Heritage High School National Merit Scholars

Tanvi Sharma Nick Colucci Jessica Fattal Commended Semifinalist Semifinalist

Arrowwood American Heritage High School Amazing Westdale “send santa gifts Cancer Society Fundraiser Race Fundraiser to our troops”

January 4, 2017 Vol. No. 13, No. 2

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

Creating a Technology Balance

When it comes to student use of technology, students know best. They are honest. Given the fact that technology can be very expensive and has a short life span, we need to plan carefully and with purpose. We need to understand how technology can positively impact learning. We must also work within our budget. Most importantly, we cannot purchase and attempt to implement hardware and programs just because they are the latest and greatest and think that students will love them. The fact remains that students need and appreciate human interaction with staff, other students and family. These are not my opinions. These are the opinions of many, many students over multiple years. Many schools across the country have implemented one-to-one technology for their students. This means that each student receives a computer or device such as a laptop, iPad, Chromebook or tablet to use and take home. These devices often house the content that would normally have been in textbooks, as well as other programs and applications that are used for instruction in the classroom. This is an expensive undertaking not only for the hardware, programs and content, but also for the staffing to support the implementation as well as the training of the teachers. There are also too many schools that have little access to technology. Often, this is due to underfunding and lack of support for technology literacy. To make matters worse, many of the students in these schools do not have access to technology outside of school either. We all understand that our world depends upon technology. Students without at least some technology skills are at a great disadvantage before they ever leave school to further their education or find work. Students that have been a part of my superintendent advisory group these past five years understand the complexities of both scenarios. When asked what they thought was the best approach for our district,

they have articulated very well the need for a balance between technology use and other instructional methods. First and foremost, the students want technology that works, is up to date and provides the necessary tools to complete their work. They want the instruction led by teachers not computers, and they want the opportunity to collaborate with their peers. In other words, they understand that technology is a tool, not a teacher. Our district utilizes a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy to augment our current technology infrastructure. We have a robust and secure wireless network that students can use to access the internet while at school. With this policy, though, comes an issue of equity. Not all students have capable devices, leaving the ability for equitable access to our district technology such as iPads, Chromebooks and computer labs. Unfortunately, teachers must often wait for availability in order to use the technology as part of a lesson due to our limited number of devices. Using the input and feedback from our students, we have begun the process of addressing our technology needs. First, we have already begun replacing our computer labs at the elementary level and staff computers across the district. Next year, we plan to replace the labs at the secondary level. Replacement of existing, outdated equipment is the needed first step. We have also begun the process of examining our current needs and planning for the expanded use of technology to enhance learning. This will mean addressing two major areas. The first is increasing access while at school by adding devices such as Chromebooks in each building. The second and more difficult is addressing the issue of equitable access for students at home. We are looking at possible ways that the district can make technology and internet access available in the home to those students that do not currently have it. Doing so will expand teaching and learning opportunities exponentially. While not every student will be provided a district owned device, our hope is that we can create a balance where students can and will have access to technology when needed, both at school and at home. Having equitable access to technology is important to learning as long as it is balanced with quality instruction provided by excellent teachers.

Doug Trombley, STCS Superintendent

Eighty-two members of the White Pine choir joined the Saginaw Bay Symphony Orchestra and the Saginaw Bay Youth Orchestra on the beautiful Temple Theatre stage in December. The choir was able to enjoy the SBSO performance for the first half of the concert and then joined the symphony onstage to perform two medleys of Christmas songs. The finale of the evening was an audience sing-along of favorite carols led by the White Pine Choir, SBSO, and SBYO. Dr. Fouad Fakhouri, in his first year as SBSO conductor, extended the performance invitation to White Pine choir teacher Betty Mayer as part of an effort to involve youth in the Saginaw performing arts.

Westdale’s Wonderful Writers

Daily Elf Report

Kaitlyn N.,

Kindergarten I got a crismis tey.

Camping Trip Marlea P., First Grade One time me and family went on a camping trip. After we packt our stuff. Then we drove to our camping spot. After we got to our camping spot we set up the fire and ait some hotdogs. Then we set up our tents and we fell asleep.

My Elf ~ Payton C. Second Grade Have you ever seen an elf? I have! My family has an elf on the shelf. His name is Elmer. One morning I woke up and started looking for him. I found my elf in the hallway. Elmer will go back to the north pole on Christmas day. I

won’t see him until next year.

Westdale Elementary 2nd graders (pictured above) participated in the Hour of Code in December. Hour of Code is a Computer Science Activity that introduces students to basics of computer coding.

Saginaw ISD Transitions Center School exhibits student artwork throughout the school year. School Districts within the Saginaw ISD have the opportunity to display artwork for the duration of one month. STCS was proud to display student artwork from all five of our elementary schools for the month of October! Congratulations to the following students for having their artwork (from last year and from the start of the school year) selected by their art teachers Christina Mulford and Kim Cairy:

Arrowwood: Patrick Schmiegel, RaeAna Brewer, and Simran Kaur Hemmeter: Tyler Ode, Ainsley Himm, and Luke Carpenter Sherwood: Eden Bowman, Lucas Krempa, and Cody Crawley Weiss: Peyton Moore, Judith Simon, and Ashlin Hess Westdale: Konner Prescott, Bianca Dasuqi, and Marisa Garcia

It is the policy of Saginaw Township Community Schools that the District will not discriminate against any person based on sex, race, color, national origin, religion, height, weight, marital status, handicap, age, or disability in its programs, services, or activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Director of Human Resources & Labor Relations, Saginaw Township Community Schools, PO Box 6278, 3465 N. Center Road, Saginaw, MI 48608 Phone: 989-797.1800.

Young Five and Kindergarten students from Sherwood Elementary visited Johnson’s Giant Pumpkin Farm in Saginaw. They spent the morning learning about pumpkin life cycles, Native Americans, and different kinds of pumpkins/gourds. Students were able to investigate the different animal pelts that local Native Americans may have used. In addition, they learned which pumpkins are better for eating and/or carving. To top the morning off, students enjoyed a yummy treat of homemade donuts and apple cider. A special thanks to the Sherwood PTO for covering the cost of bus transportation!

A little more than 10 years ago, an annual tradition was started by a teacher at Heritage High School and teacher, Melissa Fila took it over. Over the course of the day, on Veteran’s Day, her leadership classes (pictured above) took a break from the classroom and spend the class period planting the flags. In total, 10,000 flags were planted, each representing a Saginaw County veteran! Students at Arrowwood Elementary know that they can make a difference in the world. During November, Arrowwood’s student council met with the American Cancer Society and learned all the ways that this organization helps people battle cancer; Wig Bank, Road to Recovery, and Hope Lodge to name a few. The goal was to collect as many dimes as we could in one week. Our Dimes to Make a Difference campaign was a success! 3rd grade raised $252.23, 4th grade brought in $253.82, and 5th grade collected $224.88. On the 2nd week we had a little fun with some sabotage. Knowing the amounts that each grade level raised in dimes, we added additional coins to off-set the totals. In the end, 4th grade won the competition but the real winner was the American Cancer Society. With help from our Arrowwood families we were able to achieve our goal! At our monthly PRIDE assembly on December 2nd, student council members from Arrowwood presented Mr. Jeff Larsen, a representative from the American Cancer Society, a check for $1,000.00! Way to go Eagles!

White Pine Middle School students share their reading talents at Edgewood Assisted Living Center. This meaningful community service takes place monthly and enriches the lives of both the residents and sixth grade students as they learn from experiencing each other.

The third season of Girls on the Run at Weiss Elementary was a great success. GOTR inspires girls in grades 3-5 to be joyful, healthy and confident. 20 Weiss girls (pictured below) participated in the 10 week season that included lessons about positive self-talk, cooperation, gratitude and standing up to peer pressure.

After learning about their community, the girls planned and implemented a community impact project. The girls donated fleece and during one of our practices made 11 No Sew blankets that were given out to those in need in our community. Each lesson also included fun running activities to help train for the final celebratory 5k running event, the Reindeer Run. Girls on the Run is so much fun!

Mackinaw High School – enrolling students ages 16-19 Mackinaw High School (MHS) helps high-school age students who are not in school or struggling at their current school obtain their high school diploma. This past June, MHS graduated 63 students and is looking forward to trying to match that number in 2016-17. MHS, the alternative high school

in the STCS school district with an average enrollment of about 200 students, is located on Shattuck Road just east of Bay Road. A combination of structured and unstructured classes, and use of blended learning using technology to deliver instruction provides students with many choices to earn credit. MHS will has five enrollment periods during the school year. Those enrollment periods can be found on its website. MHS enrolls Saginaw Township students and out of district students. Please check the website or call 799-8470 for information and don’t forget to like us on Facebook. Need to get back in school? Get started by calling MHS at 799-8470 today!

Saginaw Township Community Schools Foundation

What does the STCS Foundation do? Thanks to the generosity of parents, staff, area residents and business owners each year the STCS Foundation is able to award grants for projects that enhance educational opportunities for STCS students of all grades. We fund projects that cannot be included in the regular STCS budget. A strong school system must go hand in hand with a strong community. By contributing to the STCS Foundation you will help ensure long-term sustainability by providing a steady source of annual funding.

What sorts of projects does the Foundation fund? Projects funded by the STCS Foundation are creative, innovative and extend the regular curriculum. These projects benefit a large number of students and are based on research that seek to improve the educational experience for students. In May, grants totaling $20,600 were awarded! Funding was provided for programs including HHS distance learning, White Pine and Heritage Visiting Authors, the KNOTS program to help special education students and encourage socializing, and enrichment projects at elementary schools for math, science, literacy and the arts.

Is my donation tax-deductible? Yes! The Saginaw Township Community Schools Foundation partners with the Saginaw Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, to allow donations to be tax deductible.

Make your contribution:

online at http://saginawfoundation.thankyou4caring.org/stcsf Through United Way by designating the Saginaw Township Community Schools Foundation Write a check (payable to STCS Foundation) and mail it to STCS Foundation P.O. Box 6278 Saginaw, MI 48608 Your gift will provide opportunities for students today and the students of tomorrow. Thank you for your continuing commitment of support for your STCS Foundation! 2016-2017 Consumers Energy Safety Calendar Contest Congratulations to Lucas Shelagowski, Savannah Bellinger, and Alexis Heffernan! Artwork created by these Hemmeter Elementary students was selected to be in the 2016-2017 Consumers Energy Safety Calendar. Lucas, Savannah, and Alexis, along with other students in Mrs. Kelsey’s 4th grade science classes, submitted drawings showcasing electricity and/or natural gas safety tips learned during the EmPOWERed Kids program presented last April. Students and teachers received multiple calendars to display.

Delta STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Explorer Bus Mrs. Idzior’s and Mrs. Fairchild’s White Pine Design Tech classes visited and experienced the Delta STEM Bus, a mobile STEM laboratory funded with a $4 million grant from the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation. The STEM Explorer visits middle schools, high schools and local community events. Inside the bus, Design Tech classes experienced virtual reality, augmented reality, learned about 3D printing, virtually welded two pieces of metal together, and solved a crime lab mystery. Outside the bus, they shot off air cannon parachutes, became a human-powered electricity generator, and became a human-to-human neurotransmitter. The day began with the 8th grade classes. They were split into two groups, with one group on the bus and the other outside learning about becoming a neurotransmitter. They were able to feel what it was like to be “controlled” by another person. Two students were connected to electrodes, an Arduino computer and a TENS unit. The student who was the controller was able to flex their muscle and cause the controlled partner to have their hands and fingers move. This experience allowed the students to understand how technology can assist a person with a prosthetic limb and use their own neurons to aid in the flexing of their prosthetic limbs and appendages. The 7th grade students spent time creating parachutes and were able to test their designs and the effectiveness of their parachutes when they were launched from the air cannon. The day ended with the 6th grade students who were able to generate electricity by pedaling bicycles. The bikes were hooked up to specialized athletic trainers that can convert the kinetic energy of the bicycle to the electrical energy to power a fan. Students learned how much energy is required to “burn” calories from some of their favorite foods.

The students enjoyed their experience and time spent on the STEM Explorer. The STEM Explorer will be at the STCS STEM Day on May 20th and will also return for the Design Tech classes on the

May 18 and 19, 2017. Written by: Terrie Robbie, MYP/STEM Coordinator

The Saginaw Branch of the Woman’s National Farm and Garden Association annually awards residents, businesses and organizations whom take great pride and pleasure in using farming, gardening and landscaping to enhance their property, personal lives and community. The Beautification Awards Committee visited the Common Grounds Community Garden over the summer and then selected Saginaw Township’s community garden to receive the award in the category of “Community Garden!” The gardens “sprouted” from the community book read “Seedfolks” and the cooperative efforts of Saginaw Charter Township and Saginaw Township Community Schools’ Community School Organizers. Congratulations everyone!

Experiencing Virtual Reality You are controlling my Hand!!!

8th Grade Neurotransmitter Activity I CAN Weld!

7th Grade Air Cannon Parachutes Solving the Mystery using microscopic clues

Community Education K-5 After School Activities Clubs All students must be pre-registered at least 2 days prior to the first attendance date. The necessary forms are available online at http://saginaw.cyberschool.com/District/Department/3-Community-Education. Each form can be printed out and completed and

returned to the Community Education office. The address is 3465 N. Center Rd, Saginaw, MI 48603. We are located in the Board of Education office at Heritage High School (North Entrance). All students must be pre-registered at least 2 days prior to the first attendance date.

The Weekly Schedule and Payment form must be returned, with payment, at each of your individual child's center by 6 pm Thursday the week before attending. If online scheduling and payment is used, you will have until Sunday of that same week. There is a $1.75 convenience fee to use online scheduling and payment.

Community Education Opens Up Learning to the Community! Each fall, winter, and spring, the Community Education brochure has a large variety of classes and activities for adults and youngsters alike! Whether a person is looking to improve their level of fitness, health, or “mental acuity,” there is something for everyone!

The Winter Community Education Lighthouse Brochure of classes, events, and activities will be mailed to all Saginaw Township residents on Jan.

6. Please call 797-1847 if you don’t get your copy by the end of the week! You can register for classes at www.celighthouse.org and also follow us on Facebook!

Step By Step Child Development Center

Step By Step is a developmentally appropriate program for preschool children ages 3-5 years old, located at Arrowwood Elementary. There are two options: full day and enrichment. The program serves parents needing day care as well as those wanting preschool. The Director is Patricia Buchholz. Center Information

• Licensed by the State of Michigan • Full Day is a year program (closed holidays). Hours are 7 am to 6 pm. • Enrichment is a school year program (closed holidays). Enrichment Day Hours are 8:30-11:30 am • Snacks Provided • Minimum attendance: 3 days per week • Child must be 3 years old by the time they start the program and toilet trained • Participates in the direct-payment program through DHS (State of Michigan)

Step By Step is committed to recognizing the individuality of each child. We assist children in developing their own natural talents and help them discover new ones. An open cooperative relationship between our center and your home is imperative. Together, we share the responsibility of providing a secure and nurturing environment for your child, focusing on the individual needs of the child, including emotional, cognitive, social and physical skill development. School readiness skills are also emphasized.

Application & Registration: To reserve your child's space in our program, there is a non-refundable $15 individual or $20 family application fee. The application packet is available online (www.stcs.org > Departments> Community Education>Step By Step Preschool, in the Community Education office, or you can call the Community Education Office at 797-1847 to have one mailed to you. We need two business days to process the completed packet of forms, so please plan accordingly. Enrollment is limited to 40 children, first-come, first served and preference is given to 5 day users!

Per Day Pickup Times Per Day Rate per child

After School until 5 pm $7.25 After School until 6 pm $9.25 Half Days $12.00 Full Days $24.00

Pre-Paid EZ-Passes are available for those who use the program on a periodic basis and have pre-registered their child. Passes may be purchased at the individual centers. EZ-Passes are good for emergencies also. After School Days: $11/day (can be used for any after school day Half days - AM or PM: $22/day (can be used on special half-days of school)

Full days $26 (used on no school days when the center is open)

2017 Rates (25% discount for additional child) Full Day (open from 7 am to 6 pm) Paid Weekly

5 Days $140 4 Days $112

3 Days $ 84

Enrichment only 8:30 - 11:30 am Paid Weekly 5 Days $60 4 Days $52 3 Days $39

After School Club for White Pine students! This NEW club is open after school until 6 pm each full day school day. A variety of supervised activities are available to students, as well as computer access, and time to do homework if the student so chooses! STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) projects will be planned. Cost will be $7 per scheduled day. Parents can schedule the days chosen on a weekly basis. To get details and/or enroll your middle school student, call Community Education at 797-1847. Students must be pre-registered in order to attend.

Valencia Olivarez and Ruth Russell are both in Dental Assisting clinicals at Delta College. They visited Mrs. Bowsher's classroom at Sherwood Elementary to give a presentation to students to promote good oral hygiene. They showed the students how to properly brush their teeth by focusing on how much toothpaste to use, how many times a day to brush, and how to floss teeth. They also discussed proper nutrition by comparing healthy and unhealthy foods. The students discussed how these foods affect their teeth. Valencia and Ruth brought special goodie bags with tooth brushes for each student! Valencia is a cousin to two of Mrs. Bowsher's students, Amiyah and Dominic. First Graders from Sherwood Elementary went on a field trip to Kluck's Nursery. They learned about how trees grow and were given a pine cone to break open and find the tiny seeds inside. They looked at the different growing stages of the trees and learned that it takes twelve years of growing to get to a full size Christmas tree. Students looked at the trunk of the tree and counted the rings to see how old the tree was. They watched what happens when you purchase a tree, from the "shaking machine" to get out all of the dead needles, and then going through the machine to wrap it up tight to fit in your front door. They also took a wagon ride, played on the hay slide and sat by the warm fire.

Last spring, Community Education held its first Mom2Mom Sale! The transformation of Heritage High School took place in the course of a day or two! Sellers and vendors – over 150 – setup on Friday night and early Saturday morning. As you can see from the photos below, the sale was a great success! Parents, family members, community members and LOTS of toddlers in strollers converged on Heritage to seek out

those great bargains. It was so successful, we did it again in the fall and will be having a sale again on March 5, 2017! The sale is from 10:00-1:00 pm (admission is $3); or $5 admission for early bird sale from 9 – 10 am! Call 797-1847 for seller or vendor details!

Kim Cairy has been selected by the National Art Education Association to receive the Western Region Art Educator Award. To top that, she will also be receiving the National Middle Level Art Educator Award! She will be receiving both awards at the 2017 NAEA National Convention in New York, NY in March. Her representation of STCS on the regional and national level speaks volumes about her hard work, dedication and talent. It is an incredible honor for her and a proud moment for all of us knowing that we have a national award winner as part of our team. Congratulations Kim!

The children enjoyed making trinket boxes out of Popsicle sticks. at the Arrowwood After School Program The other children couldn’t wait to make one after they saw the finished boxes!

Miss Depcinski's Westdale Elementary’s 1st grade students are working on our class newspaper. Each child gets one day to share their "Big Burning News" and the class writes it and illustrates it. When they are done, each child will have 28 news articles and illustrations to take home and share with their family in the form of a newspaper!

Arrowwood Elementary recently had some very special guests in their school. To honor our nation’s veterans the school held an assembly to acknowledge and thank veterans for their service. Veterans and their families joined the students and staff in the theater where everyone recited the Pledge of Allegiance and then heard a message from the principal. After that each branch of the military was recognized and then the 4th grade students sang a song. The veterans were presented with a gift and then a moment of silence was shared to recognize the soldiers that are no longer with us. To end the assembly everyone took flags out to the front of the school and put them around the Arrowwood sign. Arrowwood would like to thank our nation’s veterans for their bravery and service! Community Education Running Club Pictured below are the runners of the K-5th grade Fall Running Club’s 1-Mile Challenge Run on November 5th!

S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

ER

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28

C3 C3

1 2 3 4

C4 C4 X

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30 31

X X X X X

Heritage High School 1

Full Day 7:40 am - 2:40 pm

1/2 Day students AM 7:40 am - 10:50 am 2 3 4 5 6 7 81/2 Day students PM 11:30 am - 2:40 pm 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

PD X

Full Day 8:40 am - 3:29 pm 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

1/2 Day students AM 8:40 am - 11:50 am 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

1/2 Day students PM 12:40 am - 3:29 pm

Full Day 7:45 am - 2:35 pm

1/2 Day students AM 7:45 am - 10:55 am 1 2 3 4 5 6

1/2 Day students PM 11:25 am - 2:35 pm PD

Mackinaw High School 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

Full Day (Mon. - Thurs) 9:00 am - 4:15 pm 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Fridays 9:00 am - 12 noon 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

1/2 Day students AM 9:00 am - 12 noon 28 29 30 31

X

Heritage High School 989-799-5790 1 2 3

Mackinaw High School 989-799-8470 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

White Pine Middle School 989-797-1814 11 12 13 14 15 L D 16 17

Arrowwood Elementary 989-797-1835 RW

Hemmeter Elementary 989-797-1832Sherwood Elementary 989-799-2382

Weiss Elementary 989-793-5226

Westdale Elementary 989-797-1827

www.stcs.org

1/2 Day - students attend AM only on the

Elementary Schools

White Pine Middle School

C4: WPMS 4:30-6:30 pm both days

School Time Schedule

C1: HHS/Elem: students AM; Conf. 12-4 pm

C1: WPMS: students AM; Conf. 1-5 pm

C2: HHS/Elem: students PM; Conf. 4-8 pm

C2: WPMS: students PM; Conf. 4:30-8:30 pm

C3: HS/Elem 4-6 pm both days

March 2017

X = No School (Election, Holidays, Winter, Spring Breaks)

L = Last Day of School

PD = Professional Development (see below)

E R = Elementary Record Day (1/2 day school

for Elementary Students)

April 2017

RW = All Staff Record Day (No School - all grades)

Parent Teacher Conferences

following dates: 9/27, 10/31, 1/11, 4/11, 5/5

School Ends 6/15/2017

February 2017

Calendar Highlight Key

2016-2017

School Year Calendar

SW = Staff Workday (New staff 8/29, 8/30)

F = First Day of School

May 2017

June 2017District Phone Numbers

NEWS FROM NUTRITION SERVICES

LUNCH MONEY MADE EASY! Have you ever arrived at work after dropping the kids off at school, and realized you forgot to give them lunch money? Has your middle school student called you 15 minutes before lunch to tell you he only has $1 left in his account? Ever wonder why your high school student is always asking you for more lunch money? If this sounds familiar, on-line access to your child’s meal account is just what you NEED! On-line access allows you to monitor your child’s school meal account balance and purchases, make on-line deposits with a credit or debit card, transfer funds among sibling accounts and limit ala carte spending! You will also receive “Low Balance Email Notifications” when your child’s account balance goes under $5.00. In addition to monitoring your child’s account, you can also apply for Free or Reduced Price Meals with your on-line access. If you do not have on-line access, you may make a request for your user name and password at: www.stcs.org → Departments → Nutrition Services → On –line Access Request (located on the left hand side of the Nutrition Services webpage) Any money left in your child’s school meal account at the end of the school year will roll over and be available in the fall. If your child is leaving the District, encourage your child to spend down their school meal account balance before leaving. You can request an account refund, for amounts over $5, by completing an Account Refund Request Form found at: www.stcs.org → Departments → Nutrition Services → Student Account Refund Request. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact the Nutrition Services Office at 989-793-9713. Make Money! Work while the kids are in SCHOOL! Are you looking for something to do for a few hours during the day while the kids are at school? Do you like to interact with children? Would you like to earn a few extra dollars to help pay off some of those holiday bills? If so, School Nutrition Services is the place for you! The Nutrition Services Department currently has several openings for part-time Kitchen Helpers. Part-time positions are available at Heritage High School, Nouvel Catholic Central Elementary School, Shields Elementary School and Swan Valley High School. Kitchen Helpers work during lunch, assisting with lunch set-up, serving meals to students and cleaning up after lunch, including washing dishes, pots and pans. The rate of pay is $8.90 per hour (effective January 1, 2017) and the shifts range from 3 to 4 hours per day. Benefits include paid sick days, paid holidays, paid business day (after first year of employment), attendance incentive and work shirts. If you are interested, all job postings are currently listed on the STCS Human Resources webpage at: www.stcs.org → Departments → Human Resources → Employment Opportunities. You are also welcome to apply in person at 3283 Fashion Square Blvd., or contact the Nutrition Services office at 989-793-9713, for more information.

Get in the game to help make our schools safe. Step up and speak up. The OK2SAY app lets a person confidentially report anything that threatens them or the safety of other students. Submit a tip by phone, text, or email, on the iPhone or Android app. Make the play, use OK2SAY!

My Eagle Scout Project – Brandon Ulicki Achieving the rank of Eagle Scout is a momentous achievement in a young person's life. It takes many years of work and dedication leading up to it. One of the major requirements the scout must fulfill is planning and carrying out a project. This project must be beneficial to the community. Not long ago I started down this road and I built a sensory table for the Step By Step Preschool program at Arrowwood Elementary. There was a lot of fundraising and planning that had to be done but only after I acquired signatures from my troop leader, the troop committee chair, and the beneficiary. I also had to get council or district approval. Once we had the details of the project ironed out, it was time to gather the supplies. That night my father and I spent about 3 hours getting everything cut up and ready for assembly. About a week prior, we had contacted some close friends to come out and help with the project and once everyone was there we had all of the major pieces screwed together in a matter of hours. Not long after we had setup date to install the table. Once again this was done very quickly because of the amount of people we had and installation was done in just under an hour. This project couldn't have been done without all of the help I received and turned out wonderfully.

Using Junk to “Make” Shelly Swope, a fifth grade teacher at Weiss Elementary, has learned not to throw away anything and her students have learned to re-purpose items that were once destined for the recycling center or landfill. In an effort to bring STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) into her classroom, Shelly is working with Terrie Robbie, MYP/STEM Coordinator to engage her students to use the Engineering Design process to “Make.” Maker Space is an educational trend that is sweeping the country where students and adults are given few parameters and using anything they can find, “make” something new. Growing up in the 60’s and 70’s this type of activity was known as “play”, where kids would and could entertain themselves for hours with anything they could find. One lesson was to teach the students how to make an LED light switch on a paper flashlight using an LED light, a button battery and a paper template flashlight. The students were then asked to create anything, using “junk”, to make an item that used the “switch” concept from the flashlight into a new item. Shelly’s students also created a “Jack-in-the box”, a pumpkin with glowing eyes, games, and a food cardboard box city. Throughout the whole process, the students worked through the Design process with their teammates and resolved problems and rebuilt their final product. Mrs. Swope’s students used matchbox cars, tape, foam, foil, plastic bags, string, and cardboard to make the slowest car to make it down the ramp. Students created cars wrapped in foam and tape to slow them down, they made parachutes to slow the cars down, and many students used

a combination of all the items to make the cars move the slowest and make it down the ramp. The students were asked to brainstorm ideas, draw a prototype, build their prototype, test it and then change their design based on their testing data. At the end of the activity, students competed against each other, with the slowest vehicle winning the race. For holiday gifts, rather than making paper Santa’s and tiny reindeer, the students designed a stencil that they cut out, placed on a votive glass candle holder and used etching cream to permanently etch their candle holder with their design. While the students waited to rinse off their glass candle holders, they made paper gift bags and cards for the person(s) that were going to receive their gift of a candle and uniquely-designed glass candle holder. The students each had their own unique design, which included snowflakes, trees, the Texas Longhorn symbol, snowmen, crosses, their last name and many other interesting designs.

The Weiss After School Activities Club students are in the “build” mode - using PVC pipes and connectors – and they had a blast. Yet to come will be building rocket launchers, adding marbles and adding water to their projects!

White Pine Lady Hawks Swimmers complete record breaking year taking first place in the MMTBS Middle School League Jamboree!

The White Pine Middle School Girls Swim Team completed an undefeated season by blowing the competition out of the water in the Middle School League Jamboree meet Wednesday, 12/15 at SVSU. The Hawks took first in 7 out of ten events, finishing 119 points ahead of second place Midland Jefferson Middle School!

1st place swims included:

200 Medley Relay team – 2:05.62 (White Pine School Record) Ella Banning, Tina Rose Nickleberry, Hannah Fleming, Alix Zwingman 100 Individual Medley – Hannah Fleming 1:07.61 50 Butterfly – Hannah Fleming 29.56 100 Freestyle – Ella Banning 1:01.42 50 Backstroke – Ella Banning 31.55 50 Breaststroke – Tina Rose Nickleberry 36.92 200 Freestyle Relay Team – 1:52.19 Ella Banning, Tina Rose Nickleberry, Alix Zwingman, Hannah Fleming

It was truly a team effort as the Hawks placed 47 swimmers and relays overall in the top 16 places of each event! Also notable swims this season, 200 Freestyle Relay – Ella Banning, Tina Rose Nickleberry, Alix Zwingman, Hannah Fleming 1:51.69 (White Pine School Record) 11/21/16 50 Freestyle – Hannah Fleming 26.41 11/17/16 (White Pine School Record)

Second graders (pictured to the right) at Sherwood Elementary enjoyed creating their holiday craft, funded by their amazing parents and P.T.O. Students enjoy the projects and events held throughout the year due to the extra funding provided by the P.T.O. Thank you all for your support!

Students at the Westdale After School Activities Club (pictured below) enjoyed a coloring creation project! Each of the ASAC programs strive to provide students with fun and engaging projects throughout the school year!

School Day Visitors to Our Schools: each of our school building main entrances has a door buzzer system used to provide a level of security for gaining access to the school. At each entrance, there is a sign (pictured to the left) that lists the steps we request visitors follow to gain entry to the main offices in our schools. We thank you for your patience and understanding!

2016-17 Board of Education The Board of Education generally meets on the 2nd and 4th Monday. Agendas are posted at the Board of Education office, on the district web site, and are available at the meetings. Meetings start at 7 pm at the Arrowwood Conference Center, 5410 Seidel Road. Board of Education members are: Marianne Bird, Michael Colucci, Jenean Coughlin, David Jaffee, J. Frederick Littles, M.D., Susan Prine, and Arik Smith. This year’s Board Meeting Schedule is as follows:

January 9

January 23

February 13

February 27

March 13

March 20

April 10

April 24

May 8

May 22

June 12

June 19

Hawks Cross Country Team Concludes Another Outstanding Season! The White Pine Hawks cross country team recently concluded another outstanding season of competition and camaraderie. New to the team this year was the addition of 6th graders. In total there were 74 athletes that came out for the team conquering the trails, hills, and pathways of Michigan. Training all year round played a crucial role in the successes that the team had this season. The athletes persevered during the long winter months and got their daily runs in, in the hopes of having their hard work pay off when the weather finally became warm again. As the season changed into spring many of the athletes participated in track so that they can finally get the feel of racing again before the cross country season rolls around. While this may seem like the end of running until August many of the White Pine Hawks attend a rigorous, and challenging but yet delightful camp up at Sleeping Bear Dunes where they are able to push their limits and enjoy the beautiful location of their runs. The year round conditioning comes to a close with summer running club where athletes are able to meet up with their fellow teammates and get a run in while creating new friendships. This year marked the Hawks 13th season of cross country which was another success in a long line of winning seasons. The hawks traveled great distances to compete against teams from around the state, the boys finished the season with a 86 and 6 record with them winning the Chesaning, Bath, Oiler, Heritage and Kayla O’Mara Invitational’s. On the girls side they finished with a 74 and 17 record taking 1st place at the Chesaning invitational and 2nd at the Lancer, Warrior, Heritage, BCW and Kayla O’Mara Invitational’s. The White Pine Hawks worked hard throughout the year and finally saw their efforts pay off multiple times throughout the season. The determination and resilience to achieve nothing but the best is what made these athletes so spectacular both on and off the cross country course. The coaches would like to thank each and every team member for a season of hard work, dedication, commitment, and excellence! Hawks Run Tough! The 2017 Cross Country Season will be here before we know it. There will be a pre-season informational meet at the end of May or beginning of June for any 5th, 6th or 7th grader that is interested in running cross country at White Pine next school year. Contact Coach Wilson at Hawksrunning2015@gmail.com for more information about White Pine cross country.

At the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Cross Country State Finals, the Heritage High School boys finished 9th and the girls finished 22nd. Both teams improved on last year and ran great races. The boys who qualified for the state finals consisted of Jordan Eisengruber, Michael Fiore, Jack Doyle, Jacob McDowell, Jacob Faerber, Andrew Garza and Nathan Weidman. The girls who qualified for the state finals were Rachel Kempf, Emma Banning, Lynsey Amthor, Chloe Fry, Madison Brooks, Amanda Aquinaga & Emily Stewart. Congratulations all!

Children’s Author Visits Township Schools On December 15, 2016 Marc Tyler Nobleman visited Hemmeter

Elementary, Weiss Elementary, and White Pine Middle School. Marc is the author of several books, including Boys of Steel: The Creators of Superman and Bill, The Wonder Boy: The Secret Co-Creator of Batman. Marc’s fascinating presentation described how he uncovered the hidden story behind Batman’s true creator, Bill Finger. Students, and staff were highly engaged in his school-day presentations, and parents were excited to attend his

free evening presentation for the public. Marc’s research findings will be shared through a Hulu documentary entitled, “Batman and Bill,” that will be released on Hulu in 2017.

Last spring, WPMS students participated in the 7th Annual Community Calendar Art Contest, sponsored by Hemlock Semiconductor Operations and Dow Corning. The drawing was to reflect the theme: “My Dream STEM Job”. The contest was open to all WPMS students who wanted to submit a drawing. After all drawings were turned in, 4 drawings were selected to be entered into the contest from WPMS. All four (4) students (Ava Alonzo, Rebecca Alfano, Jean Cho, and Samantha McGrandy) who had their drawings selected to represent WPMS were also selected to appear in the HSC/Dow Corning 2017 Community Calendar. Twelve (12) middle schools in the Saginaw County area participated in the contest. Students were recognized on November 9, 2016, for their participation in the contest. Thank you to Hemlock Semiconductor, the Dow Corning Healthcare Industries Materials Site, and the community support for this initiative! WPMS shared the “Best of the Best Award”, earning a monetary prize of $1,000 for our school!

White Pine Middle School Visual Arts

Eighth Grade Studio Art students head to Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum White Pine studio art students spent Nov. 4 at SVSU, touring and learning about artist Marshall M. Fredericks, organized by WPMS art teachers Peggy Conlin and Kim Cairy. Students had a tour of the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum and participated in a hands-on art activity conducted by the Museum Educator, Andrea Ondish. Before leaving SVSU, students walked through the SVSU Art Department classes to get a glimpse into what SVSU students are currently working on at the college level. SVSU Art Department Chair, Hideki Kihata, spoke with the students about the various opportunities SVSU has to offer them in the field of art and worked with students in the photography lab to complete a fun photo assignment! Students then had the opportunity to explore outside in the Sculpture Garden. This area includes a growing collection of more than 20 bronze casts of Fredericks’ sculptures. Overall, the experience helped students gain insight and a first-hand look into our local gem in the Great Lakes Bay Region!

Creating a school climate less susceptible to harassment, bullying and violence is possible. We see it happening in socioeconomically and demographically diverse schools across North America every day. Making schools safer, more connected places where bullying and violence are replaced with kindness and respect; and where learning and teaching are awakened to their fullest. An evening event for the ENTIRE community!

Rachel’s Challenge - March 16!

Do we have your curiosity stirred up?

Visit: rachelschallenge.org

Heritage High School 6 – 7 PM

You don’t want to miss it!

White Pine Middle School

Visual Arts

Swim School – Winter Registration

Classes held January 30 through March 17 at the Sherwood Pool

Walk-in Registration at Sherwood: 5:30-6:30 pm each night Tues. , January 24: Members who just finished in January Weds. January 25: Returning members or new members. If you do not know the child’s swim level, an optional swim assessment is available to determine child’s swim level. Please bring swim suit/towel if being tested.

Walk in/Phone Registration (797.1847) for remaining openings accepted at Community Education from 8 am - 4:30 pm beginning Thursday, January 26.

Tiny Tots is for children ages 6 month - 4 years of age with an adult in the pool. Level 1 is for ages 4 years and older; Levels 2 through 8/9/10 are based on swim ability.

Monday, January 30 through March 13 (7 sessions) 4:40-5:10 pm Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 $54 5:20-5:55 pm Level 4/5 Level 6/7 Level 8/9/10 $64 6:05-6:35 pm Tiny Tots Level 1 Level 2 $54 6:45-7:15 pm Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 $54 7:20-8:00 pm Level 4/5 Level 6/7 Level 8/9/10 $74

Wednesday, February 1 through March 15 (7 sessions) 4:40-5:10 pm Tiny Tot Level 1 Level 3 $54 5:20-5:55 pm Level 4/5 Level 6/7 Level 8/9/10 $64 6:05-6:35 pm Tiny Tots Level 1 Level 2 $54 6:45-7:15 pm Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 $54 7:20-8:00 pm Level 4/5 Level 6/7 Level 8/9/10 $74

Friday, February 3 through March 17 (7 sessions) 4:40-5:10 pm Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 $54 5:20-5:50 pm Tiny Tots Level 1 Level 2 $64 6:00-6:30 pm Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 $54 6:35-7:10 pm Level 4/5 Level 6/7 Level 8/9/10 $64

Adult Swim School Learn to swim lessons for adults. No previous swim experience needed. Tuesdays 5:20-6 pm Jan. 31 through Mar. 14 $54

Jr. Swim Club The Jr. Swim Club is a pre-competitive swim club for those who are considering joining a swim team and would like a more intense workout. Thursdays 5:20-6 pm Feb. 2 through March 16 $74

H20 BootCamp - Plan to get wet with a fast-paced high-energy class in Sherwood's warm water pool that will get your body moving without the joint contact that occurs on a hard floor! The ability to swim is not required. Choose the time that fits your schedule. Instructor is Marie VanTiflin. No Class Mar. 2 17WH2O-1 Tues/Thurs: 6:10 - 6:55 pm Jan. 17 - Mar. 23 $71 17WH2O-2 Tues/Thurs: 7:00 - 7:45 pm Jan. 17 - Mar. 23 $71 Register early! These classes fill up quickly!

2017 Summer Driver’s Education Segment 1 Driver’s Education Information & REGISTRATION NIGHT Feb. 15 @ 6:30 PM – Heritage Student Center Just like last year, class time will be every day and all driving will be done on the road. The best news is that the cost will remain the same! Registration will open the night of the meeting. The dates are Thursday, June 15 through Wednesday, July 5. To be eligible, a student must be 14 years 8 months by June 15.

After the first two 2-hour class days, on-the-road drive time (6 hrs) is arranged with the road instructor at times other than class, in 1 ½ hour blocks, every day. Failure to attend results in removal from the program and loss of program fee. A required Parent Consent Form/Enrollment MUST be signed by a parent/guardian. Cost: $299 (includes a $25 non-refundable registration fee). There are 4 payments options: (1) Full payment of $299; (2) two-pay plan ($152 and $152); or (3) three-pay plan ($103, $103, and $103); or (4) four –pay plan ($79, $79, $79, and $79). A payment must be made at time of enrollment. The full amount must be paid by May 26. Checks, Money Orders, cash, and credit card payments are accepted. Questions: Call us at 797-1847!

Annual Family Dance for Valentine’s Day

K-5 girls & boys! Invite your special adult for a

night of music and dancing! Cost includes the

Rusch Entertainment DJ, refreshments and a photo booth for picture-taking!

ARROWWOOD CONFERENCE CENTER

Friday, Feb. 17 from 7 - 8:45 p.m.

$29 for one child; $19 for additional child **The event is limited to first 60 couples,

so please register early!**

Alumni Board An Alumni Board at Heritage High School (in the hallway to the Heritage Cafeteria) highlights past graduates from Saginaw Township Community Schools. The board includes a photo and biography of the Alumni’s achievements and accomplishments. If you know of an Alumni who would like to be highlighted, visit ww.stcs.org/District/Portal/Alumni for examples and instructions, or call Steve Elliott at 989.399.8029.

Latin Club Banquet – Seniors being recognized

Latin Club Banquet – MCs (left to right): The tables are all set Darren Young, Brendan Jackson for the Annual Latin Banquet

Saginaw Township Community Schools Non-Profit Organization 3465 N. Center Road U.S. Postage P.O. Box. 6278 PAID Saginaw, MI 48603 Saginaw, Michigan

Permit #114

ECRWSS**EDDM POSTAL PATRON

Rookie Robotics Teams from around the state converged on the Arrowwood Conference Center in December for a day-long workshop. They built a working robot arm and learned about Lapview programming!