KPS Search Collecting Public Input, Survey Open Until Nov. 8 Prek-12 — No School Kalamazoo Public Schools Has Launched Input Meetings That Were Held Throughout Nov

Kalamazoo Public Schools

NOVEMBER 2019 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com VOLUME 22, ISSUE 10

Like us on KPS Alumni Helping Teachers of Color Prepare for the Classroom Hailey Timmerman said she knows that William Wright is an education major at Western having a teacher of color always inspired her Michigan University, but here he is pictured as a high school senior when he worked in Woods Lake second to do better in school. grade teacher Marlean Wilson-Bridges’ classroom as “When I was little, I didn’t think about part of Education For Employment. Wilson-Bridges IMPORTANT DATES the importance of having a teacher of color, was Wright’s fourth-grade teacher and inspired him but I do remember feeling some connection to become a teacher. with Mrs. Bolton, like if my hair was messed Board of Education Meetings up, she knew how to fix it,” Timmerman Timmerman and William Wright, both Thursday, Nov. 7 & 21, 2019 said of her kindergarten teacher, who was 2017 Loy Norrix graduates, and Sarah Gi- 7 p.m. African-American. ramia, a 2015 Norrix graduate, are three of Administration Building Having a teacher of color “makes me the founding members and officers for Fu- 1220 Howard St. want to learn more,” she said. “It makes my ture Teachers of Color, whose mission is “to participation and attendance go up, because bring together future educators of color at Board Advance Meeting I feel I’m heard and I feel someone actually WMU with a focus on various topics related Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019 understands me as more than just the aca- to career preparation, academic success, 6:15 p.m. demic part of the classroom.” mentorship, community service outreach, Media Center Now, she and some fellow Kalamazoo and networking skills.” West Main Professional Public Schools alumni are working to help All of the students are part of the Future Development Center support developing teachers with Future Educator Program scholarship at WMU. The 1627 W. Main St. Teachers of Color, a new student group at group is advised by Marcy Peake, director of For more information, call Western Michigan University. (continued on page 3) (269) 337-1572 KPS Search Collecting Public Input, Survey Open Until Nov. 8 PreK-12 — No School Kalamazoo Public Schools has launched input meetings that were held throughout Nov. 1 an extensive campaign to solicit public in- the district in October. The information will put on the qualities the community wants be shared with the KPS Board of Education Elementary Conferences in the district’s next superintendent. to help board members develop the selec- Nov. 4-7 Former KPS Superintendent Dr. Mi- tion criteria for the next superintendent. chael Rice was named Michigan’s Super- The district hopes to hear from students Grades K-5 — Half Day intendent of Public Instruction in May. and their families; KPS alumni; district Nov. 7-8 KPS Deputy Superintendent Gary Start is employees; service providers in public, serving as the Interim Superintendent for private, and nonprofit sectors; employers; Grades 9-12 — Half Day KPS during the search process. In August, advocates; residents; and other interested Nov. 22 and 25 the Board of Education selected the Michi- stakeholders. gan Association of School Boards Executive KzooSuptSearch. The tentative timeline for the search in- Grades 6-12 — No School Search Services to help with its search for a The survey is being administered by cludes posting the job description by the end Nov. 26 new superintendent. the MASB Executive Search team on behalf of the month. The job posting would close in Community members are invited to of KPS and takes about 10 minutes to com- early January, with interviews scheduled in Thanksgiving Break participate in a confidential online sur- plete. Survey results will be combined with the spring. The board hopes to make a selec- No School vey available through Nov. 8 at: bit.ly/ input received from a series of community tion by the beginning of April.

Nov. 27-29

RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER RESIDENTIAL

Permit 709 Permit **ECRWSS**

Kalamazoo, MI Kalamazoo,

INSIDE Kalamazoo Public Schools is Hiring. PAID

Find information at http:// Postage US

Organization

www.kalamazoopublicschools.com/ 49008 MI Kalamazoo, St., Howard 1220 Schools, Public Kalamazoo Full Calendar NonProfit Departments/HumanResources/ see page 14 EmploymentOpportunities Student Services Expanding to Provide the Social-Emotional Tools Children Need to Learn Long gone are the days in 95 percent of supporting school staff as they find the school and community which schools were respon- principals re- implement strategies that resources they need to be sible for just the mastery of ba- ported hav- create a positive school climate “The needs of successful in KPS. sic reading, writing and math ing students and support academic and According to the website skills. experiencing behavioral expectations. our students for the Learning Policy Institute, The needs of our students personal or This year Shannon Parlato, millions of children every are greater than ever, and family crisis. who has worked for the school are greater year are affected by adversity, schools — more than ever — are Schools, ac- district for 16 years as an ranging from violence to food Gary Start, Interim than ever …” insecurity. These adverse life looked to as a key resource for cordingly, Superintendent elementary school educator and all of the challenges and trau- have incorpo- teacher mentor, was hired as a conditions can result in stress, mas facing children and their rated social-emotional learning Tier 2/3 Interventionist. When The third Student Services attention deficits and behavior families. into their curriculum programs one looks at the interventions position added to the district issues. According to 2016 Scholas- to help students learn to man- a school can offer students, was that of restorative re- That reality requires schools tic survey of almost 5,000 pub- age their emotions, set goals, the Tier 1 basic interventions entry coach. Katelyn Root to infuse their teaching with lic school educators, a majority and learn how to make good de- address the needs of about 80 to brings a background in juvenile social and emotional learning of principals reported that their cisions. 90 percent of the children in the and social justice, youth and supports that help children students: Kalamazoo Public Schools district. programming, mindfulness in learn to deal with trauma, l Experienced family or per- was very lucky over the last Tier 2 and Tier 3 interven- schools, mental health, and manage stress, and to express sonal crisis two years to add three new tions are needed for about 10 to family therapy to this role. their frustrations and fears in l Needed mental health ser- positions to facilitate a multi- 15 percent of the children. The She is examining barriers that positive and productive ways. vices pronged system of supports in goal of Parlato’s position is to keep students and families We know that it is important l Lived in poverty our schools. help schools develop support from having a strong, positive for students to learn to read and l Came to school hungry Heather Misner has worked plans to help students succeed. attendance record. write and calculate. In today's l Required health care ser- for KPS for 20 years as a teacher, Parlato works not just with sup- These staff members join an world, it is also essential that we vices administrator and instructional ports in the school, but she can expanded team of four clinical provide our schools, students l Were homeless coach. But, two years ago she help create an integrated service social workers who have been and families with the socio- l Needed support as an Eng- took on the role of climate and plan for the student that involves added over the past two years. emotional support they need, lish language learner. culture coach for the district. the parents, school and commu- They, too, are focused onso our children are prepared to According to Scholastic, Her position is focused on nity resources. helping students and families tackle those academic challenges.

THINK DEEPLY. ACT JUSTLY. When you join the innovators of Calvin University, you won’t just LIVE WHOLEHEARTEDLY. get an education—you’ll pursue AS CHRIST’S AGENTS OF RENEWAL IN THE WORLD. a deeper purpose. Devote your gifts to God, and transform your part of the world.

Calvin University joyfully participates in the Kalamazoo Promise.

calvin.edu/go/kps

2 EXCELSIOR November 2019 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com KPS Alumni Helping Teachers of Color Prepare for the Classroom (continued from page 1) diversity and community out- can go into,” he said. “Just hav- ers — all teachers, not just teach- reach initiatives in the College of ing one of two teachers of color, ers of color — is changing. Education and Human Develop- could have a huge impact on the Timmerman became in- ment. students that see us in the class- terested in teaching after a high The Harvard Graduate room.” school job teaching students School of Education magazine Being in the classroom about drug and violence pre- says that according to the U.S. means not just that he is in front vention with Prevention Works. Department of Education, about of them as a visual role model, but There she learned to love working 50 percent of the public school that he has a chance to be a strong with students. student population is nonwhite, voice for academic excellence. “I hadn’t thought about ed- while 80 percent of public school “A lot of students I’ve ucation as a career before,” she teachers are white. worked with have seen me before said. “People say the pay is bad. While there has been some in high school sports, but they You’re disrespected. Don’t do it. growth in the numbers of non- need to see that it all starts in the But when it’s in my heart and I white teachers, much of that classroom,” Wright said. “That’s feel if this is my purpose on earth, growth is attributed to the rise the main thing I’ve tried to in- then no one is going to tell me not in Hispanics and Asians among spire in them — that education to do it.” the ranks of teachers. The pat- is your passport. You need to be a “People are always saying, if tern of racial and ethinc diversity student before anything else.” you want to make money, don’t among principals mirrors that of Future Teachers of Color at Western Michigan University is a group for education Giramia, who was born in go into education,” Giramia said. teachers, with nonwhites mak- students. It was started by Kalamazoo Public Schools graduates Sarah Giramia, light Uganda and came to the United “But, I feel like the whole conver- ing up about 20 percent of U.S. blue shirt; Hailey Timmerman, second from right, and William Wright, right. Other States when she was 6, was in- sation around education is be- public school principals. WMU students pictured are Marcus Moore, DeShaun Cornelius and Jarae McCoy. spired to teach by her mother, coming more transparent about A Center for American Timmerman, Wright, Gi- to use a sports analogy when he who taught orphaned children. what is important. Progress study titled “Ameri- ramia and several other stu- talks about the need for teachers “I was able to see what educa- “I think having more teach- ca’s Leaky Pipeline for Teach- dents formed Future Teachers of color. Many students want to tion does for people who come ers like us going into the com- ers of Color” said that has an of Color this fall. The club has emulate athletes, because of the from little and how it can elevate munity and telling students that impact on minority students, about two dozen members — al- professionals they see in the NFL them,” she said. “What you learn ‘I’m going into education’ and because teachers of color “have though they are hoping to even- or the NBA, Wright said. is your education is one thing that this is what it is can spark some- higher expectations of minor- tually involve the approximate- “We want to increase the no one can take from you.” thing in them. I think there’s ity students, provide cultur- ly 50 students of color in the number of teachers of color, and The students say they are self-efficacy and confirmation ally relevant teaching, develop education program. The group men in particular, so students hopeful that the dialogue around of their identity that comes from trusting relationships with stu- is emphasizing career prepara- can see us and see it as a field they education, teaching, and teach- who teaches them.” dents, confront issues of racism tion and peer support. through teaching, and become “I love the fact that I am advocates and cultural brokers.” with people in education who KPS has its own efforts to look like me. It gives us a sense of support future teachers of color. community to talk about things This year, the district launched that matter to us and things we Attend the Young Educators Society, a don’t typically hear,” Giramia high school club reminiscent of said. “We just wanted to make the old-fashioned Future Teach- sure we could create a support COLLEGE ers of America clubs. Sheila system for each other.” Dorsey-Smith, assistant super- Wright said that because intendent for human resources, there are few students of color FOR FREE said the plan is to expand the — and they are spread across clubs to middle school and el- different years and programs — Motivated college-bound high school ementary school in future years. he’s hoping that the club will students can earn free college credit The district has also in- give students a chance to net- through the Early Middle College creased efforts to grow teachers work outside of class and allow program at Kalamazoo Valley. from current employees, such for upperclassmen to mentor as paraprofessionals, Dorsey- younger WMU students. To find out more, contact your high school counselor Smith said on the WUOM-FM Now in his junior year at and visit www.kvcc.edu/earlycollege radio program “Stateside.” KPS WMU, Wright has long been in- is working with the Michigan terested in teaching as a career. Education Association to cre- As a high school student he par- ate associate’s programs and has ticipated in Education For Em- approached Western Michigan ployment’s teaching program, in University about helping those which he gained hands-on ex- students then segue into bache- perience working with students lor’s programs at the university. in elementary schools. He likes www.kalamazoopublicschools.com November 2019 EXCELSIOR 3 PeaceJam Travels to Vietnam for Eye-Opening Education, Volunteer Experiences Loy Norrix PeaceJam stu- with Vietnamese families dur- of the children was rewarding. Senior Matthew Nelson said, were so rich with history and yet dents traveled to Vietnam this ing the project. The students and “I was amazed how this ef- “This service was humbling. It so hard,” said Loy Norrix junior summer to learn about the Viet- adult chaperones worked three fort impacted the kids,” King made me feel that I should do Shelby Richardson. nam War and to see first hand days transforming a muddy area said. “It was 100 percent worth more for my own community, Nelson said the trip made the effects of communism on its into a playground. The PeaceJam the hard work.” and it also left me feeling proud of him interested in reading more people. group also used a $500 dona- “Cementing the play yard my work.” about Vietnam, “The culture was PeaceJam International trips tion to purchase books that cel- was so rewarding, despite the The group completed sev- very different. The trip made me always include an emphasis on ebrated childhood for the school hard work, heat and humidity,” eral other service projects while appreciate what I have, because community service, and this library. said Loy Norrix senior Carter in Vietnam. Students worked the people have very little but trip was no different. Students Loy Norrix sophomore Al- Miller. “We worked alongside a with the World Wide Orphan are still happy and friendly. We helped build a concrete play yard exander King and Loy Norrix local former South Vietnamese Organization (WWO) to provide learned the value of family when at Tien Thuy Elementary School graduate (and Western Michi- soldier, who only had one arm, music and movement classes we discovered that the younger in the Mekong Delta, south of gan University freshman) Emma and another who was mute and for orphans living in a Buddhist generation supports their aging Ho Chi Minh City. Students lived Knutson said seeing the reaction deaf. They were inspiring.” temple. PeaceJam donated $150 family members.” to help KOTO (Know One Teach PeaceJam is an international One), a restaurant in Hanoi that organization in which young teaches culinary skills to youth students help foster positive and gets them off the streets. change in their communities. The trip included visits to the Once a year a Nobel Peace War Remembrance Museum in Prize Laureate comes to the Ho Chi Minh City, the CuChi Tun- Great Lakes PeaceJam and nels in the Mekong Delta, and the provides insight into how they Ha Loa Prison (Hanoi Hilton). The earned their Peace Prize. Loy trip helped further the students’ Norrix PeaceJam students knowledge of the Vietnam War. perform community service “It was really difficult to be- projects at their school, in their lieve that the places we visited community, state, and nation.

Loy Norrix PeaceJam students and chaperones visited the Temple of Literature on their trip to Vietnam this summer. Front row, from left, Matthew Harding, Lisa Hunt, Carter Miller, Sveri Stromsta May, Matthew Nelson, and Rubion Watkins. Back row, from left, Emma Knutson, Holly Hawke-Jordan, Veronica Moran, Breyon Richards, Shadiah McMahon, Tracy Hawke-Dingman, Alexandria King, Brianna Moran, Shelby Richardson, and Justin Shuster. His heart cries out. A struggling child needs a listening ear, someone to trust.

Loy Norrix seniors Carter Miller and Matthew Nelson, center, learn about rice growing on the way to Hanoi during the PeaceJam trip to Vietnam in 2019. Parents have found help that makes a difference.

A century of expertise responds.

269.344.0202 fcsource.org 1608 Lake Street, Kalamazoo Carter Miller, right, works on a playground that Loy Norrix PeaceJam students built in Vietnam this summer.

4 EXCELSIOR November 2019 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com 2019 Kalamazoo Public Schools Retirees Kalamazoo Public Schools 3 at the Cityscape Center. This chael Rice wrote in the annual leave us for college, career, and NOTICE celebrated the accomplish- year’s employees represented program: “In so many ways, adulthood.” Thank you to this Kalamazoo Public Schools welcomes all ments and service of 38 em- more than 895 years of collec- your legacy has been and will year’s retirees. students and staff of any religion, race, ployees at the annual Employee tive service to KPS children. As continue to be the success that NOT PICTURED color, national origin, age, sex, preg- Retirement Celebration on May former Superintendent Dr. Mi- our children achieve when they nancy, gender identification, height, weight, familial status, marital status, Lorraine Bechek Frances Mills sexual orientation, and disability. Student Services ALP The District will not tolerate or condone any act of bias or discrimina- Patrice Buchholz Pamela Phillips tion toward any person on the basis of Parkwood-Upjohn Milwood religion, race, color, national origin, Elementary age, sex, pregnancy, gender identifi- Michael Champion cation, height, weight, familial status, Transportation Randy Rochester marital status, sexual orientation, and Winchell disability in any of its activities, hiring Nancy Curry practices, programs or services. Martha Bielby Tamara Elliott Linda Husen William Logan Sandra Lundquist Lincoln Laura Rothwell Northeastern Loy Norrix MLK-Westwood Loy Norrix MLK-Westwood Transportation Inquiries by students and/or their par- Debra Gaugier ents/guardians should be directed to: Linden Grove Diane Russo Director of Parkwood-Upjohn Student Services Elizabeth Kalamazoo Public Schools Jarzambek Kathy Slocum 1220 Howard Street Milwood Spring Valley Kalamazoo, MI 49008 Elementary (269) 337-0161 George Slomp All other inquiries should be directed to: Mary Kretovics Transportation Woods Lake Assistant Superintendent of Roger Lynch Matthew Martin Jr. Donna Ross Randy Rowe Joyce Ryskamp Pamela Stohrer Human Resources Milwood Magnet Transportation Student Services Loy Norrix Kalamazoo Central Lori LaBelle Washington Kalamazoo Public Schools Arcadia 1220 Howard Street Eloise Swinehart Kalamazoo, MI 49008 Amy Lehr Human Resources (269) 337-0177 Parkwood-Upjohn JoAnn Tree District Directory at : www.kalamazoopublicschools.com Mary Martin Arcadia Milwood Magnet Joann Verberg BOARD OF EDUCATION Elaine May Student Services Linden Grove President Gregory Socha Karen Strobel Nancy Vader Michael Watson Carol Willson James Wright Patti Sholler-Barber Arcadia Winchell MLK-Westwood Linden Grove Winchell Kalamazoo Central Vice President Ken Greschak Secretary Jennie Hill Treasurer TiAnna Harrison Trustee Jermaine Jackson Trustee Tandy Moore Trustee Jason Morris

INTERIM SUPERINTENDENT Gary Start

www.kalamazoopublicschools.com November 2019 EXCELSIOR 5 Chef Shaun • kps food service chef KC FCCLA Team Brings Home Six Medals from National Contest For the eighth consecutive nior category; sophomore Diedra Autumn Harvest Salad year, Kalamazoo Central FC- Smith, silver medal, Nutrition & CLA team members qualified for Wellness, junior category; 2019 Hi Kalamazoo! As the cold 1/16 teaspoon garlic powder the national Family, Career, and graduate Lauren Zach, silver November winds close Pumpkin seeds Community Leaders of America medal, Chapter Service Project in, please take time to lift Dried figs competition in Anaheim, Cali- Portfolio, senior category; 2019 up your spirits with this Instructions fornia. The team brought home graduate Gabrielle Wark, silver flavor-packed salad. Creamy 1. Preheat the oven to 400°. Cut six medals. This year’s winning medal, Chapter Service Project roasted squash, tart apples, ends off the butternut squash. team members were, from left: Portfolio, senior category; and and salty feta make a flavor Peel the squash using a vegetable senior Jay’Kree Jackson, gold sophomore Yasmine Diaz, bronze trifecta. As always, take peeler. Slice it in half lengthwise. medal, Sports Nutrition, senior medal, Nutrition & Wellness, ju- time to share with friends Scoop out the seeds with a spoon, category; junior Kavia Couvillion, nior category. The team is advised and family. Stay warm then cut the remaining squash gold medal, Sports Nutrition, se- by teacher Lisa Boulding. Kalamazoo! Best regards and into 1/2-inch cubes. enjoy, Chef Shaun Shaun Robinson is the district chef 2. Toss the squash with 1 table- for Chartwells at KPS Food Service. spoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ingredients juice, honey, salt, garlic powder, Spread the seasoned cubes on Salad and freshly cracked pepper. a baking sheet and roast in the 2 1/2 lb butternut squash 5. Core the apples and cut into oven for 45 minutes, or un- 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2-inch cubes. Pull the parsley til soft and golden. Allow the Salt and pepper to taste leaves from the stems and give squash to cool. 1/2 cup uncooked bulgur them a rough chop. 3. While the squash is cooking, 2 Fuji apples (about 1 pound) 6. Add the parsley, apples, cook the bulgur according to 1/2 bunch flat leaf parsley cooled squash, bulgur, and the package directions (mix 1/2 2 oz. feta, crumbled crumbled feta to a large bowl. cup bulgur with 1 cup water, Dressing Pour the dressing over top boil for 15-20 minutes or until 2 tablespoons olive oil and toss until everything is tender). Fluff the cooked bulgur 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice evenly combined and coated in with a fork and allow it to cool 1 tablespoon honey dressing. Garnish with toasted in the refrigerator. 1/4 teaspoon salt pumpkin seeds and sliced figs. 4. Make the dressing by whisking Fresh cracked black pepper to together the olive oil, lemon Serves: 4 taste

6 EXCELSIOR November 2019 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com Frequently Asked Questions About the Kalamazoo RESA CTE Proposal The Kalamazoo Regional Edu- and development, CTE teach- Schools, Schoolcraft Communi- cation Service Agency has a ers, student transportation, ty Schools, and Vicksburg Com- request for a 1-mill property state-of-the-art technology munity Schools. tax increase on the Nov. 5 bal- and more, with a portion of it lot to fund career and technical devoted to facilities and equip- If approved, how much would education. Here are some fre- ment updates. We are also the proposal cost? quently asked questions about working on a public/private A homeowner with a home with the millage. partnership to assist with ad- a taxable value of $50,000 (ap- ditional capital needs, including prox. market value of $100,000) When is the vote? the establishment of a centrally would pay $4.17/month. Registered voters can head to located Career Center which A homeowner with a home with the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 5. would host the majority of CTE a taxable value of $75,000 (ap- You can check on your voter courses. In the event that a pub- prox. market value of $150,000) registration, polling location lic/partnership does not work would pay $6.25/month. and absentee voter status at the out, a portion of the CTE Mill- A homeowner with a home with Michigan Voter Information age would be used to create a a taxable value of $100,000 (ap- Center website, michigan.gov/ centrally located career center, prox. market value of $200,000) vote. dents and create economies of credentials/certificates that which may include renovating would pay $8.34/month. scale. The KRESA CTE millage meet the needs of employ- an existing building. Regard- What is being proposed? would be used for operational ers, particularly in areas with less, if approved, we will not Kalamazoo RESA has proposed purposes, with a portion of it massive labor shortages such be asking voters for a separate a 1-mill property tax increase devoted to facilities and up- as health care, manufactur- bond issue to construct a CTE to be levied for 20 years. If ap- dating equipment. In addition, ing, information technology, career center. proved, the millage would public/private partnership op- construction trades, and edu- generate approximately $8.3 portunities are being cultivated cation Why here? million in revenue from lo- to assist with additional capital • Expanded opportunities for With nine local school dis- cal property taxes annually to needs. The approval of the CTE work-based learning, ap- tricts serving 35,000 students, help fund a systemic redesign millage would mean: prenticeships and credentials we have the numbers to sup- of K-12+ Career and Technical • More students ready for the port offering a system of K-12+ Education (CTE). • More students exposed to ca- 21st Century job market who career readiness, including a reer options at earlier ages possess in-demand skills of wide variety of CTE programs What is Career and Technical with more career readiness critical thinking, collabora- and work-based learning. As Education (CTE) and why is it coaches tion, communication, cre- marked by the growth of our important? • Equitable access, economies ativity and character local business communities, CTE provides students with the of scale, and enhanced qual- • Expanded and strengthened this economy has great poten- academic and technical skills, ity through a centrally located partnerships with area em- tial, but lacks trained talent in knowledge, and training neces- career center with a few stra- ployers and colleges to help critical areas. A commitment sary to succeed in future careers tegic satellite locations prepare students for high-de- to creating opportunities for all and to become lifelong learners. • Equitable access to CTE classes mand, high-skill, high-wage students could make the differ- CTE prepares these learners for through efficient transporta- careers of the future ence moving ahead. Even stu- the world of work by introduc- tion, resulting in less time on • More young people equipped dents on a current trajectory ing them to workplace com- buses and more time learning with the skills needed to earn toward success need to ensure petencies and makes academic • State-of-the-art technol- a good living, allowing them that their talents are meeting content accessible to students ogy and equipment to prepare to raise families in the area the demands of the 21st Centu- by providing hands-on context. students for high-demand, ry. Learn more about the need In fact, the high school gradua- high-skill, high-wage careers If approved, are there plans to for a systemic redesign of CTE in tion rate for CTE students in Ka- • At-risk students and those establish a career center? Kalamazoo County at kresaCTE. lamazoo County is 97 percent — with disabilities supported Yes. If approved by voters, the org/facts. 17 percent higher than the state through instructional support CTE Millage would enhance the average. staff quality of CTE programming by Who will be able to vote on the • Additional training and sup- developing a centrally locat- Kalamazoo RESA CTE Millage? What would the community get port for students and families, ed Career Center with smaller Registered voters who reside if the proposal is approved? particularly families in pov- satellite locations to improve within the following school dis- If approved by voters, the qual- erty student access, eliminate par- tricts: Climax-Scotts Commu- ity of K-12+ CTE programming • Increased career planning and ticipation barriers and create nity Schools, Comstock Public would be enhanced by devel- work-based learning experi- economies of scale. Funds gen- Schools, Galesburg-Augusta oping a centrally located ca- ences to assist students with erated by the CTE Millage would Community Schools, Gull Lake reer center for most programs, career decision-making support operational objectives Community Schools, Kalama- which will substantially im- • Increased number of students such as staff to work with K-12+ zoo Public Schools, Parchment prove equitable access for stu- earning industry-recognized students on career awareness School District, Portage Public www.kalamazoopublicschools.com November 2019 EXCELSIOR 7 Edison, Maple Street Take Home Math-A-Lon/STEAM Honors Washington Writers’ Acad- Edison Environmental Sci- Math, Science and Technology, tested teams of third through emy first graders had to care- ence Academy took home the and consisting of sixth, seventh, fifth graders in a variety of math fully study their own facial fea- trophy in the 2019 Math-A-Lon, and eighth graders, participated events. Students worked as a tures and all of the qualities that while Maple Street Magnet School in a two-part competition. team to solve a series of math make them unique to create for the Arts won the CIS Middle In the Math-A-Lon portion, calculations, individually solved these self portraits. After draw- School STEAM Fair earlier this students demonstrated prob- math calculations in a relay race ing their images, the students year. lem solving, spatial reasoning, format, located numbers on a used markers and oil pastels to Both events, organized by and solved problems involving 100s chart using a set of math turn their images into colorful the Kalamazoo Public Schools rates, ratios and percentages. clues, calculated the area and pe- creations. The students worked math department, celebrate The teams then tackled the engi- rimeter of a series of two-dimen- with art teacher Todd Patrick. math and science skills through a neering challenge in which they sional figures, and constructed series of creative challenges. modified a remote-controlled car a structure from colored blocks The CIS Middle Schoolto perform a variety of tasks such based on a series of logic clues. Denzaria Branson (1st Grade) Title: The STEAM Fair took place at Mil- as picking up paper clips, carry- Teams were formed from Favorite Artist wood Elementary School. Teams ing wooden blocks, and pushing students in the Communities in were from Maple Street, Hillside balls through a goal. Schools of Kalamazoo 21st Cen- Middle School, and Milwood Edison won the elemen- tury afterschool programs, with Magnet School: A Center for tary school Math-A-Lon, which CIS staff serving as team coaches.

Ashari Tedford (1st Grade) Title: Mariska Brown (1st Grade) Title: The Ashari's Amazing Art Blue in the Background

Edison Elementary from left to right, back Coach Brandon Jean, Jamarion Carr, Marciel Bennett, Andrea Villegas, Kyaira Jones-Williams, Dillon Purnell, Coach Sheldon Turner, Coach Steve Brewer. Second row, Ma'Kiya Reynolds, Chelsia Edmonson, Emma Rogers. Sitting Shamar Reynolds, Sharod Reynolds.

The Maple Street Magnet School for the Arts STEAM Fair winners were: front row, from the left, Jazmin Reyes-Armijo, JaVon Wilson, Layla Hemphill, Taisia Thomas, CIS Coordinator Phil Hegwood; middle row, Cruz Claveria-Armijo, Daniel Banks, Zion Bush, Izaiah Markel; back row, Josiah Thrash.

8 EXCELSIOR November 2019 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com Young Writers Encouraged to Find 'Courage to Create' Middle school and high school writers are encouraged to explore themes of social justice in the Dr. Martin Luther Music and Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz King Jr. Courage to Create Poetry Competition. The event is held in conjunction with the MLK Day Dennis Photo courtesy of Tony November 15, 16, 22, 23 @ 7pm Celebration at Western Michigan University. November 17th @ 2pm King said, “Our lives begin to end when we become silent about things that matter.” Loy Norrix’s Poems may be written in any style and should incorpo- Kasdorf Auditorium rate themes of social justice. 606 E. Kilgore, Kalamazoo, MI Past winners have written about racial equity, socio-economic challenges, gender stereotypes, and other topics. ADULT TICKETS: $12 Winning poets will be invited to public reading of their Kalamazoo Central student Leasia Posey performed at the Courage to Create STUDENT/SENIOR TICKETS: $8 poetry reading in 2019. poems and awards ceremony FAMILY PACK: $30 on Feb. 19 at Western Michi- or phone number. 8. Deadline for submissions gan University. The poets will 6. All poems will be reviewed is Jan. 21, 2020. (2 ADULTS AND UP TO 3 KIDS) read along with invited, local anonymously by a group of dis- For more information, celebrity poets and a keynote tinguished community poets. contact William Craft, direc- TICKETS CAN BE BOUGHT AT THE DOOR speaker. The project is a col- 7. All poems must be sub- tor of information technology, OR BY USING THE FOLLOWING LINK: laboration between Kalamazoo mitted to the online submission WMU Office of Diversity and HTTPS://LOYNORRIX.LUDUS.COM/5268 Public Schools, Communities In portal at http://www.wmich. Inclusion, (269) 387-6328 or Schools of Kalamazoo, the WMU edu/mlk/c2csubmission [email protected]. Office of Diversity and Inclusion, and Friends of Poetry. The poets may be inter- viewed and their poetry may be used in a promotional capac- ity and featured in local media outlets and in programming by Public Media Network. Rules: 1. Poems may be submitted in any style. 2. Poems should reflect on social justice in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. 3. The contest is open to students in grades 6-12. 4. Poems will not be re- turned. Writers should not submit their only copy. 5. Poets may submit more than one poem. Each poem should be submitted on a separate page. The author’s full name should be placed at the top of the page, along with his or her grade, school, and email address www.kalamazoopublicschools.com November 2019 EXCELSIOR 9 KPS Graduates in Action Joriah Kwame: On Stage and On the Move About seven months ago Joriah Kwame saw a post on the theater industry website Play- bill.com seeking new songs for a recording project called “Write Out Loud.” Now, Kwame has a video of his song “Little Miss Perfect,” being sung by the Tony-nomi- nated actress Taylor Louderman, posted on Playbill.com. Kwame, who may be better known to Kalamazoo audiences as Joriah Fleming, is preparing to move to Washington, D.C., for the role of Slightly Soiled, one of the Lost Boys in the Shakespeare Theater Company’s new production of “Peter Pan,” and then plans to make the move to New York City to further his acting and writing career. Kwame, 22, graduated from Loy Norrix in 2015. His mother Rocann Fleming teaches at Loy Norrix alum Joriah Kwame with actress Taylor Louderman, of Broadway’s Harrison Bryan and Joriah Kwame in Farmers Alley Theatre’s production of “Mean Girls.” “Avenue Q.” Edison Environmental Science Academy. His older sister Teriah yman in “Shakespeare in Love.” submitted to “Write Out Loud.” the winners. Their songs were Fleming is a Loy Norrix alum, This summer he appeared in “Write Out Loud” was organized performed at the cabaret Fein- and his younger sister Zakiya Farmers Alley Theatre’s produc- by Louderman, who is starring stein’s/54 Below. Fleming is a freshman at Norrix. tion of “Avenue Q.” in the Broadway show “Mean Kwame said Louderman was Kwame has been study- But in addition to perform- Girls,” as a way to support origi- drawn to “Little Miss Perfect,” in ing musical theater at Western ing, he has been composing mu- nal music. part for its story, which is about Michigan University. He’s still sic since he was 11. He’s written “I didn’t even know what a closeted young lesbian woman. a few general education credits several musicals, “Underdog the the song would be used for,” “The character is afraid peo- short of his degree, but the tim- Musical,” “Dream: A New Mu- Kwame said. “As time went on, ple will find out and that she’ll be ing seems right for the move, he sical,” “Sophia,” and “Our Be- I learned she was creating an al- rejected by her friends and fam- says. loved.” His most recent work is bum to support new writers.” ily. There’s one line where she He was a regular in theater “TAPES: A Song Cycle,” which Louderman received more says, ‘I can’t risk falling off my productions at Loy Norrix and he created to raise awareness than 600 submissions, and chose throne.’ She’s really afraid her life Maple Street Middle School for about suicide prevention after a three winners who had the op- is going to fall apart if she comes the Arts. At WMU, he’s played friend died by suicide last year. portunity to have their songs re- out,” he said. “Taylor knows a lot characters as diverse as the Tin “Little Miss Perfect” comes corded and distributed through of her fans are younger and she Man in “The Wiz,” Judas in “Je- from “TAPES,” and was one Ghostlight Records. wanted to have good messages in sus Christ Superstar,” and Fenn- of about a dozen songs that he “I got to fly over to New the songs she releases.” Joriah Kwame, 2015 Loy Norrix graduate. Kwame said he’s amazed at elect York to rehearse with her and the opportunities he’s received VOTE NOVEMBER 5 make sure everything was done in the last few months. the way I wanted,” he said. “Af- “I’m just anxious to start ter that she took me backstage working in the field and to start DAVID ANDERSON to see ‘Mean Girls.’ I’m just so producing things,” he said. “I’m thankful to her and the entire thankful for all of the opportuni- FOR MAYOR team for creating a competition ties I got to hone my craft.” Kalamazoo needs a positive, proven leader with a track that supports new artists.” To see the video of Taylor record of accomplishment to bring our community together The album was released on Louderman performing “Little iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Miss Perfect,” or to read more and build a Kalamazoo that leaves no one behind. Amazon and other outlets. about “TAPES: A Song Cycle” Kwame was able to travel to and to contribute to suicide pre- PAID FOR BY DAVID ANDERSON FOR MAYOR WWW.ANDERSON4KZOO.COM 513 STUART AVE | KALAMAZOO, MI 49007 New York for a concert honoring vention, visit joriahkwame.com.

10 EXCELSIOR November 2019 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com 2019 KPS Job Readiness Workshop The fun begins this fall at Exposes Seniors to Career Options the Kalamazoo Kalamazoo Public Schools Regional Council of Carpenters; seniors had a great opportunity the International Brotherhood of Valley Museum to learn about educational and Electrical Workers, Local 131; the career options available in their Army, Navy, Air Force, and Ma- with new and community while other students rines of the U.S. Armed Forces; exciting were participating in the Michi- the Kalamazoo Department of gan Merit Exam (MME) testing in Public Safety; Consumers Credit happenings. April. Union; and Consumers Energy. Students attended college KPS would also like to thank awareness and exploration field the following community busi- trips at Kalamazoo Valley Com- nesses for sharing raffle items: Enjoy family and munity College (KVCC) and Kalamazoo County Parks and Western Michigan University Expo Center, Kalamazoo Growl- circle time, hands-on (WMU). Seniors also attended Kalamazoo Department of Public ers Baseball, Celebration! Cinema the KPS Career and Job Readiness Safety K-9 Officer Heath Shoemaker Crossroads & IMAX, GQT Kalam- activities, exhibits, Workshop that was held at the and police dog, Chase share azoo 10, Climb Kalamazoo, The musical performances, West Main Professional Develop- information on exciting careers in law Spirit Shoppe, WMU Office for ment Center. enforcement and cyber security. Sustainability, Barnes & Noble, planetarium shows They engaged in job seeking preparing for the workplace, and Rocket Fizz!, Clock N Lock Escape and career awareness activities career opportunities in energy, Rooms, YMCA, Nova VR Arcade, and more. as they learned about viable and law enforcement and cyber se- Taco Bob’s, Meijer, Kalamazoo in-demand careers. Presenters curity, skilled trades, and the Wings Hockey, KVCC, Little Cae- shared meaningful job experienc- armed forces. sar’s, Qdoba, Mod Pizza, Fire- es, describing job requirements, Presenters were Communi- house Subs, Biggby Coffee, WMU tasks, on-the-job training, and ties In Schools of Kalamazoo; The Career Student Employment Ser- workplace environments. Kalamazoo Promise; Kalama- vices, Target, Jet’s Pizza, The Big Workshop sessions included zoo Regional Education Service Burrito, Cottage Inn Pizza, Olga’s Free rides throughout financial literacy, summer job Agency; MiWorks; Youth Oppor- Kitchen, Nisker’s, and Buster’s downtown on the Holly opportunities, resume building, tunities Unlimited; the Michigan Bookstore. Jolly Trolley that stops just steps away from FREE GENERALthe ADMISSION museum. Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday + Holidays 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. FREEClosed: GENERAL Easter, Thanksgiving, ADMISSION Christmas Eve, Christmas Day Handicapped accessible. Sign language interpreters may be scheduled with a minimum of two weeks’ notice. Assisted listening devices are available in the Stryker Theater and planetarium. The Kalamazoo Valley Museum is operated CLARENCE L. REMYNSE SCHOLARSHIP by Kalamazoo Valley Community College and DEADLINE:DECEMBER 1 is governed by its Board of Trustees You could receive up to $7,500 for college to pursue a full-time bachelor’s degree. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and are renewable. Available APPLY NOW AT for high school seniors and first-year college students KALFOUND.ORG/ pursuing a degree in business, education, engineering, law, math, medicine, psychology or science. REMYNSE 269.373.7990 | 800.772.3370 DON’T HAVE A COMPUTER TO APPLY? JUST LET US KNOW. YOU CAN USE ONE OF OUR COMPUTERS OR WE CAN SEND YOU A PAPER APPLICATION. CALL US AT 269.381.4416. kalamazoomuseum.org www.kalamazoopublicschools.com November 2019 EXCELSIOR 11 Local Businesses Make Parkwood-Upjohn Readers Generous Donations

Parkwood-Upjohn Elementary School honored all of its students who participated in the Kalamazoo Public Library Sandra Dee and Steven Totzke of Heimstra Optical delivered several boxes of summer reading program. The students are: Ben Wright, Luca Mesch-Carinci, Etta Poer, Asher Kimbrough, Natalie school supplies and a $500 check for special projects in September. Heimstra Reilly, Violet Birchmeier, Camden Zeigler, Brady Charles, Avery Wilson-Ort, Petra Mesch-Carinci, Ivan Birchmeier, has organized a school supplies drive for 17 years. In August, the company also Adela Marsh-Prelesnik, Adelyn Thompson, Izayah Davis, Axl Kimbrough, Elspeth Ryan, Mia Medina, Alorna Goode, participated in the Beyond the Backpack event in Bronson Park, and brought Akaiah Goode, Sam Wright, Sandra Murphy, Maceo Aguilar, Madison Charles, Louis Martin, Thomas Martin, Lucy the VSP Bus. The mobile eye exam unit conducted 30 eye exams, identified 27 Sytsma, Conrad Hansen, Max Sytsma, Alexa Charles, Lyn'Nae Fuller, Charles Suozzo, Kellan Carpenter, Lucca Russell. students that needed glasses, and was able to make and dispense 24 pairs of glasses that day.

Thanks to Lake Michigan Credit Union's One Pencil program for providing teacher supply bags for all of the teachers at Greenwood Elementary School — and several other buildings — at the start of the school year.

12 EXCELSIOR November 2019 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com Second-Grade Classroom Celebrates Writing Project with New Bike Helmets Second graders in Aimee ect. Kzoo Swift sold the helmets to encourage the students to wear are a free country!” According to Safe Kids Burgardt’s classroom at King- at cost to the Breisachs. helmets whenever riding their Burgardt said the writing Worldwide: Westwood Elementary School “While volunteering, we bikes. He also showed them how project is one of her favorite ac- · Bike helmets reduce head were asked to write persuasive learned from teacher Aimee Bur- to properly fit a helmet to ensure tivities. “Keeping children safe injuries by 85 percent and brain essays arguing whether or not gardt that many of the students they’re safe. and involved in exercise is very injury by 88 percent. they believe children should be did not have proper bike hel- The students voiced a vari- important to me,” she said. “I · In 2010, approximately required to wear helmets when mets,” Eric Breisach said. “Al- ety of opinions in their essays, also love to teach writing and this 81,101 nonfatal injuries among riding bikes. most 30 years ago our oldest son with not everyone agreeing on is one of my favorite projects to child cyclists were traffic-relat- School volunteers gave the took a low-speed flip over his the need to wear helmets. Han- do with students, because they ed. students a very good reason to handlebars splitting his helmet in nah Bippley argued, “One reason all have a lot to say and write. My · More children ages 5 to 14 wear bike helmets —a gift of free two. The helmet likely saved his I think kids should be required to second graders also have strong are seen in ERs for injuries related helmets. life. wear them is that you’d probably opinions and we engaged in some to biking than any other sport. The 28 students in Burgardt’s “We want all kids to have want to pay $20-$30 for a bicycle great discussions over the course · A 25 percent reduction classroom received helmets that access to helmets, know how to helmet rather than $500,000 of this three-week project. The in childhood bike injuries and were donated by Eric and Tobi wear a bike helmet, and to wear or even $1 million for brain sur- kids are so proud about their deaths could lead to savings of Breisach. Eric Breisach is a former one at all the times when they gery.” But Liam Mwayi argued writing and they are also now over $500 million in societal member of the Kalamazoo Public are bike riding. We worked with for individual freedom and the ready to wear their stylish hel- costs (health care and productiv- Schools Board of Education. They Ryan Barber, owner of Kzoo right to choose, saying, “Helmets mets.” ity losses.) learned about the writing project Swift, a downtown bike shop, don’t prevent all concussions. when they were visiting King- whose generosity made this a re- They cost about $20 and not ev- Westwood as part of the Kalama- ality.” eryone can afford a helmet. I zoo Rotary “Rotary Reads” proj- Barber visited the classroom don’t like to wear my helmet. We do you know a grieving Connecting People Throughout child? Kalamazoo County Journeys is a free King-Westwood Elementary School teacher Aimee Burgardt’s second-grade class last year received free bike helmets from school volunteers Tobi and Eric Breisach, who donated the helmets to their class after they wrote about bike safety. program where grieving children & teens laugh, cry, share, remember, sing, belong, and heal. Hannah Bippley Ahmad Mitchell Landon Voelker

Here for You Seven Days a Week 269.337.8222 hospiceswmi.org kmetro.com 269.345.0273 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com November 2019 EXCELSIOR 13 2019-2020 School Calendar August 2019 February 2020 S M T W T F S S M T W T F S 1 2 3 1 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Sep 3 First Day Half-Day. No Half-Day Kdg. 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 Sep 4 First Day for Half-Day Kdg. & CO Prgrms September 2019 Sep 9 First Day ECSE Half-Day March 2020 S M T W T F S Sep 9-12 MS & HS Open Houses to be held S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Sep 16 First day PEEP 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Sep 16-19 Elem Open Houses to be held 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Oct 11 Grades 6-8 Half-Day 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Oct 16 Grades 9-12 Half-Day (HS conferences) 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Oct 17 Grades 6-8 Half-Day (MS conferences) 29 30 31 Oct 25 Grades PreK-12 NO SCHOOL October 2019 Nov 1 Grades PreK-12 NO SCHOOL April 2020 S M T W T F S Nov 4-7 Elementary School conferences S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 Nov 7-8 Grades K-5 Half-Day 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Nov 22 & 25 Grades 9-12 Half-Day 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Nov 26 Grades 6-12 No School 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Nov 27-29 Thanksgiving Break NO SCHOOL 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 27 28 29 30 31 Dec 23-Jan 3 Winter Break NO SCHOOL 26 27 28 29 30 Jan 24 Grades PreK-8 Half-Day November 2019 Jan 29 & 30 Grades 9-12 HS conferences 4-7 May 2020 S M T W T F S Jan 30 Grades 6-8 Half-Day MS conferences S M T W T F S 1 2 March 4 PreK-5 Literacy Night 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 March 5 Grades 6-8 Literacy Night 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 March 6 Grades PreK-5 No School 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 March 11 PEEP/Kdg. Orientation 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 March 11 & 12 Grades 9-12 Half-Day 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 March 13 Grades PreK-12 NO SCHOOL 31 December 2019 March 26-27 Grades K-5 Half-Day June 2020 S M T W T F S April 3 Grades PreK-12 NO SCHOOL S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 April 6-10 Spring Break NO SCHOOL 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 April 24 Grades 6-8 Half-Day 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 April 29 & 30 Grades 9-12 HS conferences 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 April 30 Grades 6-8 Half-Day MS conferences 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 29 30 31 May 25 Memorial Day NO SCHOOL 28 29 30 May 26 KAMSC senior recog. 7 p.m. Chenery January 2020 May 29 Last day for seniors Last day for PEEP July 2020 S M T W T F S June 2 Phoenix graduation 7 p.m. Chenery S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 June 3 Loy Norrix graduation 7 p.m. Wings Ctr. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 June 4 K-Central graduation, 7 p.m. Wings Ctr. 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 June 5 Last day ECSE students 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 June 10 Last day for A.M. kindergarten 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 June 11 Grades K-11 Half-Day 26 27 28 29 30 31 June 12 Grades K-11 Half-Day

Elementary Start/End Times Middle School Start/End Times Washington & Woodward Calendar Regular Times 7:33 a.m.-2:20 p.m. Half-day ends 10:35 Half Days: July 22, September 3 (all schools except Edison, Lincoln, Linden Grove 8:08-2:58 Half-day 11:08 October 10-11, November 8, December 20 Washington and Woodward) High School Start/End Times January 24, March 26-27, June 10-11 8:50 a.m. - 3:50 p.m. LN & KC: 7:33 a.m. - 2:20 p.m. Not in Session : Aug 26-Sept 2, Sept. 27, Half-Day Ends 12:00 p.m. LN & KC Half-day ends 10:35 October 14-25, November 25-29 Phoenix: 7:28 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. December 23-January 3, February 20-28 Early Start (Edison & Lincoln only) Phoenix: Half-day ends 9:30 a.m. March 20, March 30-April 10, May 20-25 8:10 a.m. - 3:10 p.m. KILP Session One: 7:30 a.m. - 12:23 p.m. Washington Hours: 8:48 a.m. - 3:52 p.m. Half-Day Ends 11:20 a.m. KILP Session Two: 11:30 a.m. - 4:23 p.m. Woodward Hours: 8:08 - 3:12 p.m.

All Schools Closed Half-Days or no school (check grade levels) First & Last Day of School No PEEP on Jan. 17 & 24, Feb. 20 and May 22 We’re Hiring! Bus Drivers To begin the application process or for more information, go to: www.kalamazoopublicschools.com/ Departments/HumanResources.aspx

14 EXCELSIOR November 2019 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com Join us in oting for Pete Kushner on November 5th!

Sean McCann, State Senator, Jack Urban, 20th District Current City Commissioner Priscilla Lambert Mary Jo Pulte Robert Cinabro, Ralph Pernice Past City Commissioner Ken iller and City Attorney Karin Larsen Win & Mary Lou Todd Forrest Duddles lizaeth pohn ason Steve & Jill Dunham Nancy Springgate, CPA Tim Skinner We are a Kalamazoo Promise family! homas uff James Yealin Susie Job Jane Bailey “Elect Pete. He is a proven leader.” Pamela O'Connor Katherine Hard John Hilliard Barbara Hamilton Miller, Robert Cinabro, Past City Commissioner Humans of Kalamazoo Past City Commissioner Chief Gary Hetrick, Dick & Pat Wheeler on uth iser Depty. Chief Ray Ampley, KDPS (Ret.) Matthew Wolff, CFP JP & Joan Oosterbaan KDPS (Ret.) Jenny Hetrick avid arara rose Jamie Miller Peggy Napier Steve & Sarah Jbara Alfonso Espinosa Helen & Andrew Rathbun, PhD Diana Morton-Thompson Jim Hopfensperger Philip & Karen Kunze Thom Miller, Past Co. Commissioner Paul Daniels Laura Livingstone-McNelis Jim Ferner & KPS School Board President Devin & Tiffany Bloom Matt & Carrie Hybels ammy aylor, Ryan & Molly Wieber Nancy Englander Michael Tenenbaum dison eighorhood Mark Hoffman Tim & Jill Sherman Kim Melvin Patricia Jackson James Melvin Robert Humphries, DDS Depty. Chief Don Webster, Steve Phelps Loyal (Trey) Eldridge III hris Kathy Shook KDPS (Ret.) Jay Yelton Les Tung Jim Heaton Katie Bloom Forrest & Eva Kays Norman & Barbro Jung Maggie Sikkema Joann Yochim Christopher Bovid ordon iller Eric Boersma ancy Anderson Nicole Asher Sandi Doctor Deb Klug Dick & Jean Schmitt Micheal & Deanne Puca Paul Scott John Kreuzer LaNae Bohr Mike Hughes Lou Nisker Doug Kreis Zadie Jackson, Jim VanZoeren Susan Springgate Robert Houtman, Past City Commissioner arc Schupan Carol Oudsema former Chairman, Judy Sherrod Kalamazoo Co. Board Jim & Alex Miller of Commissioners im Suprise Linda Powell “I am voting for Pete. His skills and experience Steven R. Schrier are needed on our Commission.” Matt Lechel Jack Urban, City Commissioner ohn osemary ron Proudly Supported by:

EXPERIENCE MATTERS! 9 years (and counting) - Oakland Drive-Winchell Neighborhood Association President ...I’m already working with our city, neighborhoods & businesses to solve city-wide issues! 39 Years - Successful business manager, consultant, and Kalamazoo city small business owner 21 years - Leading and volunteering for 7 local non-profit organizations I Will Continue to - LISTEN & Use my EXPERIENCE to Lead in a COMMON-SENSE way; Putting City Issues First! Paid for by Pete Kushner for Commissioner 490 W. South St. Kalamazoo, MI 49007 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com November 2019 EXCELSIOR 15 OUT OF SCHOOL TIME PROGRAM FINDER

Learning doesn’t end when the bell rings. Check out any of the 60 high quality afterschool programs in our community!

The Kalamazoo Youth Development Network can connect you to out-of-school time programs across Kalamazoo and Calhoun Counties. Search for programs using our Program finder at www.kydnet.org.

16 EXCELSIOR November 2019 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com