Kalamazoo Public Schools

AUGUST 2018 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com VOLUME 21, ISSUE 7 Like us on Congratulations to the Class of 2018 Special graduation edition: See inside for the names of graduates, photos, and selected student stories. IMPORTANT DATES Number of Graduates Rises for Fifth Year in a Row Board of Education Meetings Kalamazoo Public Schools has generated that same period the school district experi- School graduated 272 students. Phoenix High Thursday, Aug. 9 & 23, 2018 a 52 percent increase in the number of gradu- enced a 24 percent increase in enrollment. School had 87 graduates. The Kalamazoo In- 7 p.m. ates from the summer of 2005, just before the This year, Kalamazoo Central High novative Learning Program had 11 graduates. Administration Building Kalamazoo Promise was announced, to the School had 318 graduates. Loy Norrix High For Kalamazoo Central, that number 1220 Howard St. summer of 2018. was the highest number of graduates since It is the fifth year in a row that the num- the announcement of the Kalamazoo Prom- For more information, call ber of graduates has risen in the district. ise in 2005. The numbers of graduates at Loy (269) 337-1572 “Congratulations to our record-setting Norrix and Phoenix were the second highest 2018 graduates, who did us proud,” said in the Promise era. KILP is in its second year. KPS Superintendent Dr. Michael Rice. “Our The Kalamazoo Promise is a scholarship that First Day of School 2018 graduates continued a trend of higher pays for up to 100 percent of post-secondary Sept. 4, 2018 achievement over the last several years. tuition and fees for all KPS graduates, who K-12 attend a.m. only “Thanks to our teachers, support staff, ad- enroll in the district by at least ninth grade. No half-day kindergarten ministrators, community members, commu- In 2017, Kalamazoo Public School’s four- nity organizations, and students themselves for year graduation rate rose to 72.9 percent, a First Full Day of School K-12 their efforts toward this achievement.” 10 percent increase since President Barack First Day for Half-Day In 2005, KPS had 454 graduates, while in Obama attended the K-Central commence- Kindergarten June the district had 688 graduates. During Jada Lassiter, Loy Norrix High School, Class of 2018. ment in 2010. Sept. 5, 2018 “No matter Winter Break where the Dec. 24, 2018-Jan. 4, 2019 currents take us, into the Spring Break workforce or April 1-5, 2019 into college, we must be sure to make the world “We are now able to a better place, stand up for what we leaving kindness believe in … We will not and tolerance in let anything get in the our wake.” way of our successful Abigail Guimond, future. We have been Kalamazoo Central's Walaa Alnakhli leads her class into the graduation Loy Norrix HS Nicholas Srodes, left and Payton Spinney march into Wings Event Center

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Departments/HumanResources/ NonProfit EmploymentOpportunities “You can’t win the lottery without buying a ticket. You can’t get a job without applying. And Class of 2018 in the Spotlight you can’t get your dream job without working hard to prepare for it for many years. You can’t graduate from college without studying and studying and studying. Nothing worth anything in life comes free. Raise your hand, if you intend to take advantage of the Kalamazoo Promise. “Remember graduates, the Promise is like everything else. It doesn’t come free. You have to work it—for it to work for you.” Dr. Michael Rice, superintendent, Kalamazoo Public Schools

Davyn Thomas marched in the Kalamazoo Central High School Zaviona Woodruff raises her arms in victory at the Loy Norrix graduation. High School graduation.

At the Phoenix High School graduation, counselor Stephanie Tomkowiak high fives Luanna Muhammad. Next to them is Nakia Turman. Walking down the steps are Kwamari Phillips, left, and Kiwoa Whitfield.

“We consider it a privilege to have you with us today. We consider it a privilege and we take pride in knowing that in the future, we will read about you, hear about you, listen to you, because you are indeed world changers. We want you to know you are ready. You are ready for the next big thing, ready to face that stumbling block and turn it into a stepping stone.” Valerie Boggan, principal, Kalamazoo Central HS Phoenix High School seniors pose for a group photo at Chenery Auditorium.

Jenny Castaneda-Garcia, Alexis Garcia-Nonato, Judith Castaneda- Kalamazoo Central graduates Morgan Dantzler, Artrell Davis, and Kevin Garcia, Daniela Garcia posed with Superintendent Dr. Michael Rice at Performaing at the Kalamazoo Central graduation: Charlotte Davis pose with their diplomas. the Loy Norrix High School 2018 commencement. Olmstead, Michael Schirripa, Ellie Matuz, and Jennifer Aguilar. 2 EXCELSIOR August 2018 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com Chancellevie Asumani: School is Life for Recent Immigrant Eighteen months ago “People don’t have good jobs. “We say, ‘Dad we don’t know Chancellevie Asumani didn’t There is no money. Kids can’t how to speak English. We don’t speak English. In late May, she study.” have any friends. We think this was sitting down to talk with Since coming to the United country is no good.’ My dad an interviewer who knows only States, her focus has been on says, ‘Don’t say that. Now you English. studying and learning English. can think it is no good, but after Asumani, 18, graduated The shy, soft-spoken girl smiles you will change what you said.’ with the Kalamazoo Central and giggles as she tries to find “Now, it’s true. I have Class of 2018 in June. the right words, the vowels friends. I love my teachers. They “I was born in Congo and proving a little tricky. Some- are so nice.” came to the United States. We times she reaches for a piece Ask her what her favorite lived in Illinois for six months, of paper because it is easier to classes are, and it appears as if then moved to Kalamazoo,” she write down the word she is all of them are her favorite: al- said. “The reason we came here thinking of rather than to say it. gebra, history, English, design. is my uncle, who showed my “I love school. It can help She would like to go to Western dad these schools. He said it was me in the future, if I study,” she Michigan University and some- good and we could study here. said. “The first time I come here, day become a doctor and be able My dad said it was OK.” it was difficult for me because I Chancellevie Asumani, who is from Congo, graduated from Kalamazoo Central to return to her homeland to She lives in Kalamazoo didn’t know how to speak Eng- this year. help the people there. with her parents Patrick Valan- lish. Then I learned English. Mr. pendent person who cares so Language wasn’t the only “My dad tells me when you cio Asumani and mother Lil- LaBudda helped me to learn how much for her family and friends. challenge she faced when they go to school it is to study, not ian Nkenge, who Asumani said to speak English. Now, it’s OK.” She will go above and beyond in moved. As the oldest child in to play. Don’t be like other stu- “help me with everything,” and If it is OK, that is because every opportunity.” her family, she left behind the dents who don’t like studying,” six younger siblings, brothers of the work Asumani has put Asumani attended school most in terms of friends and she said. “If he sees my grade Patrick and Jordan (twins) and into her studies. Kalamazoo in Congo, where she said there history. She said she was happy is no good. He’ll be mad. He Japhet, and sisters Nathalie, Central bilingual educator Ryan is no public education. Families to move to the United States, doesn’t want me to have a “C,” Jockebed and Valvalie. Her fa- LaBudda said, “Chancellevie is must pay for schooling starting but when she arrived she faced just “A” or “B.” I can explain to ther works in Grand Rapids, an exceptional student. She has with kindergarten. She is flu- the reality of no friends and no him why I have a “C” or why I while her mother has a job in overcome so many challenging ent in French and the African language skills to make friends. have work missing, and he says, Kalamazoo. obstacles and continues to face language Lingala. She began “When my dad sees me sad ‘Come sit down here and do it “We come here because in each day with a bright smile. studying English as a junior in a or my brothers or sisters sad, he with me. He says school is life. I Congo life is not good,” she said. Chancellevie is a strong, inde- school in Illinois. tells me don’t be sad,” she said. think it is true.” Adult Education UNIVERSITY 2018 GED Graduates Oksana Alyssa Engelhardt Heather O’Connor Akhmetgaleeva Roberto Gamez Skyler Pratt EARN YOUR Kristen Bowers Juan Garcia Myles Preussel Timothy Boyd Megan Gibbs Brier Pride BACHELOR’S DEGREE Tomisha Brown Marybeth Griffin Francisco Roman ON VALLEY’S CAMPUS Theodore Burchette Tyler Harris Cameron Rootes Saul Castaneda Lewis Janik Ray Sager Easy Transfer Heather Chalker Antonio King Jeremy Shilts Gifford Charleston Kasandra Klomp Skyler Slack Lower Overall Tuition Latesha Clay Angelica Mahone Samantha Naomi Collier Matt Main Slumkowski Stay Close to Home Daniel Conant Jose Martinez Liam Stacer Jasmine Conley Abril Marure- Courtney Struble NURSING LaSparkle Crosby- Cabanas Cordell Thompson Moore John McCarty Jordan Vallier Zakariyah Davis Theron McClenton David Wiggins Salina S. Colton Dellinger Rodney McElvain Dominique Wilder Heather Dubay Merrill McMullen Cody Williams Shanice Duckett Patresse Moore Shakeera Wimes Tracy Eason Caleb Murdock Kamin Esther Yago www.kalamazoopublicschools.com August 2018 EXCELSIOR 3 Thomas "Jake" Fales: A Senior Year Detour Inspired by Tragedy

Sometimes senior year ‘Finally, Congress will take a effect,” he said. doesn’t go quite as planned. stand.’ They never do.” Fales said he never would The grades, the sports, the This time the shootinghave guessed that political volunteering, the anime, the was especially hard hitting for activism would play such a photography — all of that is students, because of the use major role in his senior year. going as usual. of social media. Students at It tested his time management Then the world happens Marjory Stoneman Douglas used skills adding to a schedule and takes things slightly off social media during the assault, packed with studying for AP course. sharing their fears and videos. classes, planning prom, and That’s what happened “That got to us,” he said. going to lacrosse practice. It for Thomas “Jake” Fales, 18, “These were kids just like us. opened his world in terms of valedictorian of the Kalamazoo Students decided if adults social awareness. Central Class of 2018. were not going to do something “I learned there are so many Fales, the son of Sue and about this, “we need to put our different experiences outside Bill Fales, had a pretty standard voice out there and put pressure of school that help you learn education — albeit one marked on them to move and get things more than what you learn in by exemplary academic done.” school,” he said. “You can take achievement. He attended The group put together as many government classes as King-Westwood Elementary a Change.org petition called you want, but until you actually School and Linden Grove Middle “Students Fighting Guns are in the political process and School. Since Adults Won’t.” Thetalking to legislators and seeing In middle school he attend- goal of the petition was to it in action from the inside, ed the Academically Talented pressure lawmakers to create a you’ll never really have a full Youth Program and did so well in comprehensive and responsible grasp of how it works.” the program, which allows stu- gun control policy to create safe Cooper said, “It’s no dents to complete four years of schools. surprise to me that he continues high school English in two years The students wereto find opportunities to take Thomas "Jake" Fales was the valedictorian of the Kalamazoo Central Class of 2018. of middle school, that he was in- hoping for a couple thousand leadership positions on key vited back as a high schooler to and enthusiasm.” Central Advanced Placement signatures, but teacher Rex social issues and that he strives be a grader for the program. The hard-driving pursuit Comparative Government class, Hafer told them they should to make space for more voices. “I am really competitive. of academic excellence paid a group of students, including shoot for 500,000. I always knew he would make I’ve always liked school,” Fales off. In addition to being named Fales, formed the advocacy “We were like, that’s a hefty a difference. I love the fact that said. “I make it a competition valedictorian, Fales received a group Students for Gun goal,” Fales said. By the Friday he is showing us that there isn’t with other people but also prestigious Heyl Scholarship, Legislation. after posting the petition, the an age restriction to serving our with myself. I’ve always had which will provide a full ride “Just in the last few years, students had 3,000 signatures communities and engaging in the expectation that if I’m to Kalamazoo College, where we’ve gone through so many and had captured the attention positive change. In this way, able to do something, I should he plans to study math and different mass shootings,” Fales of local and national media, Jake embodies the best of what do it. There’s no reason why economics. He has also said. “You hear about it, and you as well as Parkland students ATYP hopes to provide students: I shouldn’t get an ‘A’ in a class committed to play lacrosse, talk about it, and you say that themselves. engagement, enlightenment, as long as I do the work. I put which he played for four years it’s tragic. Everyone gets riled “Suddenly we went from and empowerment.” the expectation on myself that at Kalamazoo Central. up and you think this will be the 3,000 to 75,000 signatures. Students For Gun Legislation anything less than what I’m But his senior year took time someone does something. Now, we’re at 280,000-plus. is still active and trying to posi- expecting is a failure.” an unexpected turn following We always think that. We think, There really was a domino tion itself to remain a high school ATYP English teacher Becky the mass shooting at Marjory movement. The Class of 2018 is Cooper said Fales stood out Stoneman Douglas High School hoping juniors take on the cause even among the very talented in Parkland, Fla. On Feb. 14, “You hear about it, and you and successfully grow the group students in the program. Nikolas Cruz, a troubled former to other school districts. “He’s an intrepid scholar, student at the school, killed talk about it, and you say “As kids we can’t vote, a great listener, a careful critic 17 people using a .223-caliber but just because you can’t — someone who remains AR-15 rifle that he carried on that it’s tragic. Everyone vote doesn’t mean you’re energized by new ideas, campus in a soft black case. disenfranchised from the someone who proves especially The massacre and resulting process,” Fales said. “This motivated to discover how his activism by Marjory Stoneman gets riled up and you was an issue we always cared studies hold relevance to the Douglas students inspired about, but we thought we were world we live in,” Cooper said. others to denounce gun think this will be the time powerless to change things. We “Whenever we explored a new violence, including students at thought adults will take care of author, Jake sought to improve Kalamazoo Central. someone does something. it. But, when we realized they his understanding of different After discussing the wouldn’t, we had to say let’s perspectives with great energy shooting in the Kalamazoo We always think that." actually do something about it.”

4 EXCELSIOR August 2018 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com Kalamazoo RESA 2018 Outstanding Senior Awards The Kalamazoo Regional NOTICE Educational Service Agency Kalamazoo Public Schools welcomes all (KRESA) honored several se- students and staff of any religion, race, niors from Kalamazoo Public color, national origin, age, sex, preg- nancy, gender identification, height, Schools at the 2018 Outstand- weight, familial status, marital status, ing Senior Awards Breakfast sexual orientation, and disability. that was held on April 26, at the The District will not tolerate or condone any act of bias or discrimina- Radisson Plaza Hotel at Kalama- Cornez Bell Lenzy Bell Justin Bradley Judith Castaneda- Bethany Dunham D'Anthony Ford tion toward any person on the basis of zoo Center. Garcia religion, race, color, national origin, Students participating in age, sex, pregnancy, gender identifi- cation, height, weight, familial status, Education for Employment marital status, sexual orientation, and (EFE) and Education for the disability in any of its activities, hiring Arts (EFA) were recognized for practices, programs or services. their outstanding participation, Inquiries by students and/or their par- performance, and leadership ents/guardians should be directed to: in their program. EFE and EFA Director of have approximately 3,500 stu- Ryan Halloran Hassan Ismaili- Tyler Keown Tabia McClenton Adrianna Mielke Spencer Miner Student Services Alaoui Kalamazoo Public Schools dents in over 40 programs. Ryan Halloran 1220 Howard Street These programs provide Kalamazoo, MI 49008 for busi- (269) 337-0161 students with skills that are in ness, man- high demand for high-wage ca- All other inquiries should be directed to: agement, reers and occupations. Students Assistant Superintendent of and admin- Human Resources were awarded scholarships istration; Kalamazoo Public Schools from community businesses, Tyler Keown 1220 Howard Street organizations, educational in- Kalamazoo, MI 49008 for ac- Xavion Murphy- Kyra Niehus-Staab Trevon Reason Brooke Teeter Brianna Wieferich (269) 337-0177 stitutions, and private donors. counting; Gill High school students have the early childhood education; Brianna Wieferich for conserva- District Directory at : Spencer Miner for construction www.kalamazoopublicschools.com option of participating in EFE trades; Bethany Dunham for account- tion biology. and EFA programs on and off Xavion Murphy-Gill for mar- ing; BOARD OF EDUCATION campus. Students interested in keting; Hassan Ismaili-Alaoui for elec- Thanks goes out to the fol- participating in EFE or EFA pro- Kyra Niehus-Staab for conser- tronics and robotics, lowing EFE and EFA instruc- President grams should contact their high vation biology; and Tabia McClenton for business, tors: Rob Roy and Michelle Patti Sholler-Barber school counselors. Trevon Reason for business, management, and adminis- Claybaugh from Kalamazoo Vice President tration; Central; and Atiba Ward, Beth Carol McGlinn management, and adminis- Kalamazoo Central honorees tratio. Adrianna Mielke for culinary Soisson, Cindy Goss, and Khar- Secretary were: arts; en Shelton at Loy Norrix, and Jennie Hill Loy Norrix honorees were: Lenzy Bell, Jr., for marketing; Cornez Bell for business, manage- Brooke Teeter for business, other county-wide instructors Treasurer Justin Bradley for carpentry; management, and adminis- helping students develop skills Ken Greschak ment, and administratio; D’Anthony Ford for marketing; tration; and for the real world. Trustee Judith Castaneda-Garcia for TiAnna Harrison Trustee Rising of the Fury Craig Herschleb By Ardriques McFerrin (read at the Phoenix High Trustee School commencement) Dr. Lauren Freedman A life full of blood, sweat, and tears SUPERINTENDENT A quiet classroom and unfamiliar faces are where we face our fears Michael F. Rice, Ph.D. A smiling teacher and a proud parent are what we wish to see Happy and praised are what we wish to be I know that a million steps don’t equal a mile but I’ll walk a billion if it makes you smile In your hearts, you have the courage to strive. If you can’t do it for yourself Do it for the five We are the future of everyone’s hopes and dreams Together we all are the Phoenix Fury team When life pushes you down with this loss get back up and remember: Still we rise. www.kalamazoopublicschools.com August 2018 EXCELSIOR 5 Loy Norrix High School Class of 2018 Griffin Douglas Abbott Jadyn Michael Hazzard Jada Kristine Turquoise John Trenton Mitchell Lydia Grace Achenbach Maria Jenine Heath Lassiter Caitlyn Michelle Moon Jasmine Alisia Alcocer Martin Julius Heath Dayton David Lay Trevor James Morgan Glenna Kaitlyn Aldag Cristina Marie Hernandez Nuru Cumi Lewis Sarah Elizabeth Leondre Parrish Mackenzie Elizabeth Hill Jordan Jenna Lewis- Morrissey Anderson Trentin Joseph Hohler Brown Ana Karina Mosqueda- Sydney Eva Apperley McKenzie Nichole Emily Ann Lewman Montoya Andrew Donovan Hollenbeck Abigail Esther Lindblade Victor Edward Moss Armenta Kristina Courtney Maxwell Scott Link Marcos Mujica Aquariez Xzayvair Atlas Hubbell Joshua Irvin Lipsey Ryan Charles Mullen Trinity Rene’ Austin Michael Lamont Hughes Antonio Lopez JR Antonette Marie Reghan Lim Seung Bailey Hassan Ismaili-Alaoui Liana Marie Luciano Murdock Nyla Isoke Baker Jaylin D’Allen Ivy Amarra Jolie Lyons Henry Michael Muscara Grace Ashlynn Barrett Kayla Mone Jackson Taya Marie Mackenzie Sofie Jaeger Nehlsen Evelyn Ann Bartley Alexander Robert Reilly Turner Malpass Natalie Renae Nelson Raymundo Salas Basurto Johnson Mitchell Edward Marcia LaShaun Nesbitt Taijjanaye Domineke- Lauren Christine Mansfield Caeleigh Ana Nooney Lashay Beamon Johnson Thomas Austin Harrison Arthur Norder Cornez Trevon Bell Kiana Shiann Jones Margeson Gabriela Ocampo Sierra Jannell Lasha Bell Lee Antwon Jones III Irma Esmeralda Martinez Alina Venitia Offerman Cameron James Belson Paul Jacob Juriga Lopez Kristin Nicole Oliver Tihnae Rayann Bennett Mayamiko Kadaluka Nyteria Antonia Massey Ferren Marie Olmsted- Catherine Claire Carter James Keck Rylen Sawyer Colby Meade Bernhardt Loy Norrix High School graduation at Wings Event Center included moments of laughter. Ava Karen Keller Matheison Erica Ama Osei Kijah Nate’ Berry Kiera Carneisha Kelly Ashley Marie Maxwell Reese Austin Palen Henry Edward Bieszk Abigail Ramirez Fati Gail Diallo Jordan Thomas Gray Megan Elizabeth Erica Sylvan Marie Robreauna LeChelle Calissa Jenae Binion Castaneda Dai Dreiona Jas’mona Taylor Rose Gray Klemchuk Mayville Antoinette Peals Fremiyah Wayneice Anthony Castaneda Dixison Seth Raymond Gruber Ian James Klesz Tabia Monae McClenton Ariel Nicole Peck Bishop Judith Castaneda Madison Sierra Doonan Abigail Theresa Guimond Erin Noel Kloostra Yalayah Unique McGee Stormie Clarice Perkins Garrett Spencer Bloom Maria Guadalupe Adam Joseph Dorstewitz Madeline Mae Guimond Edward James Mckenna Devin Marcus McMartin Julia Nichole Marie Perry Jessica Louise Boer Chavarria-Jeronimo Madison Nicole Lillian Jane Gulliver Knudsen Lilianne Marie Mead Jennifer Lynne Peterson Gaia Bogan Cadauhn Clarke JR Downham Chad Michael Harvey Aubrey Patricia Kopec Adrianna Mae Mielke Davonne Marcel Pierce II David Adel Rezkalla Bela Cole Coats Bethany Rose Dunham Adam Fadi Hassan Lucas Allen Krupianik Donquarius Dominik Rhiannon Michelle Gresa Boktor Flavia Cocchi Leah Kate Dunham Jerome William Hawkins Anna Kerr Kushner Miles Pitcock Hailey Ann Bosier Annie Cassidy-Quinn Brandy Lynn Dunigan Kolton Thorn Hazen Valerie Kay Lamb Nathan Evans Miller Nathan Drew Platte Blaise Jerrel Boulding Colburn-Jaynes Kendra Elyse Eaton Jordan Michael Larkin Allison Esther Mitchell Brenna Melanie Claire Tiana Robbi Jean Boyd La’quan Lamont Malaysia Chevonne Powell Jeremiah Rashaud Coleman-West Edwards Tarrence Lashon Powell Branscomb Quianna Lashae Collier Delaney Hicks Eller “This year, I did something phone and be involved in the JR Ahmad Savon Branson Tre Vonn Kyshon Collins Grace Pickett Erway very, very hard for me. I put world around you. Tramae Alamure Acacia Bonnie Ann Bremer Kanejia Lynnette Marie Tyarra Diamond my phone down. There is so “The reason I put down Powell William James Briggs Conner Espinoza much in this world to do, so my phone is because I Madison Marie Preussel Deontae Nathanel Lee Nicholas Scott Cosgrove Adrienne Joy Evans many places to travel, 325.7 recognized life is a journey, Karina Ramos Brooks Jackson David Couch Clayton Louis Falese million people I could meet. and on that journey, we Molly Ann Ratliff Andrew Brendan Brown Princess Cheyanne Cross Emma Lynne Fergusson Places to eat — because I all make mistakes. Nobody Tay’sha Keyana Raven Mikkala Maricela Brown Abigail Louise Dantes Jose Flores-Nunez JR love me some food. And, so is perfect — except for Fredy Herrera Raymundo Deandre Jalen Parker Jazman Maree Kenzie Madeline Fox many college events to go to. Beyonce. I just want all of Angelica Razo Joshua Nathan Reas Buchanan Davenport Sophie Helena Fox Put down your phone and you to know it’s alright to Tristen Soraya Buchino Alexa McKenzi Davis Samantha Marie Fuller Deisiana Reece go outside…. make mistakes as long as you Julien Maximillion Bryce Cameron Davis Alexis Garcia Nonato William Beh Ritter “I’ve done so much this don’t continue to make those Burdick Sonata Matisse Davis Christal Izbth Garcia Tyler Steven Rivera Kaleigh Brianne Burnett Kiernan Mark Dean-Hall Daniela Garcia year, because I put my phone mistakes. Learn from them, Fletcher Andrew Eli Ian James Burns Joshua Michael Dearman Destiny Garcia down. I’ve enjoyed every grow. These next four years Robbins James Liam Burns Isabel Marie Deary Andrew Jacob Gaunt minute of it. I was part of can be the most productive Jalen Kendale Roberts Jose’ Luis Auseklis Marah Alexandra Deary Eduard Godayol- the bowling team. I was and enjoyable you can have. TaMara Leigh Robertson Campos Branden Keith Delaney Carceller part of Link Crew. I was in They can also go by very, Drucilla Yvonne Evelyne Aubry Capt Eva Marianne Ruth Jennifer Nicole Gonzalez the musical. Put down your very quickly.” Robinson Jordyn Duane Carlton DeYoung Alexander Ryan Gray Zaviona Woodruff, Loy Norrix High School (continued on page 7)

6 EXCELSIOR August 2018 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com Loy Norrix High School Class of 2018 (continued) Heyl Scholarship Recognizes Achievement in Math and Science

Julius Dejuan Robinson JR Brooke Noelle Teeter Thirteen Kalamazoo Pub- Kaylan Nacota Robinson Rusber Iban Torres Lopez lic Schools graduates have been Sebastian Rodriguez Joseph Alexander Trimner awarded the F.W. and Elsie L. Heyl Cesar Rodriguez-Zarate Jayden Mickayla Ubl Scholarship, which provides a Julia Grace Rudlaff Maya Rae Veeder full ride to students studying the Karina Salazar Ponce Sava Michele Velkoff natural sciences, mathematics or James Anthony Samuelson Alex J. Verity computer science at Kalamazoo Diego Andres Sandoval Naomi Lee Verne College or nursing at the West- Mariah Demetra Sarelis Alex Sebastiaan Gill Vonhof ern Michigan University Bronson Diamond DarShell Shannon Jordan Lee Wallace School of Nursing. Josie Rau Shephard Amorae Dejanek Perriell Ward This year’s KPS Heyl recipi- Zackary David Sims Clifton Leon Washington JR ents are: Zachary Shane Skinner Zhi Tian Wee Evelyn Bartley, Loy Norrix Kalamazoo Public Schools 2018 Heyl Scholars, who will attend Kalamazoo Alex Kevon Smith Joseph Stephen Welch II Kaleigh Burnett, LN College and the WMU School of Nursing. Front row, from left: Sophie Fox, Samuel Ratliff, Molly Ratliff, Lillian Gulliver. Second row, from left: Evelyn Bartley, Ferren Alexander Bradley Smith Steven Andrew Welch Eva DeYoung, LN Leah Dunham, LN Olmsted-Meade, Kaleigh Burnett, Tatianna Tyler. Back row, from left: Eva Australia Shaniya’le Smith Brandon Lee Whitmore DeYoung, Leah Dunham, Madeline Guimond, Alina Offerman, Thomas Jacob Fales. Dreon Dewayne Smith Brianna Michelle Wieferich Thomas Jacob Fales, Kalamazoo lege, except for Fox, Dunham, of 2009 or later are also eligible Hayden Jay Smith Isabella Cecelia Wikle Central Olmstead-Meade, Gulliver, and to apply for the award. Henry Sullivant Snapp Emily Rose Wilger Sophie Fox, LN Burnett, who will attend WMU. Heyl winners typically have Esbeydi Amalinally Soria Parra Cody Todd Wilkins Madeline Guimond, LN KPS high school seniors — a high school GPA of 3.5 or high- Payton Clark Spinney Falon Anique Williams Lillian Gulliver, LN or seniors from other area high er; a challenging high school Nicholas Scott Srodes Matthew Valle Williams Alina Offerman, LN school or home school pro- curriculum that includes a year Catherine Elizabeth Stamper Darius Traumaine Willis Ferren Olmsted-Meade, LN grams, who also earn certificates each of biology, chemistry, and Hunter Robert Stoken Michael Dale Wilson JR Samuel Ratliff, LN (Class of 2018) of completion from the Kalama- physics, and four years of math; Ava Nicole Stoops Mey Ly Wong Molly Ratliff, LN zoo Area Math and Science Cen- an interest in science, math or Drew Harold Strand Zaviona Aiyana Woodruff Tatianna Tyler, KC ter — are eligible to apply for the nursing; strong writing skills; Amariah Simone Talley James Andrew Youngs Most of this year’s win- ners will attend Kalamazoo Col- Heyl. KPS alumni from the class and strong teacher evaluations. HiemstraHiemstra OpticalOptical Presents: thethe Focused On You KKid’sid’sZZOne!One! Featuring The Hiemstra Over Promise Warranty! 500500 Kid’s Frames To Choose From!!!

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www.kalamazoopublicschools.com August 2018 EXCELSIOR 7 Phoenix High School Keaira Rivera: Huge Change, Class of 2018 Huge Commitment to Graduation Keaira Rivera has one DaVaughn Anderson very good reason for graduat- Jaisha Anderson ing. Tarqua Benjamin Her daughter, Paris Love. Tuesday Bennett “I thought to myself, I Marcuse Bowden have to get prepared to have Tyshayvious Brown- a child, because it’s a big re- Tubbs sponsibility,” Rivera said. “A Haily Buchanan baby is someone you have to Kentajaha Burch take care of for the rest of your Jalin Burton life. You’ve got to be there for Amarii Carter them physically, mentally, Caleb Chavez everything.” Toryano Cooks Rivera, 18, graduated Elizabeth Davis this year from Phoenix High Maricela Delgadillo School. She attended Wood- Megan DeRyke ward School for Technology Jameer Emory and Research and Woods Lake Carlos Estrada Elementary: A Magnet Center Chynna Fry for the Arts, and Maple Street Dominique Gordon Phoenix High School graduate Jaisha Anderson Magnet School for the Arts. accepts her diploma. La’shae Grays- She started high school at Loy Coleman Luanne Muhammad Brad Smith Norrix High School before Da’marius Harp Alexia Muller Jada Smith transferring to Phoenix. Aleena Hawkins Ali Naeem Kailah Smith She transferred to Phoe- Frederina Howell Courtney Nelson John Spoone nix, because she knew she Dane Jacko Latayvia Nelson Dakota Stulp needed something differ- Breija Jackson Alani Palmore Michael Sykes ent than the traditional high Raekwon Jackson Malik Palmore David Taylor school setting. Keaira Rivera graduated from Phoenix High School this spring. Carington Jenkins Rashan Parker Margaret Terlesky “I just was not doing good Deshaun Johnson Chyan Perry-Horn Zakeura Thomas at Loy Norrix; I really didn’t her mother Rachelle Rivera and is worth it. There was a period Dondre Johnson Kwamari Phillips Rayven Thompson get good grades there. I was grandmother Melissa Rivera. in her pregnancy, when they Siance Johnson Shantell Primer David Tomkowiak unfocused,” Rivera said. “I’ve They supported her through worried that Paris might have Quenten Karn Ian Pryor Taysha Trice liked Phoenix every since I’ve her pregnancy and help care for a birth defect, but she was born James Keown Kennedy Rabb Nakia Turman started here. The classes are Paris, while Keaira’s at school healthy, and that’s all Rivera Ronne’ Lee Faustino Ramirez Milo Van Dyk smaller. The students are less and at work. cared about. Indiaah Leedle TaMya Raymond Phines Vaughn talkative. There are fewer stu- Phoenix helped also. The “It’s so worrying for them Tyrese Ligon Niomi Reardon Lashawna West dents, and there is more help classes are smaller and more to tell you something might Olivia Lockett Keaira Rivera Alysha White from teachers.” focused, and she likes the fact be wrong with your baby and Destiny Marshall Josiah Rockette Lamya White She was supposed to that the work is heavily focused there’s nothing you can do Ardriques McFerrin Jose Rodriguez Kiwoa Whitfield Jr. graduate in 2017, but her on completing the requirements about it,” she said. But Paris is Zairre McKinley Ryan Rose Dyondria Whitmore pregnancy put a pause on her for graduation. While 26 credits a “healthy, playful, happy baby. Ian McLeod Marisa Salinaz LeeAna Wicks plans. After giving birth, she are required to graduate from She makes silly faces and she Emmanuel Melchor Trisann Samuels Ariyona Wilson thought she might pursue a Loy Norrix or Kalamazoo Cen- laughs so much.” Damar Metcalfe Dondrell Servant Ayanna Ace Young GED, but realized she wanted tral high schools, Phoenix re- Rivera is proud of herself an actual high school diploma. quires 19 credits. for graduating. It’s been diffi- “A doctor isn’t going to continue until they “I only had a few months “You don’t have to worry cult, but she wanted to do it for to stop surgery because land the plane. Why is it in left and I thought, I might as about anything extra,” she said. herself and for Paris. things go wrong. She’s education that we feel that well finish,” she said. “As “You’re focusing on your core “It’s been kind of a chal- soon as I came back, I got on classes. The more serious you lenge for me going to school to going to continue to we should not fight with top of my classes and turned take it, the quicker you’ll be work to home to take care of save your life. A pilot, our students to the finish? everything in. I’m very happy done. If you play around, the a baby. I work from a couple when flying an airplane, We should always be I did it. It felt like I wasn’t go- longer you’re going to be here. hours after I get out of school doesn’t let go of the fighting to the finish with ing to graduate, so this feels It’s not bad.” until midnight. It’s so good that wheel because things are our young people.” like a big accomplishment.” The last year of high school my family is willing to help me, crazy. He or she is going Mark Hill, principal, But she knows she didn’t as a new mother has been chal- so I can work and provide for Phoenix High School do it alone. She gives credit to lenging, but Rivera says Paris her.”

8 EXCELSIOR August 2018 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com Jordan Larkin: The Power of Sports Helped Him Stay on Track Jordan Larkin admits it. track. I really do believe in this case his family who have done a phenomenal He was a bad kid. dedication to his sports teams helped job raising him, and most importantly “I didn’t want to be, but I didn’t solidify all his achievements.” a testament to Jordan for making the care for school at the time,” Larkin said. Larkin said, “The coaches helped decision to grow, and putting forth the “I just didn’t take it seriously.” a lot.” Farmer helped him stay on his consistent effort it takes to make it a One thing helped him find focus and game and he made him keep his grades reality,” Covault said. “Jordan is a really change his trajectory: sports. up. Basketball coach Matt Covault was good athlete but more important, he’s an Larkin, graduated this spring always talking to him, offering positive exceptional human being. from Loy Norrix High School. When he advice. Track coach Ted Duckett, told “Athletically, he was always a great leaves high school, he’ll leave a hole in him “Nothing in life will come to you. teammate and was a pleasure to coach several sports. He was a cornerback on You have to go get it.” because he has a tireless work ethic, he the football team as a junior and senior. “Plus, I was seeing everyone was humble, and he was always willing He played basketball in ninth and 12th graduate,” he said. “It made me want to to listen and improve.” grade. He ran the 200, the 4x100 and the stay with my grade.” In addition to his coaches, Larkin 4x200, and participated in high jump in “Once I grew one year, it seemed said it was his friends and fellow his junior and senior year. like I just started taking it real serious, so seniors who got him through school, “My freshman year, I barely made I could get where I am today.” from Parkwood-Upjohn Elementary the basketball team because of my Larkin graduated in June and plans School to Milwood Magnet School to grades,” Larkin said. “I needed to get to attend Kalamazoo Valley Community Loy Norrix. His best friends included serious but I still messed up after that.” College in the fall. He’ll try for a walk-on Darius Willis, Lee Jones, Xavier Gillon, It was his junior year and making position with the basketball team. Deandre Buchannan, Trevonn Collins, the football team that turned things “He has made tremendous growth Deontae Brooks, Dreon Smith, and C.J. Jordan Larkin poses for a photo following the Loy around for him. Norrix High School senior candlelight ceremony. as a student, as an athlete, and as a Washington. “When I met Jordan he seemed person during his four-year high school “They’re teammates. You get a good to be pulled in a lot of directions,” at that time seemed to propel him into experience at Loy Norrix which is a bond with them,” he said. “It’s fun said football coach Terry Farmer. “His some consistency. After that I saw testament to the entire staff at Loy Norrix playing with someone that you’re cool commitment to the football program him continue it on basketball, then who have helped him along the way, his with. I call them my brothers.”

www.kalamazoopublicschools.com August 2018 EXCELSIOR 9 Kalamazoo Central High School Class of 2018 Fatimah Raed Abdullah Anaia Lachelle Hawkins Austin Michael Kelley Yasmin Aaliyah Tyce Thomas Wayne Genovese Abdullah-Bush Hawkins Del Eugene Steven Kelly Jada Imen Abraham Malik God’Di Hawkins Julia Tressa Kemple- Jennifer Aguilar Samuels Johnson Malek Abdulrahman Phillip JeQwan Heard Tyler Mathew Keown Hussein Ahmed Makenna Sue Henke Breanne Michelle Hanan Ali Habeeb Alattar Matthew Richard Killingsworth Tyreese Darnell Touche Hennessy Craig James King Alexander Jackson Maurice Henning Marshall Munroe Klein Walaa Abdullah Alnakhli Peri Jane Herder Alena Thea-Marie Briana Juliet Alvarado Turner Alexander Hice Kocefas Arif Hussain Amini Nick Rowan Hill Kennedy Joy Kubiak Aaron Quintel Anderson Madyson Reilly Hoffman Kristen Nicole Kuhtic Anthony Quintet Claudia Kathryn Sydney Anne Lajiness Anderson Holewinski Bryanna Nikole Lamb Tyrese Trevon Anderson Keiasha DaShae Holloway Jacob Mitchell-Molitor Zanae Sharee Anderson Benjamin Robert Holmes Lampros Zara Samone Anderson Brooke Adaline Hoover Tyler James-Molitor Arielle Elizabeth Andrews Najasha Ashanae’ Horn Lampros Thomas Michael Ankley Osazuwa Idemudia Gregory Tim Langsdale Chancellevie Ann Mohammed Majed Jaber Hailie Whitney Launius Asumani Kalamazoo Central graduates, and best friends, Craig King, Jeffrey Hall, Aiden Stacer, and Jacob Seager pose after Taylor Kathryn Jansheski Tyra Gabrielle Lee commencement at Wings Event Center. Saquaya Jhane Baker James Albert Jeffries III Larry Leon Leipzig-Freed Luis Raziel Barbosa Allen Chris Camarillo Aliyah Nicole Dunigan Bria Suzanne Gibson Grayson Olivia Grove Allison Marie Jimenez Mayra Alejandra Leon Andrew Somoring Andru Devon Carlisle Raynard Alan Dunigan Kenya Ode Gilbert Victoria Elizabeth Guanon Cian Hall Johnson Torres Barkman Alaiyah Ashley-Renee Tamia Callie Nicole Shayla Joan Gilland Anna Elaine Gunnerson Hunter C Johnson Jeffrey Lance Lillard Audrey Harriet Barnard Carpenter Dunigan Maurice Javay Gilmer- Helen Bahia Haddad Iesha Rakia Johnson Austin Zeeaun Lim Riley Joseph Barnum Jaden Terrell Carter Shaqulia Rageen Dunning Jackson Noah Parker Haines Jakaria Keymon Johnson Kennedy Grace Livers Olivia Marie Battani Zjanice Chanel Sharonne Kamari Aneko Earl Shyanna Marie Givans Elizabeth Ann Hall Jeremiah Irwin Johnson Thomas Earl Lockhart Adam Michael Bau Carter Airel Elizabeth Echols Reuben Arturo Glasser Jeffrey Jermyn Hall Erin Ree’nai Jones Monyea Carmen Logan Jillian Rose Bell Nolan Tyler Casey Talia Naomi Edmonds Nathaniel Hadi Ryan Patrick Halloran Jalen Lamar Jones Mikayla Shiree London Lenzy Duray Bell William Mitchell Cathcart Owen Henry Edwards Goenawan Kamarria Danyale Zoe Francine Jonker Rigoberto Lopez Thomas Sheridan Berkley Maya Louise Chappell Keontae Jaquan Embra- Jennifer Esmeralda Hampton Jacob William Juhnke Jarel Lasairian Luckett My’kail Ramon Bigby Tomeajia Alayzanea Hobbs Gonzalez-Diaz Nate’ Adrionna Harris Victoria Lynn Kalisiak Alyssa Rachel Mabry Christopher Braley Chatman Megan Andriece Kennedy Grace Goudie Ethan Andrew Haskins Andy Kaliyati Keyana Ashayla Lavinia Blackmore Deztanee Alfreadia Cobb Engelman Robqueze LeSiah Green Connor Anthony Corshawn Dontrell Kates Mackerel Jenna Marie Bowker Lamontre Kaewaun Andreas Scott Engstrom Ethan Scott Gregory Havenaar Jeyvona Jtoi Kelley Ashlynne Brianne Dillon Patrick Boyd Coker Amr Muneer Faraj Maneke Naiila Ski Boyd Iyannah Khaliya Collins Masoud Estanbooli Troy Allen Marble “Runners are fascinating willing to finish? Derek Marshall Bradley Aviounce Compton Kenry Lee Evans Anna Louise Justin Paul Bradley Destinnee Ariah-Janae Thomas Jacob Fales creatures. We bond through “Change is going to Mastenbrook Elijah Malik Bragg Cotton-Smith Aaron Stewart Felcyn appreciation and pain and happen. I think change Ellie Katheryn Matuz Meshia Marie Branson Aliyah Shianne Cox Anthony Augustino Filer acknowledging one another must begin with the future Jordan Renell Mays Tyanna Ashlee Earl Lee Cox Josephine Elle Fonger with a slight nod as we pass of thoughtful and engaged Tianna Janell McClenton Brodhagen Steven Bernard Crawley D’Anthony O’neil Ford each other on the same individuals who are willing Isreal David-Amir Jordan Amber De’Nayah Abram Eugene Dancer Kiara Shawnice Ford trail — or when every single to work hard and conquer McCurtis Brooks Warren Eugene Aaron Andre Fox runner passes me. those obstacles that may Adrian Don McGill Dailon Alexander Brown Dandridge Breanna Lee Franks “But that didn’t matter. stop you from finishing the Noah Joseph McGuire Daquasha Arlean Brown Morgan Nicole Dantzler Calvin James Freeland What mattered was finishing race. And now the future Keagin Joseph Michael Sean Michael Freeling McKeon Kayleisha Marie Brown A’trelldemil R Davis the race, and I did, eventually is sitting right in front of Krysten Marie Brown Kevin Duane Davis Haley Margaret French Spencer Ronald Miner finish a race. I was the last me. We are the change Tania Alexis Brown Sean Cameron Davis Ontario Paul Fry Andrejs James Talbot person to finish, but when to carry Kalamazoo and Diamond Mercedes Jacob Wayne Derr Alliyah Kellis Gardner Minka Buchanan Benjamin Christopher Frida L Gascon my feet touched the finish America into the future. Victoria Karen Talbot Ceintia Maria Buissa Dickens Julia Ghazal line, I received praise because Class of 2018 go forth and be Minka J’lin Lee Burns Nichole Ariyanna Myannah Ahmier Gibbs I didn’t give up. I chose to changers of the world.” Eddie Elijah-Harrison Zion Kierre Burton Dickerson Brady Thomas Kimseng never give up. Why start Jeremiah Johnson, Mitchell Keegan T Cahill Djoremma Corillo Dill Gibson something if you’re not Kalamazoo Central High School (continued on page 11)

10 EXCELSIOR August 2018 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com Kalamazoo Central High School Class of 2018 (continued)

Mohammad Arian Chamique Nichole Perry Michael Dennis Schirripa Damonte’ Terryonce Assia Janea Watson Kalamazoo Lavanway Mohmand Da’najah Sade Perry- Mia Claire Schwartz Kaman Streeter Noah Charles Weiss Ryan James Monk Gibson Jacob Andrew Seager Jonathan Keegan Sullivan Artrelle D White Innovative Di’Amond Daion Moore Madeline Joy Peterson Abigail Jane Seiler Archie Rozelle Swindle Desiree Nicole White Jonathon Tyler Moore Nathan James Peterson Mitchell James Seiler Hunter Blake Tanner Tyreese De Ontae Learning Program Nejaya Vanessa Moore Constantin Nikos Delores Deva Shackelford Deidre Love Taylor Whitfield Anacaren Morales Philopoulos Ethan Bradley Sherfield Orlando Mario Taylor DaSante’ Lamar Whitley Chasara Charmae Alma Rosa Piccone Noah Alexander Sherman Davyn Symone Thomas Aliah Kaylee Nikia 2018 Graduates Morgan Almonacid Rachelle Calinda Sims Erica Marie Thomas Williams Jackelinne Guadalupe Amezcua-Gascon Jackson Clark Morrison Samara Shay Portrum Rochelle Calisa Sims Kayla Angel Thomas Dontavia Shaquaya Robert William Brown Amayiah Nasha Morton Khyreef Kofi Powell Gurparkash Singh Kareem Harrison Thorpe Williams Nathan Michael Campbell India Cheyenne Mullen Trinity Nicole Powell Melissa Camille Smaling Kiara Latrice Thurman Kamarey Monna Williams Mikiesha Davionya-Darcia Clark Destiny Rose Munoz Darius D’mon Pruitt Arieanna Ceantel Smith Nichael Anthony Todd Kendric Don Juan Devin Keith Corner Xavion D Murphy-Gill Marc Anthony Pulphus Ashley Marie Smith Ramiro Torres-Ventura Williams Nathaniel Lee Johnson Makayla Ann Myles Trevon Rayshawn Jalen Micheal Smith Jeffery Lee Trainer Kevon Rayjon Williams Jada Monaa-Dynashia Mitchell Erich Ryan Naidoo Reason Marcus Terrell Smith Tatianna Alicia Tyler Brendan Caleb Flor Celeste Roman-Ocampo Julia Ragual Naranjo Sodiq Rahimi Shaun Michael Smith Nathan Lawson Willoughby Dominique Elizabeth Ollis Kyra Leigh Niehus-Staab Amyah Nycole Reed Patrick James Smoker Vanderberg Makenna Marie Wilson Bradley James Chaldwell Whitlock Ashley Marie Northrop Naya Jazzlyn Reynolds Christopher Edward Austin Samuel Joseph Brandon Michael Wolfe Xavier Jadan Louis Williams Benedict Rugendo Bianey Magdalena Snyder VanTuyl Markiela Monea Nsenga Ricardo Caleb Madison Staje Sonice Vanzant- Woodson Maria Isabel Nunez Tatianna Morrison Rice Sokolowski Hadley Delsin Jelani Wright Owen Cyrus O’Neil Raquel Renee Richardson William Joseph Soltes Justin Taylor Varda Shontay Dasnay Wright Charlotte Nichole Stone Edward Vega Rojas Niajha O Spurlock Emily Nicole Vargas Shayonae Yarbrough Olmstead Ryan Waweru Rugano Aidan Daniel-Meixner Kennedy Diane Walker Jhakiyah Jhashay Lindsey Marie Oostema Bryce Allan Russcher Stacer Sarah Marie Wallace Yarbrough-O’bryant Lesley Alayne Ovalles Amarah Samone Russell Darryn Emory Dominic Robert Dishon Ware III Gabriel Ian Ybarra Alexa Ja’net Paiz Osorio Asha Iman Sadiq Steele Amir Dontae Washington Mohamad Nour Ahmad Kendra Leigh Parkman Alejandro Rosendo Ty’rell Antonio Stegall Lakaria M Washington Zabib Nathaniel Johnson shakes hands with Kalamazoo Public Schools Board Vice President Carol McGlinn at Luis David Paz Salazar Patric Alan Stevens Ashton Cole Watkins Alexa McKenzie Zach the commencement ceremony for the Kalamazoo Niyah Khaliah Perin- Idrees Muhammad Fred Kanequewa Dayi Joyce Alexandrea Angela Alexandra Jade Zaczek Innovative Learning Program. Taylor Schieber Renee Steward Michelle Watson Yarely Isabel Zamora Enroll in The Loy Norrix Child Care Center for 2018-19 Is your child ready for pre- is $160 a week for full-time care, school? The Loy Norrix Child $105 a week for half-day care, Care Center, a five-star rated and $43 a day. Two snacks and Kalamazoo County Ready 4s lunch are provided for full-time program, is accepting appli- students. cations for childcare and pre- The school accepts 3- and school for 2018-19. 4-year-olds. Students must be The center is located inside toilet-trained. School district res- Loy Norrix High School, 606 E. idency is not required for the pro- Kilgore Road. Open 7 a.m. to gram, which is open to the public. 5:30 p.m., LNCCC offers full- For more information, day and half-day enrollment, call Stephanie Ludwig at (269) as well as a daily rate. Tuition 337-0264.

LNCCC is open to any child, regardless of residency.

www.kalamazoopublicschools.com August 2018 EXCELSIOR 11 Alexander Smith: Life Is a Song — An Aria To Be Exact One day after church Al- This summer Smith spent One of his challenges is that exander Smith spent some time five weeks studying with the as a singer, his “instrument” is talking to a family friend who Oberlin in Italy Program, still developing. was making a career as an opera studying Italian and performing “Your voice changes so singer. the role of the King of Scotland much,” Smith said. “When Afterward, his mother in Handel’s opera “Ariodante.” I started I was a tenor. Now, asked him, “Would you ever “It will be my first real ex- I’m like a bass baritone. I don’t want to do that?” posure to singing opera versus know where I’ll go from here. It He remembers saying, a recital with just you on stage. could go up to a tenor again or “They’re like … OK, but no.” I’m really excited to be a part of down to a full bass. Right now The friend happened to be that.” I’m doing baritone repertoire. opera singer Meredith Arwady, Smith, 18, grew up sur- I’m just doing the best that I who has sung with the Metro- rounded by music. His mother can.” politan Opera, the San Francisco Wendy Rose is a professor of He started by singing art Opera, and Oper Frankfurt. She bassoon at Western Michi- songs, which he still performs. graduated from Loy Norrix High gan University. His father Brad He’s hoping for more opportu- School, which is where Smith Smith is an oboist and English nities to sing opera, while at the graduated from this spring. In horn player and supervisor of same time being protective of the fall, he is attending Oberlin the woodshop at WMU’s Gwen his voice as it continues to grow College & Conservatory to study Frostic School of Art. Smith at- and mature. He said he might Alexander Smith was the Kalamazoo Junior Symphony Orchestra concerto vocal performance, which in his tended Winchell Elementary winner in 2017, and played with the KJSO as a cellist. look at doing more musical the- case means … opera. School and Maple Street Magnet ater, but right now he’s tak- “It’s funny how things School for the Arts. While a stu- It was during one of those on voice, Smith still plays cello ing care to focus on the healthy work out,” Smith said. “As I dent at Loy Norrix, he dual en- auditions, that someone sug- and recently finished his sixth growth of his voice as he seeks grew up I had a new apprecia- rolled at WMU. gested he begin taking voice season with the Kalamazoo Ju- more training. tion for it. The way that they are His first instrument was lessons. nior Symphony Orchestra. Wherever the future takes able to produce such a sound is cello, which he began playing He began lessons when he “When playing the cello, him, he said he’s grateful for incredible. Hearing people sing with instructor Grace Fields and was a freshman and for the past you use the bow back and forth one thing: his parents. live is a whole different experi- the Suzuki Academy of Kalama- several years has studied with with phrasing,” he said. “With “They would support me ence, that gave me a whole new zoo when he was 3. Dr. Ken Prewitt, chair of the the voice, it’s sort of a similar doing anything. They’d be be- perspective to singing opera. He made his stage debut voice area at WMU. thing. There’s no bow involved, hind me. When I was younger “When you hear a special as an actor when he was 8 in “Alex Smith is a remarkable but you really have to think of I thought I wanted to be in the voice, it’s like something out a performance of “Alexander talent. His voice is mature, rich the phrases. Sometimes when biomedical field. They were sup- of this world. I don’t want to and the Terrible, Horrible, No and beautiful. He is also a good I’m singing, I can visualize porting me through that. At dif- sound like super out there, but Good, Very Bad Day” with the musician, able to learn diffi- phrases as if I were playing them ferent phases, I thought maybe I it’s really something special Kalamazoo Civic Youth Theatre. cult music and make sense of it, on the cello and vice versa. And wanted to study law or history, whenever I hear someone like Whenever he felt the need to singing with beauty and under- for my voice, because I’m a and they were like, ‘Oh yeah, Meredith sing. It’s a whole new expand his horizons, he’d try standing,” Prewitt said. baritone, I feel like my sound is then you should do that.’ It’s re- inspiration.” another Civic show. Although his focus is now really reminiscent of a cello.” ally awesome to have that.”

“I want to honor those who go through “I want to recognize the students high school and barely get recognition who ride the school bus or even the for anything. I want to recognize the city bus and sit on that bus twice a students with tough backgrounds, who day and do their homework, some of use their past struggles as motivation to them because they have a household become something. These students use and a family to take care of when they their backgrounds as motivation to give get home. These students tonight may their future children more than they not have cords on their gowns, or NHS had growing up. I want to recognize hoods on their shoulders, or medals on the students who have to work eight their chests, but just like every other hours a day in addition to school to student, they have earned their cap help their families. I want to recognize and gown and diploma and that truly is the students whose parents can’t take something amazing.” them to school or who don’t even have Julie Naranjo, parents to take them to school. Kalamazoo Central High School At the Kalamazoo Central graduation; front from left, Da’najah Perry-Gibson and Samara Portrum; back from left, Alexandrea Watson and Assia Watson enjoy hanging out before the ceremony begins.

12 EXCELSIOR August 2018 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com Adam Dorstewitz: Excelling — While Learning that Perfect Isn't Always Possible Sometimes the most he said. “The kids here are and his parents Gail and Troy valuable lesson may be learning phenomenal. So, it’s been an Dorstewitz were always there you’re not the best after all. interesting experience finding encouraging him, quizzing Adam Dorstewitz was my place within the system him on math and science facts, always a good student — well, and recognizing that you can be telling him school came first. better than good. He knows smart and you can be fantastic But in his heart, sports were that people would talk about at one thing, but you don’t have his first love. He remembers how smart he was and how they to be the best at everything.” he loved hockey first, then expected him to have the best In many ways, he says he basketball, but it was baseball test scores. was prepared for the KAMSC that became his sport starting in That’s a nice feeling, but it’s experience, because he also first grade. also an unrealistic view to have participated in the Academically “I got into Little League of yourself. Talented Youth Program. That and that was it. I have not For Dorstewitz, his most program, which provides missed playing a season since important learning experiences accelerated high school math then,” he said. “And, starting have been situations in which and English classes for middle in sixth grade, I played on he had to accept his limitations. school students, was the initial multiple teams. Baseball is my Dorstewitz graduated in eye-opener, the first real lesson everything.” June from Loy Norrix High that memorization would get Not only did Dorstewitz School and the Kalamazoo Area him only so far. love to compete in athletics, Math and Science Center. He Still, his freshman and it’s been a great motivator in attended Winchell Elementary sophomore years at KAMSC his studies — whether it was his and Maple Street Magnet School were a learning curve. parents telling him that he had for the Arts. This fall he plans to “I worked really hard to keep his grades up to play attend Kalamazoo College. to achieve the standards, I sports or him using sports as a “For most of my school thought I was going to be able to reward for writing that paper life, people reacted strongly if maintain,” he said. “I realized or doing 15 more minutes of I didn’t get a perfect score or shortly afterwards that even if physics review. when they do better than I do. I maintained that work level, “Sports are my reset,” There’s this shock reaction, my grades wouldn’t necessarily he said. “I’ll write a page of a which has been interesting,” substantiate it. I could still make paper then set a timer and play he said. “I’ve made this joke for a couple of mistakes on a test basketball for 15 minutes.” years. There are these twins, that would drop my grade. The lefty pitches and plays Maddy and Abby Guimond. “I had to find a way to first base because he said, he’s Those two were often thebe happy with grades that at “too slow to go anywhere else.” Adam Dorstewitz graduated from Loy Norrix and KAMSC. He sits at the top of standard of excellence back one point in time I would have KAMSC’s iconic 84 steps - the four flights of stairs every KAMSC student climbs to He played four years for Loy when I was at Winchell. I felt thrown a tantrum over, because enter the math and science program. Norrix (as well as three years of like I was always trying to chase I just didn’t accept a grade any varsity tennis). He hopes to play them. I was like, ‘Hey, they’re less than an A.” who had a couple of extra years letter grade,” Dorstewitz said. baseball for Kalamazoo College. smart.’” Chemistry. Physics. He of math or just had a better “But, I’m fine with backing off Loy Norrix coach Rob Dorstewitz said that he long didn’t always get the grade that understanding of the teacher a little bit and knowing that I’m Pincus said he has been lucky recognized that part of what he wanted, but he got grades he or material. I had to learn to human and cannot be perfect at to have Dorstewitz on his team made school easy for him was could be proud of. compete just against myself.” everything.” not only because of his baseball an incredible memory. Some “My goal at KAMSC was to But everyone handles the That sounds insightful and skills but because of who he is. students need to be given an achieve the highest grade that challenge differently, he said. mature for an 18-year-old, but “He’s a good baseball player equation and practice problems I could in everything, but to “I know other students perhaps not that amazing when and a heck of a pitcher. If you so they can understand how to recognize that it’s not a tragedy who drive themselves into the he explains that academics compare his stats to others in manipulate the math. or awful if you don’t get the best ground out of worry and the have never really been his the league he’s up there with “Up until Algebra II, pre- grade. It’s a lesson to be learned need to get that exceptional great love. It was important, some of the better pitchers in calc, if you showed me an and then move on,” he said. our division and conference,” equation two times, and I got That can be a hard lesson “Seniors you are a talented group of individuals that Pincus said. “And, he’s a leader a practice problem, that was — especially if you’re highly can truly bring it. You can bring it in academics, and a student of the game. He it,” he said. “I could memorize competitive. gives 100 percent on the field. art and athletics. As I told you at our candlelight it. I could use it. That was all I “If I were to name my most He is one of our most respectful ceremony, continue to be respectful, responsible, needed.” fatal flaw, it would be that I want and dedicated players. That changed when heto compete at everything,” he and resilient. There is a big world out there. Know “As a coach, especially at enrolled in KAMSC. said. “There was an adjustment who you are. Remember to change the world, and the high school level, that’s all “The first 30 seconds were period when I came to KAMSC don’t let the world change you.” you can ask for. I was blessed as all I needed to realize I was not and expected to be the best and I Johnny Edwards, interim principal, a coach to have him. He’s a great even in the Top 10 percent,” tried to compete with these kids Loy Norrix HS, KPS director of secondary education kid.” www.kalamazoopublicschools.com August 2018 EXCELSIOR 13 Madison Holmer: Exploring Early Middle College, Finding Rewards Madison Holmer doesn’t trict, and students who gradu- Holmer said. “Pretty much all remember a lot about the first ate still have the full 10 years of of my friends are people I’ve Early Middle College meeting the Kalamazoo Promise for fur- met through shows. I’m getting she attended. ther study. recognized in the community “I’m pretty sure that along Holmer said it wasn’t too because I’ve done shows at the with most people, when they difficult for her to give up time Kalamazoo Civic.” said it’s a fifth year of high at Loy Norrix to attend KVCC Some of her past produc- school, I stopped paying atten- classes. “If anything, I bragged tions have included “Bye Bye tion,” she said with a smile. But about the fact that I wasn’t in Birdie” at Loy Norrix, and “A she took the materials home, high school for this (past) year,” Midsummer’s Night Dream” at and her mother saw the infor- she said. “The thing that is re- Norrix and the Kalamazoo Civic. mation and told her to take a ally different for me, is that ev- Holmer moved to Kalama- closer look at the program. eryone wants to be here (in the zoo Public Schools in third “She said this looks like KVCC classes).” grade, attending Parkwood- it could be really good for you At KVCC, she focused on Upjohn Elementary School, since you don’t know what you art classes for her graphics de- Milwood Magnet School: A Cen- want to do. Use this as a step- sign certificate, taking art, ter for Math Science and Tech- ping stone, a back-up plan,” Adobe Illustrator, typography, nology, and then Loy Norrix. Holmer said. and ad concept development. Her parents are Heather and Holmer, 18, walked in the Although she initially planned Tom Holmer, and she works Loy Norrix High School gradu- to earn an associate’s degree part-time in the family business ation in June, although techni- in graphic design, late in the Rocket Fizz, a candy and soda cally, she won’t graduate until 2017-2018 school year, she took store in downtown Kalamazoo. Madison Holmer says she bragged about attending Kalamazoo Valley Community next year when she completes a psychology class as part of College while still in high school. Most of her classes have been at KVCC’s New Her performing life and her Early Middle College next year. her general education require- Media Center in downtown Kalamazoo. nontraditional experience with By enrolling in EMC for two or ments. She enjoyed the class so EMC have taught her that, “ev- more years, students can earn much, she shifted gears to earn a experience, answering ques- ties with friends and extracur- eryone is so focused on them- a high school diploma and pro- design certificate and will focus tions and offering guidance on riculars. She took forensics as selves, a lot of times they aren’t fessional certificate or an asso- the rest of her time at KVCC on tasks such as registering for a freshman and began compet- going to judge you for who you ciate’s degree from Kalamazoo completing general education classes. ing that year with the Norrix are. Even if they do, you have to Valley Community College in requirements in preparation for Starting college as a high forensics team. She started in realize that when they’re judg- 35 subjects ranging from weld- enrolling in an undergraduate school junior can be over- dramatic interpretation, moved ing you for who you are, that ing to culinary arts to biology. program in psychology at Alma whelming, “but my suggestion to prose as a sophomore and just means they’re not comfort- When Holmer finishes next College in the fall of 2019. is just talk to everyone when competed in duo as a junior and able with themselves.” year, she will have not only her EMC helped her adjust to you need them. They’re there senior. Susan Benton, a retired Loy high school diploma but also a college life. The program in- to help you. Make sure you use “I really enjoyed taking Norrix counselor, said, “Madi- certificate in graphic design. cludes “pathway advisors,” your support system,” she said. forensics because that got me son was really courageous and The costs of the program who meet with students and While she was removed into theater, which has be- willing to explore new op- are covered by the school dis- help them navigate the college from Loy Norrix, she kept up come a huge part of my life,” portunities as a student in the EMC program. She has such a friendly, cool, and collected manner, you’d never know she is balancing a lot at a young age. Madison has earned a 4.0 in all of her college classes this year. She has really set an excellent example and has paved the way for others to follow in the EMC program.” Taking the new path, Hol- mer said, can be exciting and rewarding. “I definitely suggest it to other people, because I know a lot of people who aren’t quite sure what they want to do, but they have things that interest them. They could definitely do what I’m doing.” Erin Kloostra gets a hug after the Loy Norrix High School Colton Dellinger, teacher Dana Gay, and Kristen Bowers pose for a photo before the Adult commencement. Education commencement 2018.

14 EXCELSIOR August 2018 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com Julia Kemple-Johnson: The Fire-In-Her-Blood Girl At the National Mock Trial been a powerhouse in the event ing for gun control and a stu- competition, a Reno attorney for decades. The team has won dent protest on gun violence. was looking for Julia Kemple- 20 state championships and has Until her senior year she Johnson. represented its state at nationals was active in sports, at various She told people she was more than any other team. times playing softball, volley- looking for the “fire-in-her- This year’s national cham- ball and swimming. She was in blood girl.” pionship was held in Reno, Ne- National Honor Society, volun- Kemple-Johnson liked that vada, and Kalamazoo Central teered with Link Crew, and at- description so much, she used took fifth in the nation. Last tended KAMSC. “fire-in-her-blood” to deco- year the team placed second in In the wake of the Cam- rate her cap for graduation. the nation, as it did for three bridge Analytical scandal on Not bad for a girl who al- straight years from 2006 to Facebook, she hopes to com- most gave up on mock trial after 2008. It won the national cham- bine her interest in law with her her freshman year, when she pionship in 1996. background in computer sci- was designated a team alter- Although Kemple won the ence to help craft laws regard- nate. This year, she bested 150 title of Best Witness in the 2017 ing technology. other students to be named the national contest, that’s not her “The law definitely hasn’t Best Attorney in the national favorite role. kept up with the technology,” competition. Last year, she was “I like being an attorney Kemple-Johnson said. “What- named Best Witness. and exploring the flaws in (the ever you do, of course you want The 2018 Kalamazoo Cen- opposition’s) argument. I like to make money, but you also tral High School and Kalamazoo the critical thinking aspect of want to do as much good as you Area Math and Science Cen- it,” she said. “I like to show off. can.” ter graduate will be attending “When you’re doing the Kalamazoo Central social Michigan State University in the direct examination, you’re not studies teacher and NHS advisor fall, entering the James Madi- the star. On the cross examina- Rex Hafer does not doubt that son College. She hopes to study tion, you’re the star. And when she will succeed on both counts. constitutional law and comput- you’re closing, all eyes are on “She not only brings the er science. you. You get five minutes to pull traditional strong knowledge In addition to studying at it all together and to make your Julia Kemple-Johnson poses with the trophy she won at the National High School of content but also strong em- KC and KAMSC, she attended case sound bulletproof.” Mock Trial Championship held in Reno, Nevada, this spring. pathy as well as the ability to Spring Valley Center for Ex- Mock trial coach Francis Bi- understand what is going on in ploration, King-Westwood El- lancio said if there were a mock state championships corre- mock family. We spend more other parts of the world,” Hafer ementary School, and Linden trial hall of fame, Kemple-John- spond with Julia’s participation time with the team than our ac- said. “Every day she shows how Grove Middle School. Her par- son would have a place in it. on the team. I haven’t superla- tual families.”) but she’s made her determination and pas- ents are Chrissie Kemple and “Any time Julia sets foot tives enough to describe Julia’s room for other studies and ac- sion have shaped her character Jeremiah Johnson, and she has into the well of the courtroom, work ethic, leadership and her tivities as well. This year, she and outlook on life. I most ap- five brothers and sisters. she quickly earns the well-de- level of mastery of all aspects of also put her interest in the law preciate how despite anything Mock trial is an extracur- served respect of any opposing our mock trial competitions.” and social justice to a real world else that goes on in life, she ricular activity in which stu- team and the judges,” Bilan- Mock trial has certainly test. She was one of the students will not let herself be brought dents study the legal system cio said. “It is no accident that taken up most of her time in who helped lead the student down or fail at anything by preparing both sides of a Kalamazoo Central’s last three school, (“We joke that we’re a body’s work on a petition call- that she puts her mind to.” court case and arguing the case against other student teams. While part of the competition is performance, it also requires an understanding of the Federal Rules of Evidence. “You study the entire case and prepare both sides,” she said. “When we first read through the case, we come up with different legal routes to take. “In competition, each round you’re randomly as- signed a side. The case isn’t al- ways argued the same, so you have to adjust on the fly.” Phoenix High School graduates smile together, from left, Aleena Hawkins, Chyan Perry- Kalamazoo Central has Jalen Roberts marches in the Loy Norrix High School commencement. Horn, Tyrese Ligon, and Amanii Carter. In the back is Quenten Karn. www.kalamazoopublicschools.com August 2018 EXCELSIOR 15 Alexandrea Watson: School Supports Inspire a Desire to Study Social Work Alexandrea Watson wants to be a her life, however she’s risen and moved what I was doing right.” social worker, because she knows first forward with conviction.” Teachers need take time to under- hand how important they can be in a Watson remembers her sophomore stand their students and their problems, young person’s life. year as being particularly challenging. She she said. She knows teaching is a hard Watson, 18, graduated from Ka- was skipping class and getting in trouble for job, but sometimes, she said, “you have lamazoo Central this spring. She plans to fighting, including several suspensions. to stick with the kid through it all. Even- attend Southwest Michigan College and “My first foster mom had to talk to tually, they’ll crack and tell them what’s then transfer to Ferris State University to me,” she said. “If you keep doing this, going on. You should get to know the kid earn a degree in social work. you’re going to get on punishment and before you think they’re such a horrible For the past five years, she has lived it’s not hurting anyone but yourself. child. A lot are just going through a lot in foster care. There were times, she said, When you become a senior and they say and crying for help.” she really struggled and thought about you can’t graduate, you’re going to be Watson took that advice herself, dropping out. But it was relationships mad and hurt. You need to get yourself when she found that some of her young- with caring adults that helped her stay together and graduate.” er siblings were struggling in school. She on track and to graduate. Luckily, she said, she found advo- knew they were dealing with the same Among those who were influential cates in Boggan and Baarda. Boggan went frustrations and disappointment of be- were principal Valerie Boggan, Commu- out of her way to form a bond with Wat- ing separated from their mother. nity in Schools KC coordinator Deb Yar- son. Baarda helped her navigate school, “I kept pushing through for my sib- borough, and teacher Michelle Baarda. giving her advice and guidance to stay on lings. I didn’t want them to feel like, my “Alexandrea is the picture of re- top of her work. mom did this and my sister is going to do Alexandrea Watson was in foster care throughout silience, maturity and perseverance,” her high school career, but she said caring Most importantly, “She was always the same. I wanted to be a role model for Yarborough said. “Alexandrea has faced teachers and staff helped her graduate despite hearing me out,” Watson said. “She was them. I had to stop doing what I was do- some challenging situations throughout the challenges of her home life. telling me what I was doing wrong and ing so they could do better.” Kevon Williams: Finding His Way Through Multiple Losses Loss is hard for anyone, but espe- inhalation, while her daughter Patricia couldn’t handle it.” cially for a young person. Williams was injured in the blaze. He started missing school again. He Kevon Williams experienced not one “I just couldn’t believe it,” Williams couldn’t control his anger. but two monumental losses in the seven said. “It changed me a lot,” he said. “I months before the start of his senior year Unable to describe his grief and to don’t show a lot of emotion, and I was of high school — and the grief almost de- share his thoughts, he pulled inside. getting emotional around people I don’t railed his graduation. He overslept every day, and he started really show emotion around. I really Williams, 18, graduated this year missing a lot of school. separated myself from my family.” from Kalamazoo Central High School. He “I just wasn’t motivated to do any- But at school, there were people who plans to attend Kalamazoo Valley Com- thing,” he said. refused to give up on him. Patricia Yar- munity College in the fall. Eventually, his mom helped pull him borough, the Communities in Schools of Williams grew up in Kalamazoo at- out of the downward spiral by reminding Kalamazoo coordinator, helped him find tending Woods Lake Elementary: A Mag- him that his grandmother’s expectations a grief support group. English teacher net School for the Arts and Linden Grove for him lived on. Linda Lee noticed the change, and kept Middle School. His parents are Kevin “My mom was telling me that this is reaching out to him, telling his cousin Jones and Shirley Williams, and he has not what my grandmother would want to call him and tell him to come back to seven siblings. me to be. She was telling me that I should school — every day. But the relative who spoiled him the do better — for her.” “It helped a lot. It helped to know most, the one who made him always feel Then seven months later, the week someone cared,” Williams said. special was his grandmother Ernestine before school was set to begin, tragedy “You can’t hold it all in. It will just Williams. struck again. make it worse. That’s one thing I did. I “She called me Bumblebee when I Five young people died in a high- held everything in until I started talk- Kalamazoo Central student Kevon Williams was little, because I had chubby cheeks,” speed car crash on East Main Street on overcame personal loss and tragedy to graduate ing with Miss Yarborough and Miss Lee. Williams said. “I was the baby of the Sept. 2. with the Class of 2018. Then it just became easier. I started going family. I was always the golden child. Williams knew four of the five vic- back every day to talk to them.” She spoiled me with snacks, and money tims: his cousin Cortavian Murphy, 16; beautiful smile. Deztanee was there for And, he began to move past the grief sometimes. When the ice cream trucks his ex-girlfriend Elexus Hillsman, 16; him when his uncle passed away. And, to remember the hopes and dreams oth- went by, she always got me ice cream. and friends Jaquarius Hegler, 15; and Jacquarius was the friend who as like a ers had for him. On birthdays, she always gave me the Deztanee Cobb, 17. The fifth victim was little brother. “My grandma always told me that most.” Marshawn Williams, 15. “I really didn’t know how to feel. I she wanted me to be better or to do bet- But in January 2017, fire broke out He remembers Cortavian as a good didn’t want to go anywhere,” he said. “I ter, so I use that for motivation every at her home on Sunnyside Drive, on Ka- boy, who was struggling to stay on the didn’t want to be with anyone. I was just day. She wanted me to be successful, to lamazoo east side. She died from smoke right track. Elexus was the girl with the shocked. I went right back down again. I take a different route.”

16 EXCELSIOR August 2018 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com Craig King: KC Football Kept His Focus Despite Losing His Biggest Cheerleader in Life Craig King lost his biggest with. It’s really physical and it cheerleader when he was 16. can do a lot on your body but it’s His mother, Angela King, really beneficial.” died in October 2016. He said he wouldn’t mind RAIN GARDEN RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY She was in early 40s and wrestling in college, but he also September 7 | 5-7 PM went to bed saying she wasn’t harbors the dream of maybe Celebrate the inaugural Rain Garden growing season. feeling well. That night he woke playing professional sports, so Planetarium show: Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here. 6PM | $3 to sounds of his dad screaming football made more sense. If his name, telling him to come that doesn’t happen, he is plan- SUNDAY SERIES, SCIENCE help him. They called an ambu- ning to study criminal justice September 9 | 1:30 PM Native Plants, Kalamazoo Area Wild Ones lance but the paramedics were with the hopes of going into po- unable to revive his mom. lice work. SENSORY SATURDAY Now, he has “RIP Mom” “I just want to help people September 15 | 11AM tattooed on his bicep. and make a difference,” he said. Understanding the Diagnosis of Autism “It’s kind of hard for me,” “There all of this talk about he said. “I’ve had all of these police violence and whites on SUNDAY SERIES, HISTORY things go through my mind. She blacks. I think being a minority September 23 | 1:30 PM won’t see me walk the stage. like myself, I could help change Beautiful Historic Bikes! Brandon Apmann, Collector She won’t be able to see me play Craig King, who was a Kalamazoo that and give people different football again. Central wrestling and football stand- ideas about what they think out, has committed to play football at CHEMISTRY DAY “But I just stayed mentally about the police.” Western Michigan University. October 13 | 12-4 PM strong, stayed on track with ev- Chambers said King has the Chemistry in Outer Space erything, lived up to what she get the win.” fortitude and focus to succeed in would have wanted.” Wrestling was the main college and beyond. SUNDAY SERIES, SCIENCE King, 18, graduated this way he bonded with his father. “Craig was an outstanding October 14 | 1:30 PM spring from Kalamazoo Central “He turns into a different leader, team player and a great Kalamazoo Goes Green! Paul Abueva, Abueva Builders High School. He attended Spring guy when he sees me wrestle,” mentor for our young players” Valley Center for Exploration he said. “He’s like my No. 1 fan.” Chambers said. “He has a great GHOULISH TRANSPORTATION and Hillside Middle School. He He didn’t try football until work ethic and will be very suc- October 27 | 12-4 PM lives in Kalamazoo with his dad the seventh grade. His mom was cessful in college and in life. Arts and Crafts with a Halloween Spin! Tracy King. He has two sisters at every game, excited to see When his mom passed away, it Mary, who is a junior at KC, and him take the field. She’d be in was tough for him and his fam- SUNDAY SERIES, HISTORY Raeanna Goedhart. the stands yelling and scream- ily, but he stayed focused and October 28 | 1:30 PM He’s committed to join the ing louder than anyone else. stayed a strong leader for us. I’m The Sins of Kalamazoo: Murderers and Fallen Women. Tom Dietz, KVM Curator Emeritus Western Michigan University He decided to drop wres- sure that he wanted to make his football team in the fall, but he tling as a high school fresh- mom proud of his accomplish- knows that his biggest fan won’t man, having lost his love for the ments and he did.” FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT: be there to watch him play. sport. But his high school foot- King is excited to report to ARCHITECTURE OF THE INTERIOR Football wasn’t King’s first ball coach, Dana Chambers, told WMU training in August. He’s September 8 – December 9 sport. He started out as a wres- him that would be a mistake. looking forward to college, to Featuring designs of American architect Frank tler at the improbable age of 5. College coaches like wrestlers get on campus, meet new peo- Lloyd Wright. The 28 drawings and photographs displayed “My dad was a big wres- and they like dual sport ath- ple, take the next step. show Wright’s distinct and “organic” style and why he is considered the greatest of American architects. tler when he was in school. He letes. “But I’m also really excited This exhibition was organized by the International Arts & Artists, Washington, DC, in thought he should get me into King found that the two to meet some of the new guys cooperation with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, Scottsdale, AZ. it,” King said. “I turned out to sports meshed well physically. and to make new bonds. I’ve al- be really good at it.” “Wrestling really gets you ready talked to some of the new FREE GENERAL ADMISSION Size probably helped, he prepared for football,” he said. guys and they seem really ex- Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. admits. He was a bit taller and “It just really conditions you. cited to have me come up.” Art Hop Fridays 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. “built” as a 5-year-old. You have to have a lot of gas in If there is one thing that Sunday + Holidays 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. “I had to wrestle guys who your tank to wrestle. You won’t will be difficult, it will be leaving Closed: Easter, Thanksgiving, were a little bit fatter, so that ever get tired in football if you behind some of his KC friends, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day made it a little easier,” King wrestle. Football is more like guys like Jacob Seager, Jeffrey said. “They see a built 5-year- short bursts, but in wrestling Hall and Aiden Stacer. old out there, and they don’t you have to use everything for “They were there through know what to do. All it was, is I long periods of time. all of the emotional stuff,” King The Kalamazoo Valley Museum is operated 269.373.7990 | 800.772.3370 went out there, grabbed the guy “What some people don’t said. “They were more than best by Kalamazoo Valley Community College kalamazoomuseum.org and threw him to the ground. I understand is wrestling is one friends. They were basically and is governed by its Board of Trustees was able to hold him there and of the hardest sports to keep up brothers. “ www.kalamazoopublicschools.com August 2018 EXCELSIOR 17 Kendra Parkman: Singing a Song of Judith Castaneda: Hoping to Go Accomplishment and Thanks from Student to Teacher Kendra Parkman took choir ev- Education matters. is an exemplary EFE student,” she said. ery single trimester of every year of high That’s what Judith Castaneda be- “Her natural talents to be an educator school at Kalamazoo Central. lieves as a student, and what she’s plan- shone through as she worked with small She sang with the school’s Hawthorne ning to preach as a future teacher. groups of students, redirected students, Singers. She was in all the school musicals, “Education is the key to success,” she and planned lessons and activities for including lead roles as Evillene in “The said. “Students have to value their educa- them, as well. I was extremely impressed Wiz” and the Fairy Godmother in “Cin- tions more. With our education we have with her professionalism.” derella.” everything we need to succeed in life.” Castaneda’s inspiration to pursue But, when she goes to Wayne State Castaneda is a 2018 graduate of Loy education comes not just from her love of University in the fall, she plans to major in Norrix High School. She was named Ed- children, but from the many positive ex- pre-law. ucation For Employment’s (EFE) 2018 periences she’s had as a student. She loves singing but ever since she Outstanding Senior in Early Childhood “I love the way my teachers teach, was little she wanted to be involved in Education. EFE is a program of the Ka- the way when I need help they’re there law. First, she thought she might be a po- lamazoo Regional Educational Service for me, to support me, to explain things to lice officer, then she thought about being Agency that provides students with me,” she said. “They won’t let me struggle a prison warden — she’s not sure why, hands-on experience in various careers. then a court administrator. Recently, she’s Castaneda and her twin, Jenny, plan turned her focus toward practicing law. to enroll in Kellogg Community Col- “Everyone says, ‘Oh, you’re not do- lege this fall to earn associate’s degrees ing anything with singing?” she said with in early childhood development and to a laugh. “I really do plan to join a choir or then earn bachelor’s degrees in education be in some musical at Wayne. It will help from Western Michigan University. me get around thinking about school work As a senior, she participated in the all the time. Kendra Parkman performed at the Kalamazoo KRESA program to explore her interest “Music makes me feel calm. It’s a Central 2018 commencement ceremony. in teaching and found that she loved it. stress reliever. And I feel like I have a nice She worked at El Sol Elementary School, voice, so why not use it?” “I’ve really learned you can connect which happened to have been her first el- Parkman graduated from Kalamazoo with people through music,” Parkman ementary as a child. Central in June. She lives in Kalamazoo said. “You can empathize and sympa- “It has been the greatest experience with her parents Eric and Sheila Parkman. thize with people that you probably nev- I’ve ever had,” she said. “These children Her older sister Kiera Parkman graduated er would be able to communicate with if are my motivation. When I’m down or from KC in 2016. you were just having a face-to-face con- sad, they are my reason to be. They make She began singing with the First versation.” me happy. They make me forget about United Baptist Church youth choir when She acknowledges it will be diffi- the little things and make me value the she was a preschooler. When she reached cult to leave the safe and nurturing en- love and smiles. I love to see how they Judy Castaneda poses next to the mural in El Sol Hillside Middle School, she met Theresa vironment at Kalamazoo Central, a place learn on their own and it makes me want Elementary, and points to a picture of herself that she painted when she was a third-grade student Williams-Johnson, who would be her where her name was cheered when called to help them.” at the school. choir teacher all through middle school at graduation. She enjoyed working at El Sol for nu- and high school. She’s loved the pep rallies, with their merous reasons. Her little brother Willie by myself. They’ll keep teaching until you “Kendra is a true joy to have in my epic tug-of-war battles. She’s loved the was in third grade at the school, she had get it. The won’t just leave and move on.” music program,” Williams-Johnson said. way the students came together to rally the chance to work with teachers who She has trouble citing the most influ- “She’s an outstanding musician and stu- against gun violence. She loved the way influenced her as a child, and she was ential teacher in her life, but among the dent. It’s hard for me to see her leave.” everyone supported each other after the able to use her dual language skills. standouts at Loy Norrix have been Lisa Choir became a second family, espe- death of a beloved teacher. She loves She appreciated El Sol’s focus on bi- Jensen, Jameeka Johnson, Randy Rowe, cially after she joined the Hawthorne Sing- the fact that she went to school with the lingual education — English and Span- and Sally Wagenaar. ers, Parkman said. same two best friends, Davyn Thomas ish. Her own family, with mom and dad “I have like 10 favorites,” she said. “It gave me a connection with people and Morgan Dantzler, since kindergarten Aurora and Nicolas, twin sister and little They made me realize I have to love the who had the same interests and goals as I at Northglade Montessori Magnet School. brother — is bilingual. She was excited to education I have.” had — to improve my singing, to perform “I feel like Kalamazoo Public Schools help children learn in both languages. Two other people have inspired her as for the school, to be a good representative get a bad rap and that Kalamazoo Cen- “There’s a benefit to having two lan- well: her parents. for Kalamazoo Central,” she said. “It has tral is right in the center of the negative guages,” Castaneda said. “You’re able to “They’ve been the biggest supporters been an anchor in my career.” vibes,” Parkman said. “But Kalamazoo express yourself in two languages. It’s for me and my sister. I feel this now more She said that through choir she’s Central is actually a really great school for something to take advantage of.” than ever as we’re finishing high school. I pushed her vocal range and her under- education and for diversity. We’re really First-grade teacher Danielle Jn Bap- know they won’t always be there with me, standing of music, singing choral works intertwined with each other. tiste served as Castaneda’s teacher men- but they’ll always be in my heart. They’ve in Russian and Latin “all the time.” But, “Everyone has the same goal: to set tor at El Sol was impressed with Castane- been the biggest blessing that God could more importantly, music has been a valu- our footprints on the world and to be da’s enthusiasm for the classroom. have given me, and I want to make them able tool for reaching others. world changers.” “Judy is a driven young woman who proud.”

18 EXCELSIOR August 2018 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com Real Adventures for Girls A Safe Place #GirlScoutStrong Take on the A Lasting Impact world, push boundaries, and become a leader, all while making life-long friends and having a Join, volunteer, and learn blast! With Girl Scouts there’s no more today at gshom.org limit to what you can achieve. or 800-49-SCOUT

www.kalamazoopublicschools.com August 2018 EXCELSIOR 19 20 EXCELSIOR August 2018 www.kalamazoopublicschools.com