November 8, 2018

6–B

Shamrock Center, Michele Morgan, Director

Shamrock Center Child Care, Preschool and Great Start Readiness Program

During December, students were busy practicing wrapping presents in the classroom and pretending be Santa. Student’s used wrapping paper, tape, bows, and even string to wrap everyday materials found in the classroom, and delivered the “gifts” to their friends. They were extremely proud of the presents they wrapped! What a great way to put their fingers to work snipping paper, so

many skills practiced with this activity, all wrapped in fun. 😉

During Winter Break, the Shamrock Center was open six of the ten days from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm, Staff enjoyed the other four days off for the Holidays to celebrate with their families. During the Winter Break children enjoyed playing games, arts and crafts and gym time as well as many other activities, all thanks to our dedicated staff.

In honor of Dr. Martin Luthor King, some children did a color mixing project. They introduced a photo of Dr. King and explained who he was and what he wanted to accomplish. They talked about skin color, hair color, how we are all different, and yet all very much the same, we are all unique and very special. This was an awesome activity, fun and purposeful! Creating community in the classroom, developing friendships, working as a team, mixing of colors, and creating conversations about diversity. The final project is hanging in our hallway. “I can change the world with my own two hands, make a better place with my own two hands, make a kinder place with my own two hands.”

We are very grateful to have the Marshall District Library visit our classrooms monthly. Today’s story was a particularly funny story about Floaty the Dog. The children are exposed to a variety of books on a regular basis, but it is especially nice to hear different people reading to the children. The librarian shared songs and stories with the children. The children are exposed to books throughout their day: at greeting time, in small groups, with friends, teachers and together as a whole group. Children are able to predict outcomes, listen for rhyming words, recall parts of the stories, talk about feelings, problem-solving, and learn about parts of the book.

November 8, 2018

No Snow, No Problem. The children are still enjoying time outside.

Albion, GSRP Crowell New Playground!!!!!

Our playground in Albion was installed during the Month of December. The contractors are currently working on the installation of the fence, along Cooper Street. The children were super excited to be able to start playing!

We are looking forward to a partnership with Albion College, during Maymester. We will have one Albion College student interning at our Marshall GSRP program in Mrs. Racheal Barnes’ classroom. Since fall we have had 3 different Battle Creek Career Center students working in our classrooms several days per week. They are putting into practice what they have learned in their Early Childhood/Education Classes at the Career Center.

GORDON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

A Rich Tradition of Excellence

TO: Dr. Randy Davis FROM: Kelly Fitzpatrick, Gordon Principal REASON: Monthly Report to the Board of Education DATE: Thursday, January 23, 2019 The following is an update in regards to what is happening or has happened at Gordon Elementary School in December and January. Outdoor Classroom A subcommittee was created for our outdoor classroom development. We are in the design phase with help from area landscape designers. We are hoping to be able to pursue facilities approval before the end of February. The goal is a late-April installation. Hungry Howies Gordon is consistently breaking records for this PCO fundraiser. We are happy to have all of the parent and community support. Child Study Our Child Study Team, comprised of our School Social Worker, School Psychologist, Counselor, Special Education Teacher, Reading Specialist, General Education Teacher, and building Principal, have met 4 times this year to discuss ways in which we can further support students struggling academically, emotionally, and behaviorally. From this larger group, we have created a smaller group focused on implementing Tier 2 Interventions as a bridge between Tier 1 behaviors and referrals for Functional Behavioral Assessments and Behavior Intervention Plans as well as referrals for Special Education testing. Holiday Concerts In December, we had our school wide holiday assembly featuring Zeemo the magician and the MHS music department did their annual Holiday Concert for the elementaries at the MHS auditorium. Community Service/Charitable Giving We collected food items, mittens, hats and puzzles for MACS. Our 2nd Grade students visited one of the assisted living establishments as well as dropped off food donations to MACS on December 13th. DPPD

Kelly Fitzpatrick, Principal Gordon Elementary School ● 400 N. Gordon Street ● Marshall, MI 49068

Phone: 269-781-1270 ● Fax: 269-789-3700

GORDON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

A Rich Tradition of Excellence

Monday, January 22nd we did activities and instruction surrounding NWEA reporting, Mindfulness, and Literacy.

Kelly Fitzpatrick, Principal Gordon Elementary School ● 400 N. Gordon Street ● Marshall, MI 49068

Phone: 269-781-1270 ● Fax: 269-789-3700

The Harrington Newsletter

Important Dates to Remember:

January 21 – Martin Luther King Day – No School

January 25 – Records Day – Students attend am only

February 11-14 – Elementary Conferences

February 15 – Half Day–Students Released at 11:50 a.m.

February 18 – President’s Day – No School

January 18, 2019

SIGNING IN/OUT STUDENTS

It is a Marshall Public School policy that when students arrive late or are picked up early a parent MUST sign their student/s in or out. Beginning January 7, 2019 any parent that brings students to school late or picks them up early MUST sign them in and/or out.

AFTER SCHOOL ART CLASS

K-2 Art ScheduleFebruary 7 – March 14

3-5 Art ScheduleApril 18 – May 16

MCTEACHER’S NIGHT

Harrington Elementary and McDonald’s will

be hosting McTeacher’s Night on Tuesday,

February 19, 2019 from 4:30-7:00 p.m. at

the Albion McDonald’s. Proceeds from the

INDOOR sales during the above time frame

will go to Harrington Elementary. Please

come and help support OUR school.

HEALTHY RECIPESLOW COOKER CRANBERRY PORK

INGREDIENTS:1 16 oz. can cranberry sauce1/3 cup French Salad Dressing1 Onion sliced1 (3lb) Boneless Pork Loin Roast

DIRECTIONS:In a medium bowl stir together the cranberry sauce, salad dressing, and onion. Place the pork in a slow cooker and cover with the sauce mixture. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours. Pork is done when the internal temperature has reached 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

HEALTH CORNERBASIC FIRST AID - #6

ALLERGIC REACTIONSSome people have severe reactions to insect stings, foods and other sources. If they have swelling, hives (red or swollen areas) problems breathing, cool, moist skin and pale skin color, they may be having an allergic reaction. CALL 911 immediately or have someone give the emergency medicine if they have it with them.

BURNSStop the burning process by removing the person from contact withthe hot object. If clothing is burning, smother the flames with coolwater. Remove clothing unless it is stuck to the skin. Run cool waterover the skin until the pain stops. DO NOT apply ice, grease, butteror medicine to the burn. Do not break blisters. Seek emergency carefor burns on the face, hands, feet or private parts. Call 911 for deepor large burns and all electrical burns. After cooling the burn, coverthe person with a clean sheet and blanket until help arrives.

MARTINLUTHERKING,JR.

OUTDOOR RECESS

The weather is getting colder and students

that attend Marshall Public Schools go outside

every day unless the temperature is 0 degrees

lower. Please make sure that your student

comes to school every day with a winter coat,

snow pants, boots, hat, mittens and scarf.

All students go outside unless there is a note

from the doctor.

ALBION RECREATION DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES

Open Gym – Grades 5-8 are held on Monday through Thursday evenings from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm @ the Albion Community Center

located at the Marshall Opportunity High School. There is a $1.00 admission fee per session.

Open Walking: Open Walking continues at the Albion Community Center located at the Marshall Opportunity High School. There is no

charge. The schedule will be as follows.

Monday – Friday from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm and Saturday from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Open Swimming – Open Swimming continues to be offered for all ages on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 5:30-6:30p.m. until

February 13, 2019. Beginning February 18, 2019 and ending on February 27, 2019 the times will be 6:00-8:00 p.m. Swimmers are

responsible for their own swim attire and towels. There is a $1.00 fee per session which can be paid at the door.

Learn To Swim Program – The 4th session of the Learn To Swim Program will begin on January 28, 2019 and will run through February

13, 2019. These classes are free of charge and will be limited to 24 children in grades Kindergarten-5th grade per session. Classes are held

on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 7:00-8:00 p.m. at the Albion Community Center pool. Registration for the 4th session will

begin on January 19, 2019 and end on January 25, 2019. You can register online at Albionrecdesk.com or at the Recreation Department

office. You must be registered prior to the beginning of the class. Mr. Robert Rariden, Albion College Assistant Swimming and Diving

coach will be the Program Director.

Water Aerobics – Session 8 continues and will run until January 17, 2019. Classes meet on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6:30-

7:30 p.m. at the Albion Community Center located at the Marshall Opportunity High School. The Fee for classes is $3.00 per session and

can be paid at the door. The next Water Aerobics Classes – Session 1 will begin on January 29 and end on March 7, 2019. You can now

register for these classes on Albionrecdesk.com.

Tai Chai Classes: Classes are offered by instructor Pat Wilson @ the Albion Community Center on Saturday Mornings from 10:30-11:30

a.m. Classes will run through December 15, 2018. Classes will resume on January 5, 2019. There is a $3.00 fee per class session which

can be paid at the door.

After School Intramural Sports Program – is offered to Harrington Elementary School children in grades 3rd-5th. The program is held

Tuesday-Thursday of each week (except during the times that school is not in session) from 3:50-5:30 p.m. at Harrington. The

following sports will be covered: soccer, basketball, volleyball, dodgeball, floor hockey, softball and flag football. This program will end

on May 30, 2019.

H U G H E S E L E M E N T A R Y S C H O O L A Rich Tradition of Excellence

Matthew Lefebvre, Principal

Hughes Elementary School ● 103 West Hughes Street ● Marshall, MI 49068

Phone: 269-781-1275 ● Fax: 269-789-3704

TO: Dr. Randy Davis

FROM: Matt Lefebvre, Hughes Principal

REASON: Monthly Report to the Board of Education

DATE: Thursday, January 24th, 2019

The following is an update in regards to what is happening at Hughes Elementary School

in January.

School Community

Starting this month, Hughes students and staff will be incorporating student house system

within our Positive Behavior Intervention and Support framework.

The idea originated at the Ron Clark Academy, and its purpose is as follows:

To promote positive relationships and mentoring for students

To promote positive relationships between faculty and students

To give every student another caring adult

To instill a sense of pride in being a Hughes student and member of a house

To boost character education

Students are broken into six groups, about 50 students per group with equal grade level

representation, and about 3-4 teachers per group that support them. A color and a Latin

pillar of character represent each group. We have chosen the following traits:

Tutum- Safe

Officium- Courtesy

Aeque- Fair

Fidelis- Trustworthy

Honestum- Respectful

Genus- Kind

We are laying the foundation at this point. Students will be introduced to their Houses

the last hour of the day on Friday, February 1st. They will be doing a team building

exercise led by the House teachers.

As the concept becomes more established, Houses will have the opportunity to earn

points for behavior that supports the overall school culture of being respectful,

H U G H E S E L E M E N T A R Y S C H O O L A Rich Tradition of Excellence

Matthew Lefebvre, Principal

Hughes Elementary School ● 103 West Hughes Street ● Marshall, MI 49068

Phone: 269-781-1275 ● Fax: 269-789-3704

responsible, safe, and kind. We have established a bulletin board when you enter Hughes

to show pictures of House team building activities and track overall points.

The goal is to shift efforts from extrinsic rewards and gratification to teaching the value

of intrinsic satisfaction through exemplifying the character traits represented.

WALTERS ELEMENTARY

M A R S H A L L P U B L I C S C H O O L S

A Rich Tradition of Excellence

Paul Holbrook, Principal

Walters Elementary School ● 705 N Marshall ● Marshall, MI 49068

Phone: 269-781-1280 ● Fax: 269-789-3703

TO: Dr. Randy Davis

FROM: Paul Holbrook, Walters Principal

REASON: Monthly Report to Board of Education

DATE: Wednesday, January 23, 2019

The following is an update in regards to what is happening or has happened at Walters

School in the month of January.

We continue to make progress at Walters with our Positive Behavior

Interventions and Support Program (PBIS). We are continuing our monthly

assemblies where we acknowledge the positive choices students make and

reinforce the behaviors that we have determined need attention based on our data

from the prior month. Our focus this month is on hallway expectations. We are

acknowledging students and classes that are modeling excellent modeling and

having classes practice and review when necessary.

Walters just hosted our visitors from Koka, Japan. They spent the morning

visiting with our fifth graders doing a Q and A, with our fourth graders

participating in basketball and agilities drills in physical education and with me

touring the school and learning about elementary education in the United States.

For the holiday season the staff and families at Walters Elementary raised money

so that we could help those in our school community in need. This year we

adopted one family to support (purchasing Christmas gifts for the entire family,

along with some essential home care products and food). At the same time, we

supported five additional families by providing them each with a $50 gift card for

gas. In total, we raised around $1,000!!!

Our ninth annual Battle of the Books competition has begun. The quiz bowl will

take place on Saturday, March 9th. We have 12 teams competing this year. Parent

volunteers are the coaches for all of our teams. Students from grades third, fourth

and fifth are reading a collection of 13 books from many different genres to

prepare for the quiz bowl. Teams work in cooperative groups to answer a variety

of questions. Books this year range from 2nd to 6th grade reading level. We have

books from many different genres (a number of them are award winning).

Not Sent - please add information MMS WEEKLY UPDATE … 1.28.19 TO 2.3.19 MOTIVATIONAL QUOTE(S):

“A champion is defined not by their wins, but by how they can recover when they fall.” - Serena Williams

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart” - Helen Keller

CALENDAR ITEMS: B WEEK

Monday, 1.28.19 Tuesday, 1.29.19 Wednesday, 1.30.19

7th Grade GBB Game - Away @ R.W. Kidder - 4:30 p.m.

7th Grade GBB Practice 2:45 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.

7th Grade GBB Game - Away @ Pennfield - 4:30 p.m.

8th Grade GBB Game - Home vs R.W. Kidder - 4:30 p.m.

8th Grade GBB Practice 4:15 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.

8th Grade GBB Game - Home vs Pennfield - 4:30 p.m.

Wrestling Practice 2:45 p.m. to 4:40 p.m.

Wrestling Match - Away @ R.W. Kidder - 4:30 p.m.

Wrestling Practice 2:45 p.m. to 4:40 p.m.

BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING - 7:00 p.m.

Math Olympiad Mrs. Rebenstorf’s room 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

8th Hour - LRC Lab 2:37 p.m. to 3:37 p.m.

🎵 Band Practice Club 2:35 p.m. to 3:25 p.m. Open to all

MTSS District Committee MMS LRC - 4:15 p.m.

Thursday, 1.31.19 Friday, 2.1.19 Saturday, 2.2.19

7th Grade GBB Practice 2:45 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.

7th Grade GBB Practice 2:45 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.

8th Grade GBB Practice 4:15 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.

8th Grade GBB Practice 4:15 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.

Wrestling Match - Away @ Western MS - 4:30 p.m.

Wrestling Practice 2:45 p.m. to 4:40 p.m.

8th Hour - LRC Lab 2:37 p.m. to 3:37 p.m.

MCCU in School - Lunches

Honors Choir - Choir Room 2:45 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

FFA Meeting @ MS - RM A306

3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

MMS Robotics Team Meeting Robotics Lab 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

WINTER TENNIS CLINIC 6th through 12th grade girls and boys All experience levels are welcome! Instructors: Jim Cummins and Mike Ingle Location: YMCA Center of Battle Creek in the Multi-Sport Complex Sundays: Jan. 27, Feb. 3, Feb.10, Feb. 17, Feb.24, and March 3 Time: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Flyers are in the office or Mrs. Rebenstorf will have some in her classroom. CHARITY SPEECH RESULTS

STUDENT CHARITY

Lucy Gensch - top winner Kids Food Basket

Ryan Murphy - top winner Last Chance for Animals

Christian Toweh St. Judes

Shane Houvener Disabled American Veterans

McKenzey Pritchard Central California Food Bank

Hallie Machalka Wildlife Warriors

Adeline McHugh Lynn Sage Cancer Research

Aidan McPartlin Special Olympics

Stefanie DeLong Shriners Hospital

Lauren Mallock Michigan Law Enforcement Memorial

Micah Morehouse The Water Project

Marla Pratley Make-a-Wish

Ava Karaba National Down Syndrome Society

Addison Waito American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Brielle Belcher Prevent Child Abuse America

BOX TOP ADVISORY CHALLENGE Start collecting box tops TODAY! The challenge will begin January 24th and run through February 18th. More details will be shared with students during advisory this week. Contact Mrs. Demorest 

kdemorest@marshallpublicschools.org for more information.

MMS SCIENCE FAIR The science fair is Wednesday, March 20 from 6:30-8:00pm in the MMS cafeteria. Set-up is Tuesday, March 19 from 2:30-6:45pm. Students will hear more information from their science teachers concerning entry forms, purchasing display boards and project ideas. Entry forms are due Feb.21. If you would like to help with the fair in any way, please contact Mrs. S. Tobias stobias@marshallpublicschools.org or Mrs. V. Banfield vbanfield@marshallpublicschools.org.

MARSHALL HIGH SCHOOL Improving Tomorrow by Inspiring Today! 701 N. Marshall Ave. Marshall, MI 49068 SCOTT HUTCHINS, Principal Phone: (269) 781-1252 Fax: (269) 781-5304

GREGORY T. TATROW, Assistant Principal

http://www.marshall.k12.mi.us/MHS

Winter 2019 Board Report

November 2018 Students of the Month 9th Grade 10th Grade Helene Hilton Clara Rivera Fletcher Robson Logan McCreary 11th Grade 12th Grade Cailynn Metzger Jayonna Yahsha Caden Heath Jack McClure

From L to R: Helene Hilton, Jack McClure, Jayonna Yahsha, Caden Heath, Logan McCreary, Cailynn Metzger, Clara Rivera, Fletcher Robson

December 2018 Students of the month 9th Grade 10th Grade Zoie Banfield Rachel Hankinson Henry Harrell Adam Foreman

11th Grade 12th Grade Ella Hinton Victory Stovall Ben Lee Felipe Martinez

From L to R: Victory Stovalll, Rachel Hankinson, Felipe Martinez, Adam Foreman, Henry Harrell, Ben Lee, Ella Hilton, Zoie Banfield

The MHS ELF student leadership group and Student Council members collected donations for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Students were asked to “Stuff the Turkey” with spare change or dollar bills at the Thanksgiving table at 4-corners or to bring in non-perishable food items.

In honor and celebration of Martin Luther King Day and Black History month, each staff member will display outside their classroom a picture of one of their favorite leaders of black history with a small biography of who it is and what their historical significance is. In addition, our library showcase will include several artifacts honoring influential African Americans, and books related to this important topic will be displayed and made available for check out as well. Our Youth NAACP and Council for Student Leadership and Engagement committees will also be meeting 1/30 to collaborate with their advisors about other activities and events we can do to honor and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King and Black History month. Room 215 at MHS has been transformed into a lounge for students to congregate after school if they have an activity later in the day but limited transportation options. In addition to having a place to relax and hang out with their peers, there is also a space reserved for students that want to complete their school work. Plus, through a generous anonymous donation, meals will be provided every day from now until the end of the school year. A “sandwich” bar is available five days a week for students to make up to two sandwiches that they can either eat right away, or place in baggies to save for after their event or on the shuttle back to Albion. Laura Brownell and her ELF leadership group, plus behavior specialist Audra Granger, have teamed up with the Interact Club led by senior Victory Stovall to make this vision a reality that we’re all extremely proud of.

Marshall Opportunity High School “An Educational Alternative”

225 E. Watson Street Ben Wallace- Program Director

Albion, MI 49224

Phone (517) 629-9421 Fax (517) 630-3305

January 2019

To: Dr. Davis

Re: Board Report for January

From: Ben Wallace

● Marrilyn McMiller and Barbara Gary took 5 students to the MEAO STAR Leadership

Conference in Lansing on Wednesday, November 14. Students participated in many team

building activities, got to meet students from other alternative high schools in Michigan. The

vent ended with an amazing magic show.

● Quarter 1 ended on November 1 with 3 students receiving all A’s

(Cheyenne Marshall, Kaylee Hoyt and Bruce Barnett) and 2 student’s

with perfect attendance (Cheyenne Marshall and Eddie Smith).

The end of a quarter means time for final projects. This is especially true for Mr. Raddatz and

Mr. Adams STEM class. On Wednesday January, 23rd the students present their final

presentation to their peers, staff members, and individuals of the community. We have many

attention-grabbing projects such as Slime, Stress balls, Lazar Arm, Perfume, Video Game,

Flying Drones, and A Prosthetic Arm. This class is special case for me, as it is the first time

teaching a non-traditional class like STEM. It has both been challenging and stimulating as an

educator. To see the students both, struggle and succeed at the same time is such a thrill as a

teacher. To watch these young men and women take charge of their own education and strive for

flawlessness has been one of the highlights of my career. To see people from outside the

community and watch their faces light up when I tell them the kind of projects we are working

on here at the Opportunity High School, I get a warm feeling inside. I look forward to what

challenges and electrifying ideas that the next STEM class brings.

Chemistry

Students in Chemistry worked with several chemical reactions to calculate the efficiency of a

reaction by comparing the actual results with anticipated results from a chemical equation. We

had planned on exploring the gas laws and entropy by developing a payload system for recording

images and recovery and attaching it to a weather balloon. However, budget constraints even

with generous donations from Jackson Airgas for the helium and Lowe’s of Battle Creek for

materials) and weather conditions (too windy) prevented us from launching during the proposed

timeframe. We will plan to repeat this offering during the Summer Quarter (May).

Biology

Students in Biology explored the basics of Limnology using the curriculum provided by the

Department of Natural Resources Salmon in the Classroom. Though the initial allotment of 150

salmon met a catastrophic end, our 2nd allotment of 75 salmon appear to be healthy and are

growing at a faster rate than our previous year. We are working on several grant possibilities to

expand this program to include independent research of water sources and the overall health of a

salmon population from the Albion Community Foundation and Trout unlimited.

Students in the Biology class also worked with underwater robotics. During this unit, which will

expand to include collection of water samples in Fall of 2019, students designed and piloted

underwater submersible vehicles which were neutrally buoyant (they sink under the surface but

not to the bottom). Students were then teamed up to perform team-building tasks in the Albion

Rec Department’s

Physics

Students in Physics explored energy motion across single and multiple dimensions. As usual for

our MOHS science curriculum, students worked in a project-based environment which included

building and revising a deadly rollercoaster using No Limits Simulator. This product was

introduced in the mid-1990s and introduces students to CAD technologies and simulations. The

professional version is used to make several marketing videos for roller coaster parks.

Students also explored inelastic collisions using the SPRK+ drones which were acquired from a

generous grant from the Albion Community Foundation. This grant also allowed for the

acquisition of 4 DJI Spark drones that were assessed during our STEM class.

MOHS end 2018 with many celebrations. Holiday door decorating with Mrs. Black’s class

winning with cookies made by Mr. Gardner’s wife. Mrs. Gary made sugar cookies for students

to decorate. MOHS ended the 2018 year with a holiday dinner.

STEM Mr. Adams and Ms. Westphal have been integral as this student-lead, competency-based

course begins to grow and blossom. The winter presentation (Wednesday January 23rd) includes

the following student-led projects: 1) Slime Recipes 2) Perfume 3) 3d Prosthetics 4) Video

Game Authoring 5) Drone Choreography 6) Physiological and Psychological effects of Stress

balls 7) Algebraic Solving Laser Arm Robots.

Students and instructors from this class are slated to present at the following Conferences in

March: Southeast Michigan STEM Summit (March 9th).

MACUL Technology Conference: Drone-megeddon (March 22nd 12:00 – 1:30).

MACUL: STS at the Conference (Pending).

STEM Students from the Fall Quarter presented their projects at the MACUL STS at the

Capitol in December with great interest. Projects presented to Michigan law makers included

Laser etching and set-up. Drone Piloting and Videography, Model Rocket Design, Simulation

and Construction.

Generous donations from both the Marshall and Albion Community Foundation provided

resources for the STEM class and other Science projects to be offered. Dr. Davis’s contribution

of the robotic arm and laser is particularly appreciated (and coveted) by Mr. Raddatz.

STEM Geekend

The Next STEM Geekend is slated for March 3rd, 2019. This event will be a remix of the highly

regarded and popular Water, Water theme. Upper elementary and Jr. High students will be able

to take part in the anticipated events:

Scuba-Scuba*: By far the most popular event of STEM Geekend is the opportunity to SCUBA

dive in the MOHS pool. Trained professionals from Aquatic Sport and Diving from Battle Creek

generously provide their expertise and equipment at a reduced rate which is generously covered

by the Albion Community Foundation.

Dronemegeddon: Another popular event with enhanced technology that was provided by a grant

from the Albion Community Foundation’s Youth Advisory Council. Students will be able to

code their drone through an obstacle course or fly through it FPV (First Person View) like the

drone racing league. Hosted by drone pilot extraordinaire, the other Mr. Raddatz. As participant

have noted: A STEM Geekend without drones is crazy!!!

Water, Water Minecraft: The Michigan Minecrafter (and former student of Mr. Raddatz) will

host another water themed Minecraftng event.

Tardigrade Hunt*: What is a tardigrade and why are they the unofficial mascot of STEM

Geekend? What other other microscopic animals are found in common environments like water

and dirt? Find out in this fun-filled exploration of microscopy and water chemistry.

Salmon Fishing*: Casting, catching, baiting and other fishing skills along with entomology will

be explored as our host teaches our Geekenders the basics of fly-tying and casting.

3D Printing and Modeling*: What does Mr. Raddatz do when he is not teaching, shooting off

rockets or playing with lasers? 3D printing!!! Students get the opportunity to work with Tinker-

cad and the MOHS 3D printers to batch produce their own remix of an object from Thingiverse.

Once again, Albion College will be offering SCECs for teachers who attend and offer a

reflection regarding the pedagogy that is offered.

* Anticipated events contingent on host and attendance.

Board Report January 2019

Dec. 7 - Patrick Casey, KCC Career Director, discusses trends in employment and students

complete a career inventory. Our very own Rich Lindsey shares his college and career

story, and relays the importance of professionalism in school, work and community.

Dec. 14 - Early college students visit with KCC Department Chairs in their respective career

paths.

Jan. 7 - Albion College Career Director, Troy Kase, offers games and activities at Ludington

Center to help students decide what they value most, and assess their career choices

in light of their top 5 values.

Jan. 8 - Duncan Aviation Field Trip

Jan. 9 - MIWorks introduces the importance of soft and hard employability skills,

communication etiquette, successful job application processes, and resume building.

Jan. 10 - Befriend students in Mrs. Price’s 3rd grade class, and present “Start With Hello”

inclusion program. Games, crafts and theatre made it a fun afternoon for all.

Jan. 14 - MI Student Aid Staff bring Extreme Reality Game where students role play various

careers and set up their real life budgets, calamities and all . They also relay

information about FAFSA, scholarships, loans, being a student worker, and more.

Jan. 16 - KCC demonstrates transfer process web sites, and KCC and Marshall’s Terron Erwin

orient students on their new Chromebooks, and how to interface KCC and MPS

systems.

MYCA/MJCP Board Report January 2019

MYCA Cycle 39

MYCA Cycle 39 graduated on December 22, 2018.

120 cadets graduated the program.

59 cadets earned diplomas (12 receiving special education services).

30 cadets earned a GED (2 receiving special education services).

75% of the graduates earned a high school certificate.

MJCP Class 6

MJCP Class 6 graduated on December 22, 2018.

28 dual enrolled associates started the program.

13 associates earned diplomas from MOHS (2 receiving special education services).

3 associates earned their GED (1 receiving special education services).

57% of the graduates earned a high school certificate.

MYCA Cycle 40

Currently there are 140 candidates on site at the fort, 3 more may be arriving on 1/23/19.

MJCP Class 7

There are currently 52 associates on site, 15 are dual enrolled with MOHS.

Marshall High School Athletics

Board Report January 22. 2018

Some notes about the winter thus far:

o Our Girls, Varsity Basketball team has won 5 games in row and currently tied for 2nd

place in the I-8.

o The Boys’ Varsity Basketball team is currently in 4th place in the Interstate-8.

o The Wrestling team is continuing to improve and is competing at a high level with very

good competition in the Interstate 8. We recently hosted the third annual Joe Wheeler

Invitational and finished 2nd on January 5th. The event was a huge success, with 10

teams attending this year. Team Districts will be hosted at MHS on Wednesday February

6th.

o The Boys and Girls Bowling teams helped co-host a 54 team invitational at M-66 Bowl

recently.

o The Boys’ Swimming team is currently in 1st place of their league, the Southwestern and

Central Michigan Swim Conference. Many swimmers have already qualified for the

state meet. The Redhawks are having an outstanding season.

o Our Middle School had an excellent boys’ basketball season in November and December

and now it is the girls turn. Co-ed wrestling will have their first meet this Saturday

January 26th.

Last year we reported that gomarshallredhawks.com website had climbed into the top ten landing at #8

for the month of December. We hit a new high in December of 2018…#7 with almost 24,000 hits.

Hopefully everyone is following us on Twitter @MHSRedhawks and/or on gomarshallredhawks.com .

Finally the Marshall Athletic Boosters are hosting our annual Dinner and Cash Drawing at Cornwell’s

Turkeyville on Saturday February 2nd from 6:00-10:00 pm. $75 Tickets are available to purchase on-line

at https://gomarshallredhawks.com/2019/01/11/cash-draw-ticket-purchase-on-line-check-it-out/

Submitted by:

Dan Coddens

Athletic Director, Marshall Public Schools

M A R S H A L L P U B L I C S C H O O L S A Rich Tradition of Excellence

Don Beck, Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Marshall Public Schools ● 100 East Green Street ● Marshall, MI 49068

Phone: 269-781-1258 ● Fax: 269-781-7757

Board of Education Report Office of Curriculum & Instruction January, 2019

Professional Development

MPS teachers participated in multiple professional development opportunities in the past few months focusing on a number of topics. Each training supported our schools’ and district’s improvement plans: Because MPS implemented the NWEA MAP Growth test, we have spent

considerable time this year learning to proctor and use the NWEA assessment and program. Most recently, professional trainers instructed all staff K-8 and 9th grade English and Math teachers in using NWEA reports to improve instruction. This was helpful because after the winter round of testing, teachers will be able to interpret students’ “growth” scores. They will then be able to identify both areas of need and areas ready to be learned. Furthermore, teachers were shown reports to share with parents, and how to analyze class and school-level data.

Secondary staff was trained in SAT and PSAT data use. Specifically, the middle school learned about the PSAT 8, which will be the new state-mandated M-STEP Math and English test this spring. Teachers learned about the test’s format, content, and discussed how to improve instruction to ensure student achievement.

Teachers participated in various trainings about Imagine Math, our new in-class intervention program designed to improve math scores. Currently grades 3-8 use the program to improve math skills.

The Hawk’s Nest in the Middle School was trained by Starr Commonwealth on peer culture and promoting the building of healthy relationships.

Building leaders trained staffs in topics ranging from PBIS, music literacy, and improving education for boys.

Committees District-level committees meet once per month. Highlights include:

Secondary Science Committee: The Middle School Science teachers have been hard at work meeting with vendors from multiple companies, evaluating new curriculum. This is the result of work begun last school year, when the committee determined that due to the new Michigan Science Standards and test, we must adopt a new curriculum and simultaneously transform teaching methods.

Elementary ELA Committee: The Elementary English Committee is continuing to develop the MPS Literacy Plan: a comprehensive guide to K-5 reading and writing instruction for the district. When complete this guide, which has been in the planning stage for a year, will be research-based, comprehensive, and will serve as the standard by which all literacy instruction is measured in the district.

Secondary ELA Committee: Secondary English teachers have begun curriculum alignment, starting with grammar standards.

M A R S H A L L P U B L I C S C H O O L S A Rich Tradition of Excellence

Don Beck, Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Marshall Public Schools ● 100 East Green Street ● Marshall, MI 49068

Phone: 269-781-1258 ● Fax: 269-781-7757

Grants & Other Activities:

NWEA Testing: This fall MPS administered its first round of NWEA MAP Growth assessments to students in grades K-9. This “benchmark” test measured Math and Reading. The second round of testing is now underway, and will continue through early February, additionally adding a third component to math and reading (“literacy,” which tests grammar, spelling, punctuation, and usage.) Once winter testing is complete, we will have our first indication of student growth, and teachers will be able to plan instruction around groups, grades, and individual students. In the spring, the final round of 2018-19 testing will demonstrate the growth of our students over a full year.

McKinney-Vento Assessment: On behalf of the District, the Curriculum Director submitted to the State of Michigan an audit of homeless students’ educational activities and protections. This audit, completed by school districts every three years, ensures that we are in compliance with federal and state laws.

Perception Surveys: In late November, each building administered their first annual perception surveys. These surveys—an integral part of our new school improvement process—gauge the ideas, thoughts, and feelings of various MPS stakeholders, and cover a wide range of topics. The surveys are valid and reliable, being created by data expert Dr. Victoria Bernhardt. Different e-surveys were sent to parents, taken by all staff, and given to students in classes. The results will be given to Dr. Davis to discuss with principals, and school improvement teams will analyze the data for use in their school improvement plans. The Board will be given a summary of the results as well.

 

Marshall Public Schools Technology Department 

  January 23, 2019 RE: Board Report   Technology Assessment Update As mentioned in previous board reports, we are still need of adopting a purchasing lifecycle for the replacement of technology equipment across the district. I believe we have reached the point of beginning to discuss the need for a technology bond project. Doing so could create a sustainable purchasing model for years to come, while allowing us to identify and allocate the funding to support and sustain the model over time.    Student Badges and Windows 10 Desktops and Laptops Update In my previous report, we had to postpone expansion of the Clever badge deployment to the Windows computers. However, I am happy to report that after returning from the holiday break, we have been successful in deploying the badges for to all student WIndows laptops and desktops within our elementary buildings.  Students within these buildings can now use their Clever badge to log onto a Chromebook and Windows 10 laptop or desktop. This functionality will continue to save teachers a tremendous amount of time previously spent logging students onto devices, which in turn increases the amount of instruction time within the classroom.   Early College Students and Chromebooks With the curriculum content delivery for Early College students shifting to digital delivery, the need for Chromebooks to be made available to students attending a KCC class became apparent. This month, we successfully distributed 30 Chromebooks to our Early College students. With the Chromebook, we provided them with a protective Otterbox case to minimize the possibility of damage should the device be dropped, or while it is being transported.   In addition to the protective case, we were able to configure each Chromebook with a content filter to meet the CIPA requirements for school districts. This permits students adequate access to the internet through a robust filtering mechanism. The filter is active wherever a student might be working; any KCC or MPS campus, as well as at their home, or a local coffee shop.  

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Equipment Recycling With the projector upgrade which was performed this Fall, we have many projectors that failed the week we began installing the new projector. However, we also had others which were still in good working order. In addition to the projectors, we also have some other equipment we are working to determine its usefulness within the district. We have began sorting through through these devices to determine are they in working order or not, as well as their usefulness and sustainability. Once we have determined such, we will recycle the devices which have failed and possibly make available the working devices for purchase by the public.  We are currently securing quotes from vendors that perform this type of recycling as it is possible devices which no longer work, still hold some value. I will bring to the board the expected timeline for how and when we will make the devices available to the public for purchase.   MYCA We are working on expanding our network access and support to the MYCA campus. Currently, this campus is not a part of our MPS network and is configured as separate entity. We are working to put the necessary hardware and programming in place to link this site to our Marshall network. Doing so will create a unified network which in turn provides added resources/services to both our students and staff at this site.   As always, if you have questions or concerns as a result of this report, feel free to reach out to me with those. I will be available to discuss this further at the board meeting should you have any questions.   Sincerely, Terron Erwin Director of Technology E: terwin@marshallpublicschools.org V: 269.781.1295 

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FOOD SERVICE BOARD REPORTMonth Lunch

November 17-18 18-19 Free & Red Ala-Carte Vending Federal

SCHOOL Count Count Percent Sales Sales Reimbursement

Serving Days 11 15 4

HIGH SCHOOL 2998 4215 1,217 40 5655 946

MIDDLE SCHOOL 2566 3758 1,192 56 2342 376

GORDON 1420 1984 564 35 132

HARRINGTON 2177 3221 1,044 CEP 0

HUGHES 1598 2294 696 51 51

WALTERS 1816 2236 420 39 74

M A S 540 601 61 CEP 0

Total 13115 18309 5,194 44.2 8254 1322 $74,684.66

Month Breakfast

November 17-18 18-19

Increase /

(Decrease)SCHOOL Count Count

Serving Days 11 15 4

HIGH SCHOOL 1113 1479 366

MIDDLE SCHOOL 1146 1256 110

GORDON 317 516 199

HARRINGTON 1635 2593 958

HUGHES 718 1030 312

WALTERS 747 916 169

M A S 388 339 (49)

Total 6064 8129 2,065

Increase /

(Decrease)

Food Service News: December was a pretty quiet month. We've started training a new sub, but are still looking to hire two more. We will be looking in the near future at replacing a steam table at Marshall High School and a reachin refridgeration unit at Harrington Elementary. We are also in the process of doing a cost analysis of our elementary menu to prepare for the 2019-2020 school year. Wishing you all a great start to the new year.

Board Report

Facilities and Maintenance

January 2019

Brad Shedd

● The heating system at the Opportunity High School has been in need of a lot of work for

some time. During this late Summer and early Fall we spent some time, along with some

outside contractors, replacing some steam traps and rebuilding our condensate return

pumps. The air handler units, five in total, that transmit heat, and potentially cool, to the

east/academic wing of the building, have each had a few, or a lot, of leaks in the coils

within the air handlers. Over the last two years, we have actually been operating through

the Winter months with only three of the air handlers in operational status. We have

been fortunate that we have had enough heat put out by the three units that heat the

central and south classrooms that we have been able to maintain 50-60 degrees F in the

north classrooms (not used by students), the old science wing. As the first serious cold

snap of this heating system approached, we wanted to try to get the fourth, if not all five,

of the air handlers producing and distributing heat. The coils in two of the units had

numerous splits in them; welders from CSE Morse who specialize in silver soldering

spent the better part of three days closing up holes in five of the six coils that are in

those air handlers. There was concern that the coils would never achieve water-tite

status, but they did. Just a day or two ahead of last week’s dip towards 0 and below, we

were able to have heat flowing to every room of the academic wing, greatly enhancing

the comfort level in the building. Work there is not done. We have bids in hand to get

replacement coils for each of the air handlers. We will be moving ahead on those as we

move forward during the Winter and early Spring.

● Matt Potter and his crew cleaned up and painted the walls in around the new white

boards at Hughes Elem. Once again, they are looking as good as new.

● During Winter Break, fire alarm testing was done in each of the production kitchens,

three in Marshall (MHS, MMS, and Walters) and two in Albion (Harrington and MOHS).

We received a clean bill of health in those regards, and we even had the Marshall Fire

Dept. get a test run to Walters when the test accidently went through to their call system.

● The Maintenance Staff worked to clean up our work order list during the six work days

we had during the break. We were able to re-hang a couple of bathroom doors and hang

some shelving, replace some non-functioning lights and replace a few leaking

pipes/faucets/drinking fountains.

● The guys rebuilt the large trailer that was originally purchased to haul the Genie scissor

lift. The wood plank flooring was not ‘beefy’ enough to handle the weight of the lift, so

Tony and Thomas removed two of the planks on either side and welded a steel rail in to

the frame and then re-installed the planking above those new rails. We are now able to

move the lift from building to building, which has already helped with a couple of projects

in the MMS gym - plus we were able to recover about 30 different size balls that were

lodged in nooks across the ceiling.

● I was able to meet with our service representative for Schindler Elevator and we have

cleared up several certificate issues with the elevators and they are all operating in top

condition.

● As of this week, the emergency generators will all have been run through their yearly

load testing and will be ready to perform if we need them.

● We are working hard to keep everyone comfortable in their buildings and to keep walks

and drives passable and safe to walk on. Mother Nature has thrown a lot of ice our way

the past couple of weeks, but things are going alright. We continue to refine our

response plans to deal with the weather and this team is getting more efficient in their

response.

Transportation Board Report for January 2019

Here are a few facts about my decision to recommend we close school or not.

This is just reminder for you in case you encounter anyone with questions about why

we ran or closed school on a given day.

What factors into our decision?

Is the snow too deep for the buses to run?

Does the combination of snow and ice make it unsafe?

Can the city and county keep up with the snow fall?

Where are we at in the storm?

What is the temperature including wind chill?

Can the buses safely start and stop at student stops?

We have a variety of weather in our district; west to east we are twenty miles wide,

and south to north we are 17 miles long. The district covers 170 square miles, so one

part of the district may be fine while another is not safe to travel.

In the course of a normal day our buses start and stop over 1350 times. At every one

of these stops there are students outside the bus. We transport over 1200 students to

school every morning, and home every afternoon. The buses travel about 1800 miles

each day.

Many people when driving their own vehicle ask why did we cancel school; it’s not

bad out here. This is when I remind them that many times driving from point A to

point B is not the issue for us, but the number of times we start and stop a bus is.

I hope that some of this information will be useful to you, if any needs an explanation

about school delays or cancellations.

We are excited that just before the break the two new 10 passenger vans were

delivered. The vans will get Redhawk logos put on each side.

We are currently looking for one route driver, and two or three sub bus drivers. A big

thanks to HR for getting ads in both Marshall and Albion papers.

Thank you,

Mike Walbeck

Director of Transportation