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FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL - TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2014
West Bloomfield School District Publication
Educating Students to be their Best IN and FOR the World!
www. wbsd .org
November 2015 • Issue 2 • Volume 42
School of Choice
Application Dates
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“West Bloomfield School
District has something
for everyone.” - Dr. Gerald Hill
“By any definition, academic achievement,
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School of Choice applications for the
2016-17 school year will be available from
February 1 through March 1, 2016. More
information, including applications, will
be on the WBSD website, www.wbsd.org
under the Prospective Families tab. The
Schools of Choice Lottery will be held on
March 9, 2016.
For more information, please contact
Linda Bush at 248.865.6427.
OUR
CHILDREN’S
FUND
WB ALUMNI
STEAM
PARTNERS
student accomplishments, citizenship,
and the choices that students have upon
graduation are the key results of great and
effective schools,” observed Dr. Gerald Hill.
“In a recent brainstorm session, we cited
the numerous programs, extra-curricular
opportunities, teaching proficiencies,
community outreach and partnerships that
result in West Bloomfield School District and
our schools being great places to grow and
learn. We strive to accommodate a diverse
population with diverse skills, interests and
needs. The graphic illustration on the left
is but a partial list of the components that
make WBSD the “total package” for students,
parents and community members alike. “
WBSD BELIEF STATEMENTS
· All children can and will learn
· Students learn best through authentic and engaging experiences
· Each student has unique talents which deserve development
· Equity and access to rigorous curriculum is every student’s right
· Inquiry-based instruction fosters critical thinking and creative problem solving
· Technology enriches how teachers teach and students learn
· Diversity is one of our strengths
· Building strong relationships increases trust and positively impacts learning
· Inspiring learning is a shared responsibility
· Learning together and collaborating as professionals empowers us to meet the needs of each student
· All employees, departments, and buildings are interdependent and strengthen our ability to accomplish our mission · Resources must be maximized to excellently accomplish our mission
It is our mission to educate students to be
their best IN and FOR the world.
Dr. Gerald D. Hill, Superintendent
VOL. 42 • ISSUE 2
West Bloomfield School District
Office of
Community Relations & Marketing
What’s in a WORDLE?
248-865-6454
www.wbsd.org
Dr. Gerald D. Hill
Editor/Writer........................ Pamela Zajac
Assistant Editor/Writer............Cynthia Hill
Our Mission:
“The Laker strengthens the
vital relationship between
West Bloomfield School District
and the community by clearly
communicating in a timely and
relevant manner the many
successes of our students,
schools and community.”
Printed on Recycled Paper
West Bloomfield School District
Dr. Gerald D. Hill
Superintendent
W est B loomfield H igh S chool
248-865-6720
O akland E arly C ollege
248-522-3540
O akland O pportunity A cademy
248-209-2025
W est B loomfield T ransition C enter
248-865-6470
A bbott M iddle S chool
248-865-3670
O rchard L ake M iddle S chool
248-865-4480
D oherty E lementary S chool
248-865-6020
G retchko E lementary S chool
248-865-6570
R oosevelt E lementary S chool
248-865-6620
S cotch E lementary S chool
248-865-3280
S heiko E lementary S chool
248-865-6370
N otice
of
N ondiscrimination :
It is the policy of the West Bloomfield
School District that no person shall, on
the basis of race, color, national origin,
sex, age, height, weight, religion, marital
status, disability, or sexual orientation,
be excluded from participation in, be
denied the benefits of, or be subject to
discrimination in employment or any of
its programs or activities.
The following person has been
designated to handle inquiries regarding
the nondiscrimination policies:
Mr. Art Ebert
Executive Director
Human Resources and Employee
Relations
5810 Commerce Road
West Bloomfield MI 48324
(248) 865-6424
H
ave you ever wondered how students
would describe their school? What might
they say, in a few words, which would
capture their thoughts, impressions and
feelings about the place where they spend
the majority of their time during the school
year? Recently, I had the opportunity to
interview one student from each grade level
at all of our schools. Their responses are
priceless!
Before I go further, let’s take a look at the
results of a recent national study conducted
by the Yale University Department of
Psychology and the Yale Center for
Emotional Intelligence in collaboration with
the Born This Way Foundation. “Survey finds
high school kids tired, bored,” published
in the October 23 edition of USA Today,
highlights the results of this study. When
asked how they feel during the school day,
the three most frequent responses from U.S.
high school students were: “tired,” “stressed”
and “bored.” Let’s contrast that impression
with the responses of West Bloomfield
School District students from grades K – 12.
I asked our interviewees to “describe your
school in one word” and to list “3 things you
love about your school.” The Wordle, shown
above, graphically represents their collective
responses.
A Wordle is a computer app used for
generating “word clouds” from text that you
provide. The clouds give greater prominence
to words that appear more frequently in the
source text. I inserted each of the responses
from the 26 students interviewed and came
out with the picture above.
As you can see, the most frequent responses
include: fun, learning, diverse, teachers,
safe, challenging, spirited, family-oriented,
friends, excitement and amazing. How
do our students feel about their schools?
These responses are good indicators that
WBSD schools are great places for learning,
exploring, growing and belonging.
2
When selecting a school for your child, what
better criteria could you use than to listen to
the voices of its students? The collective
Without positive attitudes and perceptions, students
have little chance of learning proficiently, if at all.
– Robert J. Marzano
Our students enjoy the engaging learning
activities created by their teachers. The
learning tasks offer opportunities for
collaboration, investigation and real world
problem solving. Our schools also provide
supportive learning atmospheres where
voices of West Bloomfield School District
students send a loud and clear message –
“Our school is amazing!”
As an educator and a parent, I can’t
imagine a better place for students
to thrive and grow!
I recently asked our principals why their schools are great places to learn and grow . . .
A
t Doherty, we enjoy
building relationships with
our families, students and
the community to create
a successful and positive
academic environment for
all of our students. Our highly qualified
staff has a passion and love of teaching
that is pervasive throughout our building.
The staff’s strong commitment and
dedication ensures that each and every
student will reach his or her highest
potential. 95% of Doherty students meet
or exceed the national year-end standard
for their grade level in reading.
All students learn to set and achieve goals . . .
The staff guides students in discovering
the next steps in their learning process.
Teachers and students work together to
construct goals that will propel student
learning forward. Student pride in achieving
their goals increases self-confidence and
motivation for learning.
Visible Thinking . . .
Teachers and students participate in visual
thinking strategies proven to increase
student understanding and achievement.
Our teachers determine which strategies
are most effective in helping their students
learn best, which sets students on the path
of becoming lifelong learners.
West Bloomfield School District
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
students feel connected, involved and
valued. Students exhibit respectful and
spirited interactions with both teachers
and peers alike, which demonstrates
this inclusive culture. Students view our
diversity as a strength and they take pride
in the fact that their school is a place where
everyone belongs. The family atmosphere
also extends to all who visit our schools.
Visitors should expect to be greeted warmly
and welcomed to experience the vibrancy
within our schools.
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
Students use technology daily . . .
With interactive whiteboards in every
classroom and iPads and Chromebooks
available, students are discovering the
power and safe use of technology while
developing skills to use in today’s world.
Recently, second graders skyped with Betty
Birney, noted children’s author and asked
questions to help develop their writing
skills. This year, students can participate in
the Junior First Lego League program, using
engineering strategies and Legos to design
a solution to a real world problem.
Programs that foster the connection
between school and home . . .
Through our Parent University sessions,
(continued on pg. 5)
November 2015
Curriculum and Instruction
K-12 STEAM INITIATIVES
by Alesia L. Flye
Transitioning Roosevelt Elementary into a STEAM Focused
School has gotten off to a great start! A project based learning
instructional approach is being implemented by all staff members.
By integrating the 8 Essential Design Elements into lessons, the staff
is creating a STEAM learning environment with high engagement.
Tami Lamerato, Andrea Williams, Matt Harbron, and Eric Shiemke
are the four teachers leading the way to implement the Middle
School STEAM Pathways. 134 sixth graders are actively engaged
in collaborative inquiry during STEAM focused science classes and
English Language Arts courses with a project based learning focus.
The following businesses and community partners are actively
engaged with students at Roosevelt and the Middle Schools:
• Lawrence Technological Institute
• Michigan Science Center
• Oakland University
• Quicken Loans
• Sundberg-Ferar
• United States Airforce Auxiliary - Civil Air Patrol
• Wayne State University
Representatives from these companies are in classrooms on a
regular basis, sharing their expertise with our students.
by Alesia L. Flye, Deputy Superintendent
WB Teachers Take Their Craft to
China
This past summer, 5 staffers from West Bloomfield School District
supercharged their summer classroom experiences by teaching for
three weeks in China. High School teachers Mike Abel (Math), Jill
Adamczyk (Social Studies), Noel McHardy (English/ Social Studies),
Ellen Strzalkowski (Social Studies), and
Abbott counselor JoAnne Wegrzynowicz
spent most of July as part of the Language
and Culture exchange program at The
University of Science and Technology
(USTB) in China’s capital city, Beijing.
As part of a cadre of 12 teachers from
Michigan and Ohio, the five designed
curriculum before they left the US and
then led teams of teachers from all over
the country once they were in China. Dr.
Adamczyk served as the Program Director,
and was really the “principal” of the school of 1500 Science and
Engineering students who were attending the three week summer
session. In addition to recruiting the lead teachers, she oversaw a
complex scheduling process, all curriculum matters, and served as
the main contact person with the
Chinese university professors.
E
Dr. Robert Wiggins, Oakland University; Kevin Goldman, WBEF; Marianne
Donoghue, Oakland University; Kristin Lusk, College of Architecture and Design,
Lawrence Tech; Shannon McNair, Oakland University; Michelle Zurowick,
Sundberg-Ferar; Captain Bill Carson, Civil Air Patrol; Julie Rosenbaum, Wayne
State University; Kellon Hammond, WBEF; David Secord, Oakland University;
Denny Rapal, Roosevelt Principal; Tim Fox, WBHS Industry & Technology Teacher
This school year, we will continue to grow and strengthen the
district’s K-12 STEAM initiatives. We will begin Strategic Planning
for a STEAM Pathway at the high school with implementation
during the 2016-17 school year.
ach day, there were cultural
comparison lectures and
discussions including topics such
as World Travel, Pop Culture, and
Globalization. Reflecting on the
students’ enthusiasm and high level
of engagement, Abel remarked “I
think most of us were impressed
with the level of knowledge many
students possessed about American
culture. We also greatly appreciated
the students’ openness about sharing their life experiences of
growing up in China while they educated us on their culture.” Dr.
Adamczyk acknowledged, “To have the opportunity to engage
in an academic environment that is different from ours created
an opportunity to examine how many similarities truly paralleled
the two countries.” Wegrzynowicz spoke at length about the
connection the American teachers made with their Chinese
students in such a short time. “We only worked with them for three
weeks, but they were so appreciative of the time we were there.
They had genuine interest in our lives and a willingness to share
their own stories that made it easy to bond with them.”
McQuillan’s Passion for Literature
Contagious with Students
WBHS English Teacher Jen McQuillan’s love for literature is
contagious in her classes. “I am absolutely passionate about
teaching literature to my students,” says McQuillan. “When they
come out of my classes, I want them to be critical readers, writers,
and thinkers.” A masquerade was part of
a literary celebration to reward students
for their hard work this quarter. Below,
her students take on their literary
counterparts.
Cala Hobart and Kyle McCarthy (Masque of the
Red Death), Sarah Mashigan (The Black Cat),
Robert Sylvester (Edgar Allan Poe), Megan Loebl Jensen Hwa and Hope Hall
(Montresor), Raina Awdish (Fortunato), Moriah as Jay Gatsby and Daisy
Buchanan
Taylor Rutherford and Gia Evans (The Raven)
Weekends were spent soaking up China’s rich history and cultural
heritage. Excursions included visits to The Great Wall, Tiananmen
Square, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace. Performances
such as the renowned Peking Acrobats, and Peking Opera helped
expand cultural horizons. And of course, there was the food. Most
already knew it would not be similar to “American Chinese” food and
were excited to try the “real thing”. Teachers visited eateries that
specialized in the classic Chinese dishes such as Peking Duck, Hot
Pot, and Soup Dumplings. All became experts in using chopsticks,
but did give in to the occasional temptation to seek out western
style restaurants to fill the pizza and burger void they felt after so
many days abroad.
Most plan on returning to the program in 2016 in expanded roles.
Strzalkowski summed up the experience, “To be able to travel to
a country with such a rich history was an incredible experience.
What added to an already fantastic opportunity was the ability to
work with Chinese students to share and exchange our cultures and
experiences with one another while doing what we love - teaching.”
SAT & PSAT
for High School
Students
by Margaret Hendrickson
A
ll 11th graders are required to
take a College and Career Ready
and a Work Skills assessment by the
state. During the spring of 2016, 11th
graders will take the redesigned SAT
with Essay as their College and Career
Ready assessment in place of the ACT.
The ACT Work Keys will continue to be
the state’s Work Skills assessment.
The state made the shift to the SAT to
be better aligned with the Michigan
Standards for ELA and Mathematics
and its College and Career Ready
plan. The SAT has been redesigned
and looks different than it had in the
past. The SAT will test Reading, Writing
and Language, and Mathematics and
will be administered on April 12th.
While change can be uncomfortable,
teachers are already having
professional learning opportunities
around this new assessment. In
addition, colleges and universities
already understand the SAT and its
use when considering candidates for
admission. To see inside the NEW SAT,
you can go to the following College
Board link: https://collegereadiness.
collegeboard.org/sat/inside-the-test.
In addition to the change at the 11th
grade, the state will require 9th and
10th graders to take the PSAT, the
preliminary SAT. Student scores on
the PSAT will help parents, students,
and teachers understand a student’s
current performance and build a plan
for improved performance as they
enter their 11th grade SAT assessment.
The 9th grade PSAT is called the
PSAT8/9. The 10th Grade PSAT is
called the PSAT 10. To see inside these
assessments, you can go to following
links provided by the College Board:
• PSAT 10: https://collegereadiness.
collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt-
psat-10/inside-the-test
• PSAT 8/9 : https://collegereadiness.
collegeboard.org/psat-8-9/inside-
the-test
Similar to the M-STEP, student
performance on the SAT and PSAT
will inform our content alignment
and deepen instructional practice
as we seek to support all students in
meeting the expectations set forth by
Michigan’s instructional standards.
School of Choice
Application Dates:
February 1 - March 1, 2016
West Bloomfield School District
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
November 2015
3
ECONOMIC FACTORS
and NEXT YEAR’s
BUDGETS and RATES:
The Board of Education and
administration consider many factors
when setting the School District’s fiscal
year budget. The most important
factors affecting the School District
revenue are the student count, the state
foundation allowance, and categorical
per-pupil funding for various state
initiatives. Total revenue from state
sources accounts for approximately
90% of the School District revenue.
The State also sets the rates that
school districts must pay each year for
retirement expense on behalf of local
school district employees. For 20152016, the net result of all changes in
the aforementioned funding from state
sources combined with the increase in
the retirement rate is budgeted at a net
increase of $21 on a per-pupil FTE basis.
The student count continues to be
blended, using 90% from the October
2015 count and 10% from the February
2016 count. The 2015-2016 budget
was adopted on June 22, 2015 and
was based on a projected enrollment.
Based on early enrollment data at the
start of the 2015-2016 school year, we
anticipate that the fall student count
will be close to the estimates used in
creating the 2015-2016 budget. Once
the final student count and related per
pupil funding are validated, State law
requires the School District to amend
the budget if actual School District
resources are not sufficient to fund
original appropriations.
Since the School District’s revenue is
heavily dependent on the State for
funding and the health of the State’s
School Aid Fund, the actual revenue
received depends on the State’s
ability to collect revenue to fund its
appropriation to school districts. The
School District will also amend the
budget to reflect any change from the
amounts originally budgeted once the
October enrollment is known and all
hiring commitments are complete.
Given the State’s on-going economic
issues, the School District is doing
everything possible to maintain
programs for students and to
continually look for economies in all
facets of school operations so that the
School District can continue to provide
a high-value education to its students
and remain financially stable.
Business and Operations
by William Mull, Assistant Superintendent
General Fund Audit Recap for
School Fiscal Year Ended 6/30/15
Public School Districts are required to have an independent audit of their annual financial statements each year. “Independent” means
an outside firm, that reports directly to the Board of Education, conducts a thorough study of the district financial statements that have
been prepared and presented by the school district’s business office and comments on the validity and accuracy of those financial
statements. This process provides an annual “check and balance” mechanism to ensure that school district resources have been properly
classified and accounted for according to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and that taxpayer funding is being utilized
within the parameters allowed by law.
For the 2014-15 school fiscal year that ended on June 30, 2015, the school district retained Plante and Moran, one of the leading school
audit firms in the State of Michigan. We are pleased to report that Plante and Moran has issued an “unqualified” audit, which means that
the audit was “clean”, and that no material discrepancies were found in the dollar amounts or district budgeting, accounting, and reporting
procedures that the school district presented. An unqualified audit is the best report that can be achieved in the audit process.
The school district’s General Fund is the primary fund that encompasses daily instruction and operations. Here are a few highlights from
the audit report for the district’s General Fund:
EXPENDITURES - $63.2 million
REVENUES - $62.9 million
The primary revenue source for the school
district is the State-established Foundation
Grant. This is an annual dollar amount per
student that the State sets and funds for
each school district. Therefore, the number
of pupils the district attracts and retains
is critical to our annual funding. No other
revenue component comes close to the
importance of the Foundation Grant each
year. Last year, the Foundation Grant for
WBSD was $8,676 per pupil.
Here are two views of General Fund expenditures:
By “Object Code”: This chart
shows that 83% of the $63.2 million in
expenditures are for the Salaries and
Benefits (personnel costs) of school
district employees. This figure is not
surprising because all school districts
are labor intensive - the most prevalent
and expensive cost we have is for
teachers and paraeducators who work
directly with children each day. All other
employees including administrators
support the work of teachers.
By “Function Code”: We’ve already
established that the vast majority of
school district expenditures go toward
personnel costs. To provide another
layer of detail, this chart shows that 75%
of the $63.2 million in expenditures
goes directly toward Instruction and
Instructional Support. This chart
illustrates that various resources are
needed to operate the school district
but the vast majority of resources are
allocated where they should be - for
teaching and learning.
FUND BALANCE RECAP:
FUND BALANCE RECAP:
Beginning Fund Balance, July 1, 2014 $ 1.3 million
Revenues
62.9 million
Expenditures
63.2 million
Operating Surplus (Deficit)
(0.3 million)
Ending Fund Balance, June 30, 2014 $ 1.0 million
Fund Balance as % of Expenditures
1.6%
The Board of Education has a $1.95 million
sale agreement in place for the vacant
land parcel where Ealy Elementary School
stood before it was demolished during
2015. Contingent upon approval by West
Bloomfield Township of the developer’s plan
to construct a senior citizen assisted-living
The district fund balance of $1.0 million, which equates to approximately 2%
of last year’s annual operating expenditures, is not at a level that is deemed
to be sufficient. The Board of Education’s fund balance target protocol is to
maintain a fund balance of 10% of annual operating expenditures, so this
deficit is a concern. In today’s legislative climate for public education, it will be
a difficult challenge to not only maintain our fund balance position but also to
gradually restore it to the target 10% threshold. Some benefits of maintaining
an adequate fund balance are:
• Minimizes the need to borrow on a short-term basis to meet cash flow
• Prevents operating with a structural deficit
• Flexibility in adjusting spending during the school year
• Helps with maintaining bond credit ratings
facility, the revenue generated from said
sale will partially replenish the General
Fund balance by providing a significant
one-time revenue source.
The debt service millage rate is projected to
decrease by 1.6 mills for the 2017-18 school
year; this may provide the district with an
opportunity to refinance existing debt
and/or seek approval of a bond issue in
the near future to protect and enhance the
significant investment in school facilities,
equipment, and instructional technology.
West Bloomfield School District
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
4
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
November 2015
(continued from page 2)
parents engage in discussions regarding strategies to help their
children be successful in school. Family Reading Night and Math
Make and Take Night provide opportunities for parents and their
children to build the connection between home and school.
Community outreach through Service Projects . . .
We collect boxes of hats, gloves, scarves and socks for the Ronald
McDonald House, cereal for “Blessings in a Backpack,” food for
the Lighthouse, and pet supplies for the Guardian Angel Animal
Rescue. Kindergartners visit local nursing homes on Halloween
and Valentine’s Day.
Dedicated, Involved PTO . . .
Doherty is extremely fortunate to have parent/guardian and
community volunteers who wholeheartedly support our staff in
providing students with educational excellence. From working
in our classrooms, supporting fundraisers, school assemblies,
and sponsoring community events such as Bingo Night, Fun
Run, Multicultural Family Night, their involvement is GREATLY
appreciated.
When you pull into the driveway of Seymour
Gretchko Elementary School, you realize you are
entering an early elementary school campus like
no other. The teachers and staff look at students
and education with an energized, enthusiastic
GRETCHKO approach and this is reflected onto students’
learning in this safe, inviting atmosphere.
Gretchko Star students are Makers . . .
Makers are innovative and create in their classrooms, iCenter
and Makerspace. Makers know that mistakes are a part of the
learning process. Makers try, persevere and discover. Makers
question, research and share ideas. You will see the results of
their thinking in S.T.E.A.M. projects, Lego engineer projects,
design challenges, aquaponic gardening, visible math thinking,
art combined with literacy expressing feelings, technology
embedded into classroom instruction and musical productions.
These activities demonstrate our students’ love for school and
learning while making a difference in the world around them.
In the iCenter Makerspace, these students are learning about circuits and
other components of a computer.
Roosevelt Elementary School is a special place
consisting of caring staff, vibrant children, and
engaged parents nestled in a community that
prioritizes academic excellence in a family
atmosphere. What makes our building stand out in
comparison to those in neighboring districts is the
implementation of Project Based Learning to roll
out a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM).
With our new STEAM initiative taking root at Roosevelt for the 2015-2016
school year, the energy and enthusiasm is contagious as students learn
and grow together during the process. Teachers set the foundation for
learning by focusing on the all-important 4 C’s: Communication, Critical
Thinking, Creativity and Collaboration. Research provided by successful
companies stresses that group work is a critical skill that many employees
lack when first coming into the workforce. By providing our students
with opportunities to collaborate at an early age, we hope to instill in
them the necessary tools to be successful not only in school, but far
beyond as well.
Another distinguishing feature of Roosevelt is the long-standing tradition
of being a community school. Entering our 96th year and being the
oldest continuing operating school in Oakland County, we look to not
only bring innovation to the next century of learning, but also to improve
upon the number of great things already happening. As a community
school, we enjoy a strong partnership with many surrounding
institutions. This year, we have extended those partnerships beyond
our local boundaries and have connected with entities such as Oakland
University, Lawrence Technological University, Wayne State University,
Civil Air Patrol, and Sundberg Ferar, to name a few.
Because of our location and student size, we also enjoy the status of
being a Pre-K through 5th grade school, which allows the opportunity for
students to experience a continuous educational experience in a single
building, capable of having the upper and lower elementary classes
learning together and from one another. This uniqueness makes our
building a special place to learn.
As with all schools in the West Bloomfield District, we are always available
to provide further information for anyone interested in learning more
about Roosevelt. We offer building tours during school hours by advance
appointment. If you are looking to visit, please contact the office at
248-865-6620 to schedule a time to experience the innovative learning
happening at Roosevelt Elementary!
Sheiko is an AVID (Advancement Via Individual
Determination) elementary building that also has
incorporated the 7 Habits of Healthy Happy Kids as a
Leader in Me School. Students at Sheiko Elementary
are engaged in a rigorous learning experience based on
the foundation of AVID/WICOR (WICOR is an acronym
for strategies used in AVID classrooms. The letters stand for Writing,
Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, and Reading.) The Leader in Me
is FranklinCovey’s whole school transformation process. It teaches 21st
century leadership and life skills to students and creates a culture of
student empowerment based on the idea that every child can be a
leader. These two educational principles are the foundation on which we
build our strength as leaders and learners.
Parents are welcome to participate in their child’s education
through volunteer and social opportunities. Our active PTO is
a vital part of our community. They host a plethora of activities
such as the FunD Run, Breakfast with Mom and Dad, after school
events and a Meet the Family night to kick off the school year.
Gretchko teachers continually seek ways to improve their quality
of instruction. They participate in Teacher Labs working with
each other to mentor and collaborate on student learning and
best practices. They educate their students on “The Seven Habits
of Happy Kids,” what it takes to be a leader and how to care for
the community by participating in charitable organizations
and fundraisers. The education our students receive goes well
beyond state standardized test scores. Our passionate teachers
care about the impact they have on the lives of their students.
Gretchko makes a positive impact on our students so they can
be the best IN and FOR the world. Gretchko is a school where
students are nurtured and allowed to develop into the stars they
were meant to be.
One Gretchko parent commented, “The amazing staff and
teachers are constantly asking themselves what they can do
better. There is so much opportunity for students to show their
strengths in fun, unique ways. I know when I drop my daughter
off every day, she is going to be taken care of like she is among
family, and pushed to her highest potential.”
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
Sheiko students and our school community are grounded in the idea
that the growth mindset can be taught to students. In a growth mindset,
people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through
dedication and hard work—brains and talent are just the starting point.
Through the growth mindset, Sheiko students will succeed in following
their dreams and fulfilling their educational aspirations.
We have created a systematic approach to explicit teaching and learning
focused on high expectations, rigor and developing a college readiness
culture. Sheiko offers a variety of before and after school opportunities
for students in need of additional support for learning. Through our
community education department, we also have a variety of sports and
educational programs that are an extension or continuation of learning.
Kindergarten
Round-Up
The West Bloomfield School District
will host its annual Kindergarten RoundUp on January 27, 2016, from 6:00 p.m.
to 7:00 p.m. Parents of children who will
be at least 5 years of age on September
1, 2016, are invited to attend, receive
information and register on the spot.
Kindergarten classes are offered at the
schools listed below.
For more information or to register for the
Round-up, please contact:
Doherty Elementary School
3575 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield,
MI 48322
248-865-6020
Gretchko Elementary School
5300 Greer Road, West Bloomfield, MI
48324
248-865-6570
Roosevelt Elementary School
2065 Cass Lake Road, Keego Harbor, MI
48320
248-865-6620
A child must be at least 5 years of age on
September 1, 2016 in order to enroll in
Kindergarten.
iCenter Specialists
Play Integrated Role
Instructional priorities are part of the
curriculum framework that has been
adopted by West Bloomfield School District
(WBSD). These priorities help us define and
focus our instruction so that we have a
unified strategy for educating our students.
The WBSD iCenter Specialists use these
priorities to guide instruction and programs.
Your librarians, or Information &Technology
Specialists (ITS), participate on three
different levels.
1. They meet across the District to unify and grow our programs for students in each building. Items we collaborate on are:
a.Technology Instruction
b. Digital Citizenship Instruction
c. Research Instruction
d. Literature Appreciation
2. They connect with each grade level to identify curriculum needs and instruction by:
a. Identify resources needed to support
the curriculum
b. Create relevant connections
from classroom content to further
independent, informational exploration.
c. Diversify experiences so that we
engage students in a variety of learning
experiences, ensuring we have given
learners the best opportunity for success.
d. Collaborate and co-teach with grade
level teachers on cross-curricular
technology related projects.
3.They collaborate with the West Bloomfield Township Library to:
a. Increase literature appreciation through
the Pine Tree, Pine Cone, 100 Books, RAP,
and WBHS Book Club reading programs.
These programs are fully funded by our
public library and would be impossible to
run without their support.
b. Encourage our students to participate
in public library events (i.e., summer
reading).
West Bloomfield School District
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
November 2015
5
#ONLYWB
(continued from page 5)
At Scotch, we love
partnering with our
parents to create a
successful academic
environment for our
students. Our teachers
foster a love of learning
and are leaders inside and outside of the
classroom. They are dedicated to our school’s
success and work countless hours to create an
environment where all students can achieve.
Great opportunities occur here and the
education that your child will receive is second
to none. 90% of our students are reading at or
above grade level.
Awarded Wayne State University's Building
Healthy Communities Grant. We are part of
Building Healthy Communities, a program
dedicated to helping schools achieve a Healthy
School Transformation. Throughout the year,
our students will be receiving messages on
healthy eating and physical activity to promote
a healthier learning environment. Our Healthy
Kids Klub is a huge success! Led by Mrs.
Schmidt (co-author of the BHC grant), classes
are full and students are asking for more!
Introduced the D.O.G.S Program (Dads of
Great Students) to the student community.
Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads Of Great Students)
encourages fathers and father figures to
volunteer for a day in their student’s school.
Fathers gain insight into their student’s
education, help the school in volunteer tasks,
and provide a positive male role model for the
community. Dads at Scotch are impacting our
children’s education.
Reaching out to our community through
service projects. Students collected 688 lbs.
of garbage and invasive plants along the WB
Nature Trail thus giving back and learning at
the same time. Students also participate in the
American Red Cross Pint Size Hero Program,
which teaches children about blood donation,
blood components, and how blood is used as
medicine.
Certified AVID School
Advancement Via Individual Determination, an
in-school program, helps students prepare for
and achieve academic success. Implemented
throughout the whole class, it teaches
students how to study, read for content, take
notes and manage time.
Explores the applications of Creating a
Culture of Thinkers. Our classrooms are places
where student thinking is valued, visible and
actively promoted.
Abbott Middle School is a place for
lifelong learners. Our mission is to
engage all students in a variety of
rigorous experiences to help close
the achievement gap, prepare for
college and career, and cultivate multidimensional individuals who will be
successful in a global society. When
we think about what we, as parents, community members
and educators, want for our middle school students, we know
that Abbott provides for those high priority items including a
safe, warm and individualized atmosphere, a sense of school
community, rigor and variety in classes and extracurricular
experiences.
Our seasoned staff cares not only about the academic rigor
but also about the unique needs of each student. Challenging
curriculum opportunities are designed to promote college
readiness and academic discourse. Students can test and place
in high school level math classes for high school credit. They
consistently place in local, state and national competitions
in mathematics. We offer Spanish and Chinese including a
high school world language credit option. Our award winning
Performing Arts Department works to increase student skills
and comfort level in public performances. All 6th grade
students can experience band or strings, choir and theater.
While 7th and 8th grade students who continue in the Arts
have countless performance opportunities and can compete
in forensics. Our award winning band and strings programs
consistently score high at MSBOA.
Academic enrichment opportunities abound. Last year, our
Science Fair had over 60 student created projects. Social
Studies students can compete in the State Geography Bee.
Students earn local and state recognition and even money for
their participation in various essay contests. Our annual Career
Fair brings back successful Abbott alumni, giving students
a glimpse into the various careers they are interested in
pursuing. 6th graders have opportunities in intramural sports
throughout the year and we offer 7th and 8th grade Basketball,
Cross-Country, Track and Field, Swimming, Volleyball, Football,
Wrestling and Cheerleading.
In the Where Everyone Belongs (WEB) mentoring program,
eighth grade students are trained to mentor our 6th graders
and model positive behavior and expectations. Our highly
trained counselors, social worker and school psychologist assist
students with social-emotional issues as well. Our Social Justice
Club has partnered with the University of Michigan to make
Abbott a place of inclusion, understanding and compassion.
Student council gives students a venue to lead service and
charity projects including our yearly involvement with The
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, where we have raised over
$20,000 since 2008.
Parent resources include Counselor Coffee Talks and Parent
University, featuring timely topics and experiences to assist
parents in supporting their student in school.
Has raised several thousands of dollars
every year for charity. Recognizing that our
community is very fortunate, we involve our
students in charitable giving through fun and
meaningful ways. They raise funds for Meals
on Wheels, Residents at Bortz Nursing Home,
Detroit’s Children's Hospital, Almost Home,
Paws for Life, and The Humane Society, to
name a few.
Incredibly Involved PTO Parent Group. We
are extremely fortunate to have parent/
guardian volunteers who consistently support
our staff efforts to provide students with
educational excellence. From working in our
classrooms, to supporting fundraisers, and to
organizing classroom parties, their support is
greatly appreciated and helps make Scotch
Elementary a fabulous place to learn and grow!
Cartoonist, author, teacher and WB Alum, Neil Swaab returns to Abbott to
discuss his career and his new book Secrets to Ruling School.
GOOOOOOO VIKINGS!
Why Orchard Lake Middle School
In The Spotlight
Our Performing Arts Department is second to
none! Students may participate in three years
of band, orchestra and/or choir, which are all
award-winning programs led by masterful
teachers. Our 7th and 8th graders also can
participate in Musical Theater, giving them an opportunity to create
a high school-quality musical. This year’s musical is The Lion King.
Previous productions include Annie, Willy Wonka and The Chocolate
Factory, and Little Mermaid.
Cutting Edge Technology
Chromebooks are offered at no cost to students. Students may also
use their own device. Teachers utilize a number of online learning
strategies, including the use of Google Drive and Google Classroom,
to give students the opportunity to collaborate at any moment
inside or outside the classroom. This connection allows students to
meet at any time for project work without needing a ride to their
partner’s house or the library!
IN and FOR The world
The Where Everyone Belongs (W.E.B.) mentoring program provides
leadership training to eighth grade students. W.E.B. leaders mentor
sixth graders and new OLMS students. Students set a positive
example while working together to create a positive learning
environment. LINK students assist and mentor students with
special needs in their daily classes. The LINK program helps
students celebrate differences, unite around common goals, and
develop empathy.
Athletic Excellence
Superior to other local competition, we feature an 8th grade boys’
basketball team that has won 24 games in a row over two seasons, a
track team that won the county meet, and an undefeated girls
soccer team.
Innovative Computer Experience
We explore computer programming with applications like Scratch,
Alice 3D, Google Sketch-up and Python. Students also are exposed
to the latest multimedia apps for blogging, podcasting, audio
editing, digital storytelling, 3D modeling, and animation.
ENGAGING STUDENTS!
Science classes integrate hands-on learning to maximize
engagement. The English curriculum is aligned with rigorous
Common Core standards. Our College Preparatory Math program is
an inquiry based, problem-solving approach within a collaborative
atmosphere. In our social studies program, students experience
history in interactive ways through online field trips, first person
accounts (primary sources), and historical role-playing.
We Stay Connected!
We have an active social media presence. Learn more about our
exciting and innovative learning experiences by visiting our social
media pages.
Twitter: @OLMS_Vikings
Instagram: orchard_lake_middle
Facebook: www.facebook.com/orchardlakems
PTO Facebook:
facebook.com/groups/orchardlakemiddlschool
OLMS Cheerleaders support WBSD in the Homecoming Parade
West Bloomfield School District
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
6
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
November 2015
NEWSWEEK
#onlyWB
Financial Aid Night
(continued from page 6)
At WBHS, we offer 24 AP classes – more than any other high school
in Michigan. Our courses are designed to meet many different
interests. In AP Psychology, students dissect sheep brains and are
working in conjunction with the Oakland University Department
of Psychology in formal research. Our Video Production class is
taking a field trip to Stunt Training School. We also have 3 internship
programs that connect students with leaders in local industry,
medicine, and politics. Many students spend their afternoons in
work settings, township offices, and with medical doctors. 122
students belong to National Honor Society, and embody service
learning at its finest.
Newsweek named WBHS
one of America’s
Top High Schools.
Student Leadership student leadership
provides opportunities
to serve in our local
community. Students
collect books for
underserved libraries,
attend leadership conferences, and participate in Upstanders, a
bully prevention and school culture workshop. Our Mentor Program
partners every freshman with a senior to provide academic and
social support. Each incoming student has a support group of upper
class and freshman students from the first day of orientation.
Enrichment - our fine arts programs consistently wins local and
state awards. Students earn individual and collective honors in
instrumental music and vocal music and theatre. Some have
artwork displayed in corporate settings. The variety of programs,
activities and clubs cater to every interest and need. There are 203
students in DECA and our Debate team is ranked 4th in the state.
Athletics and Student Spirit - athletes may choose from over
27 varsity sports. Last year, students earned over $1.1 million in
athletic scholarships. Volleyball and tennis are Academic All State
(3.98 average GPA.) Varsity level swim and dive, track and field, and
wrestling qualified for state level competitions. Baseball players
were invited to play in the MHSBCA East West All Star Game at
Comerica Park. Our student section, affectionately known as The
Swamp, has generated national attention. Their strong student spirit
carries through to the classroom and other activities.
West Bloomfield High School was designated one of the Niche.
com Top Michigan High Schools in 2015. Newsweek rated WBHS
as one of the Top 20 Michigan High Schools and one of the Top
500 U.S. High Schools.
College
OAKLAN
C
Academic Achievement - the Class of 2015 graduated 80 students
with Suma distinction and collectively earned over $5.1 million
dollars in college scholarships. There are five WBHS graduates at
West Pointe – the largest number of students from one high school
in the country. WBHS
students are admitted
to the Ivies, Big Ten
institutions, and
hundreds of liberal
arts schools across the
country. Currently,
we have 3 National
Merit Semi-finalists
who will compete
for National Merit
Alex Kaufman meets with Michigan Technological
Scholarships and
University representative at On-Site Admission Day
2 National Merit
Commended scholars. At our annual On Site Admissions event,
students can meet with over 50 colleges and seniors can present
their applications for immediate acceptance. This year, 92% of those
attending the On-Site were accepted to one or more college. Seniors
have received over $2 million in scholarship dollars including 4
full-ride scholarships. Students who want to join the workforce
while attending school can partner with 24 different trade groups to
explore apprenticeships.
C
Oakland Early College (OEC) is a “hybrid”
experience that blends high school with college.
Students at OEC attend high school on Oakland
Co
y
t
m m u ni
Community College’s beautiful Orchard Ridge
Campus, where they engage in an exciting
college-preparatory curriculum taught by teachers from the
award-winning West Bloomfield School District. Dual enrollment is
a central component of the OEC educational experience. Students
participate in an integrated sequence of high school and college
courses. Students graduate with their high school diploma and 30
or more transferable college credits towards their undergraduate
degree. Many earn an Associate Degree from Oakland Community
College. There is no cost to students for attending Oakland Early
College as the school district pays for tuition, fees, and textbooks.
D
LEGE
OLulture
West Bloomfield High School is experiencing
a renaissance of sorts. Students now have
opportunities in high school that ten years ago,
did not exist in colleges. We prepare our students
to be the best IN and FOR the world, in a variety
of arenas with robust academic, athletic, arts,
and activities programs. Because we have equal
success in all four areas, our students can grow
and succeed in numerous ways. They are scholars,
athletes, artists, musicians, and active community participants.
EARLY
2 O O7
Students from all over Oakland County, from a variety of
backgrounds, attend OEC. They transfer from traditional public
high schools, private schools, parochial schools, charter schools,
and home schools. Students from different religious and cultural
backgrounds come to OEC to experience the familial culture our
school has created. Parents
and students rave about the
superior instruction our high
school teachers deliver, in
addition to the top-notch
college professors that OCC
adds to the equation.
Newsweek recently named
OEC one of America’s Top
High Schools. OEC was ranked #159 in the nation, 5th in the state
of Michigan, and #2 in Oakland County.
Some of the benefits of attending Oakland Early College are:
• 100% of OEC students are dual enrolled, with access to all five Oakland Community College campuses. • The average high school class size at OEC is 24 students. • 95% of OEC graduates continue on in a college or military. • OEC students have full access to the wide range of student support systems at Oakland Community College.
Oakland Early College offers a customized academic experience
in a small school setting. Students are able to carve out their own
unique educational path. Rigor at the college level is individualized
based on the student’s academic progress.
Newsweek named OEC
one of America’s
Top High Schools.
Students from Oakland County, who maintain a GPA of 2.0 or
higher, are welcome to apply. Discipline, attendance, and academic
records are evaluated during the application process. Admission
is granted based on an examination of the following categories:
college, culture, and community. OEC students must be ready for
the college experience sooner than the traditional system allows.
OEC students must be willing to embrace, nurture, and learn from
other cultures, and must actively engage in service learning, which
propels them to contribute to the larger community.
Admissions Process:
1. Arrange a family meeting by calling (248) 522-3541. 2. Shadow an OEC student for the day. 3. Complete an application located on our website.
(www.oaklandearlycollege.org)
4. Interview with a student and staff panel. OEC prepares students for the university setting through authentic
college experiences. OEC invests in developing a school culture
where each unique person feels connected to a larger academic
community. If you are a scholar, looking to do high school
differently, Oakland Early College may be the school for you.
Teacher Lisa Maddalena assisting students in Chemistry Lab at OEC.
West Bloomfield School District
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
The WBHS Counseling Department
invites you to attend our annual
Financial Aid Night on Thursday,
December 17, 2015 at 7:00 pm
in the WBHS iCenter.
You will receive valuable information
on the Free Application for Federal
Student Aid (FAFSA) and on other
sources of aid available. Our guest
speaker will be a financial aid advisor
from Eastern Michigan University.
Contact Mrs. George at 248-865-6768
or email Ms. Croyle at jaclynn.croyle@
wbsd.org for more information.
Christina Sipila Joins
Michigan Educator Voice
Fellowship
Christina Sipila has been selected for the
America Achieves’ Michigan Educator Voice
Fellowship. The Michigan Educator Voice
Fellowship empowers outstanding teachers
and principals to elevate their voices in
public conversations about teaching and
learning, to assume leadership roles, and
to influence education policies at the local,
state, and national levels, including the
implementation of college- and careerready standards.
By providing a platform for sharing best
practices and giving educators a voice in
local, state, and national discussions about
Public Education, the program’s impact
extends beyond the individual fellows
and into the communities they serve. “I’m
thrilled to be part of a fellowship where
teachers are working collaboratively to
advocate for teaching and learning and
are creating a space for educators at the
legislative table,” Ms. Sipila said.
By sharing classroom stories and
experiences with college and career
readiness, the fellows will expand their reach
beyond the walls of their school building,
helping parents and other community
members better understand the shift to
higher standards. Participants will become
involved in outreach to the media, local and
state government leaders, and community
organizations through letters to the
editor, delivering testimony in committee
hearings, and making presentations at civic
organizations. Christina said, “I look forward
to elevating public perception regarding
teaching and learning as we prepare our
students for the job force of the future.”
“This program contains a valuable
combination of professional ingredients for
teachers and principals who want to help
affect policy in a collaborative manner,” said
Donna Rummel, State Manager, Michigan
Educator Voice Fellowship.”
An educator in WBSD since 2002, she
teaches at Roosevelt Elementary School in
the Magnet Program.
November 2015
7
Upcoming
Fine Arts Events
December 8: All City Orchestra & String Concert, Abbott MS 7:00pm
December 10: All City Winter Band Concert, WBHS 7:00pm
December 15: OLMS Holiday Choir Concert,
OLMS 7:00pm
December 16: WBHS Winter Choir Concert,
WBHS 7:00pm
January 13: Abbott 6th grade Band Concert,
Abbott MS 7:00pm
OLMS 6th grade Band Concert, OLMS 7:00pm
January 20: Abbott Theater II,
Abbott MS 7:00pm
OLMS Band Concert, OLMS 7:00pm
January 26: Abbott Choir “Salute to Broadway”, Abbott MS 7:00pm
February 26: Abbott Spring Musical,
Once Upon An Island, WBHS 7:00pm
February 27: Abbott Spring Musical, Once Upon An Island,
WBHS 2:00pm & 7:00pm
March 1: All City Choir Pre-Festival, WBHS at 7:00pm
March 2: All City Band Pre-Festival Concert,
WBHS at 7:00pm
March 3: All City Orchestra Pre-Festival Concert
WBHS at 7:00pm
March 15: Abbott Theater II,
Abbott MS at 7:00pm
March 18: OLMS Spring Musical, The Lion King, WBHS 7:00pm
March 19: OLMS Spring Musical, The Lion King, WBHS 2:00pm
March 24: OLMS Spring Choir Concert, OLMS 7:00pm
April 12 – 15: WBHS Senior Art Show, WBHS Atrium, all day
April 28: WBHS Spring Musical, Pippin, WBHS 7:00pm
April 29: WBHS Spring Musical, Pippin, WBHS 7:00pm
April 30: WBHS Spring Musical, Pippin, WBHS 2:00pm & 7:00pm
May 24: Abbott Spring String Concert, Abbott 7:00pm
OLMS Spring Choir Concert,
OLMS 7:00pm
May 25: WBHS Spring Choir Concert, WBHS 7:00pm
May 26: OLMS Spring String Concert, OLMS 7:00pm
Abbott Spring Band Concert, Abbott 7:00pm June 1: Abbott Theater III,
Abbott MS 7:00pm
OLMS Spring Band Concert, OLMS 7:00pm
June 7: Abbott Spring Pop Concert,
Abbott MS 7:00pm
June 8: Abbott Theater II
Abbott 7:00pm
June 9: Abbott Theater ll
Abbott 7:00pm
For more current information on all Fine Arts
programs and performance schedules,
go to www.wbsd.org and click on the
Fine Arts Quicklink.
FOCUS ON FINE ARTS
THE BAND BEAT
Marching Band Season Ends On A High Note
The West Bloomfield High School Marching Band has had a phenomenal season! Their
show entitled “Venezia” was centered on the Italian city of Venice. Props representing
gondolas, canals and bridges and Italian flair costumes for the Color Guard set the tone
The performance featured four movements with three selections including Liturgical
Music for Percussion by David Gillingham, Winter from The Four Seasons by Vivaldi, and
Ole Sole Mio by Eduardo Di Capua. Andrew Markworth, a former WBHS Assistant Band
Director, arranged the music.
Practice, dedication and hard work are the routine throughout the summer and season.
The 75 Marching Band members started rehearsing at the beginning of August while the
percussion and color guard started in mid-July. In August, all attended an away camp for
one week at Camp Tamarack.
Seniors 65+
Get Free Admission
to District Events!
Laker Senior Gold Cards are
available for our West Bloomfield
School District senior residents.
Gold Cards allow senior citizens
(65+) to attend school district
events such as plays, athletic games
and musical performances
FREE OF CHARGE.
Homecoming is always a big event for the ensemble. This year, 7th and 8th grade band
students were invited to march with the band in the WBHS Homecoming parade. Chad
Mielens, Director of the Bands said, “We had a phenomenal turnout for the Homecoming
parade! Approximately 50 middle school students participated in the parade and
remained with the high school marching band until the end of the game.”
In addition to playing at all of the home football games, the marching band also competed
in five MCBA competitions including the MCBA Field Day hosted by West Bloomfield and
the MCBA State Finals held at Ford Field. The WB marching band will compete in the
Bands of America Grand National Contest at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN. This
competition will feature 90 bands from across the country.
Laker Senior Gold Cards are
available at district schools and at
the Administrative and Community
Services Building, 5810 Commerce
Road, West Bloomfield MI 48324.
Cards are non-transferable and
may only be used by the registered
senior. Gold Cards may not be
used for facility use, room rentals,
tuition based programs or MHSAA
Tournament events. The Laker Gold
Card must be presented at the
ticket booth in order to receive a
complimentary ticket.
Come and enjoy what
West Bloomfield School District
has to offer!
Carnegie Hall
Beckons West
Bloomfield Students!
Don’t Miss The All City Orchestra Concert Annual
Concert, December 8!
The award-winning West Bloomfield School District orchestras from Abbott and Orchard
Lake Middle Schools and West Bloomfield High School will perform at their annual All City
Concert on Tuesday, December 8th at 7:00 pm in the Abbott Middle School gymnasium.
Conducted by orchestra directors, Mrs. Lynn Brosnan (Abbott) and Mrs. Linda Trotter (OLMS
and WBHS) plus a featured guest conductor, this concert promises to be a wonderful
evening of musical celebration for all.
The concert also includes a bake sale and poinsettia raffle. Admission is free but donations
are accepted and sincerely appreciated. All funds go directly to the orchestra programs.
You can also order Orchestra Spirit Wear t-shirts and sweatshirts that evening.
Please join us for an excellent evening of fine music. Come out and see why our orchestras
receive such high ratings at the Michigan Schools Band and Orchestra Association (MSBOA)
Festival and Solo & Ensemble competitions!
Congratulations to Austin Albert,
Alex Beaty, Sophie Cannella, and
Ilyssa Brunhild who have been
accepted as Finalists for the 2016
High School Honors Performance
Series at Carnegie Hall!
“They have been chosen to represent
the finest high school vocalists
internationally by performing at
Carnegie Hall in the Concert Choir
and Women's Honors Choirs. Their
acceptance to this elite group
is a direct result of their talent,
dedication, and achievements,”
stated Fine Arts Director,
Sheryl Hauk.
The performance is February 7,
2016, during Carnegie Hall’s 125th
Anniversary season.
West Bloomfield School District
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
8
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
November 2015
KUDOS!
WBHS Peer Mentoring Program Presents at
Macomb Diversity Summit
West Bloomfield High School’s highly successful Peer Mentoring Program was showcased
at the Macomb Diversity Summit, where over 100 Macomb County students participated.
When preparing for her seminar on mentorship, Dr. Mara Hoffert knew that the best way to
help students in Macomb bring mentoring practices into their districts was to have some
of West Bloomfield’s peer mentor students, Jordan Ruge, Amina Sharif and Garrett Winn,
along with one of program’s dedicated teachers, Heather Crewes, speak about the impact
the peer mentor program has on Freshman and on the general culture of the high school.
Initiated by Dr. Hoffert eight years ago, the WBHS peer mentor program assists Freshmen
with their transition to high school, makes them feel comfortable and helps them find their
niche during their first year. High school upperclassman mentor Freshmen in emotional,
social and academic venues. These relationships create genuine and lasting friendships
where students serve as positive role models for one another and help guide each other
through their high school experience.
National Merit Semifinalists Krunal Moradiya, Serena Hoost and Anoop Ravella
National Merit Semifinalists
Congratulations to Krunal Moradiya Serena Hoost and Anoop Ravella
for their outstanding performance on the PSAT, which is the National Merit Scholarship
Qualifying Test. As semifinalists, all three will advance to compete for National Merit
Scholarships. These students are one of less than 1% of U.S. high school seniors who were
named Semifinalist. We would also like to acknowledge the achievements of Bhavana
Garapati and Supriya Gupta who have reached Commended status in the National Merit
Scholarship Competition. They are one of less than 3% of U.S. high school seniors who have
received this honor.
Students Score Big During On Site Admissions Day
One of the unique opportunities WBHS seniors enjoy is
the annual On Site Admissions Day. Held on October 14,
admissions counselors from 15 colleges and universities
gathered to meet with students.
Jordan Ruge, Amina Sharif , teacher Heather Crewes, Garrett Winn, and Associate Principal Dr. Mara Hoffert
Of the 103 students who attended, 92% were accepted to
one or more colleges that day thus beating the traditional
November 1 deadline for early consideration for admission.
M
WBHS counselors have simplified the college application
process and eased the stress and financial burden. Many of
the participating universities offered free applications and
WBHS will provide each university with transcripts and ACT
scores without charge for all participating students.
Hershal Satam is happy to receive
a full scholarship to Michigan Tech.
acomb County students had an opportunity to ask the West Bloomfield High School
students a series of questions. Jordan Ruge spoke about the greatest effect she has felt as a
mentor. Jordan stated, “There is no greater feeling than leaving the building knowing that
I had a direct impact on my Freshmen. It gives me great satisfaction leaving behind a piece
of me with my Freshmen when I graduate.” Garrett Winn was asked what is the one the
biggest challenges he has encountered. He replied, “It is difficult to find a way to motivate
all of my Freshmen. They are unique and have different personalities and struggles and
I want to meet their very individual needs.” Amina Sharif summarized her experiences as
a mentor, “It has helped me grow as a person and has given me gratification in knowing
I have given back to my school and made me a more confident leader”. Teacher Heather
Crewes stated, “The best part is that I can leave the building each day seeing the direct
impact students have had on one another and knowing that we have all helped to make a
specific and direct impact on another human being.”
“While the program has aided many students in their transition to high school, we continue
to make modifications and strive to meet all of the needs of our Freshmen. WBHS is
extremely proud of this program and of the fact that our students care so deeply about the
world and the people around them,” observed Dr. Hoffert.
Literary Garden And Its Creator Are Honored
Jennifer McQuillan, English Teacher at
WBHS, has been named a top-ten finalist
in the prestigious and highly competitive
Penguin Random House Teacher Awards
for Literacy. Nominated for her innovative
Literary Garden project and for her efforts
to encourage young readers, she will
receive $500 for the Literary Garden and
$1000 to spend on Penguin Random
House titles.
Congratulations to the Cast of Brave New World
The WBHS Theater Arts program presented Brave New World as its fall production. “The
themes of this particular show resonate with a rarely-touched aspect of our changing society.
While past productions discussed race relations, busines ethics, and prioritizing money over
family, this show deals with our liberalizing culture. For better or worse, modern technology
has increased access to instant gratification.”
- Pierce Kaufman, Senior Student Director
Observed Dr. Melissa Talhelm, Coordinator
of Secondary English Education/
Associate Professor of English, Southern
Connecticut State University, who has
been working with Ms. McQuillan and
nominated her for the award, “you have
something really special happening at
[WBHS] and an outstanding teacher leading
the way.” Congratulations, Ms. McQuillan!
West Bloomfield School District
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
November 2015
9
S afeline
West Bloomfield School District
has designed the Safeline
program to S
keep track of
children in the elementary and
middle schools. When a child is
going to be absent, the parent
may call a special Safeline
number from 6:00 p.m. until
school start time the following
morning. The parent of any
child who is absent with an
unreported absence, will
be called shortly after the
beginning of the school day.
Safeline Numbers:
Doherty248-865-6002
Gretchko248-865-6572
Roosevelt 248-865-6622
Scotch248-865-3282
Sheiko248-865-6372
Abbott248-865-3672
OLMS248-865-4482
WBHS248-865-6722
WBTC248-539-0601
Ways To Stay
Connected With Us:
Website:
www.wbsd.org
Athletic Website:
westbloomfieldathletics.com
Community Education:
www.wbcommed.org
248-865-6462
WBTV Channel 19
WBHS Twitter:
#ONLYWB
YouTube:
Keenan West = Awesome!
In October, Keenan West entertained and inspired student
audiences at WBHS and both middle schools. A youth
motivational speaker and vocalist from Cincinnati, Ohio, he
presented a powerful and thought-provoking anti-bullying
message to all WBSD middle school students and WBHS freshmen
and sophomores. In his “Made for More” program, Keenan involves
students and helps them take ownership for bringing an end to
bullying at their school and among their friends.
As a recording artist, West wanted his voice to be heard not only to
raise awareness on the issue of bullying, but also to highlight and
celebrate kids who have found the courage to stand up against
mean behavior. He wrote and recorded a song entitled “Never
Ever” and partnered with Cincinnati area junior high and high
school students to produce and record a powerful anti-bullying
music video for his song. After the release of the music video,
with more than 200,000 views on YouTube, West also saw the
need for young people across America to experience a different
kind of motivational assembly. After doing much research, Keenan
partnered with several organizations such as the Warren County
Violence Free Coalition, Pacer’s National Bully Prevention Center
and Michigan’s Attorney General Bill Schuette Ok2Say campaign.
After visiting WBHS last year with the Ok2Say website launch, the
speaker was invited back to connect with a larger audience of WBSD
students. The program was co-sponsored by West Bloomfield
Youth Assistance and the Greater West Bloomfield Community
Coalition in their continuing efforts to bring important and topical
programs to the school district and the community.
drinking and his grades were falling. Finally, he was diagnosed with
depression and a year later, found himself in a treatment center. Not
long after that, he attempted to end his life by free-falling from his
9th floor bedroom window.
Mental health issues have long carried
social stigma. Depression and suicide
are topics that we just don’t discuss. In
order to break down barriers and start
the conversation, West Bloomfield High
School hosted a community event in
October featuring Jordan Burnham,
a nationally renowned mental health
advocate who works through the Active
Minds organization.
Jordan speaks out about his
struggles as a messenger of
hope for others. Although we
can’t choose the things that
happen to us, we can choose
how we cope with them. With
a combination of talk therapy
and medication, physical
exercise and a support network
of family and friends, Jordan
now manages his depression
in healthy positive ways. He Lisa Berkey, Cynthia Hill, Jordan Burnham,
is a living example of why any and Carol Hack
person struggling with depression should feel confident about
seeking and accepting help.
The program was sponsored by:
Greater West Bloomfield Community Coalition, WBHS PTO, and
West Bloomfield Youth Assistance.
Jordan Burnham at WBHS
Jordan told his story of how, as a high school student, he seemed to
have it all. A popular student athlete, he also was a good student,
Freshman Class President and had a loving family, including an
older sister whom he adored. But his smiling face masked the
anxiety and depression that lay beneath the surface—a fear that he
wasn’t good enough, the difficult transition into high school and
the pressure to excel academically as well as in sports. Soon he was
STRIKE OUT BULLYING!
facebook.com/
WestBloomfieldSchools
Alumni Facebook:
https://www.facebrook.com/
groups/700954019927536
800-231-1127
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
10
Former Detroit Lion Fights
On For Mental Health
Eric Hipple, Adrienne Crockett, and Tarah
Hipple from MIRA (Mental Illness Research
Association) spoke to the entire WBHS
student body on suicide prevention and
mental illness. Eric, a former Detroit Lion
and current mental health advocate along
with his daughter, Tarah, shared their personal
stories of losing a son and brother to suicide and the
resulting effect on their lives.
Facebook:
24/7 Crisis Chat Line
West is also the founder of Kee Educational Concepts and is
currently writing, producing and directing more music videos to
inspire today’s youth.
Let’s Start Talking and
Eliminate the Stigma
www.youtube.com/wbsdk12
Common Ground
“Keenan was dynamic, engaging, and in tune with our kids.” said
OLMS Assistant Principal, Scott Long. “Moreover, our students and
staff loved him. We already have 6th grade students talking about
making anti-bullying posters and creating initiatives to positively
influence their students.” “Keenan West’s high energy, entertaining
style and serious message connected with our students and
teachers.” concurred Superintendent, Dr. Gerald Hill.
WBHS Senior Jason Gelsey was selected to throw out the first pitch
at Comerica Park, representing Defeat The Label. Jason is part of
the Upstander program at West Bloomfield High School, and was
selected to help promote the anti-bullying program Strike Out
Bullying with the Detroit Tigers.
Eric Hipple
Adrienne Crockett informed the students about the
difference between being sad and suffering from
depression. Being sad or blue from time to time can
be a normal reaction to life’s challenges. However, if
Tarah Hipple
such feelings are persistent or severe, they may be
symptoms of clinical depression. As many as one
out of every ten teens may experience some form of
depression but the good news is that depression is
one of the most common and treatable of all illnesses.
The program ended with hope for those who suffer.
Eric and Tarah described their journey to recovery and
Adrienne
gave information on professional mental health resources. Crockett
West Bloomfield School District
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
November 2015
Homecoming 2015
Athletics
Sports Talk
LAKER FOOTBALL
by Eric Pierce
Cross Country:
The West Bloomfield Boys Cross Country team has had a successful
year. They opened the season in August by winning the DeLaSalle
Invitational. The boys improved significantly during the season as a
result of their hard work at practice and in races. WBXC won the OAA
White League Meet at Oakland University on 10/22, defeating six
other teams in the race. Brandon Coats, Justin Christopher Moody,
Collin Goan, Rahsaan Leonard and Ian Goan medaled and earned
all-league honors. Other standout performers during the season
included Jacob Schmitt, Garrett Winfrey and Jacob Binke. The junior
varsity boys tied for 2nd at the league meet. The Boys´ XC team
finished in the top 5 at the regional meet.
Lakers Girls Golf Team
Girls Golf:
The Lady Laker Golf team finished the season in 4th place in the
OAA Blue League. The Lakers finished ahead of Southfield and Royal
Oak High Schools. The Lakers were led by Senior Taylor Pierce who
averaged out the season with a 46.3 average per nine holes and a 92
average per 18. The Lakers participated in ten league matches and
five 18-hole tournaments. The Lakers were led by Seniors Taylor
Pierce, Heather Haely, Lizzy Tepper and Peri Applefield and return
a core group of players with a year of varsity experience in Kassidy
Myers, Lindsay Arthurs, Amethyst Hall, Bella Urban, Sarah Mashigan,
Christina Lilly and Emilie Karagosian. Coaches Steve Larkin and
Jeremy Denha were very pleased with their efforts this season.
Volleyball:
The Laker Volleyball Team enjoyed the best season they've had in
several years. They won the White division outright, beating every
team in their path. Winning against Farmington Harrison concluded
their 7-0 league record and earned a division title – a feat that
hadn't happened in 20 years. Gabi Allread, Shannon Heald, Nyla
Greer, Audrey Kohl and Vanessa Vigier have led the team offensively
all season. The Lakers setter is Lindsey DuFresne and she has been
the team's Quarterback running their offense. Defensively, the
Lakers also are incredibly strong. Leading the back row is Lauren
Powers and Avra DeYoung. Rounding out the roster is Jordan
Ruge, Nikki Ostrovsky, Britney Karcho, and Emma Coste. This team
of 6 seniors and 6 juniors is talented, dedicated, committed, and
disciplined. Because of these traits, their success has not been a
surprise to their coach, Dana Gray.
Girls Cross Country:
The girls cross country team made some great improvements this
year as a team! Freshman Kyla Christopher-Moody and sophomore
Marissa Stone were the top two varsity runners and finished with
All-league honors. Nicole Schwerin was a nice addition to the team
this year as a junior and was a major part of the varsity's success.
Reina Otsuka was a senior varsity runner who helped in team
scoring and in leadership. Unfortunately we lost a couple varsity
runners to injuries this season but sophomores Alexa Cohen and
Nora Sharba stepped up to help fill those roles late in the season to
continue the team’s success! Miki Kamiya, Maki Kamiya, Madison
Orow, Katelyn Sheena, and Samantha Fincannon were also major
contributors in the team’s success this year through their senior
leadership! The team had their best overall finish in the league this
year from the past several years and only expect to continue the
trend up next season!
Go Lady Lakers!
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
by Ron Bellamy
The 2015 West Bloomfield Laker Football Team accomplished a
feat that had not been achieved since 1962 - an undefeated regular
season. We experienced many memorable moments, including
defeating Clarkston for the first time in over thirty years, shutting
out Lake Orion for the second consecutive year and prevailing over
legendary Coach John Herrington and his Farmington Hills Harrison
Hawks. The Lakers concluded their regular season by finishing
second overall in Division 1 football rankings.
Our football team’s
success led to
football scholarships
for six of the Senior
Lakers. Currently,
the Lakers have
four young men
committed to NCAA
Division 1 football
programs. This
list includes Justin
Clark (University of Lakers Hero Football Coach Ron Bellamy at WBHS Pep Rally
Toledo), Evan Foster
(Bowling Green State University), Trishton Jackson (Michigan
State University) and Navon Mosley (Purdue University). In
addition, two Lakers, Theo Majette and Jacob Phillips received
scholarship offers from Davenport University which is a NCAA
Division 2 football program located in Lansing, Michigan. We have
full confidence that other student athletes will also receive offers
based on their performance both on the field and in the classroom.
The number of students attending
Homecoming this year was over 1000,
making it the most successful dance in
school history! Students attended in a
variety of fashionable outfits.
Source: Spectrum, Fashion Police by
Hunter Griffin and Lauryn Azu.
Elizabeth
Vadella,
sophomore,
perfects this
vintage look.
Below:
Seniors
Mazey
Kyriakoza,
Imani Cole,
Keira Houge,
all Pretty in
Pink.
The success of our team not only was apparent on the football
field but within our building as well. The climate and culture of our
school changed from low school spirit to full Laker spirit. On Fridays,
it was almost impossible to find a student who wasn’t wearing
Laker gear. Our student population took pride in being a Laker and
showed their Laker pride by cheering on the football team. The
Swamp, our amazing student section, turned out in record numbers
to support our team and was awarded the title of
Number 1 Student Section in the State of Michigan.
Approximately 900 students attended the 5:00 am Pep Rally we
hosted which was covered by Channel 4 WDIV.
We are thrilled that we had a hand in ensuring Laker pride is at an
all-time high and in helping unite our school and community!
Sophomore
Christopher
Lewis takes
the typical
black suit up a
notch for men’s
formal wear in
this classy
silver suit.
The Laker Football Team takes the field!
West Bloomfield School District
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
November 2015
11
WBEF Donates over
$21,000 in Grants What’s a
KICK-A-THON?
This year, the PTO decided to do
something different from the annual
fund run so they got together with True
Marshal Arts of Farmington Hills and
put together the Sheiko Kickathon.
Prior to the Kickathon, each student
asked friends and family to donate
money per kick or a flat amount. Our
goal was to raise $30,000. Prizes were
awarded to students who brought in the
most money.
On the beautiful morning of the
Kickathon, the entire school assembled
outside. True Marshall Arts, who
donated their time, led the kicking and
performing of karate moves. The goal
was to complete 1000 kicks, in intervals
of 100, to music. Each person learned
several karate moves and chose which
move they wanted to use for their last set
of 100. After all the hard work, students
and teachers alike received a popsicle
and a bottle of water donated from
Busch's. There were smiles and feelings
of satisfaction all around for an amazing
job well done!
On October 16, we held a special
assembly to celebrate the winners. With
the money raised, we are hoping to
purchase a new sound system and add
assemblies in addition to paying most
of the Leader in Me fees and the usual
teacher supplies.
WBEF Awards 43 Grants to Staff “The West Bloomfield Educational Foundation Board of Directors
is pleased to announce the awarding of 43 grants to district staff
under the 2015-16 WBEF Educator Grants Program. The awards total
$21,894. All nine district schools, plus the West Bloomfield Transition
Center, are represented. Listed below are the 2015-16 WBEF grant
recipients, the title of their projects and their respective schools.
Congratulations to all the teachers, principals, support staff, and
most importantly, our students who will benefit directly from these
grant awards.
WBEF 2015-16 Grant Recipients
PROJECT TITLE
APPLICANT(S)
SCHOOL
National Junior Honor Society for 7th Grade/
Abbott
National Junior Honor Society for 8th Grade (2)
Dana Gray, JoAnne Wegrzynowicz
Abbott Middle School Science Fair (5)
Abbott
Robin Loudermilk, Joe Chagnon, Lindsay Belli, Shawn Brown, Eric Shiemke
Individualized Informational Reading with Newsela
Abbott
Erin Wynn, Matt Harbron
Abbott Off Camera Flash Studio Lighting
Margaret Squires
Language Arts Intervention Program
Abbott
Lindsay Malcom, Kristi Hopper
All Razzed Up! Motivating Readers Through Raz-Kids Gretchko
Monica Hammerick, Erin Pawlaczyk
Tremendous Touchtronic Teaching
Gretchko
Liz Costello, Mike Atkinson
#GretchkoStarMakers Science Fair Challenge
Gretchko
Kimberly Daniels, Mary Ellen Merglewski, Cathy Mintz
#GretchkoStarMakers Science Fair Project
Gretchko
Kimberly Daniels, Mary Ellen Merglewski, Cathy Mintz
Gretchko
Lego Engineers - Junior First Lego League
Tricia Bairski, Amy Quinn, Sally Drummond
Lego Engineers - Bringing S.T.E.A.M. Education to our Makerspace Hall
Tricia Bairski, Amy Quinn, Sally Drummond
Gretchko MobyMax Makes Math Magic!
Cathy Mintz, Erin Pawlaczyk
Viking Huddle
Anastasia Mortimore, Susie Aisner OLMS
Sizzlin’ Science Experiments
OLMS
Nichole Raiti, Becky Heitsch
Picture Books that Inspire STEAM Learning
Roosevelt
Sharilyn Smith, Cindy Carson, Mary Kleam,
Ann Schumaker, Dena Treadwell, Laureen Brown, Juliann O’Brien, Katie Knighton, Jeannette Cuda
OLMS GardenFest
Robotic Sphere and Robotic Ollie in the Classroom
Roosevelt
Juliann O’Brien, Jeannette Cuda,
Kathryn Knighton
“Make.do” Classroom Tool Kits
Roosevelt
Kathryn Knighton, Jeannette Cuda,
Juliann O’Brien
STEAM Playground Sara Rich, Carrie Roth, Kristi Law, Roosevelt
Christina Sipila, Elisa Arnoldi
BrickLab Classroom Set
Roosevelt
Stephanie Donnay, Carrie Roth
Reading A-Z Raz-Kids Online Reading Program
Roosevelt
Ann Schumacher, Dena Treadwell, Laurie Brown, Mary Kleam, Cindy Carson, Sharilyn Smith
Roosevelt
Raz A-Z Reading Program
Kathryn Knighton, Denise Croteau-Behnk, Juliann O’Brien, Jeannette Cuda, Elise Arnoldi
Raz-Kids Reading
Pam Starr, Eric Malisow, Stephanie Roosevelt
Donnay, Carrie Roth
Moby Max for Learning
Roosevelt
Eric Malisow, Carrie Roth, Jeannette Cuda, Stephanie Donnay, Sara Rich
Meeting Reading Needs of all Students/Leveled Text for Leveled Library
Kelly Lekas
Scotch
The Walking Classroom
Scotch Lindsay Dershem
Enriching & Extending Common Core Using MobyMax.comScotch
Michelle Berman
Leader In Me Workbooks
Sheiko Blaine McDowell, Julie Zawalski, Ashley Thomas, Sue Lombardo, Wafa Farrington
Reading A - Z
May Denha, Jacqueline MattsonSheiko
West Bloomfield High School Literary Garden
WBHS
Jennifer McQuillan
WBHS
Musical Understanding Through Student Lead Sectionals
Sheryl Hauk
Increasing Data Analysis with a Little “Force”
Kyle Heffelbower
OEC
Web-based Employment Curriculum - Student Version Transition Ctr.
Susan Bowes, David Wisniewski,
Chastitie Fouchey
Soft Skills in the Workplace
Transition Ctr.
Stephanie Riddle
Information Please! Scholastic Database to the Rescue! (5)
Michael Atkinson, Julie Abeska, Carrie Betts, Carrie Bulbuk
Doherty
Gretchko
Roosevelt
Scotch
Sheiko
iCenters
Total award in WBEF Educator Grants for the 2015-16
school year is $21,894.00.
own OLMS PTO. Thanks again for their continued support beyond
the initial grants gifted to us in 2014.
OLMS Garden Team:
Tami Lamerato, Marj Haber,
Frank Williams and
Robert Kopicko
This year since the garden now has a fence, we were able to yield
much larger crops than in year one! No more deer to worry about!
We even were able to donate some of our summer harvests to
a local food pantry. Soon we will begin the final fall harvests,
composting experiments, winterizing the garden and of course,
planting more GARLIC!!
In September, OLMS hosted
its 2nd Annual GardenFest
celebrating the bountiful harvest
from their school garden. It
was a great success with many
OLMS students and families
participating.
Students painted veggie signs
and stepping stones, made
their own salsa and were able to
bring home Italian seasonings
highlighting our best crops this
year: garlic and basil.
Top photo, Principal Sonja James leads students
in the Kick-A-Thon!
The school garden was made
possible with the help of Renee
Mahon of Whole Foods, Team Depot from Home Depot and our very
Left: Marge Haber, Tami Lamerato, 7th grader Mick Gordinier. Right: Asst. Principal
Scott Long shows their luscious lettuce crop to Deputy Superintendent Alesia Flye.
West Bloomfield School District
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
12
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
November 2015
Community Education The Promise of a Better Life
Dawn Hanford, Adult Ed Coordinator
We know that there are benefits to continuing education. Earning
more income or getting a better job, helping our children excel in
school and improving ourselves for our own personal enjoyment
are all valid reasons for learning well into adulthood. The students
at West Bloomfield School District’s Adult English As A Second
Language program express many reasons for learning that inspire
those of us who teach them.
Lei Jiang (China)- I really enjoyed the time in ESL class. When
I entered the room, every staff gave me a beautiful smile for
welcoming; and when I had a problem, they encouraged me to have
faith in heart and gave me warm hugs. ESL class gave me good
preparation for academic study at university. Now, I am attending
Wayne State University for the Master of Arts program with a major
in Mathematical Statistics. Paula [Konfara] (teacher) and Ruth
[MacKay]’s (parapro) mentoring really had a positive impact in my life.
I can never thank them enough.
Maki Kitaoka (Japan)—ESL helps me in my daily life. For example,
when I go to the market, I can ask a grocery person where I can find
something. Now, I can hear what he or she is saying and understand
it! I want to keep learning more.
Orsolya Baur-Litkei (Hungary)—I can speak without fear and
describe things if I don’t have the right word.
Yoko Hashino and Yukiko Take (Japan) stressed the importance of
communicating with others they meet, being able to make friends
and understanding what is important in American culture.
Angelique Hummel (Germany)—I want to learn to communicate
correctly and to be able to get a good job in an office. ESL helps me
to use my vocabulary to speak in the right way.
Renata Portes (Brazil)—ESL is helping me to survive in the U.S.
Younghye Kim (South Korea)—If I have questions, I know I can ask
my teacher.
Rand Jahni (Syria)—My daughter is my motivation and she
encourages me to improve my language. I have lived in the United
States for 20 years and I want to speak English fluently.
Lizeth Salinas (Mexico)—Since I arrive every day on a bike, I get
exercise! ESL is important for me to get work and go to university.
In Adult ESL, we learn as much from our students as they do from
us. The greatest lesson learned, though, is that the United States is
unique, welcoming and blessed. We gain a greater appreciation for
the special place in which we live.
English as a Second Language
Dawn Hanford, Coordinator (248)539-2390
J&S Office Center, 7071 Orchard Lake Rd Suite 100
January 11 – February 25, 2016 9:30 – 12:00
Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced Monday & Wednesday $215
Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced Tuesday & Thursday
$215
Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced Monday – Thursday
$425
Advanced Conversation Tuesday 12:30 – 3:00 $110
FREE EVENING CLASSES START JANUARY 11, 2016
Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced Monday – Thursday 6:30 – 9:00
FREE PARENT ESL CLASS AT ORCHARD LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL
STARTS JANUARY 11, 2016
BEGINNER ONLY Monday – Thursday 9:30 – 12:00
$50 registration fee
• Picture identification required, social security number if available
• No refunds after first day of class
• Any missed days can be made up during the SAME session
• Open to residents of all school districts
• Classes cancelled due to weather will not be rescheduled
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
By Joey Spano
Community Education Rocks!
Pre-K
The research is overwhelming. Early childhood education, which
involves oral language, modeling, physical engagement and social
interaction, is critical to a child’s development and later success in
adulthood.
The West Bloomfield School District was one of the first Oakland
County school districts to offer full-day Preschool and we’ve been
going strong for 30 years. We focus on hiring and developing
3 year
olds -staff.
Stepping
outstanding teachers, assistant teachers and
support
OurStones
staff is
4 yearpreschool
olds - Jr. Kindergarten
the key to success in giving your child the best
experience
possible.
West Bloomfield
Community Education
Preschool
Academy
West Bloomfield Preschool Academy
provides an environment where children
flourish in all domains of learning: cognitive,
social, emotional and physical. Our program
helps prepare for the rigors of all-day
Kindergarten by immersing students in a
West Bloomfield
Educ
language-enriched
atmosphereCommunity
that
focuses on pre-reading skills, listening,
communicating, comprehension, and
writing skills.
Preschool Acade
Take a Personal Tour of our program!
Stepping Stones -3 year olds
Stepping Stones - 3 year olds
Kindergarten
4 year olds
Kindergarten
- 4 year-olds
Jr.Jr.
West Bloomfield Preschool Academy
provides an environment where children
flourish in all domains of learning; cognitive,
social, emotional and physical.
Preschoolers learn about exotic animals from Nelson Pearson and his Wildlife
Safari. Above students watch playful armadillos.
All WBSD childhood teachers hold a minimum of a bachelor’s
degree in a child development-related field. Several have Master’s
degrees and possess a state-certified early childhood endorsement.
Additionally, all staff receive at least 25 hours of professional
development each school year.
Recognizing the important role that parents play in their child’s
development, we offer parent workshops, family special events, and
other activities designed to strengthen families to support
academic success.
Our programs help prepare students
for the rigors of all-day Kindergarten
by immersing students in a
language-enriched atmosphere
that focuses on pre-reading skills,
listening, communicating,
comprehension, and writing skills.
Take a Personal Tour of our program!
Call 248-865-6466!
248-865-6466
West
Academy
WestBloomfield
BloomfieldPreschool
Preschool
Academy
Enrichment Programs
Since learning doesn’t take place solely within the regular school day,
our learning opportunities continue after school, into the evening,
on Saturdays and throughout the summer months. For over 30 years,
we’ve offered one of the most extensive enrichment and recreation
programs in Oakland County. In our After the Bell Craze, there is
something for everyone with classes in drama, Spanish, karate,
yoga, cooking, chess, floor hockey, musical theater, gymnastics and
tumbling, video game design, math pentathlon, cartooning, knitting,
ballet and tap, Hip Hop and Jazz and more. These classes teach kids
teamwork, focus, sportsmanship and character building besides
providing the benefits of health, physical activity and plain old fun.
All programs support and complement our K-12 operation.
Elementary and middle school robotics tie into our district-wide
STEAM Pathways initiative. Elementary strings, middle school math
pentathlon and high school AP Review augment learning at all levels.
And then there are the summer months. We have been in the day
camp business for over 35 years. Our specially developed day
camps stretch from preschool to eighth graders and run the entire
summer. The camps are filled with creative and fun activities, including
an academic component. Because of our relationship with the West
Bloomfield Public Library, library personnel set up a mini-library in
camp, conduct weekly reading activities and enroll all attendees in their
summer reading program where they track students’ reading hours.
A significant grant from the PNC Foundation for the past three
summers, has allowed us to greatly enhance our program offerings,
fund field trips and provide scholarships to children who cannot
afford to attend day camp. We have strong partnerships with many
community and business organizations including West Bloomfield
Parks and Recreation, Wholefoods West Bloomfield and Oakland
County Parks Commission.
Camp programs include an outstanding aquatics program, Summer
Scholars Academic Readiness, Summer Math & Reading Enrichment,
GRASP, Imagination Station, Bridge 6, Musical Theater, Summer Sun &
Fun, Camp Superstar and Get REAL Camp.
Academic Summer School provides an opportunity for high school
students to earn or recover credit in the summer months.
5810 Co
West Bloomfield Schools
6800 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield
(Because the WB location will be closing at the end of December, the book fair ID will also be honored
at any stores in the country including our local stores in Birmingham, Troy, Rochester, and Northville. The Orchard Lake
location has many clearance and sale items available due to it’s closing.
6800 Orchard Lake Road,
Join Bloomfield
us as we kick off the
West
Pine Cone and Pine Tree Reading Programs
Monday, December 7 – Sunday, December 13, 2015
(Because
the WB location will be closing at the
end of December,
the book fair ID will also be
Shop for the holidays and raise money for
honored at
the country
including
theany
WBstores
school in
libraries
at the same
time! our
local stores in Birmingham, Troy, Rochester, and
ALL purchases will result in a 20% donation to our school libraries!
Northville.
The
Orchard
Lake
location
has
However, you must remember to tell the cashier thatmany
you are
purchasing
under
theitems
WB School
Book Fair
clearance
and
sale
available
due
to its closing.
Use Book Fair ID #11720109
West
Schools
Join
usBloomfield
as we
kick
off
the
Thank
you for
your support!
Pine Cone and Pine Tree Reading
Programs
Visit bn.com/bookfairs
to support
us online through December
Monday,
December
7 – 12, 2014
by entering Bookfair ID 11720109 at checkout.
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Shop for the holidays and
raise
money for
Join us as we kick off the
Pine
Cone
andschool
Pine Treelibraries
Reading Programs
the
WB
Monday, December 7 – Sunday, December 13, 2015
at the same time!
6800 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield
(Because the WB location will be closing at the end of December, the book fair ID will also be honored
at any stores in the country including our local stores in Birmingham, Troy, Rochester, and Northville. The Orchard Lake
location has many clearance and sale items available due to it’s closing.
Shop for the holidays and raise money for
ALL purchases
will result
20%
donation
the WB school
librariesin
atathe
same
time!
to our school libraries!
ALL purchases will result in a 20% donation to our school libraries!
However,
must
remember
tothat
tellyouthe
However, you
you must
remember
to tell the cashier
are
purchasing
under
the WB
School
cashier
that
you
areBook Fair
purchasing under
the
School Book Fair
Use Book
FairWB
ID #11720109
Use Book
Fair ID #11720109
Thank you for your support!
Thank you for your support!
Visit bn.com/bookfairs to support us online
through December 12, 2015
by entering Bookfair ID 11720109
Visit bn.com/bookfairs to support us online through December 12, 2014
at checkout.
by entering Bookfair
ID 11720109 at checkout.
West Bloomfield School District
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
November 2015
13
Our
Children's
Fund
SNOWMAN PINS
Our Children’s Fund (OCF) is gearing
up for its 25th annual Holiday Help
fundraising drive. Back by popular
demand, OCF Snowman Pins will be
part of our efforts. The 2015 Snowman
pin design, selected from WBSD student
entries, will be announced at
the December 14 School Board
meeting. Snowman pins will be
available for sale in all school offices and
the ACS building.
Our Children’s Fund meets emergency
needs and provides resources helping
to ensure that every student in WBSD
is able to participate in academic and
enrichment activities. Blessings in a Backpack West Bloomfield/Keego Harbor
We are off and PACKING!! Expanding to all five West Bloomfield
Elementary Schools this year, Blessings in a Backpack volunteers are
packing six non-perishable meals to send home each weekend to over
280 needy students who qualify for this wonderful program.
Many students in our district receive a free breakfast and a free lunch
each day of the school year, but go home for the weekend and have
nothing to eat.
You can STOP HUNGER by DONATING to:
Blessings in a Backpack—West Bloomfield/Keego Harbor
c/o North Woodward Community Foundation
1120 E. Long Lake Rd, Troy, MI 48085
Just $100 will feed a child for the 40 weekends of the school year!
Blessings in a Backpack started in 2005 in Louisville, Kentucky, when
a teacher noticed how tired, irritable, and sluggish her students,
who were on the Free and Reduced Lunch Program, were when they
returned to school on Mondays. When she realized that it was due
to little or no food in their homes on the weekend, she talked with
Community Leaders and Blessings in a Backpack was born. It now
operates in 45 states and 800 schools.
Run entirely by volunteers, our dedicated West Bloomfield
community members purchase the food at a discounted rate from
Meijer, pack it up at Abbott Middle School on Wednesdays at
12:30 pm, and with the School District’s help, deliver the bags of food
to each elementary school in time for it to go home every Friday.
Hunger does not take a break on the weekends! NO CHILD in our
school district should have to worry about where they will get their
next meal. Please DONATE today.
Save the date for our 2016 FUNDRAISER.
Blessings in a Backpack brings Cirque Amongus back to West
Bloomfield! Join us at Orchard Lake Middle School on
Saturday, June 25th for a great fun-filled day for ages 5-13.
Sponsorships available:
Contact Kathy Sheiko at [email protected]
Fiscally Sponsored by the
North Woodward Community Foundation
Families seeking confidential assistance
should talk first with a teacher, school
social worker or building principal.
Project Search Students At
Work at WB Henry Ford
CANDY WREATHS
OCF relies on the sale of Snowman
Pins, Tribute Card contributions and
the fundraising efforts of our schools,
community organizations and local
businesses to help meet students’ needs
all year long. We also accept monetary
contributions and store gift cards in any
amount. These can be dropped off at
any school office or mail your taxdeductible donation to: We started another great year in Project SEARCH!
The interns have learned their way around the
hospital and they have learned hospital procedures. They all are in
their first rotations and are gaining many new skills.
In 2013, the Transition Center started a business making and
selling beautiful candy wreaths. Our students are involved in every
aspect of the business and are proud to make wreaths available
for purchase! A grant from the Autism Society of Oakland County
provided $1000 to start up the business.
Our Children’s Fund
c/o WBSD Special Services
5810 Commerce Road
West Bloomfield, MI 48324
2015-16 Steering Committee
Lyzz Burlak, Kathy Clark, Tracy Falkowski,
Lisa Kaplan, Miriam MacLean-Babbitt,
Randi Sakwa, Kathy Sheiko, Ellen
Simmons, Debbie Singer and Eleanor
Squaire-Spears.
Dr. Avery Murav was honored by
former and current OCF board
members at the October Board of
Education meeting. Our Children’s Fund
celebrated its 25th year of operation
and recognized its founder, Dr. Murav,
at the meeting, where he was presented
with a West Bloomfield School District
Star Certificate.
Debbie Singer, Eleanor Squaire-Spears,
Melanie Torbert, Lisa Kaplan, Ellen Simmons,
Randi Sakwa, Dr. Avery Murav, Lyzz Burlak,
Cara Kazanowski, Tracy Falkowski, Miriam
MacLean-Babbitt
What is Project SEARCH?
Project SEARCH is a one-year school-to-work program that takes
place entirely at Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital. Students do
2 to 3 work rotations in a variety of hospital departments and spend
time in a classroom within the hospital. While in the work rotations,
the students work side-by-side with hospital staff and learn real,
marketable skills that transfer to paid employment either within
the hospital or the community. In the classroom, the students learn
functional and independent living skills and job readiness skills.
The students work with a team that includes their family, a special
education teacher, job coaches, a Michigan Rehabilitation Services
counselor and a job developer. This team creates an employment
goal and supports the students during the important transition from
school to work.
Available Through The Transition Center
Order your Thanksgiving and Holiday Wreaths now!
Project SEARCH is a program for special education students 1826 years of age who have an Individual Education Plan (IEP) and
have not taken a diploma. Students must meet the eligibility for
Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) and complete a Project
Search application. For more information, contact Stephanie Riddle
at [email protected].
Circle wreaths are $16 each. Heart wreaths are $15 each. Custom
Candy is available on all wreath styles. Pet wreaths are available
with either Dog or Cat treats.
To see the full selection of wreaths and to order, go to the WBSD
website at www.wbsd.org and select Transition Center/Dream Crafts.
Please allow 1 week to process and complete your order.
Orders can be delivered to any school in the West Bloomfield School
district or you can pick up your order at the Transition Center during
school hours. Payment is due upon delivery.
Danielle in Labor and Delivery, Nick in the Emergency Dept, Cameron working the
Farmer’s Market for the Greenhouse. Bottom: Adam in Surgical Processing, Taylor
in Volunteer Services, Elizabeth in the Coffee Shop, and Ryan in the Kitchen
The West Bloomfield Transition Center provides school-based and
community based instruction that helps special education students,
ages 18-26 years, transition to life.
The Mission of the West Bloomfield Transition Center is to guide
and enable young adults to gain skills necessary to make responsible
decisions that allow them to lead independent, productive adult lives.
The Transition Center provides effective and innovative programs,
services, and resources to meet the diverse needs of students.
West Bloomfield School District
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
14
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
November 2015
ADVERTISE IN THE LAKER! CALL 248.865.6454 FOR RATES AND TO PLACE YOUR AD
ENTERING
KINDERGARTEN
Michigan Law
(Public Health Code, Act 368, and
Michigan School Code, Act 291)
requires a vision screening for
Kindergarten entrance.
Low Back Pain Expert!
Howard Rosenberg, DC
Howard Rosenberg, DC, is an expert in
relieving lower back pain and is the only Cox
Certified Spinal Decompression Specialist in
West Bloomfield and Lakes area. This fall he is a
presenter at a professional development course
with Dr. Cox. Dr. Rosenberg assures you that
you will receive the best possible treatment.
Along with expert chiropractic care, Dr. Rosenberg offers:
• Deep tissue laser therapy for pain management
and anti-inflammatory treatments to speed healing
• Massagetherapyfor relief of pain and muscle
tightness; reducing muscle spasms and lowering
blood pressure
Start Feeling Better Today! Call 248-681-6804
Dr. Howard Rosenberg | 2081 Hiller Road @ Greer, W. Bloomfield
248-681-6804 | www.hillerchiro.com
Medicare
Vision screening done by a
health department technician,
a physician or an eye doctor
fulfills this requirement.
Oakland County Health Division
offers free vision screening for
County residents.
Call (248) 424-7070
for an appointment.
Look for the
Community
Education
Winter Catalog
in your
December 9 Beacon.
It's filled with
Winter Wonders for
all ages!
For a complete list
of classes, programs
and registration
information, visit
www.wbcommed.org
or call
248-865-6462
for details.
West Bloomfield School District
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
November 2015
15
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t
a
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Car Magnets
Now available
in all school
offices!
$2 each
Get Yours Now!
H
CASAR
B
ING
OLL S
STR ETIZER
APP
NEW!
NT
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C
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2016 Keynote Speaker:
Michigan Supreme Court
Justice Richard Bernstein
Adults Play - Kids Win!
Friday, February 5, 2016
7:00 - 11:00 PM
Edgewood Country Club
8399 Commerce Road • Commerce Township, MI 48382
Sunday
January 17, 2016
PACKAGE TICKETS
SAVE ! WITH PACKAGE TICKETS!
12/1 - 1/15 1/16 - 2/4 2/5 Door
35 Card Shark: Entry, Appetizers, 1 Raffle Entry, 100 Chips
$
75 Diamond: Entry, Appetizers, 5 Raffle Entries, 250 Chips, 1 Beverage
$
125 High Roller: Entry, Appetizers, 10 Raffle Entries, 500 Chips,
2 Beverages
$
ACK
CKJ
BLA
LET
IT
E
RID
LET
ROU
TE
25
$
65
$
115
$
$
$
$
Adults only please - 21 & older
RAF
B
$
West Bloomfield High School
45
85
$
135
$
75
125
NT
SILECTION
U
A
S
FLE
O
ING
35
S
P
CRA
OR
COL
BIG HEEL
W
3:00 p.m. Walk
3:30 p.m. Refreshments
4:15 p.m. Program
5:15 p.m. Candlelight Vigil
West Bloomfield School District Social Justice Mission Statement:
Our mission is to intentionally cultivate relationships through an environment of social
integrity that moves us from judgment to compassion through the education and
nurturing of our students, staff, and community to ensure that the uniqueness of each
individual is embraced while commonalities are celebrated.
www.unitedwewalk.org
st
Blo
omf
vi
si
The Board of Education meets at 7:00 p.m. on
the fourth working Monday of each month unless otherwise posted. The meetings are held
in the iCenter of West Bloomfield High School,
located at 4925 Orchard Lake Road (unless
otherwise posted). All regular meetings are
open to the public.
We
President..................... Nelson Hersh
Vice President................Randi Sakwa
Secretary. ....................... Julie Beaty
Treasurer........................ Matt Chase
Trustee......................Stacy Brickman
Trustee....................... Cristina Elsen
Trustee..................Carol Finkelstein
on
BOARD OF EDUCATION 2015
ele
ield S c hool Distri ct T
Stay informed
by watching Channel 19 WBTV,
West Bloomfield School District’s
Media Connection.
22-time Telly Award winning
Cable Station
West Bloomfield School District
THE LAKER - #ONLYWB
16
Educating Students to be their
Best IN and FOR the World!
November 2015