The Comstock

JUNE/JULY 2021 The Comstock

ISSUE HIGHLIGHTS MORE NEWS

From the Board Bond District School Sports Comstock Superintendent Briefs Construction Remembers News News Library Turn over to read page 2 page 2 Update Beloved Band pages 7-16 pages 16-17 News Center Point page 4 Director pages 17-18 A newsletter about the Comstock page 6 Community Center 2 The Comstock Communicator June/July 2021 From the Superintendent

COMSTOCK PUBLIC SCHOOLS a school district dedicated to kids District Offers Summer Success Camp www.comstockps.org Dr. Jeff Thoenes By Dr. Jeff Thoenes, Superintendent Superintendent Now that we are nearing the end of this most day through Friday beginning June 14, 2021, at unusual school year, it is time to look to the fu- 8:15 a.m and lasting until 11:45 a.m. As an add- BOARD OF EDUCATION ture and plan ahead. As superintendent, I’m ed bonus, the district will be providing breakfast, Pamela Dickinson, President thrilled to let you know that the district soon will lunch, and limited transportation. The program Matthew Schreiner, Vice President be offering Summer Success Camp. will be offering a half day of intense fun, with em- However, due to limited space, this exciting op- bedded reading, math, and STEM instruction. Dori Scholly, Secretary portunity will be by invitation only. With all of Daily attendance will be required to be successful. Paul Lamphear, Treasurer the support we’ve been able to offer throughout Saralyn Brown, Trustee the year, there are some students who, due to the A student may attend either Session 1 or 2, or Karen Howes, Trustee pandemic and its interruption of school routines, both! could have accomplished more academically and • Session 1: June 14 - July 2; July 12 - July 16 Kayleen O’Donnell, Trustee would benefit greatly from additional instruc- • Session 2: July 19 - August 13 Ashley LaVanWay, Appointed Recording Secretary tional opportunities. Michelle Darnell, Appointed Treasurer Children who attend Summer Success Camp The program will have weekly themes includ- will improve their progress in mastering grade ing Sports/Olympics, Summer Safari Outdoor level objectives through a series of innovative Adventure, Mad Scientists, Let’s Get Digital, MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Comstock Public Schools is to serve learning opportunities that include physical Video Games, and Wet and Wild Earth our community by supporting, inspiring, and movement; Science Technology, Engineering, Look for invitation letters coming soon. Be challenging every person within the school district and Mathematics (STEM); and Social Emotional sure to respond quickly due to limited space! to reach his/her full potential through education. Learning. Our goal is to support your children If you have any questions about the Summer throughout the entire year, both in the school Success Camp, feel free to reach out to your VISION STATEMENT year and the summer. child’s principal. The vision of Comstock Public Schools is to be Summer Success Camp sessions will be Mon- an educational community where every person is empowered to reach his/her full potential.

QUESTIONS? If you have questions concerning your schools, Board Briefs the answer is only a telephone call away: regular meeting (Michigan Cooperative Liquid Assets Securities 269-250-8907 March 8, 2021 System). • Reconfirmed the District’s Extended Continuity of STORIES OR INFORMATION The Comstock Communicator Learning Plan. regular meeting • Approved awarding the bid for CES food service April 26, 2021 is published by Comstock Public Schools. equipment to Stafford-Smith, Inc. • Approved reconfirmation of Extended Continuity Information may be sent to Dr. Jeff Thoenes at • Authorized the sale of bonds designated 2021 of Learning Plan. [email protected] or by fax at 250-8908. School Building and Site Bonds, Series III. • Approved the MCACA Grant. It may also be e-mailed to Phyllis Rose at • Moved into closed session to discuss negoti- [email protected]. regular meeting (virtual) ations and conduct the Superintendent’s quarterly March 22, 2021 evaluation. • Approved the authorizing resolution to enter into • Approved contract with Comstock Paraprofes- sional Association. a participant agreement with Michigan CLASS @comstockPS The Comstock Communicator 3 District Updates: Building Status, Condition, and Potential Projects By Dr. Jeff Thoenes, Superintendent

As part of our district’s newly revised Strategic Plan CONDITION Comstock STEM Academy (options include but are Summary 2021-25, the Board has established seven With the exception of Comstock Elementary not limited to the following:)(Note: Currently the equally important Focus Areas. One of these focal School, all of our schools are over 50 years old. At the school has 16 sections of students and 15 rooms) points is Facilities, Operations, and Technology which time of their construction in the late 1940s, 50s, and • Remodel the current building without any has the specific goal stating thatComstock Public early 60s, these buildings met the quality standards expansion? Schools will maintain and modernize facilities and for that era and were made from materials that were • Remodel the current building and add a middle operations. expected to have a useful life of 30-40 years. The school wing? With this end in mind and as an important step buildings are all far past their life expectancies. • Build a new K-8 building at the current location? in evaluating our district’s infrastructure, I have When the 2016 Bond construction work • Build a new K-8 building at another location? compiled the following information which provides currently underway at Comstock Elementary • Expand the program by adding a STEM option a quick overview of our school buildings’ status, School is completed, the fully renovated school will at Comstock High School? condition, and potential projects. I urge all Comstock be air conditioned. However, none of the other Comstock Compass High School Colt stakeholders to read this information to better buildings, with the exception of their offices, have • Install hallway heaters and classroom thermostats understand the current state of our district’s facilities. air conditioning nor is there sufficient funding in the • Repaint the interior remaining bond funds for the additional installation • Repaint the exterior STATUS of air conditioning. Moreover, since the 1960s, the • New flooring and ceiling for the cafeteria The district currently operates six school buildings: standards for school design and construction have • Resurface the parking lot Comstock Early Learning Academy serves radically changed and improved especially regarding • Extend electricity to the shed our preschool-aged children. This building was safety, energy efficiency, air quality, flooring, constructed in 1950 and is now 71 years old. It was technology, computers, transportation, food service, Comstock High School originally named Green Meadow Elementary School. and serving children with special needs. • Remodel band room including expanding storage, removing the risers, adding bathrooms, Comstock Elementary School serves students in POTENTIAL PROJECTS and installing air conditioning kindergarten through fifth grade. This building was • Remodel the kitchen and food service areas constructed in 1972 and is now 49 years old. CES is Accordingly, given the time of their design and the advancement in construction standards over the past • Replace hallway lockers the district’s newest or “youngest” building, and was • Replace ceiling tiles originally named Northeast Middle School. half century, all of our buildings (with the exception of Comstock Elementary School) have the following • Repair the elevator Comstock Middle School serves students in grades common potential projects: • Install modern lighting sixth through eighth. This building was constructed i. New exterior windows • Repaint the interior in 1957 and is now 64 years old. It was originally ii. New exterior doors • Replace hallway registers named North Elementary School. iii. New carpeting, flooring, and baseboards • Remove and replace obsolete drinking fountains Comstock STEM Academy serves kindergarten iv. Roof repair or replacement • Update the woodshop classroom through eighth grade students. This building was v. HVAC systems (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Comstock Community Auditorium constructed in 1949 and is now 72 years old. The Conditioning) • Install new interior doors and locks STEM Academy “wins” the prize as the district’s Additionally, these schools have the following • Install new flooring for the Colt Center oldest building. It was originally named East individual or unique potential projects (Note: The • Renovate the kitchenette Elementary School. cost of these projects exceeds current resources. • Enlarge the scene shop Comstock Compass High School serves students Consequently, we are in the process of determining Bob Hamet Athletic Complex in ninth through twelfth grades. This building was top priorities within each building as well as across • Install artificial turf constructed in 1956 and is now 65 years old. It was the district): • Remodel the bathrooms originally named Gull Road Elementary School. The Comstock Early Learning Academy • Remodel the stadium entrance district’s superintendent’s office and administration • Install new blinds and window coverings • Repair the track are housed in the back of Compass High School. • Repaint the interior of the building • Remodel the tennis courts • Address the condition of the garage Comstock High School serves students in ninth • Reduce parking through twelfth grades. This building was originally Comstock Middle School • Improve drainage and irrigation constructed in 1965 and is now 56 years old. The • Renovate the art room • Upgrade some of the fencing facility also includes the Comstock Community • Renovate the choir room Auditorium built in 1991 which is now 30 years • Build new band room If you have any questions, feel free to reach out old, and the Bob Hamet Athletic Complex which • Remodel the kitchen and food service areas to me either via email, phone call, or personal visit. includes the football field and stadium, tennis courts, • Build outdoor learning space I can be reached at [email protected] or and the softball and baseball fields. 269-250-8906. 4 The Comstock Communicator June/July 2021 Bond Construction Update By Dr. Jeff Thoenes, Superintendent

Our efforts to modernize the district’s facilities school-level events and is now arguably the finest Davis Construction Management. Without the continue in earnest, and I’ve received a number of middle school athletic facility in the county. combined efforts and synergy of these groups, inquiries recently from community members and This summer, the work goes on at CMS. Crews none of this would be possible. stakeholders about the ongoing construction and will install the metallic siding that matches the If you have any questions, feel free to reach out renovation projects. To address these questions, gymnasium along the north and west faces of the to me either via email, phone call, or personal I’ve put together this construction update which school. To accomplish this, crews will actually re- visit. I can be reached at thoenesj@comstockps. discusses the progress we’ve made over the past move the original classroom walls, built in 1957, org or 269-250-8906. If you happen to see me at two months since the last edition of the Com- pour new fittings, and then rebuild the walls to a future school event or in the community, please stock Communicator. Additionally, I’ll provide a modern standards. Crews will install new, dou- take the time to say “hi” and allow me to intro- look ahead at what is planned for this summer ble-paned glass windows and when all is ready, duce myself - I look forward to our conversation! and beyond. put the navy blue siding in place. Having this paneling on the north and west faces of the build- Comstock Elementary School - Phase 2 is now ing facing 26th Street and H Avenue will greatly Community Auditorium complete and in use. This large phase included a enhance the “curb appeal” of the structure. total remodeling of the cafeteria, two classrooms, The summer “to do” list also includes remodel- Events art room, music room, faculty lounge, technolo- ing three science rooms as well as five classrooms June: gy office, and multipurpose room. In addition, along the western side of the building facing 26th 1 STEM Middle School Awards there are new and spacious bathrooms located Street. After the windows are installed, we will be Night, 5-6 p.m. Doors open at 4:30 between the cafeteria and gymnasium. Together, repainting and recarpeting these rooms. p.m. Phases 1 and 2 equal approximately half of the Finally, this summer we will be adding a park- 3 Compass High School Graduation: entire elementary school project. ing lot in the front of the school which will be 6 p.m. Phase 3 is now fully underway and is nick- for staff and visitors. The bus loop will remain 5 Traci Phelps Dance Studios Perfor- named “Narnia” by the staff and students. These in place and our current north lot will be for stu- mance: 3 recitals: So call Studio for five classrooms are accessible through a set of dent drop off and pick up, and parent parking. details and tickets.Limited seating double doors off of the main hallway and this This separation of the buses and cars will help due to social distancing. area is the smallest phase of our CES renovation. ensure the safe and efficient arrival and departure 12 Momentum Dance Studio Recit- When finished in June, all of these rooms will be of all Colts to and from school. al: Noon and 6 p.m. Doors open at identical to the standards and appearance of the 11:30 p.m. Call Studio for details/ other new rooms from Phases 1 and 2. Compass High School and Administration tickets. Limited seating due to so- Importantly, this summer, a professional paint- Building - In similar fashion to the middle cial distancing. ing crew will completely repaint the gymnasium school, the parking lot that serves both Compass 13 Trinity Prep Center Dance Recital: giving it a bright and clean appearance. The gym- High School and the Administration Building 2 p.m. nasium has not been repainted since the building will be remodeled, rebuilt, and reshaped. When 18-19 Excel Dance - Shows are 10 a.m.; opened 49 years ago in 1972. Finally, to “top off” all is done, the parking lot directly at the back of 2 p.m.; and 6 p.m.. Call studio the elementary projects, the district is making the the school will double in size, the entranceway to for tickets and details. Limited smart move to completely replace the school’s the lot will be straightened, and a portion of the seating due to social distancing. worn and aged roof. This decision is intended unused parking lot to the west of the building 26 Kalamazoo County Fire Chiefs - to protect the public’s investment that the newly will be converted back into green space. All of Seminar, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. renovated interior represents. the other sections of the lot will be resurfaced. In addition, the full exterior of the building July: Comstock Middle School - The biggest will be repainted to match the work done about 9-11 Rain Dates: 16-18 - Center Stage change is that our new middle school gymnasium a year ago. With these summer improvements, Theater Summer show: Giving Kalam- is done and is a tremendous source of Colt pride Compass will look and feel like a new building. azoo Hope .... A Fun-Filled Variety and joy. In terms of aesthetics, the navy blue me- Show: It will be like a drive-in movie tallic paneling along the upper portion of the Thank You! where sound will be heard on your car outside surface looks better than expected. This As always, thanks to our community for the radio. It will be presented in the park- paneling gives the facility an attractive, modern funding that made these projects possible, our ing lot at Comstock High School. Re- appearance, and increases the energy efficiency Board for their support and vision, as well as our freshments will be served. Go to their of the structure. The air-conditioned facility has facilities crew led by Facilities Director Sean Gil- website for details - https://kzoocst. sufficient space to host both middle and high- lette, and partners GMB Architects and Miller com. This is a FREE event. The Comstock Communicator 5 District to Host Forums About Building Needs

The District will be hosting several forums in to levy 5.0 debt mills -- the lowest of area schools. June, August, and October to gather input from All of the district’s buildings and infrastructure the community regarding facility needs. The have been undergoing significant improvements, June dates which will be identical in format and thanks to a 2016 bond proposal and a 2019 sink- content, are: ing fund both approved by voters. Still, there are significant needs. Virtual Forum - Tuesday, June 15, at 7 p.m. For example, preliminary estimates are that In-Person Forum - Tuesday, June 22, at 4 p.m. we need over $7 million in roofing repairs. Also, since all of our school buildings are about 50 These forums are the result of a study conduct- years of age or older, only a small percentage of Hazardous Weather ed by the Facility Needs Exploratory Committee. those spaces have air conditioning. This does not Communications For several months, the committee, co-chaired meet modern standards for schools and educa- by Michael Moncel and David Yarnell, has been tion. Who would build a school these days with- With hazardous weather conditions just studying building needs and soon will be match- out air conditioning and the kind of ventilation around the corner, Comstock Public Schools ing the needs with the funding that could be needed to keep our students and staff healthy? is encouraging all parents to talk with their available. Many people have been involved in Thanks to recent construction projects, the children about the possibility of school closing this study so far – including school personnel needs of our buildings vary -- ranging from due to bad weather. In the event that school who know the needs better than anyone else. Comstock Elementary School, which will be to- must be closed early on any given day, please The committee is examining the possibility of tally rebuilt and modernized by January, 2022, have a plan developed with your children so presenting district residents with the opportuni- to the STEM Academy, which was built in 1949 they arrive home safely. ty to provide additional bond funding for future and is housed in the district’s oldest building. Every effort is made to make a decision to facility projects while not increasing the tax bur- Given the age and condition of the STEM Acad- close school by 5 a.m. and to notify the news den. The committee is targeting May, 2022, for emy, the school needs to be either totally rebuilt media immediately. However, the district has a bond proposal that, if approved, would provide or replaced. no control over how quickly the information is approximately $30,000,000 while maintaining We will work hard to keep our stakeholders in- disseminated by the media. the current debt millage rate. It is important to formed throughout the process so everyone can Below is a list of the multiple ways you can note that Comstock Public Schools currently has make an intelligent and informed choice about be notified of early closings, or school closings: the lowest debt millage level of all districts in the the future of Comstock Public Schools. You may sign-up to follow Tweets at Kalamazoo area at 5.0. One district has a debt https://twitter.com/ComstockPS regarding millage over 10, and the average of the 13 area For further information, feel free to contact us! school closings or go to our website at www. districts is 7.2 debt mills. Michael Moncel - [email protected] comstockps.org. If voters have the opportunity to approve this David Yarnell - [email protected] Make sure your Infinite Campus portal is bond issue and do so, Comstock would continue current with correct contact information in order to receive ShoutPoint notification. For the latest school closings, turn your radio or television to the following stations: 2020-21 Comstock Public Schools Calendar

CALL LETTERS June 4, 7, 8, 2021 98.5 FM, 96.5 FM (WNWN, WFAT) Half Day Students K-12 (High School Exams) 100.9 FM (WQXC) 903 AM, 1400 AM (WBCK, WRCC) Half Day Students and Teachers K-12 106.5 FM, 590 AM, 1470 AM (WQLR, WKZO, WQSN) June 8, 2021 107.7 FM, 103.3 FM (WRKR, WKFR) Last Day for Students/Records Day PM TV 3 WWMT-TV TV 8 WOOD-TV Half Day Students AM/ Staff TV 4 WOTV Records Day PM 6 The Comstock Communicator June/July 2021 District Remembers Beloved Band Director

Staff and stu- Mr. Frtiz built up the band with his passion for performance.” dents have been re- music which was contagious. He introduced a Mr. Fritz’s influence extended beyond the membering, Jason pep band, revamped the marching band, put Comstock band program. Leaders of band pro- Fritz, high school students in leadership roles and trusted them to grams from Plainwell, Mattawan, Three Rivers, band director, who perform. Bangor, and Wyoming High Schools sent sym- died in a motor- Having created a family with the band stu- pathy posters and cards to the district and the cycle accident in dents, Mr. Fritz was more than a band director, Band of Blue. March. according to Mr. Kirksey, providing for students Responding to these expressions of sympathy, He was the band in need out of his own pocket, for example. CHS Principal David Kirksey sent a note saying, director for just “When he saw a student on the verge of drop- “We cannot thank you enough for sacrificing the short of three years ping out of school, due to a home situation, Ja- time and energy to create a poster, have it signed but left a lasting legacy. son intervened,” said Mr. Kirksey. “If he had not by so many members of the band community, In a tribute to Mr. Fritz, Superintendent Dr. provided for this student, I have no doubt that and then share it with us. I have witnessed our Jeffrey Thoenes said, “Over the past 2 1/2 years, they would have not made it to graduation day. band students walk into the room and see the I watched with pride as he built and expanded That student has a high school diploma because posters as they have been hung. As the students on the success and legacy of ‘The Band of Blue.’ Jason loved them and cared about their future.” read the posters, they inevitably smile. You, and I will miss his energy, commitment to success, Students also speak of the tremendous impact your students, are responsible for these mo- and student advocacy.” that Mr. Fritz had on their lives. Justin Webster ments.” Dr. Thoenes recalls meeting Mr. Fritz at a was inspired by Mr. Fritz who supported him Summing up his own relationship with Mr. back-to-school picnic just after both had been in his musical pursuits, pushing him to learn to Fritz, Principal Kirksey said, “Jason Fritz was a hired into the district. Standing in the food line, play the guitar, bass, and drum set/percussion. special man who embodied love for all who were Dr. Thoenes noticed the man in front of him “He got the ball rolling for me and pushed me within his orbit. There are few people like Jason who was taller than he. to do things that I never believed that I could - and I count myself as one of the lucky ones to “Since I’m 6’ 2” I seldom have to look up at do,” said Justin. “I would’ve probably quit ev- have been a part of his world for as many years people but I did at this guy - he was tall.” recalled erything musically without him. He has had as I had been.” Dr. Thoenes. such an impact upon me and I’m so happy he He struck up a conversation with the taller was part of my life for almost three years. man and found out he was the new band direc- “Mr. Fritz will forever inspire me to be as Remembering Mr. Fritz tor, Jason Fritz. friendly and supportive as I possibly can be. He By Evan Springer “We hit it off immediately,” said Dr. Thoenes. never discriminated and was always one of the “From this initial conversation, it was readily ap- best people you will ever meet.” Music is a mysterious thing. parent that he was knowledgeable, experienced, Genesis Pelfresne noted that Mr. Fritz was It brings forth a slew of emotions and enthusiastic - a true ‘gentle giant.’ Mentally, more than a band director, but an agent chang- with just the beat of a drum or a blow of the I congratulated the committee that had recruited ing something in his students. horn. Mr. Fritz knew this. and hired him. Comstock bands were in great “Whether he taught you determination or I watched as he inspired young people hands.” generosity, love or acceptance, or just how to through music; As band director, Mr. Fritz helped revive see something you couldn’t before, he showed He ignited a never-ending passion for music in school spirit by bringing back the fight song and us why we were all important,” she said. “We his students. forming relationships, said Dr. Thoenes. all have our parts and instruments that need to CHS Principal David Kirskey worked with Mr. come together to form a song.” He also taught us to use music as an outlet, Fritz both at Northeast Middle School when he Even if some band members were off-tempo To express ourselves using something other was principal there and then at the high school. or stepped out on the wrong beat, Mr. Fritz led than words “I was able to watch Jason change kids’ lives them out onto the field trusting them even if ev- Something more powerful. So I say now, for those who can’t say their grief through music,” he said. “I sat back and watched erything wasn’t perfect, she said. in words, in awe as Jason would take a student who strug- “Fritz wasn’t afraid to put us out there because Express it through the sweet, sorrowful sound gled in a traditional classroom, hooked them he knew that encouragement and love would of music, with music, grounded them with an instrument, push us on and that was all that mattered to Play it loud and play it clear. and made them fall in love with performance. him,” she said. “I believe that he heard the dif- Leave no room silent. True metamorphoses were occurring in Mr. ference as we played, and I could have proven For that is what Mr Fritz taught us: Fritz’s classroom.” it by pointing out his big smile as we marched That music speaks louder than words. At the high school, Mr. Kirksey watched as past and up the bleachers, ready to see the next Rest in peace Mr. Fritz. You will never be forgotten. The Comstock Communicator 7

KRESA Honors Two Comstock High School Seniors Earn KRESA Scholarships Comstock Educators Comstock seniors, Shelby Alexander and Sam Rabick, recently received Excellence in Education The KRESA Parent Advisory Committee re- Scholarships from the Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency (KRESA). They were among 43 cently honored speech pathologist, Patty Ander- seniors from area public and non-public schools to be awarded the $1200 scholarships. son, and special education teacher, Emily Jones, The Excellence in Education program was created in 1986 to honor high achieving seniors in county with the Excellence in Special Education Award. schools. It also awards Educator Incentive Grants to teachers for additional training. This prestigious recognition is given each year Since its inception, the program has awarded over $1.3 million in scholarships to 1,847 students and to a select few for outstanding service and con- $578,791 in grants to 738 educators. tributions to the profession. Recipients must be nominated by parents and/or peers. Prom Dresses Donated to High School Facilities Vehicles Have When a teacher heard that a student was sad because she couldn’t afford a prom dress, she remembered the “Cinderella Project” sponsored by Memories Bridal and Evening Wear. This annual event gives prom New Look dresses and accessories free of charge to high school students in need. Founded in 2006, the project has When you see the district’s facilities vehicles given away hundreds of dresses. around the community, you’ll notice they have When Memories Bridal was contacted about this year’s event, it was discovered that it wasn’t being new stylish labeling on the sides and rear gates. held due to COVID. However, the owner gladly donated some dresses for girls wanting to attend prom. Jason Hall, communications specialist, created In addition, CHS special education teacher, Maria Standal, donated some of her own dresses. the design and layout for the vehicles. The donations allowed the young women to attend prom in a dress of their choosing. After the prom, “Since these vehicles are often seen in public, they were also allowed to keep the dresses. the labels will allow the vehicles to promote a positive and professional image of the district to community stakeholders,” said Dr. Jeffrey Thoenes, Comstock Joins New Athletic League superintendent. By Dr. Jeffrey Thoenes, Superintendent On behalf of the Board of Education as well as the Athletic Department and Colt coaching staff, I’m Board Holds Professional pleased to announce that beginning with the 2021-22 school year, Comstock Public Schools will be join- Development Session ing the Southwest 10 Conference. This conference is a better fit geographically for our district and will thus require less travel, time, and expense for league competitions. The SW 10 consists of the following The School Board recently held a professional districts: development session on “Best Practices for Board Bangor Public Schools Bloomingdale Public Schools Centreville Public Schools Governance.” The session was presented by David Mendon Community Schools Marcellus Community Schools Cassopolis Public Schools Killips of the Michigan Leadership Institute. White Pigeon Community Schools Decatur Public Schools Hartford Public Schools Attending the workshop were Board President Pamela Dickinson, Vice President Matt Schreiner, My personal thanks to Athletic Director Justin Ansel for having the vision, expertise, and profession- Secretary Dori Scholly, Treasurer Paul Lamphear, alism to make this opportunity possible for our community. as well as trustees Saralyn Brown, Karen Howes, The entire Colt Nation looks forward to seeing our student athletes in action next year on the court, and Kayleen O’Donnell, and Superintendent Dr. field, or diamond. Regardless of who wins or loses, we are eager for positive and rewarding competitions, Jeff Thoenes. and appreciate our new league members for this opportunity. Go Colts! The Board’s consensus was that, even though this has been an unusual school year with new and unprecedented challenges, the Board and admin- istrators are working collaboratively to serve the CHS Honors Star Teachers best interests of the students, staff, families, and Recent winners of the Star Teacher Awards at the high school were Robert Nolan, chemistry teacher, community. and Maria Standal, special education. School Board Honors Staff For Staff Appreciation Day, the School Board High School Hosts Vaccine Clinic gifted staff members with a Comstock Public Schools mousepad custom designed by Jason Comstock High School hosted a COVID-19 vaccination clinic this spring put on by The Family Hall, communications specialist. Health Center. Held at the football stadium parking lot, the free, drive-by clinic served several hundred Board treasurer, Paul Lamphear, visited each people who might otherwise not have had the means or opportunity to obtain the vaccine. building and delivered the gifts on behalf of the Thanks to CHS Principal David Kirksey for the service and support he provided to make this health School Board. event happen. 8 The Comstock Communicator June/July 2021 District Partners with the Township Library Comstock Boys and Girls Middle School Summer Basketball Camps The Comstock Township Library and Com- stock Public Schools have partnered to support Girls Varsity Basketball Coach Ernie Ramirez and multiple assistant coaches student literacy success and to ensure that every will be hosting a four-day basketball camp for boys and girls entering sixth, CPS student has access to books and resources found at the public library. seventh, and eighth grades next year. Each day has different fundamentals Students enrolled in the STEM Academy can and drills that are designed for middle school basketball players. now use their student ID number to check out materials from the library and to access digital li- Cost – $25 for all four days of the camp. Checks/Money Orders can be brary materials and resources. written to Comstock Basketball. Registration form and fee can be dropped The STEM Academy piloted this project for off at Middle School, STEM offices or mailed to Justin Ansel 2107 N 26th St., this year and because of its success, the program Kalamazoo 49048. will be implemented districtwide starting with the 2021-22 school year. Date/Times • Ball Handling – Saturday, June 12 and Sunday, June 13 - 1-3 p.m. at Comstock High School Comstock High School • Shooting – Saturday, June 19 and Sunday, June 20 - 1-3 p.m. at Comstock NHS Raises Funds for High School

Animal Rescue Camp Details - Ball Handling/Shooting – Will teach players exercises and The Colt Chapter of the National Honor Soci- drills full court and half court on how to dribble with head up on a swivel ety recently raised $2,076.25 for the Animal Res- with resistance, proper ball handling and shooting stance, cut catch and cue Project (ARP) fundraiser. They also donated shoot, how to drive through a defender (Post and Wing), make consistent supplies to ARP. free throws and how to finish at the basket with either hand. ARP operates a no-kill shelter and adoption center in Kalamazoo. They rescue and find homes Message from Coach Ernie Ramirez and Contact Info for dogs, cats, kittens, and puppies. Make sure your child has proper gym attire, shoes and address any medical For more information, check out their website conditions your child may have on the registration. at animalrescueproject.org. Coach Ernie Contact Info – Cell #616-405-7488 Senior Honored in or email [email protected]

EFE Program ------Senior Sam Rabick was recently honored for his Camp Registration: $25 participation in KRESA’s Education for Employ- Checks can be made out to Comstock Basketball ment (EFE) program. Sam was selected as the top student in the Electronics and Robotics program. Please return the registration form and payment to the office at your school He was nominated for the award by his instructor, by June 8 or mail to: Kenneth Riggs. Comstock High School Attn: Athletic Director 2107 N. 26th St. Kalamazoo, MI 49048

Participant Name ______Grade ______

Parent Name ______Parent Phone #______

Parent Email ______The Comstock Communicator 9

Comstock High School Congratulations, Senior Scholars Class of 2021

Comstock High School extends congratula- Name: Alex Kish Name: Dalton Wilkins tions to the Top Scholars, Class of 2021. The Parents: Ann and Tim Kish Parents: Todd and Whitney Top Scholar designation is determined by a for- Achievements: Scored a Wilkins mula which combines grade point averages and perfect 40 in the Intermedi- Achievements: Basket- ACT scores. ate division of the American ball and Soccer Captains; This year’s top scholars are (in alphabetical or- Computer Science League; National Honor Society; der): 2019 Soccer Awards: All-District Soccer; Spanish All-Conference, All-District and English Department Name: Shelby Alexander Team, MVP, Individual All-Academic; 2020: Awards. Parents: Allison and John Honorable Mention All-State; All-Regional Future Plans: Attend Western Michigan Uni- Alexander Team, All-Conference, All-District Team, Indi- versity for Business. Achievements: Adam F. vidual All-Academic, Offensive MVP. Carter Young Artist Award; Future Plans: Attend Kalamazoo College and Name: Carter Wintz First Youth Playwright eventually Michigan Tech as a part of the 3/2 ma- Parents: Matt and Shay in 10th Annual TK New jor at Kalamazoo College; Obtain a mechanical Wintz PlayFest; Joyce Ivy Scholar engineering degree and pursue a career in auto- Achievements: All confer- 2019; Science & Innovation Hall of Fame Award motive or surgical robotics. ence honorable mention for for Arts & Sciences 2020 (Air Zoo); Affiliate basketball and soccer; Most Winner and National Honorable Mention for Name: Julia Kruis improved player golf and the National Center for Women & Information Parents: James and Tresa basketball; Co-MVP for soc- Technology (2020). Kruis cer; Departmental Awards in Chemistry, Geome- Future Plans: Attend the University of Michigan Achievements: Citizenship try and Composition. for Computer Science and Theatre Arts, future Award in Algebra 2; Coaches Future Plans: Attend Western Michigan Univer- career in performance technology development/ Award for Volleyball; NHS sity and go into project managing. innovation. Secretary; Lighthouse Sec- retary; Honorable Mention Name: Macy Cannon All-Conference in Volleyball and the Dedicated Parents: Grant and Athlete Award. Michelle Cannon Future Plans: Attend Valparaiso University to Achievements: Earned 40 study nursing CHS Announces college credits; High hon- or roll all four years; Dean’s Name: Samuel Rabick Incentive Program List at KVCC; Captain in Parents: Greg and Meredith basketball and volleyball; Rabick Winners Percussion Section Leader in Band; Student Achievements: MSU Alum- As part of the Incentive Program at the Leader in Youth Group. ni Distinguished Scholar; high school, the following students were se- Future Plans: To continue enrollment in the AP Scholar with Distinc- lected by the high school staff for their par- Early Middle College Program at KVCC to pur- tion; National Merit Schol- ticipation, academic excellence, or academic sue a degree in special education. After KVCC, ar; First Robotics world improvement. All students received a certif- she will attend Western Michigan University. championship alliance captain; American Chem- icate and a McDonald’s gift card in the mail. ical Society Outstanding High School Chemis- Savannah Lubrick Name: Natalie try student; Stockholm Junior Water Prize SW Sarah Hartness DeYoung-Foster Michigan; KAMSC Student Medal; KAMSC Jadyn Kaatz Parents: Michelle and Outstanding Research Project Award; MHSAA Jordan Wright Theresa DeYoung-Foster Academic All-State Soccer. Li’Zariah Lewis Achievements: Senior Future Plans: Attend Michigan State University Vincent Branch Scholar; High Honor roll to pursue a degree in electrical engineering. Ahmad Davis all four years. Paisley Meyle Future Plans: To major in Victoria Foote teaching at Western Michigan University. 10 The Comstock Communicator June/July 2021

Compass High School CMS Hosts Ribbon Compass Mural to be Completed Cutting Ceremony A year ago, a Compass High School student Jokingly, some thought maybe the mural should started painting a mural on the wall with the title, be renamed 23 Books to Read Before You Die. for New Gym 100+ Books to Read Before You Die. Instead, Compass teacher, Michele Coash, has Due to the student’s departure and the pandem- taken on the task of completing the mural. CMS Principal Mark Wilke hosted the ic interruptions, the mural was never finished. district’s ribbon-cutting ceremony to official- ly open the new gymnasium. Attending the event were a number of dignitaries including members of the Board of Education, repre- Comstock Middle sentatives from both GMB Architecture and Miller Davis Construction Management, staff, stakeholders, and students. CMS Honors Two Staff Members Holding the ribbon were Board President Comstock Middle School recently honored two and looking for ways to improve opportunities for Pamela Dickinson and Treasurer Paul Lam- staff members with their Colt of the Week Award. learning.” phear. Doing the honors with the large, cer- Recipients were Jordyn Dryden, Spanish teacher, Ms. Brown was also honored for all the ways she emonial scissors was Board trustee Saralyn and Beverly Brown, paraprofessional. finds to reward children for their good behavior, Brown. Ms. Dryden was nominated for her positive and including buying treats and making them feel ap- After the brief ceremony, attendees went on supportive attitude and her willingness to help preciated. a self-guided tour. The unanimous reaction people. Her nominator wrote, “She always has a smile was, “It’s a great day to be a Colt!” “Jordyn finds any and all opportunities to re- on her face and comes into the building in the ward students,” according to those who nominat- morning singing a feel good song.” ed her. “She is constantly asking great questions CES Students Honored for Habit 5 Comstock Elementary Comstock Elementary students received certificates recently for mastering Habit 5 of the Leader CES Girls Enjoy Girls on the Run in Me program. Habit 5 states “Seek First to Un- Thirteen girls in third derstand, Then to Be Understood®.” This means through fifth grades partic- listening to other people’s ideas and feelings and ipated in the Girls on the trying to see things from their viewpoints. Run (GOTR) program this Students receiving the honor were: Olivia year. They met two times a Blett, Lucas Rivera, Natalie Knight, Dhaimon week to discuss a topic, have Carlton, Layla Rietkerk, Nathan Montgomery, a lesson, apply the lessons Amiyah Farmer, Micah Roberts, Kaydence Hoff- they’ve learned, and of course, run, hop, skip, man, Kimberlynn Scohy,Nathan Stanford, Claire jump or walk. Smith, Zander Bar, Aliera Carlton, Wesley Sny- The girls did a great job of adapting to the der, Elia Servin, Jermaine Carson, Averie Qualls, social-distancing rules, worked well together to Ernest Butler, Taylor McDonald, Aderain Atter- solve problems, and really enjoyed their time after berry, Vicenta Rolstone, Nicole Silvas, Channing school. Harp, DayMon Dean, Kenny Hale, Destiny Lee, Also enjoying the program were their coaches and Alexa Carlton. Kate Appel, Madelyn Buhrman, McKenzie Reilly, Claudia Richards, and Tara Storteboom. The season ended with a virtual 5K where partic- Kira Mayne-Wall, Hailey Mayne-Wall, Maleah Wade, Ariel ipants could complete a physical goal of their own Plair demonstrate their enthusiasm and running abilities during the Girls on the Run program. choosing. The Comstock Communicator 11 Comstock Elementary CES Celebrates WMU Interns Kindergartners Celebrate Teacher interns from Western Michigan University recently completed their internships at Comstock Elementary School. They are Miranda Cannon who interned in Crystal Kohtala’s third grade class; with Pizza Party Emma Kinn in Cathy Buscher’s kindergarten class; Izzy Longo in Kate Appel’s first grade class; Jenna CES kindergartners in Ms. Sherria VanSparren- Lyddon in Leigh Ann Emrick’s second grade class; Nicole Oman in Sherria VanSparrentak’s kindergarten tak’s class celebrated with a pizza party after hit- class; Wynn Stitt in Allison Laning’s kindergarten class; Amanda Wolgast in Meggan McMurtrie’s first ting their goal of 20,000 points on MobyMax. grade class; and Kelsy Overhiser in Julia Knieling’s art class. MobyMax is an online program for math and The interns adapted to so many challenges including virtual classes, hybrid classes and in-peson teach- reading that students can access at home or school ing. They brought fresh eyes, an eagerness to learn, and a willingness to embrace all the changes. for independent work. They work on lessons that are differentiated based on their skills and also work on lessons assigned by the teacher. The more lessons they complete the more points their class receives. “Students loved watching the meter go from 0-20,000 and after a few months of hard work, they finally got their reward,” said Ms. VanSpar- rentak. “The students have been working hard on these while at home and a little at school in order to meet this goal and earn our party.” Students Enjoy Homemade Banana Bread Melissa Carouthers, daytime custodian at Com- WMU interns at Comstock Elementary were Emma Kinn, Kelsy Overhiser, Izzy Longo, Miranda Cannon, Nicole Oman, stock Elementary, who is famous for her banana Jenna Lyddon and Amanda Wolgast bread, made some to share with all of the students. Students said things like, “That was super yummy,” “Can I have more?” and “That banana bread was super delicious.” CES Honors Administrative Professionals Comstock Elementary School honored its Administrative Professionals this spring on Administrative Professionals Day. Recognized for their hard work and dedication were Lisa Watson, Shelly Dennis, Di- ana Vorholt, and Whitney Wilkins.

Kalvin Bodley enjoys Sanovea McFerrin enjoys banana bread. banana bread.

A thank you note was sent to Miss Melissa Carouthers by Isabella Diaz, Layla Tutt, Kamilla Wagner, Billy Smith, Dennis Ross , Cameron Courtney, Alexa Carlton, and Havana Cope- Natilie, a kindergartener.. land were among those who created special cards for our front office professionals. 12 The Comstock Communicator June/July 2021

Comstock Elementary Students Celebrate CES Library News Earth Day Students at Comstock Elementary School found different ways to celebrate Earth Day this spring. Some planted seeds while students in Kate Appel’s first grade class picked up garbage around the building. “The kids put on their gloves and really enjoyed doing their part to make the Earth a cleaner place,” said Miss Appel.

Carson Stone and Jaxen Thompson are Leader Help- Jordan Carey and Liam Hill browse books on the cart to find the ers getting the carts from one class to the next for perfect one to check out. Miss Kimmer. With the Comstock Elementary School scheduled for construction this summer, Miss Elizabeth Kim- mer, the library media specialist prepared for the project. She weeded out books that were no longer relevant or which had been damaged and then started packing up the books. During the school year, things were different as all special classes were on carts. Students helped Miss Kimmer with the library cart. Students were able to check out books every week once school returned to in-person classes. Virtual students listened to stories and did library activities, too. For School Library Month, students brainstormed ideas for the new library next year. Curved book- cases, skylights, and lots of bean bags were among some of the recommendations. Students also wrote Faith Garrison and Delilah Thomas plant seeds for Earth acrostic poems using the word Library. Day. Mileage Club Returns to CES

Autumn Webber, Kalvin Bodley, and Jacob Aitken model their Earth Day hats.

Alonte White strides by Bentley Mayne-Wall on his way Isabella Diaz shows off all of her Students choose a foot token around the playground track. tokens! after completing a mile. Feelin’ Good Mileage Club returned to Comstock Elementary School this spring following a year’s hiatus due to the pandemic. In the Mileage Club, students earn tokens and shoe laces for miles they either run or walk. The tokens are added to their leadership necklaces. Students were eager to get their first 2 1/2 miles in to earn their first tokens. After the completion of the program, the students took their necklaces home for the summer to show off their mileage and hard work. Seeds planted on Earth Day are finally sprouting. The Comstock Communicator 13 Comstock Elementary CES Families Enjoy CES Celebrates Construction Projects Literacy Night Three first grade classrooms and a second grade classroom moved this spring into recently renovated rooms. The school also celebrated the completion of the cafeteria with a ribbon cutting attended by the Comstock Elementary students and their fami- School Board. lies enjoyed the school’s Literacy Night this spring. The newly added bathrooms are great and the first graders are taking great pride in taking care of The theme of the night was “Building Readers.” them. More construction this summer will include the library and some interior classrooms. The library Over 200 students and their families participat- has started boxing books already, as there are over 180 shelves of books to move. ed in the various stations around the bus loop. The stations had various activities including “Con- structing Hats,” “Scoop and Spell,” “Sight Word Ring Toss,” “Build a Word,” and many others. Families also enjoyed a pizza picnic on the school lawn. The event was planned by the Community Events Action Team.

First grade teacher, Kate Appel, leads her class around the new classroom for a gallery walk of projects on desks. Playworks Honors CES Teacher Playworks, a national nonprofit which supports learning and physical health, recognized Com- stock Elementary School kindergarten teacher, Cathy Buscher, during Teacher Appreciation Week, 2021. Playworks is dedicated to ensuring that elementary students have safe and healthy play opportunities at school. For more information about Playworks, go to playworks.org. Jason Hall, communications specialist, takes photos of the School Board and special visitors at the ribbon cutting ceremony for CES’s new cafeteria. 14 The Comstock Communicator June/July 2021

STEM Academy STEM Academy STEM Students Dissect Various Species Receives New Guitars The STEM Academy recently received new guitars from The Guitar Center. Music teacher, Becky Raines, applied for a grant from the The Guitar Center Foundation, and it was awarded to her. With the guitars, Ms. Raines plans to start a rock band with the students. “Music and the performing arts are a definite source of therapy,” she said. “They can be used separately or collectively, as a hobby or a way to help people heal. After the year that we have had I hope this can help provide healing.”

Guests Read for Third Graders To celebrate Love of Reading month, Superin- tendent Dr. Jeff Thoenes and Executive Assistant Dominic Narwick dissects a worm. Sophie Moncel performs a dissection. Ashley LaVanWay shared their love of reading with Ann Swinehart’s third graders. Dr. Thoenes read Evelyn Del Rey is Moving With the support of Schafer’s Flowers of Ka- Away, by Newbery Medalist Meg Medina with lamazoo and Comstock STEM Academy’s Parent illustrations by Sonia Sanchez, and Art & Max, Teacher Group, seventh and eighth grade students written and illustrated by David Wiesner. dissected flowers, worms, and frogs to compare Evelyn Del Rey is about two best friends, Dan- and contrast the structures and functions of dif- iela and Evelyn, who do everything together and ferent species. then promise to stay in touch after Evelyn moves The dissections expanded their thinking and away. understanding of the world around them. They Also about friends, Art and Max, is the story of learned that flowers, worms, and frogs are more two lizards who love painting. Max is an experi- complicated than they could imagine, but not as enced painter while Art is just beginning which complicated as humans. leads to some zany antics. Students could complete the dissections hands- Ava Schreiner models dissection for virtual students. Ms. LaVanWay read Alma and How She Got on or virtually. Her Name, by Alma Martinez Neal, and Stick and Stone, by Beth Ferry. In the Martinez book, Alma thinks her name, Iditarod Connects STEM Students to Other Schools Alma Sofia Esperanza José Pura Candela, is too long but her Dad explains all her names and why The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, an annual event in Alaska from Anchorage to Nome, has an educa- they are important. tional component called Iditarod EDU which encourages teachers around the world to use the Iditarod In Ferry’s book, Stick and Stone become best as an educational tool. This year teachers were challenged to have their students exchange postcards friends, in a rhyming text that has an anti-bully- with other classrooms across the United States and Canada. ing message. The postcards were to include information on the state dog, sport, and other unique information about the state. Students in Ann Swinehart’s third grade class sent out over 65 postcards. They have received postcards from 41 states and one Canadian province. The postcards are being displayed in the hallway at the STEM Academy along with a map and hearts indicating where the post cards came from. The Comstock Communicator 15

STEM Academy Comstock Early Learning Academy STEM Students Take CELA Celebrates Week of the Young Child Comstock’s Early Learning Academy celebrated AHA Challenge the Week of the Young Child this spring. As part STEM Academy physical education teacher, of the celebration, students had a sidewalk obsta- Mary Amsbury, led the Kids Heart Challenge cle course to demonstrate their knowledge. which raised over $6,000 for the American Heart Students walked into the school on a red carpet Association. As a reward for their efforts the stu- as teachers and staff cheered for them. They were dents “slimed” Principal Chris Chopp during a given crowns to wear and also bookmarks. Friday recess. This week is sponsored by the National As- Ms. Amsburgy received a letter from Nancy sociation for the Education of Young Children Brown, chief executive officer of the American (NAEYC). Comprised of about 60,000 individ- Heart Association which said in part: ual members of the early childhood community, On behalf of the American Heart Association, NAEYC is “committed to delivering on the prom- thank you very much for your school’s donation of ise of high-quality early learning,” according to its $6,210.58 from your school’s recent Kids Heart website, naeyc.org. Challenge (KHC)/American Heart Challenge event. The Week of the Young Child uses a variety of Your efforts make a tremendous impact and help hands-on activities featuring music, food, and art, millions of Americans through increased awareness all designed to encourage movement and healthy of cardiovascular disease, lifesaving scientific research lifestyles. Themes during the week include Music and critically needed education efforts. Monday, Tasty Tuesday, Work Together Wednes- During Week of the Young Child, Head Start students walk Families and schools are critical links in provid- day, Artsy Thursday, and Family Friday. through streamers at the entrance to CELA. ing the foundation for cardiovascular wellness in our country. Your support and participation in the AHC/ KHC goes a long way in helping others. CELA is Enrolling for GSRP! The Comstock Early Learning Academy (CELA) is now accepting applications for the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) for students who will be four years old by September 1, STEM Academy Library 2021. Children who will be four years old by Decem- Gets New Materials ber 1, 2021, may also be eligible. Please call Prin- Since various library fundraisers such as Read- cipal Meadow Nuyen at 269-250-8960 or email a-Thon and Scholastic Book Fair did not happen her at [email protected] for more infor- this year, STEM Academy Principal Chris Chopp mation! allocated $5,000 from internal funds to keep the CELA staff members look forward to working library current and meeting the needs of students. with your family for all of your pre-kindergarten With the funds for new materials, Library Me- needs. dia Clerk Caroline Kerney worked with a repre- sentative from Bookbug, an independent book- CELA Receives Mask Donation store in Kalamazoo, to make sure that there were Ford Motor Company, through its philanthrop- including 27 million which went to about 450 equal amounts of new fiction and nonfiction ma- ic arm, the Ford Fund, has donated face masks to elementary schools, high schools, colleges and terials for a variety of grade levels. Comstock Early Learning Academy (CELA). universities. “This is very exciting,” said Principal Chopp. Head Start teacher, Allison Weger, informed According to the Ford Fund website, fordfund. “I can’t wait to get more books from and about Principal Meadow Nuyen about the mask do- org, “The mask donations are part of Ford’s ef- Black, Indigenous, People of Color into our stu- nation opportunity. Following a request for the forts to encourage Americans to #FinishStrong— dents’ hands. Our library is more diverse, engag- masks made in early March, the school received to pull together and help protect each other to ing, and accessible because of the work that Caro- three boxes for a total of 6,840 masks. help save lives as the COVID-19 vaccines become line has done this school year.” The Ford Fund worked with its nonprofit part- more widely available.” ners around the country to donate both adult and A special thanks to the Ford Fund for the mask child-sized masks to schools and other organiza- donation. tions. In total, they donated 120 million masks, 16 The Comstock Communicator June/July 2021

Comstock Early Learning Academy TCF Donates Supplies TCF Bank recently donated office supplies to STEM Kindergartner Reads to CELA Students the Comstock Early Learning Academy. The Por- Students in Mrs. Johnson’s and Mrs. Hayes tage branch of the bank is merging with another GSRP class had a CELA alumnus as a virtual branch so the bank, led by Shannon Merrill, do- guest reader during March Reading Month cel- nated surplus office supplies to the school. ebrations. Thanks to Shannon and TCF Bank! Cecelia Warr, a fluent and expressive reader, shared the story of Pete the Cat and the Treasure Map.

Cecelia Warr (left) reads to CELA students. CELA Associate Teachers Earn CDA Status Candy Hayes and Megan Hiaeshutter have GSRP 116 with Mrs. Francomb. each earned their Child Development Associate Both of these valuable staff members have credentials. Mrs. Hayes works in GSRP 113 with worked diligently to complete the course work Mrs. Johnson, and Miss Hiaeshutter works in and have been awarded certificates. Sports News

2020-21 High School & Middle School 2022. The Comstock Hall of Fame committee is eighth grade) football as a school-sponsored sport Physicals still accepting nominations but those nominations in the fall this year. We are in the midst of hiring A new physical for the 2021-22 school year will most likely be considered for the 2023 a coaching staff. We will be playing our games is required to play high school or middle school banquet. Nominations must be received by the against current Southwest 10 League Schools. sports at Comstock. A physical must be dated on or athletic director by November 1 to be included in School equipment will be issued after April 15, 2021, to be acceptable. Bronson has the process for the 2023 induction. A nomination for the sport and there will not provided doctors for a physical day in the past but form can be found online at www.comstockps.org/ be an activity fee to participate. they will not be doing it this year so please make halloffame. Please email Justin Ansel at anselj@ Please use the QR code to sign sure you set up an appointment with your own comstockps.org with any questions. up for Comstock middle school doctor ASAP or walk into Hometown Urgent Care football. on Gull Road. Hometown charges $25. High School Fall Sports Start Dates Practice for the fall high school sports season Comstock Youth Football Season Pass Workers Needed will begin on August 9 for high school football Youth football is now being run by Varsity Coach We will be charging spectators for home athletic and August 11 for volleyball, girls golf, boys soccer, Jason Hayes. We thank Derek Drake, Mike Small events and have begun coordinating workers for sideline cheer and cross country. Start times will be and the rest of the board for their efforts in running the next school year. If you would like to work at listed on the athletic website at comstockcolts.org. the program in the past. Coach Hayes needs coaches athletic events for a free family pass, please contact Every athlete must have a physical dated after April so if any parents are interested, please contact Coach the athletic office. Some of the job duties include 15, 2021, to participate. Hayes at hayesj@comstockps. ticket taking, running the clock, scorebook, org. Please use the QR code to announcing and timing for track meets. We have Middle School Fall Sports Start Dates find more information on the a lifetime pass for all our senior citizens for free. If Practice for middle school volleyball, soccer, cross 2021 season and to sign up for senior citizens would still like to help out at our country, football and sideline cheer will begin in Comstock Youth Football. athletic events, we would love to have you here August and we will provide more information in but it is not required. Please give us a call at 269- July. Start times will be listed on the athletic website Comstock Youth Football 250-8711 to let us know if you are interested in at comstockcolts.org. Every athlete must have a CAMP volunteering. physical dated after April 15, 2021, to participate. Coach Jason Hayes is putting on a Comstock youth football Hall of Fame Nominations Comstock Middle School Football skills camp for kindergarten The 2021 Comstock Hall of Fame Banquet is We are excited to announce that Comstock through sixth grade Comstock being postponed to next year on Saturday, April 30, Public Schools added middle school (seventh and students on Tuesday, July 13, The Comstock Communicator 17

from 6-8 p.m. at the Comstock Football Stadium. and a schedule will be determined at a later time. Comstock Seniors Playing College Sports Campers will participate in various football related Congratulations to the seniors below for earning drills and activities and it is FREE of charge. Please Youth Sideline Cheer the opportunity to continue to play sports at the sign up using the QR code here. Varsity Sideline and Competitive Cheer Coach next level. Amber DeLoof will be taking over the youth Evan Caswell, Football, Adrian College Middle School Sideline & Competitive Cheer program and her plan for the summer will be out Skylar George, Football, Adrian College We are excited to also announce that Comstock shortly if it isn’t out already by the time you get Ella McAllister, Bowling, Kellogg Comm. College Public Schools added middle school (seventh and this issue. We thank Amber Brown for her efforts in Kareem Owens, Football, Undecided eighth grade) sideline cheer in the fall and middle running the program in the past. Please visit www. Cornelius Shaver, Football, Papago Puma Junior school (sixth, seventh and eighth grade) competitive comstockcolts.org under athletics and youth sports College cheer in the winter as school-sponsored sports. We to find information about summer and fall sideline are in the midst of hiring a coach for these teams cheer opportunities.

CURRENT LIBRARY HOURS: Monday-Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Comstock Township Library Events Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

When you visit, freely browse the shelves to choose can stay current with all the latest library news and participants is limited. and check out materials or pick up held items, and events. then enjoy those items outside the library. When Painting in the Park: June 17 at 6 p.m.. Join the you visit please: Adult Events Comstock Township Library and Comstock • Wear your face covering. Summer Reading Program for Adults: Early Township Parks & Rec Department for an evening • Limit your visit, including computer time, to 1 Bird Registration starts on Tuesday, June 1. You of painting in the newly renovated Merrill Park. hour. can begin reporting the books you read on Our teacher will be artist Lauren Lasater of Colors • Practice social distancing. Saturday, June 12, on our website. Enter a form for & Cocktails who will teach you fabulous techniques every book you read or listen to from June 1 until to create your own one-of-a-kind drinkable Comstock Library is FINE FREE! The library does August 31 for weekly drawings. The grand prize glassware. Registration is required for this free craft not charge fines for overdue materials, with the will be a gift basket full of out-of-this-world and begins June 7 on our website, comstocklibrary. exception of mobile hotspots and Playaway surprises! Registration is required for the summer org, “Events.” You may also register by calling Launchpads. Also, all outstanding overdue fines reading program and can be done on our website. 345-0136. The number of participants is limited have been cleared. If you have long overdue library Go to Programs and it will be under “Upcoming to 15. No alcohol will be served at the event. All items, you can bring them back without penalty. Events.” You may also register by calling 345-0136. Kalamazoo Health Department COVID-19 guidelines will be in place and required. Curbside service is available! Call us Postcard and Photograph Embroidery: June 7 at at 269-345-0136 to place an order or place holds 6 p.m. Join the Comstock Township Library and Meditation and Mindfulness: July 16 at 6:30 through the online catalog and call us after you local artist Jessica Sundstrom for a lesson in p.m. The Comstock Township Library is holding receive notice that your holds have arrived. Ring embroidery on postcards and/or on photographs. a relaxing night of meditation and mindfulness the library’s doorbell when you come to get your Registration is required for this free craft. You may with Stress Less Kazoo’s Eric Nelson, MA. Stress items or call us from the parking lot and we’ll bring register on our website, comstocklibrary.org, Less Kazoo provides training for individuals to them out to you checked out and ready to go. “Events.” Please provide your email address so we increase health and well-being. He has practiced can send you the Zoom information. You may also mindfulness for 40 years and began teaching in Did you know you can check out magazines, register by calling 345-0136. The number of 1986. Eric worked at the Fetzer Institute for 20 including the most current issues? Stop by the participants is limited. years and developed and managed programs front desk for available issues to check out and around the world in Mind-Body Medicine, enjoy at home. Postcard and Photograph Embroidery Contemplative Practice, Conflict Resolution and Troubleshoot: June 11 at 6 p.m. Join the Transformational Leadership. Eric has an MA in If you do not have a library card, and do not want Comstock Township Library and local artist Jessica Organizational Communication from WMU. He to come into the library to get one, sign up for a Sundstrom for a troubleshooting session following completed Mindfulness Teacher Training through temporary card that will allow you to access our our lesson in embroidery on postcards and/or on the University of Massachusetts Medical School. digital materials. Visit https://www.comstock- photographs. Registration is required for this Registration is required for this session and begins library.org to fill out an application form. session. Register on our website, comstocklibrary. July 6 on our website, comstocklibrary.org, org, “Events.” Please provide your email address so “Events.” Please provide your email address so we Visit our website for information on services and we can send you the Zoom information. You may can send you the Zoom information. You may also virtual events. Sign up for our eNewsletter so you also register by calling 345-0136. The number of register by calling 345-0136. The number of 18 The Comstock Communicator June/July 2021

participants is limited. • Storytimes: Ms. Sue will be hosting two Sanctuary will be bringing a variety of their reptile storytimes every week: Baby Storytime for friends for us to learn about. There will be two Adult Pick-Up Crafts: Marble Dangle children 2 and under (siblings welcome) on shows at 10:30 and noon. Registration is required, Suncatcher. Twist wire to secure a marble for a Tuesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. on the library’s and spots are limited. The Critchlow Alligator whimsical suncatcher. This adult take-home craft side lawn, and a larger Family Storytime at Merrill Sanctuary is requiring that all participants be 2 or kit includes instructions and all materials. There Park on Thursday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Masks older, NO exceptions. Masks will be required for will also be an instructional video posted on will be required for all participants aged 4 and all participants (aged 4 and older) during in-person YouTube. Go to youtube.com and search for older (even if outdoors), and social-distancing will events, even if the events are held outdoors. “Comstock Township Library.” Registration is be required. Blankets and/or chairs are required for this free craft and begins June 21 on recommended, as storytimes will take place on the The Animal Guy: August 7. Nelson “The Animal our website, comstocklibrary.org, “Events.” You grass. *Storytimes are subject to change or cancel- Guy” from the Wildlife Safari in Canton, may also register by calling 345-0136. The lation*. Michigan, will be bringing a variety of really number of participants is limited. Participants can awesome animals for kids to see and enjoy. There pick-up their craft the week of June 28. • Teen Events: Ms. Traci has planned some great will be two shows, at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. teen events for the Summer Reading Program. Registration is required, and spots are limited. Adult Pick-Up Crafts: Star on Pallet. Attach a These in-person programs will occur every other There are no age restrictions for this show. Masks weathered star to a painted pallet for a star-studded Wednesday. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED will be required for all participants (aged 4 and July. This adult take-home craft kit includes FOR TEEN EVENTS, AS SUPPLIES ARE older) during in-person events, even if the events instructions and all materials. There will also be LIMITED. Masks will be required for all partic- are held outdoors. an instructional video posted on YouTube. Go to ipants during in-person events, even if the events youtube.com and search for “Comstock Township are held outdoors. The Last Week of Summer Reading Program Library.” Registration is required for this free craft for Children and Teens: The week of August 9. and begins July 6 on our website, comstocklibrary. • STEAM Events: STEAM stands for Science, This will be our last week for the Summer Reading org, “Events.” You may also register by calling Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. On the Program. You will have until the end of the month 345-0136. The number of participants is limited. first of each month Ms. Traci will have limited to complete and turn in your reading logs for Participants can pick-up their craft the week of STEAM take-home kits available. Also, every prizes and grand prize entries. Grand Prize July 12. other week, Ms. Traci will have a super-fun drawings will take place the first week of in-person STEAM activity for kids to enjoy. These September. Adult Pop-up Craft: What is our pop-up craft? in-person events will take place every other We provide the supplies, written instructions, and Monday outside of the library. REGISTRATION Follow us on Facebook at ComstockTownship- you bring your creativity. Pick-ups and sign-ups IS REQUIRED FOR IN-PERSON STEAM, AS Library. begin the same week. Week of July 26: Butterfly SUPPLIES ARE LIMITED.Masks will be Follow us on Instagram at comstocktownship- Paper Lantern. required for all participants (aged 4 and older) library or visit our online calendar for more during in-person events, even if the events are information regarding programs: comstock- Youth Events held outdoors. library.evanced.info/signup Summer Reading Program for Children and Teens: Early Bird Registration starts on Tuesday, • Arts & Crafts: Ms. Brenna has planned a variety June 1. Children and teens can register online of cool arts and crafts for this summer. All arts and We have Homebound Library Services! using Wandoo Reader or by visiting the Youth crafts programs will be scheduled for alternating T Please call the library for information. Department. weeks. One week is a take-home craft; the next

week is in-person, etc). REGISTRATION IS Summer Reading Program for Children and REQUIRED FOR ALL IN-PERSON CRAFTS, Wi-Fi is available in the library. You may Teens: Programs begin the week of June 14. We and very limited spots will be available. Take-home also ask about checking out one of our will have weekly programs and storytimes for all crafts will be available the Monday of their mobile hotspots. different ages. Almost all of our in-person scheduled week, while supplies last. In-person programs require registration. So please call, check events will fall on Fridays, with two sessions We have fax, photocopy, and scanning our website events calendar, or our Facebook offered. Teens will have a monthly take-home Æ services available. Events before attending any in-person event. For craft on the first of each month, while supplies events that do require registration, every child last. Masks will be required for all participants Download free audiobooks, ebooks, music, participating should be registered individually, (aged 4 and older) during in-person events, even if and video from home through our digital and due to limitations, only those registered will the events are held outdoors. services, Hoopla and Overdrive (Libby). be allowed to participate. ALL IN-PERSON EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary: July 24. Ever Go to https://www.comstocklibrary.org/ CANCELLATION DUE TO WEATHER OR wanted to see an alligator or other cool reptiles up ebooks.asp for a complete list of all our COVID-19. close? Here’s your chance! The Critchlow Alligator available digital materials.