, hour-by-hour routine of our lives. We need to look past our own face. We need to look up.
“Because the moment you look up, you begin to see the signs and when you decide to chose kindness over indifference, when you decide to chose compassion over apathy, when you chose grace over holding a grudge…you are seeing AW 11 Moments ahead become a lifetime and it will change a life.”
Zander Creamer walks up to receive his award. (WKTV)Zander Creamer is congratulated by his family. (WKTV)
Freshmen
Zander Creamer
According to many, the best word that encompasses freshman Zander Creamer is leader.
“This young man is getting it done at Wyoming High School,” according to staff. “Whether in the classroom, in the hallway, in the cafeteria or participating in extra-curricular activities he radiates Alpha Wolf 11 to all who cross his path.”
It did not take long for Creamer to settle in at the high school and as he did, he helped others make the transition to their new chapter in life.
“He is really a sweet kid who constantly has a smile on his face to try and to make people feel welcome and to lift them up when they are feeling down,” students and staff said.
No matter the setting, Creamer makes the effort to get to know the people around him and let them know they feel valued and appreciated through his contagious smile and kind words.
He figures out math problems on his own time. He enjoys robotics, riding his bike, and eating Mexican food as well as spicy, sweet and sour. He has a love for soccer and enjoys watching the Olympics, especially baseball.
Freshman Omar Resendiz-Parra sits in the audience. (WKTV)Omar Resendiz-Parra accepts his award with his family. (WKTV)
Omar Resendiz-Parra
From that description, it did not take long for students to recognize that freshman Omar Resendiz-Parra was the next Alpha Wolf.
“I have never heard him say an unkind word or be remotely critical about anyone,” said one of his teachers. “He has never said anything out of frustration or irritation. In fact, he has challenged himself to be a better version of a kind and gracious person that he already is.”
During parent teacher conferences, Resendiz-Parra helped his father understand by translating everything. He does everything with a kind heart, according to another staff member, and he is willing to help anyone on a daily basis.
Students and staff all agreed that Resendiz-Parra leads by example.
Sophomores
Tarren Calvert
Sophomore Tarren Calvert shakes hands with family members. (WKTV)
Unusually the first thing sophomore Tarren Calvert will ask someone when he sees them is how his/her day is going.
Calvert simply does good deeds whether anyone is looking or not and people are looking. They have noticed how he goes out of his way to help others, especially helping classmates with homework and other tasks.
“It does not take long for everyone who meets this Alpha Wolf to feel the positive energy he gives with everyone he meets,” according to students and staff, adding that this junior varsity basketball star is positive, respectful and selfless.
Sophomore Berlinda Pablo-Pablo walks up to accept her award. (WKTV)Berlinda Pablo-Pablo stands with her family for a photo. (WKTV)
Berlinda Pablo-Pablo
All it took was the statement “She is a flute player and participates in the Grand Rapids Symphony’s Mosaic Scholarship program” for many to quickly guess that sophomore Berlinda Pablo-Pablo was the next sophomore Alpha Wolf.
“Those who have interacted with this student have said this Alpha Wolf 11 left them with a lasting impression,” according to staff. “She is hardworking, strives for excellence and is the embodiment of joy.”
According to her peers, Pablo-Pablo is “a great friend with a sweet and tender heart, a kind shoulder with a big smile, constantly friendly, and never rude to anyone, and she is supportive and ready and able to cheer up a person and make them laugh.”
Juniors
Gage Behrenbrinker
Junior Gage Behrenbrinker walks up to accept his award as his family watches. (WKTV)
A member of the variety football and basketball, junior Gage Behrenbrinker is definitely a servant leader.
Just some of the words/sayings staff and students said about Behrenbrinker were:
Very cool
Always happy
Likes helping classmates and is always helping at school
Works to improves everyone they are around
Always a positive attitude
Makes everyone’s day better
Polite
Respectful
Inspiring
A great role model
A great leader
Someone we all look up to
Because of these many attributes, Behrenbrinker, according to many, is the perfect example of an Alpha Wolf.
Junior Dominkik (Buster) Cross is congratulated by family members. (WKTV)Dominik (Buster) Cross poses with his family for a picture. (WKTV)
Domink (Buster) Cross
Always there for his friends and family, junior Dominik (Buster) Cross uses his voice to encourage the absolute best out of everyone.
According to staff, Cross is bold, honest, and optimistic and there is never a day that he does not put his best foot forward.
He leads by example, has a smile that lights up the room, and always shows grace especially in the face of challenges, which is why the students and staff chose him to as an Alpha Wolf.
Senior Bryce Bosovich is congratulated by family members and staff. (WKTV)Bryce Bosovich stands with his family. (WKTV)
Seniors
Bryce Bosovich
“I have never had the opportunity to have this scholar in class at the junior or high school, but every time I have had conversations with him it has been super respectful, polite, and mature and sometimes sports related,” said teacher Shawn Veenstra who was one of several Alpha Wolf presenters.
For Bryce Bosovich, it was noted it was difficult to compact all the Alpha Wolf characteristics that he has in a short narrative, but the presenters were certainly willing to try.
Comments from students included:
“He is my best friend and has always helped me when I am going through something.”
“He never fails to put a smile on my face.”
“He is always super nice to everyone in class and is always kind to people he sees. He has just an awesome personality and if I say so myself this guy has a bright future on his shoulders as well.”
According to staff, Bosovich’s laugh is instantly familiar. He is thoughtful, respectful, selfless, and always positive.
Jesus Valadez Cano
Jesus Valadez Cano moved to the United States from Mexico a few years ago and in that short time has established himself as a person of integrity, humility and someone who cares about others and their successes.
“When others in class may not understand something or have different ideas Jesus (Valadez Cano) is considerate and works with them in a positive way,” according to staff. “There is no pretense and no arrogance from this student. He simply lifts others up. He has only one mode: positive.”
Known for working with Spanish students to make sure they understand their school, about every student in the school loves working with Valadez Cano because he is such a great listener, values the opinions of others and openly shares his own ideas.
Wyoming Athletic Director Ted Hollern summed it up best when describing No. 1 tennis player and senior Logan Bos.
“He’s not the big, glamorous state-ranked player, but for four years he’s been the leader of our tennis program and it’s fun to shine some light on him,” Hollern explained. “When you asked me to choose a student-athlete to write about, Logan was the first one that came to my mind, and we have many good athletes. I just admire his determination and the fight in him.
“He will be a big success in his future. His dedication and perseverance are going to serve him so well throughout college and his career.”
Lifelong lessons
Hollern said the most important thing in high school athletics is teaching the lifelong lessons.
“When you get knocked down, you pick yourself back up,” Hollern continued. “He had to go up against everyone’s best tennis player in the conference, and he showed a lot of grit and dedication.
“He’s been such a positive influence among the tennis players. He has quietly been one of the big leaders and has made a big impact on our tennis program.”
He has been No. 1 singles for Wyoming all four years and all-conference throughout as well, according to Hollern, who also calls Bos “an outstanding tennis player.”
Bos said his greatest trait on the tennis court is his hustle.
“I never run out of juice, even if my opponent is placing the ball with perfect precision and speed,” said Bos, who began tennis at age 6 with Smart Start Tennis at Wyoming. “I really enjoy being able to let all of my energy out when I hustle around the court. I feel like when I’m playing I have unlimited stamina and can maintain the same speed throughout all of the matches I play.”
His best tennis memory
“I was battling in a match against Sparta’s No. 1 singles last year in 99.5 degree heat index. The match lasted longer than two hours and eventually I won, beating him through two sets and a tiebreak, 5-7, 7-5, 10-4.”
Bos finished the season with a 7-10 record, and as Hollern explained, had to play every team’s No. 1 player all season long.
“As a team we didn’t win any matches, but many players were new to tennis and just seeing them grow as a group was fascinating,” said Bos, who also played baseball and soccer growing up. “One of our doubles teams got their first ever win against Ottawa Hills this season and that was an exciting experience for them.”
A brotherhood
“The Wyoming Wolves tennis team is like being part of a brotherhood. Everyone else thinks we are the underdogs when we go into a match and we just believe the motto of Wyoming versus everybody. We know we don’t have the best chance to go far, but we hustle as best as we can to keep up and maybe even sneak a few upset wins into the season.”
(Courtesy, Kelly Bos)
Favorite thing away from tennis
“My podcast on Spotify: Prairie Sports, named after the street Wyoming High school is located on and where me and my co-host Wyatt Hall discuss everything related to Detroit Sports,” said Bos, who has a 3.84 GPA. “Another thing I enjoy is partaking in Fantasy Football with my friends on Sleeper.
“I have always believed that I could create my own sports radio talk show about the Detroit Lions someday.”
Middle College Program at GRCC
Bos is in the Middle College program supported by Grand Rapids Community College.
“This program allows me to get my Associate’s degree and my high school diploma in my 13th year,” Bos said. “I am currently undecided on an exact career path, but will likely pursue my Bachelor’s degree at a local university following my 13th year.”
WKTV Featured Game coverage of local Kentwood and Wyoming area high school basketball continues this week with a key OK Conference Green boys basketball game as Zeeland East visits Wyoming high Friday, Jan. 21, for a 7 p.m. contest.
The Wolves enter the week with a 4-4 overall record, 1-2 in OK action, after a road loss to traditional power Muskegon (6-0, 3-0 OK) on Jan. 14. Prior to that game, Wyoming had won four of five games including a conference road win at Holland and tight loss to Muskegon Reeths-Puffer (5-2, 2-1 OK).
Early this week, on Jan. 18, Wyoming will host Zeeland West (5-2, 2-1) as both teams try to stay near the top of the conference standings. Zeeland East enters the week with a 1-5, 0-3 OK record, and will play an early-week game hosting Grand Rapids Union (1-5-1, 1-3 OK).
A look around the Wyoming and Kentwood area courts
The Grand Rapids South Christian boys (5-3) enter the week in a three-way tie at the top of the OK Gold standings with a 2-1 record, with the other two teams being Forest Hills Eastern and Ottawa Hills. The Sailors will play both of the teams this week, including a home game against Ottawa Hills on Friday.
The South Christian girls enter the week with a 6-3 overall record and are also 2-1 in early season OK games.
The Kelloggsville boys (5-3 overall) enter the week in the middle of the OK Silver race with a 2-1 conference record including two road wins last week at Comstock Park and at Sparta.
The Godwin Heights girls enter the week at 4-3 overall, 1-2 in OK Silver standings, with road games this week against two teams behind them in the conference: Belding and Hopkins.
The West Michigan Aviation Academy boys enter the week 5-3 overall and 1-0 in Alliance League action, tied with the Wyoming Tri-unity Christian boys (4-2 overall) and also 1-0 in Alliance.
WKTV coverage and schedule/scores
Complete local basketball schedules as well as up-to-date scores of previous night’s games are also available at wktvjournal.org/sports-schedules-scores. (You can also just just bookmark WKTVjournal.org on your phone or other device and click on the blue banner at the bottom of the screen.)
The tentative WKTV Feature Game schedule for the remainder of January and February is as follows:
Tuesday, Jan. 25, boys basketball, Ottawa Hills at South Christian
Friday, Jan. 28, boys and girls basketball, Kelloggsville at Godwin Heights
Wednesday, Feb. 2, boys hockey, Manistee at East Kentwood
Friday, Feb. 4, boys and girls basketball, Grand River prep at Potter’s House
Tuesday, Feb. 8, boys basketball, Holland at Wyoming
Friday, Feb. 11, boys hockey, Petoskey at East Kentwood
Friday, Feb. 18, boys and girls basketball, Zion Christian at Wyo. Lee (HOF night)
Tuesday, Feb. 22, boys basketball, Caledonia at East Kentwood
Friday, Feb. 25, boys and girls basketball, Tri-unity Christian at Potter’s House
WKTV featured games will on cable television in Wyoming and Kentwood on Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T Channel 99 Community Channel, rebroadcast on the night of the game and various days and times the week after. See the programming schedule at wktv.org. For more information on WKTV coverage of basketball and other winter prep sports, follow us at wktvjournal.org/sports.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV’s video coverage team, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.com.
WKTV’s featured game crew was at this 2019 baseball game between Wyoming and South Christian high schools — the last season the Wolves were able to take the field due to the cancellation of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 restrictions. (WKTV)
High school baseball and softball games in March routinely get rained, or snowed, out in West Michigan. But this year, even if delayed, they stand a chance to played — unlike last season, which was canceled as COVID-19 hit the scene.
So even before the announcement last week from the Michigan High School Athletic Association that spring sports practices and competitions would be delayed by a week, which is expected to have little impact on the Wyoming High School’s ball teams, the Wolves are mostly simply eager for their first live action in more than a year.
“With the delayed start being only one week, as well as the MHSAA allowing us to continue both four man workouts and conditioning workouts, I see no real impact,” Travis Stricklin, Wyoming head baseball coach, said to WKTV. Stricklin is entering his first year leading the Wolves onto the field. “If anything, it gives us an extra week with the kids to prepare and get ready for the start of our season.”
Kaitlin Failing, Wyoming head softball coach, agrees — but includes an additional reason the delay isn’t so bad.
“I think that the later start date is good considering basketball got pushed back,” Failing said to WKTV. “We share a lot of athletes with basketball and it would become pretty difficult to field teams if they are overlapping. We never really get games in the first couple of weeks anyways, so it doesn’t really matter to us that we are starting later.”
Both coaches, however, see last year’s hiatus from high school competition as being the real obstacle to be overcome by their 2021 teams and their entire programs.
“I think (losing) the entire season really affected our program and other programs in similar economic situations,” Failing said. “We tend to run a lot of opportunities for the girls within Wyoming to participate in softball through the school system, for 5th grade up. With the season being cancelled, our girls lost out on their only opportunity to participate in softball. … (Also) without being allowed to run clubs and clinics for all of our younger students, we are not able to get new students interested in playing or give our younger girls the opportunity to get better.”
Failing also pointed out that some high school programs had a high level of travel participation, with their athletes able to play throughout the summer and fall despite Michigan restrictions, “while a lot of our athletes haven’t played in over a year now … our athletes missed out on their only opportunities to play if they do not play travel” ball.
And, she pointed out, with the missing season, many student-athletes are choosing not to play this season “for a number of other reasons because of COVID.”
Much the same is true for the Wolves baseball program.
“Not having a season last year took a toll on our program for sure,” Stricklin said. “We feel that we are beginning to progress as a program, so losing a year due to the pandemic was definitely not easy.
“That being said, I am beyond proud of the way our kids handled it. Rather than getting upset and letting it keep them down, they simply asked when we could begin working out together again to try and get better for whenever we do actually get to play.”
Delay aside, a 2021 season is expected
The MHSAA announced Feb. 22 that its Representative Council had approved an “adjustment to the Spring 2021 schedule delaying the start of practices in those sports one week to March 22 and competition to March 26 “to accommodate a later end to Winter sports this season,” according to the statement.
“The calendar change should alleviate pressures on indoor facility usage and athletes changing seasons with Winter sports concluding up to two weeks later this school year after a delayed start due to COVID-19,” according to the MHSAA statement.
The MHSAA said it based its decision in part on feedback from a survey of MHSAA member high schools, which saw 74 percent favoring a delay in spring sports activity of at least one week. State coaches associations for spring sports also were consulted, and, according to the MHSAA statement “the great majority of Michigan schools are unable to begin consistent spring sports outdoor activity and competition until early April.”
All spring sports tournament dates remain as originally scheduled, however, with MHSAA finals in baseball, softball and girls soccer concluding the 2020-21 postseason June 19.
Previously, the MHSAA council approved an allowance for spring teams to meet for voluntary practices over 16 contact days in September and October, 2020. General conditioning with an unlimited number of students was allowed, with other out-of-season training (four-player workouts, open gyms/facilities) allowed to continue through March 21, with council having eliminated the preseason downtime restriction for Spring sports this year.
But those allowances did not necessarily benefit all schools, or programs, equally.
“We couldn’t really do much with the 16 days because we do not have enough athletes to scrimmage ourselves or run practices because our athletes all play other sports in the fall,” Failing said. “We held open fields but we knew we wouldn’t have a ton of participation because they were not available. I know other schools were able to get their teams together and scrimmage themselves.”
The Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) recently confirmed that 2020-21 winter sports will begin on time, including boys and girls basketball being able to start conditioning sessions the first week of November, practices shortly thereafter, and games as early as late in the month.
But they also set out a series of “guidelines” for winter sports that schools must follow, including possibly preventing any basketball scrimmages prior to full-game action.
“A number of precautions have been put in place addressing competition limits, numbers of spectators allowed and wearing of face coverings, among a variety of topics,” according to an Oct. 23 statement from the MHSAA. “As with fall sports, scrimmages will not be allowed for winter sports.”
While there may be something gained by not allowing scrimmages, Wyoming High School boys basketball coach Thom Vander Klay said there is something lost.
Wyoming High School basketball coach Thom Vander Klay, coaching during the 2016-17 season. (WKTV)
“We are disappointed in the no scrimmage rule particularly with the fact that we are inexperienced and didn’t get our summer schedule in,” Vander Klay said about the impact on his Wolves program. “We have a lot to figure out regarding cuts and then roles on the team. … A lot of question marks that we can often have answered after scrimmages, and summer and fall games.”
For the Wolves, after-school conditioning will begin Nov. 2, with full practices starting Nov. 16, and its game schedule currently set to start Dec. 8 with a home game against Grand Rapids South Christian.
MHSAA guidelines for all sports, and a cautionary tale
The Representative Council of the MHSAA, during an Oct. 22 meeting, voted to have 2020-21 winter sports begin on time but stressed as series of guidelines “that schools must follow as they continue to work toward limiting the spread of COVID-19 while still providing opportunities for athletes to compete.”
There are sport-specific guidelines (posted on the MHSAA Website at mhsaa.com/sports), and a number of precautions put in place “addressing competition limits, numbers of spectators allowed and wearing of face coverings, among a variety of topics. The guidance also specifically addresses equipment and facilities” for each sport.
In general, according the MHSAA statement, scrimmages will not be allowed for winter sports to “limit mixing of communities outside of official competitions.” And the number of teams at regular-season competitions also will be limited, with a maximum of four schools/teams allowed in competitive cheer, gymnastics, swimming & diving and wrestling. Bowling and skiing competitions will be restricted to a maximum of 72 competitors at one event.
There are no school/team limits for basketball and ice hockey, according to the statement, “as only two teams are able to play each other at one time and those sports may play only one game per day — with fans leaving after their game is complete.”
Host sites must enforce spectator capacity limits on a game-by-game basis, and currently MHSAA guidelines allow two spectators per participant at all contests to begin the regular season. The guideline “could be reconsidered by the Council later in the winter season,” with a possibility of allowing more spectators later while still staying within possible Emergency Orders from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
As per MDHHS requirements, face coverings must be worn by athletes practicing and competing in basketball, competitive cheer, ice hockey and wrestling. But masks are not required for athletes practicing and competing in bowling, gymnastics, skiing and swimming & diving, which all allow for appropriate social distancing, but face coverings are required for those athletes when not involved in active participation.
“The Council believes it is safer to begin Winter practices on time, and keep athletes in school programs where safety precautions are always in effect,” MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl said in supplied material. “With the vastly different circumstances faced by schools in different regions all over the state, an on-time start still allows schools to decide when they feel most comfortable beginning activity — and allows all of them to slowly ramp up their frequency of activity and numbers of spectators attending competitions.
“But let’s be clear,” Uyl said. “Our statewide COVID-19 numbers have to get better. In order for our schools to continue playing sports this winter, and in order for fans to be there to cheer them on, we must continue working to slow down this virus.”
Wyoming’s High School’s head football coach Irvin Sigler was supposed to be awarded the West Michigan Officials Association’s Coach of the Year award at an association ceremony early this year. But then came COVID-19, and pubic ceremonies were put on hold.
While he did received the honor over the summer, during a socially-distant visit form association officials, Sigler says the honor was special none-the-less.
“I feel very honored, but it is truly a reflection of our program, players and assistant coaches,” Sigler said to WKTV. “It is more significant than any award I’ve received in coaching.”
And the reason is simple, Sigler said: “It comes from officials, who don’t get much recognition and thanks for what they do. But without whom we would have no game.
“It means so much to me, because officials have the chance to see coaches at our best and our worst. To know that I’ve earned the respect of this group of men tells me that we are doing things right as a team and program.”
And Coach Sigler, who is also the Dean of Students at Wyoming high, wants his players to win off the field as well as on at the field.
“I want to continue for us to portray the best values of sportsmanship, and ambassadors of the game,” he said. “I want our players to take pride in knowing that their attitude and behavior are respected by the ‘gatekeepers’ of the game.”
During a pandemic-shortened football season, Sigler said his expectations for his team are equally simple.
“To get better every day, be a great practice team and play as hard as we can on Friday nights,” he said .”That we will continue to honor the game and our community. That we will continue to treat people with dignity and respect.”
Wyoming Public Schools held a WHS Senior 11 Night Celebration Parade Monday, June 15, and WKTV was there. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org
As part of its effort to recognize the Wyoming High School Senior Class of 2020 despite the COVID-19 school shutdown in the spring, Wyoming high will hold a special graduation ceremony on Tuesday, July 28.
While the ceremony at Wyoming High School will be accessible in-person for only 2020 seniors, and limited family and friends, it will be available on radio and on a Facebook livestream feed with video provided by WKTV Community media.
“We are excited to recognize and celebrate the Wyoming High School graduating class of 2020,” Josh Baumbach, Wyoming High School principal, said to WKTV. “Our seniors missed out on some pretty significant events this year as a result of the pandemic and it’s important to us to do what we can to provide a ceremony for our seniors and their families to attend.
“Although this ceremony will be different due to restrictions on gatherings and other social distancing protocols that will be in place, it will be an opportunity for the seniors to cross the stage and celebrate with their family and we hope this will provide some closure as the graduating class of 2020 moves forward to the next stage in their lives.”
WKTV was also on-hand when Wyoming Public Schools held its Wyoming High School Senior 11 Night Celebration Parade June 15. See a story and video here.
The planned July 28 ceremony will begin at 7 p.m. with welcome and opening remarks and speeches.
“Participants can listen to the speeches with their families in their vehicles on the radio or via live stream,” Baumbach said. “After the speeches, each senior will be able to walk into the stadium with their immediate family to cross the stage and pick up their diploma cover. Parents and family can capture the moment with a video or a picture.”
The ceremony can be viewed using this live stream link. The audio of the ceremony will also be available on 94.1 FM station.
The ceremony will include individual students walking across a stage in cap and gown to get a diploma cover. Once all student names have been called, and all students are in their cars, students will step back out of their car and the entire Wyoming High School graduating class of 2020 will be recognized and will be asked to flip their tassel.
Baumbach also said the event is also a great example of cooperation and collaboration within the Wyoming Public Schools system and with other school districts.
“We appreciate the collaboration with Grandville High School and Godwin Heights High School as we planned our event,” Baumbach said. “Additionally, special thanks goes out to our (WPS) Superintendent Craig Hoekstra and the many wonderful staff members that are part of our high school and district staff that helped step up to support this planning.”
In recognition of both a desire to honor Wyoming High School’s 2020 graduating seniors, and the importance of allowing the school staff and Wyoming community the opportunity to join the celebration, Wyoming Public Schools held a WHS Senior 11 Night Celebration Parade Monday, June 15.
In addition, Wyoming High School is scheduled to host its Class of 2020 commencement ceremony on July 28 at Grand Rapids First.
Prior to the parade, WKTV caught up with WPS Superintendent Craig Hoekstra and asked about how the parade came to be, and the desire of he and the entire school community to make sure the seniors time of graduation was not “defined” by COVID-19 shutdown.
From left, English teacher Kim-Hang Tran and media specialist Melissa Schneider started the Wyoming chapter of Project Lit with students. (School News Network)
Talking about books while noshing soup and crusty bread can lead to powerful discussions.
Consider the connections Wyoming High School senior Jonelly Macias made at the recent Project Lit meeting between youth mental health and the nonfiction book “Just Mercy” by Bryan Stevenson. She said school counselors and teachers need to be persistent in reaching out to students who are withdrawn and isolated.
Junior Cindy Gomez leads discussion during project
“Don’t leave them alone. That’s when the are most vulnerable and their imaginations run wild and they start thinking about the craziest things,” Jonelly said.
Students and staff members delved into the book, which documents vast inequities in the justice system affecting people of color and the poor.
Participants jotted down thoughts on sticky notes for discussion. Topics included the death penalty, life sentences for juveniles and racial disparities in the prison system and in sentencing.
Equally thought-provoking conversations have taken place during the community book club’s meetings on books such as “Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah and “With the Fire on High” by Elizabeth Acevedo, said media specialist Melissa Schneider. She started the Wyoming chapter of Project Lit with English teacher Kim-Hang Tran and Wyoming High School students, who serve as ambassadors.
The next Project Lit selection is “Shout” by Laurie Halse Anderson.
Junior Vanessa Martinez jots down her thoughts about a topic in the book ‘Just Mercy’
Sharing Books and Conversations
A high school teacher and his class started the original Project Lit in 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. The goal was to expose students to books they could relate to while bringing the community together. The class began donating books to “book deserts,” areas where students don’t have access to many books.
The Wyoming chapter meets a few times a year to talk about a selected book that represents diverse characters and authors, different cultures and underrepresented populations.
Wyoming High School students are very diverse so the books resonate with them, Tran said. “They can see themselves in the books.”
Added Schneider. “The goal is that the kids see adults reading and we can have conversations together about books. Books aren’t just something assigned in school.”
Ambassadors, including juniors Vanessa Martinez, Deymi Gramajo and Cindy Gomez and senior Jonelly, discussed why they are passionate about the project.
‘I thought the concept behind the whole club was a good (one) and a good thing to spread. I think the community deserves to read these stories,” Vanessa said.
“I would like to spread the love of reading to the community and get more people involved in reading,” Cindy said.
Jonelly said the whole idea is to appreciate books. “They are books that are good for the soul, good for the mind and help us grow as individuals.”
Wyoming’s club also has a community service focus. They will launch Project Lit on Wheels this summer, using a donated van transformed into a mobile library to deliver books to children. Students will facilitate book donations efforts in the community.
For more stories on area schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
From left: junior Vanessa Martinez, senior Jonelly Maroas. junior Deymi Gramajo and junior Cindy Gomez discuss juvenile life sentences and juvenile incarceration in adult prisons. (School News Network)
Patricia Osorio (left) and twin sister Johanna Osorio enjoy some downtime between classes on the Grand Valley main campus (cr. Sarah Anderson/University Communications/GVSU)
Grand Valley State University freshmen Odalis Johanna Osorio, who goes by Johanna, and her identical twin sister, Odalis Patricia Osorio, who goes by Patricia, do nothing the easy way.
Consider their time at Wyoming High School, from which they graduated this past spring.
Already as freshmen they’d decided to push themselves and signed up for Honors English.
“My mom didn’t even know,” recalls Patricia, “and I can remember her asking ‘Why are you guys studying so hard?’”
Johanna continues the story for Patricia — a not uncommon occurrence for the pair, who also often answer questions in unison.
“We wanted to take on that challenge,” says Johanna. “It was hard, but we made it through.”
“I was scared every day in that class,” Patricia adds with a laugh.
“But we gained so much knowledge and skills,” concludes Johanna. “We learned how to study; we learned how to be students.”
Patricia Osorio (left) and twin sister Johanna Osorio pause prior to an afternoon lab on the Grand Valley State University main campus (cr. Sarah Anderson/University Communications/GVSU)
First Generation Students
The twins have taken that knowledge, and much else learned during their high school days, to their university experience at GVSU, where they are part of a pre-dental program with a goal of one day opening their own dental practice. They already have a name picked out: Osorio Dental. And though they know the road ahead of them will be difficult, they are determined to succeed.
This semester the first-generation college students are taking four classes each, and two of those classes are chemistry and biology, each of which also has a lab.
“It’s harder than we expected,” says Johanna. “It’s going to be a big challenge, but we’ll get there.”
One thing that is making life a little easier for the pair is financial aid. They’ve received assistance from GVSU and were awarded scholarships from the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, based on their grades, activities and a short personal essay. Each received a foundation award of $1,000 from the Josephine Ringold Scholarship fund, which has given approximately $600,000 to students in the Grand Rapids area since it was established in 1991.
“We are still paying a lot since it’s two of us,” says Johanna. “We are very grateful for getting any financial assistance because it does help, no matter how much.”
Patricia Osorio (left) and twin sister Johanna Osorio enjoy some downtime between classes on the Grand Valley State University main campus (cr. Sarah Anderson/University Communications/GVSU)
Hot Chocolate in French
They’re also grateful to teachers at Wyoming High School, who not only made an impact on them during their time there but have stayed in touch now that they’re at GVSU.
The twins took French all through high school to push themselves and get out of their comfort zones. Fluent in Spanish, thanks to family ties to both Honduras and Mexico, they knew taking Spanish would have been easy. But French would present a challenge, and the twins were resolute in their belief that surmounting challenges was the best way to use high school as a launching pad for college.
They found a bonus in Wood, whom they call Madame Wood.
“She was a big influence on us, and she’s stayed in touch with us and given us advice,” says Patricia. “We had her class in the morning, and she had this little machine where you could make hot chocolate. It made us feel comfortable.”
‘IT’S HARDER THAN WE EXPECTED. IT’S GOING TO BE A BIG CHALLENGE, BUT WE’LL GET THERE.’ — JOHANNA OSORIO ON UNIVERSITY LIFE
Jonathan Bushen was another mentor and guide for the twins, and he too has stayed in contact with them.
“He motivated us to go to university,” says Johanna. “Just the other day he texted, and he was like ‘Have you joined any clubs yet?’”
Patricia laughs. “We told him ‘yes’ because we joined the Latino Student Union, and we’d just been at a meeting!”
Patricia Osorio (left) and twin sister Johanna Osorio catch up on a reading assignment at a scenic spot on the Grand Valley State University main campus (cr. Sarah Anderson/University Communications/GVSU)
Drive + Compassion = Success
Bushen, who teaches business, technology and video production, says Johanna and Patricia are two of the most gracious and kind students he has taught at Wyoming High School. “Their drive for success along with compassion for others are some of their many great qualities,” he says. “As their business teacher for three years, I watched them develop into young women who have a passionate heart for others, along with determination for individual success, and it wasn’t hard to see that they would be successful in college, and beyond. I am fortunate to know them and to have just had a small piece in their journey.”
In addition to supportive former teachers, the twins also have support from family — not just their mom and step dad but also numerous aunts and uncles and cousins — encouraging and pushing them to succeed. In turn, they have a deep desire to model success for others in their family, including a 3-year-old brother and a number of school-aged cousins.
“At Wyoming, when you graduate you get cords that you wear for all of the clubs and activities you’ve been part of,” says Patricia. “For Honors Society, for Key Club (a group that coordinates volunteer activities), for class committees. I remember my cousin looked at us wearing them and said ‘I want those.’ And I said: ‘Girl, you have to earn them.’”
Earning it. For the Osorio twins, there’s no other way.
For more on area schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
Junior Jessi Talluto painted a deer skull surrounded by fire and smoke recently on the wall of Wyoming High School.
Finished murals now decorate the hallway (courtesy photo)
The message she hopes to convey through the mural, located between lockers, is about deforestation, she said. Pictures of tiny factories behind the deer symbolize the takeover of wildlife habitat.
Art students are using a soon to-be-demolished hallway as their canvas to temporarily spread awareness and get their peers thinking about social, mental health and environmental issues. Art teacher Robyn Gransow-Higley said they wanted to use the space for art with the purpose of conveying messages before the hallway is torn down.
Renovations and construction of a large building addition are under way at the school, with much to be completed by fall 2020.
“We’re allowing this space to do one last and hopefully positive thing before it goes away,” Gransow-Higley said, noting that students took charge of the project after she got permission to paint on the walls.
Juniors Nicole Start and Onna Burger painted a picture of a bin containing trash with a large recycling bin above it. Onna said she wants students to think about how much they consume and discard. “A lot of people use a lot,” she said. “I want them to think about how things could be in the future if they don’t think about the waste they create.”
For more stories on local schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
The end zone and howling wolf at the 50-yard line pop with purple in the renovated Wyoming Wolves football stadium.
Construction is nearly complete on about $3 million in work to the outdoor athletic complex at Wyoming High School, 1350 Prairie Parkway SW. Improvements include artificial turf, a new track, a new softball field and dugouts, baseball field updates, a new stadium entry plaza, an updated concession stand, sidewalks and batting cages.
Fans will arrive Oct. 11 for the Homecoming game against Wayland, the first matchup in the new digs. (Until the field is finished, home games will be held at Wyoming Junior High, 2125 Wrenwood St. SW.)
The complex will serve all students in sports and beyond, said Athletic Director Ted Hollern, who has worked in the district for 23 years.
“I see it being the anchor of the entire community, when our kids have the opportunity to go out there and show everybody their talents and their skills and what they are all about on a first-class prestigious football field,” Hollern said. “It is the point of pride for everyone. We now have a facility that matches the prestige and expertise of our athletes.”
Over the decades
Construction on a 30-classroom addition is under way
The Wyoming Wolves’ new outdoor athletic complex is near completion
The new end zone
Over the decades
Construction on a 30-classroom addition is under way
Construction on a 30-classroom addition is under way. (School News Network)
Much More to Come
Renovations are just part of $40 million in planned work at the high school. A 30-classroom addition is under construction and should be ready to move into next August, said Principal Josh Baumbach. Renovations school-wide will include new collaborative spaces outfitted to meet technology needs. Hallways will be widened and windows and high ceilings will allow for more natural light. Eventually, ninth graders, who are currently housed at Wyoming Junior High, will be moved to the high school.
“Essentially we are going to have a new high school when this is said and done. Our students deserve the best and our community has stepped up,” Baumbach said.
The work is all part of $79.5 million school improvement bond, to fund facility improvements districtwide, which passed in 2017. It is being split into two phases: $23.5 million for a first phase of improvements and the remaining $56 million in 2022.
For cheerleaders Andraeya Wells, Taylor Boukma and Brionni Strodtbeck, the excitement goes beyond athletics.
“I can’t wait for the freshmen to come up here and have their own wing,” said Andraeya.
Taylor said she’s happy for future Wolves. “They will be brought up with stuff we never had — newer buildings, nicer facilities and everything. They are going to have more opportunities.”
Added Brionni, “It’s fresh and clean. Everything will be new.”
Josh Baumbach is the new Wyoming High School principal. A graduate of the former Wyoming Park High School and Hope College, he most recently served as West Elementary principal for two years. Because Baumbach was highlighted then as a new principal, SNN asked him a few questions specific to his new role.
What’s your favorite thing about high school students? They keep us on our toes and feeling connected. Their sense of perspective is neat. I like learning about their dreams — what they want to do for a living, the opportunities that lie ahead for them. One of my favorite things is the passion they have for anything they are involved in, whether it’s football, theater, band; whatever it is they are all in. The student section at the basketball game and its energy is an example of that.
What’s the most important piece of advice you have for them? What I’ve told our students is get engaged, get connected in something at the high school: band, Key Club, National Honor Society. Enjoy that experience of being a part of something bigger.
What’s your favorite high school memory? I remember the relationships with teachers and classmates, the great pride we took in being from “The Park,” and beating East Grand Rapids in Triple Overtime during our senior season of football.
What roles have you served in during your 17 years in the district?
Sixth-and-seventh grade social studies teacher at Jackson Park Junior High School
Ninth- and 10th-grade social studies teacher at Wyoming Park and Rogers High schools
Assistant principal at Wyoming Junior High
Assistant principal at Wyoming High School
Head varsity football coach at Wyoming Park High School
What is it like to become high school principal in the community where you grew up? It’s a very humbling experience to be the high school principal in the district you graduated from. I love this community, our students, and Wyoming Public Schools. It’s a cool honor and privilege — not something I take lightly. We have a great staff who want to be champions for kids and to make a difference in their lives.
Parkview Elementary School Principal Nick Damico chats with, from left, Anevay Keller and Scarlette Holcombe. (School News Network)
Meet Your Principal: Kristen Fuss
Kristen Fuss is the new Oriole Park Elementary School principal.
Other positions you have held in education: I spent 24 years in Romulus Community Schools. I was a fifth-grade teacher for nine years. After that, I was a Title I Learning Specialist and managed all of our Title I funds and interventions. I was in that position for nine years before being hired as a principal. This was all at the same elementary school that I did my student teaching.
How about jobs outside education? I worked at Kensington Metropark for six years in the maintenance department at one of the beaches.
Education and degrees: Bachelor of science degree from Western Michigan University, a master’s in children’s literature from Wayne State University, and administration certification from Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals.
Spouse/children: No spouse or children, but engaged to be married.
Hobbies/Interests: Reading, spending time with family & friends, traveling.
What kind of kid were you at the age of students at this new school? I was a rule follower and tried to make friends with everyone. I was a student who struggled a bit academically, but had a lot of support around me to help me be more successful than I may have been without the support.
The biggest lesson you have learned from students is… They just want to feel cared for! Building relationships is key to any student’s heart. Building relationships is key to any student’s heart. They will thrive if they feel you truly care for them.
If you walked into your new school building to theme music every day, what would the song be? “I Gotta Feeling. It’s uplifting and makes you feel that everything’s going to be just fine!
New Parkview Principal Nick Damico and his family. (School News Network)
Meet Your Principal: Nick Damico
Nick Damico is the new Parkview Elementary School principal
Other positions you have held in education: I have served as a history teacher, elementary school principal, and middle school principal. I was also a basketball, baseball, and football coach.
How about jobs outside education? Sac-MENTORING, a college mentoring program for at-risk youth operated through Cal State Sacramento.
Education and degrees: Currently a doctoral candidate at Brandman University in Irvine, California. My dissertation is on leadership storytelling and how school and district leaders use storytelling to make transformational change. Master’s degree in teaching from Azusa Pacific University and a bachelor’s degree in government from California State University Sacramento.
Parkview Elementary School Principal Nick Damico chats with, from left, Anevay Keller and Scarlette Holcombe. (School News Network)
Spouse/children: My wife, Vicky, is an Autism Spectrum Disorder teacher for Thornapple Kellogg. We have three beautiful daughters; Lucy, 6, Emily, 4, and Macy , 3.
Hobbies/Interests: Angels baseball and dissertation writing.
What kind of kid were you at the age of students at this new school? I was so immersed in athletics and competition that I counted down the minutes until recess and lunchtime. I was all about playing basketball, soccer, football and any other competitive sport with my friends, including pogs.
The biggest lesson you have learned from students is… Every day is a new opportunity to do right by students. A lot is asked of educators on a daily basis but the most important thing for us is to live by the motto “as much love as you can muster,” which to me means a relentless compassion for our most vulnerable students.
Finish this sentence: If I could go back to school I would go to… Honestly being in the middle of my dissertation … I can’t answer this question without getting knots in my stomach. I am ready for a school break.
If you walked into your new school building to theme music every day, what would the song be? “Whatever It Takes” by Imagine Dragons.
Brian Hartigan high fives students passing by. (School News Network)
Meet Your Principal: Brian Hartigan
Brian Hartigan is the new West Elementary School principal.
Other positions you have held in education: I’ve been an elementary teacher in every grade besides second, including kindergarten. I have taught in North Carolina, Kentucky, Traverse City and was instructional coach in Kentucky and Traverse City. I was most recently the K-12 principal in Glen Lake Community Schools.
How about jobs outside education? Everyone in my family is an educator. My dad was my K-12 principal, my mom was an elementary teacher. My sister is a high school Engilish teacher. The only thing I knew I didn’t want to be was a teacher. I ran a youth sports program in Chicago, working with students ages 3 to 9. Then I got into sales. I missed working with kids, so I returned to college for an education degree.
Education and degrees: Bachelor’s degree in sports management and communications from the University of Michigan; bachelor’s degree in elementary education from U-M; master’s degree in teacher leadership from University of the Cumberlands; master’s degree in educational leadership from Central Michigan University.
Spouse/children: Wife, Jody, and two children: Sophie, a second grader, and Wesley, a kindergartner
Hobbies/Interests: I like being outdoors. My family and I like hiking, biking, camping and going to the beach. I love Frisbees, disc golf, and Ultimate Frisbee.
What kind of kid were you at the age of students at this new school? My dad was my principal, so I guess I was well-behaved and compliant for the most part. I grew up in a K-12 school, so teachers were very familiar with families.That kind of closeness helps you make good choices. I’ve always loved sports since fourth grade when I became interested in going to U of M. That probably had to do with when Michigan won (the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament).
The biggest lesson you have learned from students is… Compassion and forgiveness. When you work in education you realize students are trying their best. Mistakes are made. Second and third chances are necessary and deserved.
Finish this sentence: If I could go back to school I would go to… Seventh grade. That’s the first time I had the opportunity to play organized sports. I love soccer, basketball and tennis.
For more stories on area schools, visit the School News Network, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
The words on notecards whisper, shout, cheer and cry off the wall.
“Didn’t get into Western.”
“My life isn’t really great at the moment. I’m struggling with trust between my mother and I. I am currently going through a break-up and am having a hard time figuring out who I am.”
“My life is great, but sometimes I wish I had a friend to share the good and bad moments of my life.”
“I am thankful for family.”
“I’m losing the roots of my culture. I’m stuck between a deep, traditional Hispanic culture and the American culture. Can’t really carry a conversation with my grandparents. Makes me sad… I’ll try speaking English and forget a word, then replace it with the Spanish words.”
Responses on sticky notes are posted on top of the note cards.
“All your friends are there for you. Don’t worry about being judged because you are perfect the way you are. Keep fighting!”
“Hey, it’s okay. If you ever need to talk call or text me @ __”
“You got this. Keep pushing through…”
“Stay strong and true to yourself, then you’ll be successful.”
Words of thankfulness are among notes about struggles (courtesy photo)
In the hallway at Wyoming High School, students and staff created a Speak Wall, a collaborative board where students anonymously wrote about their struggles, joys, fears and gratitude. In the center of the wall, the words “I want to see you be brave” sum up the purpose of the wall: put yourself out there and tell your story.
In response to notes left on the wall, passersby left messages of encouragement, even reaching out with their phone numbers to those who appear to need a friend.
Sophomore Briayja White helped create and contribute to the wall in Alpha Leadership, an after-school club. “Every now and then I’ll go to look at it,” she said. She’s noticed students are posting things that they might not share openly.
“Everyone has their own problems, so don’t judge people by their appearance because you never know,” she said. “It’s very shocking my peers are going through this stuff and I had no idea.”
Sophomore Diego Quintino posted notes and affirmations. “The experience was interesting to see how many people responded in a positive way to my notes, and also to see how many people are struggling.”
Many students take time to read and reflect on what is written (courtesy photo)
A Way to Speak Out, Reach Out
Student advocate Mark Kuiper got the idea to create the wall from a similar project completed when he was a staff member at Grand Rapids Christian High School.
“I just thought this was a really unique way of getting kids to talk about their pains and struggles, but also their joys and thankfulness,” he said. “The idea is to start the process of being vulnerable and putting yourself out there—big or small.”
Students in Alpha Leadership monitored the wall, keeping track of messages and removing any inappropriate responses. They, and other students in leadership roles, started posting on it, which sparked momentum.
“My big thing was I don’t ever want to walk by and see a notecard that doesn’t have a sticky note on it,” said Kuiper, who plans to use common themes he’s noticed on the wall to start dialogue with students. “We hope it creates momentum into sharing our stories …. We hope it creates conversation that is face to face.”
Students face ups and downs and various struggles. “In my opinion, it’s a great thing for kids to be able to put their thoughts out in a way that’s anonymous,” Kuiper said. “The hope is (that) they are able to take the next step in being brave and talking to someone.”
Kuiper works with social studies teacher John Doyle each semester to plan a celebration to honor students with Alpha Wolf 11 awards. Students are named Alpha Wolves for demonstrating kindness, graciousness and compassion. The theme of this spring’s ceremony was “Student Voice—Be Brave!” and was almost completely led by students. The Speak Wall served as the centerpiece for the ceremony, with activities built around it.
“It was probably one of the most powerful things I’ve ever seen to be able to have the kids participate and express their emotions of gratitude, sympathy,” Doyle said. “It’s really great to see student voice exposed the way we exposed it. Student voice is so important today.”
For more stories on area schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
A Wyoming student writes affirmations on the Speak Wall. (Courtesy photo.)
“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.“
~Winnie the Pooh
Lee High School graduation is tonight.
Pomp and Circumstance
Many members of the Class of 2019 will make that final walk across the stage this week marking the end of their K-12 school years. Kelloggsville High School beat everyone to the punch and hosted its graduation ceremony last week. Godfrey’s Lee High School’s commencement is Tuesday, May 21, at 7 p.m. at Resurrection Life Church and Wyoming High School also has graduation tonight at 7 p.m. at Grand Rapids First. Godwin Heights will have its commencement Wednesday, May 22, at 7 p.m. at its school auditorium. East Kentwood High School has commencement on Thursday, May 23, at 7 p.m. at the school stadium and South Christian’s Class of 2019 graduates on Thursday as well. Next week, Grand River Prep hosts its graduation ceremony at Calvin College’s VanNoord Arena on Thursday, May 30, at 6:30 p.m. WKTV would like to say congrats to all the 2019 graduates.
Avery Robinson III accepts the Alpha Wolf 11 Champion of Character award from Principal Nate Robrahan. (WKTV)
Pack Leaders
Last week, Wyoming High School recognized six more students as Alpha Wolf 11 Champions of Character. There were two each from the sophomore, junior and senior classes. All the students demonstrate the school’s motto of being “kind, compassionate, and gracious.” We wanted to give these students one last around of applause for being so awesome: sophomores Rohim Mohammod and Cameron Simon; juniors Thomas Bushman and Dale Cross III; and seniors Rayne Vieau-Parfait and Avery Robinson III. This year’s Alpha Wolf 11 teacher is math teacher and wrestling coach Steve Zajac.
Grow some food to donate to a local food pantry.
Grow A Row
Michigan State University Extension is encouraging home gardeners to consider “growing a row” of produce for donation to their local food pantry this season. Many northern Michigan pantries are seeking donations of fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs. Pantries ask that donated produce is clean, fresh, ripe, whole, uncut, undamaged and in separate packaging for different produce types. If using pesticides, make sure to follow the pesticide instructions. Please don’t donate produce that you wouldn’t buy for your own family.
Fun fact:
6 years for a 4-year degree
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, about 60 percent of the students who attended a four-year program in 2010 took six years to graduate from the program. It was 59 percent for those who attended public institutions, 66 percent for those who attended private non-profit institutions and 26 percent for those who attended private for-profit institutions.
Wyoming High School students gather for the spring Alpha Wolf 11 Champions of Character awards. (WKTV)
Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember you have within you the strength, patience, and the passion to reach for the stars and change the world.
Harriet Tubman
Junior Dale Cross III
Wyoming High School sophomore Lisa Cross admitted to friends that it was hard to announce the juniors selected as recipients of this year’s spring Alpha Wolf 11 Champions of Character Award. It was hard because, one of them was her brother, Dale Cross III.
“I kept trying not to look at him, but I think he knew,” she said.
As one Alpha Wolf student admitted, you never really know until your name is announced.
Started in 2014, every fall and spring semester, the Wyoming High School students and staff honor six exemplary students with the Alpha Wolf 11 Champion of Character Award — two sophomores, two juniors and two seniors. These students are recognized not for their academic or athletic achievements but for treating others by “being kind, compassionate, and gracious.”
Along with students and staff, special guests included members of the Wyoming community, City of Wyoming officials, public safety leaders, school district administration and members of the Wyoming Board of Education.
“It is always fun to do this and to have this great time together as a community,” said Principal Nate Robrahan. “I think we need to remember that we are a community and we are only better because we are together in what is our community of Wyoming High School, and you guys know enough that I am always so proud to be the principal of this community.”
The fun for many is the revealing of those who will receive the Alpha Wolf 11 Champion of Character Award. Often, the recipients are just as stumped as the students, looking around to see who will be receiving it before realizing that it is him or her.
Sophomore Alpha Wolf 11 Recipients
Sophomore Rohim Mohammod
When Rohim Mohammod came to the school he struggled to speak English, even through he knew three other languages. That struggle has lead him to “pay it forward” by helping others who face the same challenge.
“He is one of these kids who is always trying to make a difference,” said teacher John Doyle who along with a group of students presented the awards. Mohammod has gone beyond just Wyoming High School, but helps immigrants from his country along with discussing human rights and the plight of refugees.
Sophomore Cameron Simon
Cameron Simon is the defintation of “kind, compassionate, and gracious” and is just simply meant to be the next Alpha Wolf, according to the presentators. Sometimes called the class clown, Simon is always willing to give extra support to anyone who needs it. He has participated on the football, basketball, and track teams.
Doyle said Simon never judges and has gone on to volunteer in his community.
Junior Alpha Wolf 11 Recipients
Junior Thomas Bushman
Everyone likes and appreciates someone who makes them feel good about themselves, which is the kind person Thomas Bushman is. He is described as a kindhearted person who greets everyone with a smile and asks them how they are doing, Doyle said. Bushman is polite, outgoing and “ridiculously” nice.
“He is a fantastic leader by example and a true inspiration,” Doyle said with other presenters adding that Bushman continually works to learn and improve for the success of everyone.
“There is a reason this person has a third after his name,” said Lisa Cross of her brother Dale. “You see those named the third are said to have meaning of positive affirmation. They bring the confidence you need in yourself to have in your purpose and your desires. The third represents the mind, body, and spirit. I believe this person, who carries the last name of third, is an essential eleven leader in our school and our community.”
Another student who leads by example, Doyle said of Dale Cross III adding that Dale works hard to make his community better. Lisa Cross noted that because of Dale’s positive mentorship, he already has been selected as a team captain for next year.
Senior Alpha Wolf 11 Recipients
Senior Rayne Vieau-Parfait receives congratulation hugs from friends. (WKTV)
Perhaps no one was more surprised at being named Alpha Wolf 11 recipients than the two seniors.
Rayne Vieau-Parfait is known for her compassion but is content, according to presentators, at being the person behind the scenes. As one presentator put it “she is an excellent listener and when her big round eyes look at you through her glasses, it feels like she can see into your soul.”
Doyle went on to say that Vieau-Parfait is known for being “an easy and interesting person to talk to and she laughs at everything as she has a great sense of humor. She is happy, inquisitive, and very interested in others. She is an excellent example of genuine kindness. Her curiosity is one of her best qualities.”
Avery Robinson III accepts the Alpha Wolf award from Principal Nate Robrahan. (WKTV)
Avery Robinson III started off the ceremony as the student guest speaker and he concluded the event by being named an Alpha Wolf. According to presenters, Robinson is known for giving a voice to everyone.
“There couldn’t be a more perfect theme then student voice, be brave for our last Alpha Wolf recipient today. This Alpha Wolf exhibits bravery in all aspects of their life,” the student presenters said.
Doyle added “He is the hand that will always reach to pick you up when you fall. He is the level headedness you need in times of person turmoil. He’s that brave voice who speaks up for those in the need of advocacy and the kind heart when its compassion, kindness and understanding that you seek.”
Alpha Wolf Teacher Recipient
Teacher Steve Zajac
Receiving the teacher award was math teacher and wrestling coach Steve Zajac. Receiving honorary Alpha Wolf 11 awards were the high school cafeteria staff, who all received aprons with the Alpha Wolf 11 logo.
“When I see what is going in this school, the support and character that is being built right in our community, this is the most amazing place to be,” said Mayor Jack Poll. “So I encourage you as you go on, because some of you will go on to other schools, some of you are going into the workforce, some of you are going to go on to college, remember those words, ‘be kind, be compassionate, and be gracious’ whether you are at your job, someday when you have your own individual families, whatever community you are involved in.
If you keep those things in mind, your life will be better and the community you live in will be better.”
The Wyoming High School cafeteria team with their new Alpha Wolf aprons. (WKTV)
U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga, with Wyoming High School students, at a recent Youth Leadership Summit. (Supplied/Rep. Bill Huizenga’s office)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
A group of Wyoming High School students were among about 200 high school juniors from more than 30 schools across the state in attendance at a recent Youth Leadership Summit hosted by U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga.
This is the second year Rep. Huizenga (Republican-Michigan’s 2nd Congressional District), who represents Kentwood and Wyoming, has hosted the event at Grand Valley State University’s Allendale campus.
The half-day event, held May 3, was designed to provide students with the opportunity to hear from and talk with the congressman and other West Michigan leaders “while exploring what characteristics and qualities will help future leaders succeed in both their personal lives as well as their post high school endeavors,” according to supplied material.
The Wyoming High students were Bria’nna Hoffman, MiKayla Carrasco, Dale Cross, Zachary Fry, Kathryn Johnson and Aleighya Beach.
“It was great to have students from Wyoming High School attend the event, engage with other students, and ask thoughtful questions,” Rep. Huizenga said in an email provided to WKTV. “I hope the speakers provided valuable insight about leadership, overcoming adversity, and capitalizing on opportunities.”
In addition to the congressman, the other featured speakers were Dr. Dale Nesbary, president of Muskegon Community College; Leslie Brown, chairman of Holland’s Metal Flow; and Dakota Crow, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of the Muskegon Lakeshore.
Starting today, area residents and business owners have the opportunity to check out artwork created by some of the talented and creative students of Wyoming High School.
The Wyoming High School National Art Honor Society is hosting its first Paint the Town Purple, which includes an exhibition of juried student work through Thursday at the KDL Wyoming branch, 3350 Michael Ave. SW.
A Wyoming High School student sits next to one of the paintings in the Paint the Town Purple. (Wyoming High School)
The program began with students submitting work in February that was then curated by a jury. Selected work was professionally framed and available for viewing at the Art Gallery of the KDL Wyoming Branch.
Wyoming High School teacher Robyn Gransow-Highley said the National Art Honor Society, which has the goal of creating opportunities to share their love of art with the school, district, and surrounding community, is looking to make the Paint the Town Purple event an an annual one.
“We are really excited and working hard to make this dream a reality for our community,” Gransow-Highley said.
Paint the Town Purple culminates in a grand celebration event at 6 p.m. on Thursday at the library, in the meeting room next to the Art Gallery. The event will feature entertainment by Wyoming High School musicians, light hor d’oeuvres, and the opportunity to meet the students who created the work. Business owners and representatives wishing to partner in this program can do so by pre-purchasing an event ticket, which affords them the opportunity to showcase one of the pieces on display for a year at their business. Art pieces will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, based on the order of sign-in at the event.
Tickets are $100 with proceeds being used to sustain the Paint the Town Purple program and the National Art Honor Society. For more information about the Paint the Town Purple, to purchase a ticket ,or to make a donation, click here.
Michigan State University senior Gabby Huizenga has tinkered with cells, experimented with environmental toxins and hypothesized complex scientific theories about disease — but she still has time to remember her roots.
The Wyoming High School Class of 2015 graduate visited science classes recently to share the pathway she took from high school to a Ph.D. program, and how other young science lovers can take similar routes in pursuing their goals.
Michigan State University senior and Wyoming High School graduate Gabby Huizinga returns to Wyoming to talk about opportunities to go far in science
Huizenga said the hours she spent in MSU research labs — not to mention changing her major a few times– has led her to where she is now: enrolled in the Immunology Postgraduate Doctoral Degree program at University of Michigan. She was accepted into several colleges’ programs before choosing U of M. After listening to her story, Wyoming students asked her about college, financial resources, ways to get involved, and courses to take now and in college.
“I really want to get them excited about science and research and share one particular path they can take,” Huizinga said. “One of the things I didn’t realize is that for a Ph.D., instead of you paying them they pay you. I think that is a great opportunity.” (Many universities fully fund doctoral students with tuition covered and a stipend.)
While finishing up her undergraduate degree, Huizinga is involved in research for MSU assistant professor Andrew Olive, in the Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics. She’s studying how humans and animals interact with invading bacteria or viruses and experimenting with the bacteria that cause tuberculosis. The research could eventually lead to a new tuberculosis drug.
“We are trying to figure out why only five percent of people who are affected with the bacteria actually get TB,” she said.
She’s also researched toxic chemicals produced when waste is incinerated. “We’re wondering if we can use bacteria to clean up the chemicals in the soil because they are really cheap to produce and really efficient,” she said.
Gabby Huizinga is researching the bacteria that causes tuberculosis
High School Students, Take Note
Huizinga said taking AP classes and other challenging courses at Wyoming, where she graduated as co-valedictorian, helped prepare her for college. But learning about myriad options once at MSU led her to explore different paths before choosing a double major in microbiology and molecular genomics and genetics.
She will graduate in May and take the direct route to her Ph.D.
“My dream job would be to be a research professor at a large research institution,” Huizinga said.
Huizinga encouraged students to get involved in college life and offerings in order to make the most of their years there. Attending a diverse school like Wyoming led her to get involved in the honors college multicultural program, Mosaic.
“Attending Wyoming gave me a huge appreciation for the world I don’t think a lot of other students had,” she said, noting she “found her people” through Mosaic.
Junior Lio Matias said it’s interesting to hear about options from a recent Wyoming graduate. “It’s helpful hearing how far she’s come,” he said.
Stephanie Rathsack, who teaches AP biology, honors chemistry and chemistry, said a college student’s point of view and knowledge is valuable to high schoolers.
“It’s nice to hear from someone who is closer in age to them, who can answer questions in a small group setting,” Rathsack said.
Added Superintendent Craig Hoekstra, “I think this is a great opportunity for our students to hear from one of our former students about their Wyoming experience, and the importance of making the most of every life experience to achieve what one sets out to accomplish.”
For more local school news, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
Gabby Huizinga’s undergraduate experience included research on dioxins. (School News Network.)
Aliyah Rivera unwrapped a large present handed to her by her friend, senior Lauren Gonzalez. Inside was a large painting kit with lots of tools for creating masterpieces.
Social worker Nicholle Smith hugs senior Avalon Dexter after receiving bus passes to give to students who have transportation needs
The kit was Aliyah’s wish come true through Winter Wishes, hosted by the Student Council. The Wyoming High School senior, while expressing thanks and excitement, said she hopes to major in art education in college. “It’s going to help me with my portfolio.
“I feel so honored and really happy to be one of the people that makes someone else happy,” said Lauren, Student Council vice president. “People get really joyful when they open a gift.”
Student Council members played elves on the mid-December afternoon, stopping by classrooms to fulfill gift requests submitted by their peers. They usually adopt a district family for Christmas, but this year decided to spread the love among the student body. Winter Wishes is modeled after an idea created by Jostens Renaissance to build climate and culture.
Junior Jabari Pennington opens his gift
“It’s more personal because we get to see the impact it has on them and know we are giving it to our students, said adviser Anna Servo. “Some might not have money to buy Christmas gifts, and some might have friends that just need a pick-me-up.”
Students spent $1,500 in council funds to grant 40 of 70 wishes, which ranged from candy and fuzzy socks to several Class of 2019 senior sweatshirts.
Several students and teachers made wishes to give to others.
Social worker Nicolle Smith’s request was filled for fifteen 10-ride city bus passes to help students with transportation needs.
A cart full of granted wishes
Special education teacher Cathy Kammega received a bowling ball to give to a Special Olympics Michigan athlete. Junior Marshaun Morris received a $15 Target gift card to buy his mother a Christmas present.
Junior Callie Seymour wished for flowers to deliver to her sister, Courtney Seymour, a fourth-grader at West Elementary School. “I knew it would surprise her. She is always looking up to me and I thought it would make her happy.”
Council members were so touched by Callie’s request that they presented Callie with her own flower and a $10 iTunes gift card.
When considering events that have shaped her generation, senior Quiana Wade thought of the killing of Trayvon Martin in 2012, and of U.S. Supreme Court decision to legalize same-sex marriage in 2015.
She included images and messages about both events in her first-place-winning video for the student Mosaic Film Experience Mobile 2018 competition. She was recently awarded $1,000 for the piece. She was also a Top 10 finisher in the contest last year.
Mosaic Film Experience is a film festival for commercial and jury selected works focusing on under-told stories. It was founded in Grand Rapids in 2012.
The criteria this year was to tell a story including the message, “It’s different now,” and to incorporate art.
“The first thing that came to my mind was things that happened in society,” said Quiana, an advance video production student at Wyoming High School.
Mosaic Film Experience Mobile high school winners and finalists also include:
2nd place – Mariah Barrera, City High School
3rd place – Alyssa Dodd, Careerline Tech Center
Finalists:
Irene Kuperus, Careerline Tech Center
Yailine Palomo, Wyoming High School
Willy Vernom, Kelloggsville High School
Kyla Kerridge and Halle White, Rockford High School
Kalil Adams and Jayden Burgen, East Kentwood High School
Morgan Westrate and Lara Johansen, Byron Center High School
Sergio Sepulveda, Innovation Central High School
Wyoming High School senior Quiana Wade is the first-place winner in the Mosaic Film Experience Mobile 2018 competition
Quiana’s video starts with the narrative: “Being younger than now, I didn’t have to be aware of the things that happen around me, but it’s all different now.” It continues, including images and illustrations representing Trayvon Martin, the Black Lives Matter movement, the LGBTQ community and diversity.
She used an iPad to create the video, recording her siblings, friends and her own drawings.
As an African American, she said she’s personally been affected by racial prejudice. She also has friends in the LGBTQ community who she supports.
Quiana said she believes film is a great way to share perspectives and get people thinking. “Perspective is a big thing when it comes to understanding what people go through,” she said.
Quiana plans to major in film production in college, possibly at the Art Institute of Atlanta, in Georgia.
On the screen in front of them, students considered the day’s math challenge: Which of the following numbers are rollover numbers? 8,612; 4,322; 9,867; and 13,859.
The fun began as students in the Wyoming High School Math Circle used different strategies to figure out the answer. Students computed, erased, tweaked and plugged numbers into different formulas. Excitement grew as they collectively came closer to solving the puzzle, until finally – with the white board covered in numbers and variables – the “aha” moment came.
The word “play” comes up a lot in the new Wyoming High School Math Circle, as students with whiteboards and touch-screen technology have fun with numbers and their limitless possibilities. “It’s a place where you can play with math instead of just solving math or learning about math. It’s applying it to puzzles and games which is the side of math I really like,” said senior Jonathan Driggs, an AP statistics student.
Making Math Add Up – A series on the difficulties students have learning math, and what methods some schools and teachers are using with success.
Senior Karen Ruiz examines the problem
“It’s math for the sake of math – just for fun,” said senior Thomas Oliver, who is in AP statistics and AP calculus BC (second-level AP calculus). “In class you are taught math. Here you experience math.”
Numerous Possibilites
Advanced math teacher Eric Retan began offering Math Circle this fall for an hour after school twice-monthly. Six or seven math-minded students regularly attend, delving into number theory, functions, statistics and more. “It’s for anything math-related. “It’s very wide open. It’s open-ended exploration of interesting math.”
Retan said the extracurricular option offers students math beyond what he has time for in class. “It’s for all sorts of things that there isn’t room for in the regular curriculum. It offers us a chance to just play without the constraints of having to get through certain (lessons in a set amount of time).
Senior Jonathan Driggs enjoys using math in puzzles and games
Oftentimes, a warm-up problem takes the whole hour. Not knowing where the numbers will end is part of the fun, students said. “Some of the problems take awhile,” said senior Antonio Plascencia, who is in AP statistics and AP calculus. “When you know where you are going with it and you are going to finally get the answer, it gets you excited.”
Senior Alondra Sot, who is in pre-calculus, likes that even Retan doesn’t know answers to the challenges.
“In Math Circle you are able to explore ideas more,” she said. “I feel like there is a sense of security because you’re not afraid to share answers. Sometimes the teacher doesn’t even know the answer. That’s the point in it being a challenge.”
Alondra Soto and Antonio Plasecencia talk numbers
From left, Becca Hanson, Thomas Oliver and teacher Eric Retan work to solve the challenge.
Junior Tin Nguyen calculates possibilities
Advanced math teacher Eric Retan explains the challenge
Senior Thomas Oliver works on a formula to solve a challenge while behind him, from left, seniors Alondra Soto, Antonio Plassencia and junior Tin Nguyen offer input.
"Sing, sing a song,
Make it simple to last your whole life long
Don't worry that it's not good enough for anyone else to hear,
Just sing, sing a song..."
- "Sing" by Joe Raposo, written for "Sesame Street" in 1971
The airport is alive with music
Several Wyoming and Kentwood high school choirs will be performing at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport’s Holiday Music Festival, which is Dec. 3 – 7. Some of the groups scheduled are Potters House, Legacy Christian, South Christian, Wyoming High School, Lee High School, and East Kentwood High School. Performances are daily from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. andJe are free.
And the winner is…
Jennifer Lewis and Brian Jirous were declared the newest members of the Wyoming Board of Education this week. Both ran in the Nov. 6 election. Jirous was the only candidate who filed for one of the two open seats on the board. Lewis was one of two write-in candidates. It took a couple of weeks for the write-ins to be hand counted, according to school officials. The two will be sworn in at the Wyoming Board of Education meeting set for Jan. 14 at 6 p.m.
Santa is coming to town
While it is still a week yet until Kentwood hosts its annual tree lighting and parade, set for Dec. 7, and the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the Santa Parade, Dec. 8, you can get your celebrating started at Byron Center’s community festivities this Saturday, Dec. 1. The parade portion has been cancelled due to the weather but the chili dinner and holiday concert at Pathway Church, 8350 Byron Center Ave. SW, is still taking place.
Fun Fact:
Light It Up
Ever wonder how many lights you can fit on a Christmas tree? Well a group in Belgium did, managing to get 194,672 lights on a real tree on Dec. 10, 2010. Seven years later, Universal Studios Japan was not about to be out done, so they managed to place 570,546 lights on an artificial tree. You have to admit, that is a lot of lights. (Source)
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) will soon be filled with festive sounds of the season. The 24th Annual Holiday Music Festival will take place the week of Dec. 3-7 in the Grand Hall. Daily performances run from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Some of the groups scheduled to perform are Potters House at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 3; Legacy Christian 7th and 8th Grade Choir at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5; Wyoming High Concert Choir at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 6; East Kentwood Varsity Voices at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6; South Christian High School Madrigals at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec.6; and Lee High School Varsity of Voices at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 7. A full schedule is available on the Airport’s Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/FlyGRFord.
A total of 18 West Michigan schools are scheduled to sing a variety of carols during the Festival. Local choirs representing public and private schools will sing 20 minute song sets throughout the day.
“We love having the schools here during the Holiday Music Festival. The music helps to put passengers and guests in the holiday spirit around the airport,” said GFIA Marketing & Communications Director Tara Hernandez. “We hope to put smiles on passengers’ faces as they listen to the carolers.”
All Festival performances are free and open to the public.
The design for a major high school expansion– including a 30-classroom addition – are taking shape.
“It just looks cool,” said Principal Nate Robrahn, who has been involved in the design process. “It will look like a campus.”
Construction will start in the spring on work that will eventually consist of $40 million in improvements at the high school, 1350 Prairie Parkway SW. The project is funded by the $79 million bond passed by voters last November, which is generating about $23.5 million for a first phase in 2018 and the remaining $56 million for a second phase in 2022.
The addition should be ready for students in 2021, with completion in 2022. Ninth-graders could join 10th through 12th graders at the high school in 2023. Currently, ninth-grade is at Wyoming Junior High.
Robrahn said he looks forward to offering his students wide-open spaces, with room for project-based and group learning.
A large cafeteria with high ceilings to offer an open, coffee-shop feel
A Learning Stair to serve as a unique stairwell and place for formal and informal gathering
Classrooms will have removable walls to allow for team teaching and shared lessons
Wider hallways
Breakout areas for small group work and project-based learning
Added parking, ease and flow on exterior of the building
New softball field on the corner of Prairie Parkway and Burlingame Avenue
Media center relocation
Science lab renovation
Athletic upgrades to include space for wrestling and cheer practice, a new stadium entry plaza, new track and football field surfaces, press box updates, concession area upgrades
Interior and exterior lighting upgrades
Parking expansion on the west side of the building
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
Senior Amber Ching has two folders filled with drawings of colorful, expressive, Anime-style people and animals. They could make perfect characters in a graphic novel.
But Amber likes the idea of creating graphics specifically for a story, complementing the plot and theme, as she’s noticed graphic novelists do that as they combine artwork and the written word.
Senior Josh Ypma reads ‘Maus’
“People tend to change their art style because of how they want to have the story written,” she said.
Students in Wyoming High School English teacher Kevin Mulvihill’s Graphic Novels class – many who read “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” books and superhero comics as youngsters – are eagerly turning the pages of books that cover many different topics and genres through narratives and drawings. Like Amber, they are learning the different techniques and thoughts behind words and images.
The semester course was introduced last year, along with Mythology and Science Fiction classes, as a way to bring more English elective options to students and expand their reading horizons. Worth half a credit, Graphic Novels appeals to artsy students and superhero fans as well as English-language learners, who study language through pictures and words, and those who need to catch up on credits.
Senior Amber Ching draws characters that could be used in graphic novels
Sketchy Selections
Students are required to read 10 books, seven of their choice and three as a class: “American Born Chinese,” by Gene Luen Yang; “Maus,” by Art Spiegelman, the first graphic novel awarded a Pulitzer Prize; and “My Friend Dahmer,” by John “Derf” Backderf. Choice books must come from the categories of superheroes, nonfiction, coming of age, retelling a classic, and science fiction/fantasy/horror. Students create their own mini-graphic novel for their final exam.
Graphic books are not necessarily easy reads, said Mulvihill, who also teaches English 101 at Grand Rapids Community College. Many of them, like the required reads, present heavy themes. Many include lots of text. Plus, superheroes and their adversaries are advanced in all ways. “These villains have a big vocabulary,” Mulvihill said.
Mulvihill was interested in teaching the course because he knew of the popularity of graphic novels among students — and he loves them too.
“I learned how to read by reading comic books when I was a little kid,” he said. “In the summer, my brother and I would ride our bikes to Argos Book Shop in Eastown and get the 5-cent comics out of the 5-cent comic bin and just read. I kind of just never stopped.”
Some students in the course hope to pursue careers in art, graphics or 3-D and animation.
“I’ve always liked to draw comics,” said senior Stephanie Bricero, who is planning to attend Kendall College of Art and Design next year for graphic design. She said she especially likes reading superhero and horror graphic novels. “English and art are my two favorite subjects. By putting my two favorite things together, I can learn about both.”
Kaitlyn Bernatowicz, who graduated last spring, created a graphic novel last school year
Electives Add Choice
Principal Nate Robrahn said adding new English electives provides students with more choice, gives staff more freedom in instruction, and exposes students to the type of specialized courses they may take in college. Plus teachers love sharing their passion for books.
“I have some staff that are ravenous readers and it’s fun to see that carrying over to the kids,” Robrahn said.
Students are eager to have courses that lead them to books and topics they might seek out on their own.
“The kids have responded well,” said Robrahn, who has made it a priority to stock classrooms with books. “I see them engaging more with books and then having more discussion around them. That’s been pretty exciting.”
The high school has also added Reader’s Workshop, a course for which students read books from various genres, have discussions and post on Goodreads.
“You see more kids carrying books and more and more kids reading,” Robrahn said.
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
When Doug Sheldon took over a popular 18-year-old business, his only goal was to make sure everyone was running out the door. After all, the business he bought was The Haunt, one of West Michigan’s most well-known haunted attractions.
“We tried to make sure we had something for everyone,” said Sheldon. “Whether you’re looking for a detailed-type haunted house with a lot to look at or whether you’re looking to get startled and scared behind every corner.”
So Sheldon moved The Haunt to a new location, a 50,000-square-foot facility located behind the 28th West Place (the former Wyoming Village Mall) at 1256 28th St. SW (across from the Wyoming High School.) Sheldon teamed up with The Haunt’s General Manager and Creative Director Ethan Turon, who has designed haunted attractions on a national level, to create a space that has more than 144 rooms with about 100 actors, 63 anamtronics and a Lougaroo prepared to give anyone a frightening good time.
The Haunt Owner Doug Sheldon
Upon first entering The Haunt, guests will visit the Hemlock Manner in the attraction “Exhumed.” Like something ripped from a “Supernatural” storyline, this story is the Hemlock family’s daughter suddenly goes missing, and there’s nothing normal about her disappearance. There are certainly some skeletons in the closet, along with possessed family members and few freshly dug up guests, in this house where visitors have the opportunity to roam the rooms and halls to discover the manor’s secrets.
In the next attraction, mannequins have overthrown the workers and taken control over one of the midwest’s most renowned mannequin factory, the Immortuos Mannequin Factory. But this is no sweet, singing adventure as the zombie-like mannequins are more interested in there next victim, which could be you if you care to clock in.
“The unique thing about ‘Immortus’ is that it’s a never-ending maze,” said Sheldon. “There’s constant twists and turns with scares behind every corner.”
If you should manage to figure a way out of Immortuos, then the next stop is the Vox Sanitarium.
A peek into the Vox Sanitarium
However, don’t be fooled by the smiling man in the lab coat, he is actually a patient with Vox Sanitarium truly fitting the saying “the patients are running the asylum.” Visitors of the sanitarium will weave in and out of the main hallway of the sanitarium meeting different patients, a feature Sheldon said is unique to The Haunt.
“(Vox Sanitarium) is one of the only attractions in the country that has a hallway through the center of it,” said Sheldon. “This hallway gets very full and very creepy”.
If you are still standing, well how about a quick trip to the bayous of Louisiana? Specifically The Lougaru Bayou, where a secret voodoo cult has been living and with their Lougaroo – which Sheldon said is indescribable but dangerous – the cult is ready to take over the world.
You still have time to check out The Haunt, which will be open through Nov. 3. Sundays and weekday hours are 7 – 10 p.m. (note it is not open on Mondays and Nov. 1.) and Friday and Saturday hours are 7 – 11 p.m. Because of long lines, The Haunt has been opening a half hour earlier. Check the website, https://www.the-haunt.com/ for specific details and ticket information. On Saturday, Oct. 27, there will be a Trunk or Treat from 3 – 5 p.m. and a Kids Haunt from 4 – 6 p.m. Sheldon noted that the last two days of The Haunt’s season, Nov. 2 and 3, all be very special and definitely not for scaredy cats.
“We turn the lights off and give you a glowstick. If you were brave enough and weren’t very scared the first time, I guarantee we will get you,” said Sheldon.
And what happens after Nov. 3? Well, you might start hearing a lot of interesting sounds coming from the building…that is construction sounds as Sheldon said they will start building for next year’s event.
Recent Wyoming High School graduate Zayveon Hymon and sophomore Xavier Bailey are spending 20 hours a week this summer working on various repair and maintenance projects (courtesy photo)
Zayveon Hymon and Xavier Bailey are spending the summer as construction crew members, working on minor repairs, major projects and gaining valuable experience to carry with them as they move on to college and careers.
They are learning and using the tools of the trade 20 hours a week and building their résumés with Dale Cross, owner of Wyoming-based Sarge Construction.
“We fix up anything that’s broken,” Zayveon said. “I feel like I could fix a whole house.”
Sophomore Xavier Bailey works on a screen during his job with Sarge Construction (courtesy photo)
Along with developing on-the-job work skills, Zayveon, who graduated from Wyoming High School in May and Xavier, a sophomore, are using what they’ve learned through Teen Outreach — a leadership program they attended all school year at Wyoming High School — in real employment.
Teen Outreach, which meets weekly during the school year, has three components: life-skills development; job placement and community service. Julian Goodson, youth development specialist for Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation, a program through Bethany Christian Services, has taught the class since 2013.
Job placement is a major incentive for getting students to attend, Goodson said.
“The summer job component was the hook. All the other stuff is what they are getting out of it: the ability to learn how to network, public speak. When they came in here they might not have had any experience, but now they have three or four things to put on their résumé.”
Teen Outreach extends into the Summer Youth Employment Program, which connects students to summer jobs. Students are also working at Goodwill Industries, Bethany Christian Services and Wyoming Public Schools. While they said their primary goal is to earn money, they concede that having work, community service and school experience is a huge deal too.
“It gives me money, and it gives me experience for future jobs so I can make more money,” said Cecilia Medina, a Wyoming Middle College student who just completed her senior year in high school and is working at Goodwill this summer. She said she’s learned about professional behavior and expectations, and brings those with her to her job
Xavier Bailey moves soil (courtesy photo)
Show up, Do the Work, Keep your Future in Mind
Zayveon, who graduated in May and is attending Olivet Nazarene University in the fall, said he’s learned public speaking and how to meet expectations in the workforce through Teen Outreach, and by working with Cross.
“The job seems like the golden ticket for the class,” Zayveon said. “The job is a plus, but you learn way more than that.”
The Wyoming students also completed a community service project in early June tied to jobs and careers. They hosted a career day at Madison Place in Grand Rapids with representatives from several companies and career fields who networked with students involved in other Teen Outreach programs.
Cross said Zayveon and Xavier are gaining a lot of hands-on experience working with him. They start each day by picking up materials at hardware stores, and then are off to different sites to help with city inspections, work on plumbing and electrical, even repair decking and foundations. They will develop a sense of areas they could specialize in, Cross said.
Zaveon said he plans to study business management and accounting, and eventually own a contracting or construction business.
The students are good workers, Cross said, always asking what they can do next and lending a helping hand.
Those are skills they’ve learned by practicing them: show up, do the work and keep your future in mind, Zayveon said.
“We step up. That’s what we do.”
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In April, the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce awarded its Brent VanderKolk Scholarship to four area high school graduates.
VanderKolk was a chamber member and the chamber’s legal council along with being a freind to many, said Bob O’Callgahan, President/CEO of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce. VanderKolk passed away in 2011 at the age of 37. The chamber decided to honor VanderKolk by naming the annual scholarship award after him.
This year’s award recipients are: Maria Aguirre from Godwin Heights High School; Adriana Sanchez-Parada from Lee High School; Shontiana Jackson from Wyoming High School; and Allison Biss from East Kentwood High School.
We were able to catch up with two of the students before they walked down the graduation aisle. These students offered a few words of wisdom to those coming into high school and to the Class of 2019.
Adrianna Sanchez
Adrianna Sanchez-Parada
Lee High School
Godfrey Lee Public Schools
Parents: Gallina Parada and Alejo Sanchez
When Adrianna Sanchez learned that one out of three freshmen at her school were failing one to two classes, she decided to do something about it.
“That was a big number of students failing,” Adrianna said. “When I was a freshman, there was a freshman transition class that was helpful to me so I decided to bring that program back.”
Adrianna pulled together members of the upper classes to serve as mentors, offering words of advice and to be there to help guide the freshmen.
“I’ve learned a lot about leadership especially through band,” Adrianna said. “I’ve been a drum major and have gone to a leadership conference where we learned about leadership through service. Through this program, our upper classes were able to show a different type of leadership through service.”
Adrianna has loved being involved at Lee High School and admits her involvement has prevented her from having a job. She has participated in soccer, National Honors Society, Spanish club, drama club, and student council, where she served as president. She plans to attend Western Michigan University in the fall.
Her advice for those entering high school: Try different clubs that you have never thought of and do not be afraid to be different.
Her advice for next year’s seniors: Don’t stress about the little things but also don’t let the assignments slide because it will come back at you. And lastly, watch out for every opportunity that you might have.
Allison Biss with Chamber President/CEO Bob O’Callaghan
Allisson Biss
East Kentwood High School
Kentwood Public Schools
Parents: Cheryl and Brian Biss
“Some people have sports, but I am not the sporty type,” said Allison Biss when thinking about her search for a high school activity that encourage her creativity. She was not a performer and some hobbies she didn’t felt she had started early enough to participate in. But once she discovered film and video, she knew she had found the passion that allowed her creativity to shine.
“You could be given a video and create five clips with the end product being different depending on lighting or how you edit it,” she said.
A WKTV intern, Biss was awarded Central Michigan University’s Lem Tucker Scholarship for broadcasting and journalism, which covers a 100 percent of her tuition, room, and board.
At school, Biss participated in the broadcast program serving as an anchor and primary editor. Outside of broadcasting, Biss has been very active serving as a class officer for three years, on the National Honor Society, Student Council, and JV sideline and competitive cheerleading.
Her advice for those entering high school: It is not as bad as it seems. Always introduce yourself. Be that someone who cracks the joke and eats lunch with new people. Also don’t be afraid to try new things because high school is short.
Her advice for next year’s seniors: Don’t think of the moments as being the last ones, but new beginnings. Enjoy the moments while you have them because it goes by super quickly.
A brand new 3D printer sat inside a closet at Wyoming High School. During the fall of his junior year, Bryan Rosello Lizardo noticed it, realizing the possibilities being lost by keeping it in storage.
“I said, ‘No way! I’m involved in Science Olympiad and robotics and this would be so helpful, just for experience and for the events themselves,’” said Bryan, now a graduating senior.
He inquired about the printer and was told if he wanted to use it, he would have to learn to do so on his own. “I happened to appreciate that challenge,” he said with a grin.
Bryan pored over a book about the printer and its potential to create items with countless applications. “I read it in like two days because I was so interested,” he said.
From there, he started a 3D Printing Club, training students at the high school and Wyoming Junior High, as well as the Science Olympiad team adviser, to use the machine. Bryan’s designs, including a claw robotic arm and components of a Rube Goldberg-style machine, helped the team place in competitions.
Bryan graduated Tuesday, May 22 with a stack of Advanced Placement and Middle College credits. He is headed to the University of Michigan in the fall with enough scholarships and financial aid to cover his tuition in full. He plans to major in aerospace engineering and hopes to eventually land an internship at NASA.
“I want to help with the designing and prototyping of more efficient spacecrafts,” he said.
But just a few years ago, Bryan himself may not have predicted his potential.
“I went from failing all my classes to being the Wyoming High School valedictorian of 2018,” he said. His GPA is 4.17.
(Courtesy Photo) Bryan Rosello Lizardo said helping his mother, Mildred Lizardo, is his main motivation
Shy Learner Needed Motivation
Bryan was born in Puerto Rico and moved at age 2 to the Dominican Republic, where his community had limited access to fresh water, and electricity was sporadic. School offered the basics and that was all, he said.
He moved to Michigan at age 9 with his mother, Mildred Lizardo; older sister, Jazmin; and younger brother, Benjamin, and started attending Grand Rapids Public Schools. He enrolled in Wyoming Public Schools in fifth grade.
Shy and and still learning English, Bryan said he struggled and didn’t put much effort into school until eighth grade. It was then that his sister, Jazmin, who was graduating, told him she wished she would have tried harder in school, and encouraged Bryan to do better.
“I had bad habits. I was a (video) gamer full-time. I didn’t care. It was just that childish mentality.”
But Jazmin’s words made something click. “I started realizing this education was worth a lot more than I thought it was,” Bryan said. “I was able to change my habits because my sister motivated me that much.
“The next year my report card was straight A’s. I got involved in Science Olympiad. I kept going and getting involved in as many things as possible.”
Along with starting the 3D Printing Club, he was on the FIRST Robotics team, served as treasurer for National Honor Society, treasurer for Bible Club, and on Key Club, Student Council and Leadership Committee.
“I challenged myself to take classes that were hard for me as a bilingual student,” he said. “With the combination of Middle College and AP, I’ve gotten prepared for college in a way I would have never been prepared before.”
AP Biology teacher Stephanie Rathsack said Bryan is one-of-a-kind, an accepting and nonjudgmental student known at school for helping others with school work and giving back to the community. She was impressed when he volunteered at a fundraising event for an organization that collects clothes, household items, bikes and Christmas decorations for families in need. He stepped up to translate for Spanish-speaking families.
“Bryan has an amazing attitude,” Rathsack said, by email. “He approaches life and learning with vigor. He is a gentle presence, and friendly to everyone. He doesn’t ever think about what he gets out of doing something for others. He’s aware of others and aware of the impact he can make by observing and offering help and understanding as necessary.
(Courtesy Photo) Working for NASA is a dream of Bryan Rosello Lizardo
Working Hard to Help Mom
A huge motivation for Bryan has been his mother, a proud single parent who is proud to work in a factory assembling car parts.
“It makes me happy to think she’s taking pride in her job. But I know at the end of the day she’s getting to the age where she needs rest and economic peace. That’s what I’m trying to work towards, just helping her out financially.”
He said he believes doubling down on school is the best way to make that happen.
“I knew I had to study to support my family. I didn’t understand how valuable school was until eighth grade, so when I started realizing this is potentially money for my mom, that’s what motivated me to take the AP classes and join the clubs. I knew colleges would look at that stuff and give me and my mom money so she doesn’t have to worry about my tuition later on.”
A life-changing moment for Bryan was earning the Alpha Wolf 11 award in 2016. He said the award, given to Wyoming students who exhibit character at an 11 on a scale of 10, reaffirmed what mattered to him most.
“It’s at the top of my achievement list for everything I apply for,” he said. “Because you can have the best grades and best SAT scores and be really involved, but if you don’t have that character you don’t stand out. You’ll be taken care of if you can show up to your workplace, have a positive attitude and get along with everyone. It’s something I will continue to take pride in after high school.”
Bryan Rosello made the most of his high school experience by earning college credits and starting a 3D printing club
Working on a Dream
The award also caught the attention of a couple, both a U of M graduates, who gave Bryan a scholarship because they were impressed with his character.
Most of all, Bryan said he is thankful to be able to work toward his dreams.
“Knowing I come from the background I come from, I’ve had different experiences than people do here in the U.S,” he said. “Just going through those struggles has allowed me to appreciate a lot more what I have and the resources that are available to me. I do not think I would be taking the course I am today if I did not realize this is something I didn’t have in the Dominican Republic.”
What advice would he give other students? “Look around you as often as you can and appreciate your teachers, principals and friends,” he said.
And stay the course, he added.
“Work hard. Fear regret. Be fearful of regretting not doing something.”
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