QUALITY ASSURANCE REVIEW
In all of our buildings next week, you will see visitors from out-of-state who will be evaluating our schools. Every five years, schools must go thorough an accreditation process. Our district has elected to be evaluated as an entire district and have all schools evaluated at the same time. The Quality Assurance Review committee will arrive in the community on Monday morning for three days of evaluation. They will meet with our staff and parents in the morning and begin their school visits in the afternoon. The committee only has time to visit four schools (Green, Scotch, Abbott and WBHS). All other schools will have a chance to share information about their individual school with the committee.
I would like to invite each of you to the committee’s reporting out session at a Special Board Meeting on April 28 at 3:00 p.m. at WBHS to hear first-hand the committee’s comments about our district’s strengths and areas we need to grow.
AMERICAN IDOL RAFFLE
The American Idol Raffle was a great success and the evening of the drawing was one of great anticipation in a warm social atmosphere enhanced by entertainment from our own Abbott Idol, Joey Asker. Mike “Stoney” Stone emceed the evening as celebrities Karen Newman and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Bob Seger drew the winning ticket.
Congratulations to the LaDuke family for winning the raffle - they are off to Hollywood! Thanks to everyone in the community who sold or purchased raffle tickets. Thanks also to Lisa Berkey and Stacy Brickman for entering all the payments throughout this process. A very special thank you to Jeff Sakwa, who could have taken his own family to Hollywood, but instead unselfishly donated the package to our Educational Foundation to raise money for our schools. Thank you to Jeff from all of us - there would not have been a raffle without your generous donation.
LES MISERABLES
You will not want to miss our high school production of Les Miserables. Everyone that saw the show last night is raving about it. Tickets are still available for Friday’s and Saturday’s performances at 8:00 p.m. for $10.00. contact Karen Brody at brody@westbloomfield.k12.mi.us.
LEGISLATIVE NEWS
Legislation continues to change on a daily basis in Lansing. The Retirement Reform bill is still being worked on. The latest version of the bill will be on the House floor next Tuesday for discussion.
If anyone is interested in joining the Grassroots Committee, please feel free to send an email to Julie Beaty at B2andJB@aol.com or Judy Herman at jherman@sambernstein.com and get on their list so you can receive broadcast emails regarding this effort.
We’ll update you as new information becomes available.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Talk Supt. - April 1, 2010
Talk Supt.
April 1, 2010
ACCREDITATION TEAM VISIT
We are all looking forward to our School Improvement team visit by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement, the organization that accredits schools in Michigan and other states. All of our schools are accredited.
The Standards Assessment Report is designed to serve as a valuable self-assessment and as a tool to help school systems prepare for their Quality Assurance Review. In order to earn and maintain accreditation, school systems must meet the AdvancED standards, engage in a process of continuous improvement, and demonstrate quality assurance through internal and external review. In completing the report, the school system identifies the data, information, evidence, and documented results that validate that it is meeting each of seven standards. This self assessment helps the school systems identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement.
The visit to our school district will be April 25-28, when they will be interviewing our parents, staff, students and the Board of Education. On Wednesday April 28, there will be an opportunity for the public to hear their final report at a regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting at 3:00 pm at West Bloomfield High School. Please save this date so that you can hear first-hand the visiting team’s assessment of our school strengths and opportunities for improvement.
TOWN HALL MEETING
As part of the Save Our Schools effort, five school districts are sponsoring a community meeting, “Spotlight on Education, Revenues and Reforms” event at Walled Lake Northern High School. Our district is being represented by Julie Beaty and Judy Herman through a Grassroots Political Action Committee.
It will be at 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 13 in Northern High School’s auditorium. This collaborative effort with Bloomfield Hills, Farmington, Novi, Walled Lake and West Bloomfield School Districts will feature six legislators that serve the area. This event will allow parents to hear our Senators’ and Representatives’ viewpoints and ideas about the challenges we all face as a result of the cuts that have been made in public education funding. The questions that will be addressed are:
1. What is your position regarding 20j funding?
• What will you do to restore 20j funding?
• Will you commit to vote no on any school aid bill that does not restore 20j?
2. Will you oppose efforts to reduce the foundation?
• What changes do you support or propose to address the projected revenue shortfall for next year?
• Please explain new revenue you support as well as spending existing dollars differently.
3. What do you propose to permanently support school funding in a manner that is not tied to fluctuations in the state economy?
• Do you support a return to local control of school funding, e.g. local millage?
• What suggestions do you have for an adequate and equitable school funding system?
4. Are you in favor of changing the state budget calendar so it coincides with local school districts that are mandated to adopt budgets by June 30? If so, what actions will you take to ensure it happens?
5. What actions will you take to ensure that new education mandates similar to, but not limited to, Race to the Top legislation, are adequately funded?
6. Will you vote to permanently earmark any new service tax revenues to SAF forever and not just the two years the governor proposed?
7. Will you support expanding the use of the sinking fund to include purchase and/or lease of technology, transportation and/or other general fund expenditures and/or broadening local bond opportunities?
Chairs Julie Beaty and Judy Herman can be contacted by email at:
Julie: b2andjb@aol.com and
Judy: bjenherman@aol.com
To be continually updated and involved, please submit your email address to either Julie or Judy.
AMERICAN IDOL RAFFLE
There is still time to purchase your American Idol Raffle tickets – A chance to attend the American Idol Finale in Los Angeles, airfare, 2 nights hotel and tickets to the event for 4 people!
Call 1-888-WIN-IDOL to purchase tickets at $50 each or 3 for $100! They can also be purchased at all West Bloomfield schools, JAX Kar Wash & Buddy’s Pizza locations.
SAVE THE DATE for the drawing at WBHS on April 21 at 7:00 pm.
These dollars all benefit the West Bloomfield Educational Foundation. Please help Save Our Schools.
GREAT THINGS ARE HAPPENING IN OUR SCHOOLS
There are lots of great things happening with our children around the district at this time. Allow me to share a few with you: Congratulations go to:
• Kevin Walsh and his WBHS students for their film fest feature entry, "Minor Felonies" which has just won a "Best of Show" award at the 42nd Michigan Student Film Festival.
A portion of the film will be shown when the awards are given at the DIA's theater Saturday, April 24th at 12:30 PM (with a pre-glow honoring the winners prior to the show at 11:15). Please feel welcome to join in the celebration!
• The Student Leadership class at WBHS has won 2 of the most prestigious state awards – Award of Excellence and the Star Award under the leadership of Ms. Jill Rosenthal Vinter
• 11 Choir students under the direction of Mrs. Trotter won 1st or 2nd Place at the State Solo and Ensemble competition
SPRING SPORTS
Many spring sports are in full swing or about to begin. Please come out, bring the family and support our athletes as they engage in Girls Tennis, Boys Baseball, Girls Softball, Girls Soccer, Boys Lacrosse and Track and Field for Boys and Girls. Go online at www.wbsd.org to obtain the athletic schedules for these sports. Senior Citizens with Gold Cards will be admitted FREE to any of these events that charge fees. Go to any nearby school office and obtain your Gold Card that will admit any person over 65 years of age free to school sponsored events.
WBHS MUSICAL
High school students will be performing “Les Miserables” Thursday and Friday, April 22-23 in the WBHS Auditorium. This is shaping up to be a sellout performance on both nights, so order your tickets now by emailing Karen Brody at brody@westbloomfield.k12.mi.us. Senior Citizens with Gold Cards will be admitted free of charge.
NEGOTIATIONS
We continue to negotiate with our teachers and administrators. At this time, it is important that you understand that while some districts around us are soliciting concessions in an attempt to protect their fund equity, West Bloomfield School District does not have that luxury. We must continue to cut, cut, cut in addition to asking for concessions from all bargaining units to help us through this crisis. Without drastic cuts, we will never get out of deficit. We will continue to negotiate in ways that allow us to preserve as many of the quality opportunities and experiences as possible that both our staff and our students enjoy. We continue to look at ways to generate revenue and consolidate services with other districts and within our own system. We will continue this collaborative effort and will inform you as decisions are reached.
Happy Holidays to all who are celebrating at this time of year.
Have a wonderful and safe Spring Break!
April 1, 2010
ACCREDITATION TEAM VISIT
We are all looking forward to our School Improvement team visit by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement, the organization that accredits schools in Michigan and other states. All of our schools are accredited.
The Standards Assessment Report is designed to serve as a valuable self-assessment and as a tool to help school systems prepare for their Quality Assurance Review. In order to earn and maintain accreditation, school systems must meet the AdvancED standards, engage in a process of continuous improvement, and demonstrate quality assurance through internal and external review. In completing the report, the school system identifies the data, information, evidence, and documented results that validate that it is meeting each of seven standards. This self assessment helps the school systems identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement.
The visit to our school district will be April 25-28, when they will be interviewing our parents, staff, students and the Board of Education. On Wednesday April 28, there will be an opportunity for the public to hear their final report at a regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting at 3:00 pm at West Bloomfield High School. Please save this date so that you can hear first-hand the visiting team’s assessment of our school strengths and opportunities for improvement.
TOWN HALL MEETING
As part of the Save Our Schools effort, five school districts are sponsoring a community meeting, “Spotlight on Education, Revenues and Reforms” event at Walled Lake Northern High School. Our district is being represented by Julie Beaty and Judy Herman through a Grassroots Political Action Committee.
It will be at 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 13 in Northern High School’s auditorium. This collaborative effort with Bloomfield Hills, Farmington, Novi, Walled Lake and West Bloomfield School Districts will feature six legislators that serve the area. This event will allow parents to hear our Senators’ and Representatives’ viewpoints and ideas about the challenges we all face as a result of the cuts that have been made in public education funding. The questions that will be addressed are:
1. What is your position regarding 20j funding?
• What will you do to restore 20j funding?
• Will you commit to vote no on any school aid bill that does not restore 20j?
2. Will you oppose efforts to reduce the foundation?
• What changes do you support or propose to address the projected revenue shortfall for next year?
• Please explain new revenue you support as well as spending existing dollars differently.
3. What do you propose to permanently support school funding in a manner that is not tied to fluctuations in the state economy?
• Do you support a return to local control of school funding, e.g. local millage?
• What suggestions do you have for an adequate and equitable school funding system?
4. Are you in favor of changing the state budget calendar so it coincides with local school districts that are mandated to adopt budgets by June 30? If so, what actions will you take to ensure it happens?
5. What actions will you take to ensure that new education mandates similar to, but not limited to, Race to the Top legislation, are adequately funded?
6. Will you vote to permanently earmark any new service tax revenues to SAF forever and not just the two years the governor proposed?
7. Will you support expanding the use of the sinking fund to include purchase and/or lease of technology, transportation and/or other general fund expenditures and/or broadening local bond opportunities?
Chairs Julie Beaty and Judy Herman can be contacted by email at:
Julie: b2andjb@aol.com and
Judy: bjenherman@aol.com
To be continually updated and involved, please submit your email address to either Julie or Judy.
AMERICAN IDOL RAFFLE
There is still time to purchase your American Idol Raffle tickets – A chance to attend the American Idol Finale in Los Angeles, airfare, 2 nights hotel and tickets to the event for 4 people!
Call 1-888-WIN-IDOL to purchase tickets at $50 each or 3 for $100! They can also be purchased at all West Bloomfield schools, JAX Kar Wash & Buddy’s Pizza locations.
SAVE THE DATE for the drawing at WBHS on April 21 at 7:00 pm.
These dollars all benefit the West Bloomfield Educational Foundation. Please help Save Our Schools.
GREAT THINGS ARE HAPPENING IN OUR SCHOOLS
There are lots of great things happening with our children around the district at this time. Allow me to share a few with you: Congratulations go to:
• Kevin Walsh and his WBHS students for their film fest feature entry, "Minor Felonies" which has just won a "Best of Show" award at the 42nd Michigan Student Film Festival.
A portion of the film will be shown when the awards are given at the DIA's theater Saturday, April 24th at 12:30 PM (with a pre-glow honoring the winners prior to the show at 11:15). Please feel welcome to join in the celebration!
• The Student Leadership class at WBHS has won 2 of the most prestigious state awards – Award of Excellence and the Star Award under the leadership of Ms. Jill Rosenthal Vinter
• 11 Choir students under the direction of Mrs. Trotter won 1st or 2nd Place at the State Solo and Ensemble competition
SPRING SPORTS
Many spring sports are in full swing or about to begin. Please come out, bring the family and support our athletes as they engage in Girls Tennis, Boys Baseball, Girls Softball, Girls Soccer, Boys Lacrosse and Track and Field for Boys and Girls. Go online at www.wbsd.org to obtain the athletic schedules for these sports. Senior Citizens with Gold Cards will be admitted FREE to any of these events that charge fees. Go to any nearby school office and obtain your Gold Card that will admit any person over 65 years of age free to school sponsored events.
WBHS MUSICAL
High school students will be performing “Les Miserables” Thursday and Friday, April 22-23 in the WBHS Auditorium. This is shaping up to be a sellout performance on both nights, so order your tickets now by emailing Karen Brody at brody@westbloomfield.k12.mi.us. Senior Citizens with Gold Cards will be admitted free of charge.
NEGOTIATIONS
We continue to negotiate with our teachers and administrators. At this time, it is important that you understand that while some districts around us are soliciting concessions in an attempt to protect their fund equity, West Bloomfield School District does not have that luxury. We must continue to cut, cut, cut in addition to asking for concessions from all bargaining units to help us through this crisis. Without drastic cuts, we will never get out of deficit. We will continue to negotiate in ways that allow us to preserve as many of the quality opportunities and experiences as possible that both our staff and our students enjoy. We continue to look at ways to generate revenue and consolidate services with other districts and within our own system. We will continue this collaborative effort and will inform you as decisions are reached.
Happy Holidays to all who are celebrating at this time of year.
Have a wonderful and safe Spring Break!
Friday, March 19, 2010
March 20, 2010
Superintendent’s Message March 19, 2010
Board Meeting
On Monday, March 22, there will be a WBSD Board Meeting at 7 pm at West Bloomfield High School.
We will be giving an update on the Budget and District Finances as well as data on the MEAP scores that have just come in.
Survey
It is important that the community - parents, students, citizens and district staff members - have the opportunity to offer their input into the budget process. We are encouraging everyone to go to our website and take our survey. The goal of this survey is to gather feedback from our school community on the proposed budget reductions for the 2010 - 2011 school year that will be recommended to the West Bloomfield School District Board of Education.
Go to www.wbsd.org and click in the box entitled Decisions About Our Future, and click on Community Survey. We request that community members complete the survey by April 12, 2010.
Spring Events
I attended the International Club’s Annual Ethnic Festival at WBHS last evening and it was exceptional. The food from many of the 54 countries represented in West Bloomfield was artistically presented as well as delicious. Students acted dramatic skits in many languages, there were incredible solo and ensemble performances, and other entertainment varied from French Opera to dancing from India. Talia Hanna and Claudia Sitto are to be commended for providing this rich opportunity for our students.
Next weekend Orchard Lake Middle School Theatre Arts III and Blue Revue students will be presenting FAME on Thursday and Friday, March 25 and 26 at West Bloomfield High School. Directed by Debbie Zazaian and April Tini with choreography by Valerie Mould, this promises to be a hit! Get your tickets soon.
Wall of Champions
Look for the Wall of Champions that will be hanging in the vestibule at West Bloomfield High School beginning next Monday. This is a list of our champion donors to our SOS campaign, who have generously donated $2500 or more to help Save Our Schools. Thank you to all of our donors not only for your acts of kindness and benevolence but also concern over our children’s futures. A special thank you to David and Kathleen Boyd of Boyd Communications for volunteering their services to create this Wall of Champions.
THIS WEEKEND!
Plum Market Hosts Children’s Book Author, West Bloomfield High School Grad
Author Erika Roman Saint-Pierre and Plum Market have teamed up to launch her new book “Hoppa’s Big Move,” during Spa Day on Saturday March 20, 2010 from
10 am – 4 pm. Erika is a former student of Doherty, OLMS and WBHS, and writes about Doherty in the book. “Hoppa’s Big Move” is about Hoppa’s first day of kindergarten where she learns that not everyone is the same and that some people may actually think she’s different, even weird. Hoppa leads readers on a journey to find friends, acceptance, and the understanding that the differences in race, religion, and life experiences are what make true friendships. Publisher Culturatti Kids, a youth-based literary program will donate $4 from each book sold to the West Bloomfield School District. Between now and April 15, 2010 one copy of the book will also be donated for every copy purchased.
On Monday, March 22 from 11 am - 6 pm, the author will also be at the Barnes and Noble Bookfair on Orchard Lake in West Bloomfield. Stop by for a day of family fun and get your copy of "Hoppa's Big Move" signed and have your picture taken with the author. Give them Bookfair ID # 10164655 prior to purchase and a percentage of the net sale will be contributed to WBSD also.
Camp Fair
There’s lots going on at the high school! This weekend is the West Bloomfield Community Education CAMP FAIR at West Bloomfield High School from 11am – 2 pm on Saturday. Camp Instructors will provide a sneak preview of summer camps with hands-on demonstrations, door prizes and lots of cool stuff, including a prize of 1 FREE week of camp. Academic, Science and Sports Camps will all be represented.
Mom-2-Mom Sale
Saturday from 9 am – 2 pm is the popular Mom 2 Mom Sale at West Bloomfield High School. Moms can sell and buy used baby and kid items. There will be great deals on everything from furniture to toys and clothing!
5th Grade Intramural Basketball Tournament
5th grade boys will play from 9 am 12 noon and girls will play from 1pm – 4pm in a round-robin tournament in the gymnasium on Saturday, March 20. Admission is free.
Board Meeting
On Monday, March 22, there will be a WBSD Board Meeting at 7 pm at West Bloomfield High School.
We will be giving an update on the Budget and District Finances as well as data on the MEAP scores that have just come in.
Survey
It is important that the community - parents, students, citizens and district staff members - have the opportunity to offer their input into the budget process. We are encouraging everyone to go to our website and take our survey. The goal of this survey is to gather feedback from our school community on the proposed budget reductions for the 2010 - 2011 school year that will be recommended to the West Bloomfield School District Board of Education.
Go to www.wbsd.org and click in the box entitled Decisions About Our Future, and click on Community Survey. We request that community members complete the survey by April 12, 2010.
Spring Events
I attended the International Club’s Annual Ethnic Festival at WBHS last evening and it was exceptional. The food from many of the 54 countries represented in West Bloomfield was artistically presented as well as delicious. Students acted dramatic skits in many languages, there were incredible solo and ensemble performances, and other entertainment varied from French Opera to dancing from India. Talia Hanna and Claudia Sitto are to be commended for providing this rich opportunity for our students.
Next weekend Orchard Lake Middle School Theatre Arts III and Blue Revue students will be presenting FAME on Thursday and Friday, March 25 and 26 at West Bloomfield High School. Directed by Debbie Zazaian and April Tini with choreography by Valerie Mould, this promises to be a hit! Get your tickets soon.
Wall of Champions
Look for the Wall of Champions that will be hanging in the vestibule at West Bloomfield High School beginning next Monday. This is a list of our champion donors to our SOS campaign, who have generously donated $2500 or more to help Save Our Schools. Thank you to all of our donors not only for your acts of kindness and benevolence but also concern over our children’s futures. A special thank you to David and Kathleen Boyd of Boyd Communications for volunteering their services to create this Wall of Champions.
THIS WEEKEND!
Plum Market Hosts Children’s Book Author, West Bloomfield High School Grad
Author Erika Roman Saint-Pierre and Plum Market have teamed up to launch her new book “Hoppa’s Big Move,” during Spa Day on Saturday March 20, 2010 from
10 am – 4 pm. Erika is a former student of Doherty, OLMS and WBHS, and writes about Doherty in the book. “Hoppa’s Big Move” is about Hoppa’s first day of kindergarten where she learns that not everyone is the same and that some people may actually think she’s different, even weird. Hoppa leads readers on a journey to find friends, acceptance, and the understanding that the differences in race, religion, and life experiences are what make true friendships. Publisher Culturatti Kids, a youth-based literary program will donate $4 from each book sold to the West Bloomfield School District. Between now and April 15, 2010 one copy of the book will also be donated for every copy purchased.
On Monday, March 22 from 11 am - 6 pm, the author will also be at the Barnes and Noble Bookfair on Orchard Lake in West Bloomfield. Stop by for a day of family fun and get your copy of "Hoppa's Big Move" signed and have your picture taken with the author. Give them Bookfair ID # 10164655 prior to purchase and a percentage of the net sale will be contributed to WBSD also.
Camp Fair
There’s lots going on at the high school! This weekend is the West Bloomfield Community Education CAMP FAIR at West Bloomfield High School from 11am – 2 pm on Saturday. Camp Instructors will provide a sneak preview of summer camps with hands-on demonstrations, door prizes and lots of cool stuff, including a prize of 1 FREE week of camp. Academic, Science and Sports Camps will all be represented.
Mom-2-Mom Sale
Saturday from 9 am – 2 pm is the popular Mom 2 Mom Sale at West Bloomfield High School. Moms can sell and buy used baby and kid items. There will be great deals on everything from furniture to toys and clothing!
5th Grade Intramural Basketball Tournament
5th grade boys will play from 9 am 12 noon and girls will play from 1pm – 4pm in a round-robin tournament in the gymnasium on Saturday, March 20. Admission is free.
Friday, March 12, 2010
March 12, 2010
Superintendent’s Message March 12, 2010
MEAP SCORES
MEAP scores were released from the Michigan Department of Education today for schools across the county and state. Staff continues to work aggressively to make sure all of our students are prepared to be successful on the Michigan Education Assessment Program, Michigan Merit Exam and other standardized tests. Our scores were in keeping with state and county trends in relation to increases and decreases in various areas. Certain highlights were middle school reading scores and elementary scores which remain consistently high. Average scores were in the mid 80’s – 90% proficiency for the various tests taken. We will analyze the test data to determine if we need to make alignment adjustments in our curriculum.
Negotiations
Negotiations with our teachers’ union that began in October are still ongoing. We will continue to keep you updated when appropriate. It is always our expectation, and I am sure that of the teachers’ union, to remain professional throughout the negotiations process. Every effort will be made to keep what happens at the bargaining table away from the classroom and students. Our teachers provide a quality education for our children and we expect that to continue.
Spring Musicals
I am proud of the Abbott students for their performance of Big River. I want to thank parents and staff who made this production possible. Join us for Orchard Lake’s performance of Fame March 25 & 26 and West Bloomfield High School’s performance of Les Miserables April 22-24.
American Idol Raffle Tickets
American Idol Raffle tickets will be sold at Hiller’s Markets on Orchard Lake Rd. and in Commerce Township this weekend. Tickets can also be purchased at JAX Kar Wash and Buddy’s Pizza locations as well as all West Bloomfield schools. To order by phone call 1-888-WIN-IDOL (888-946-4365).
Bus Stop Safety
Due to the warmer weather, more students are walking to and from bus stops. Please be cautious, drive slowly, and watch out for students.
Professional Development Day
On March 9, our teachers participated in a full day of professional development on the topic of brain-based learning and how that impacts our children. Students have already begun to experience these strategies in practice in their classrooms.
MEAP SCORES
MEAP scores were released from the Michigan Department of Education today for schools across the county and state. Staff continues to work aggressively to make sure all of our students are prepared to be successful on the Michigan Education Assessment Program, Michigan Merit Exam and other standardized tests. Our scores were in keeping with state and county trends in relation to increases and decreases in various areas. Certain highlights were middle school reading scores and elementary scores which remain consistently high. Average scores were in the mid 80’s – 90% proficiency for the various tests taken. We will analyze the test data to determine if we need to make alignment adjustments in our curriculum.
Negotiations
Negotiations with our teachers’ union that began in October are still ongoing. We will continue to keep you updated when appropriate. It is always our expectation, and I am sure that of the teachers’ union, to remain professional throughout the negotiations process. Every effort will be made to keep what happens at the bargaining table away from the classroom and students. Our teachers provide a quality education for our children and we expect that to continue.
Spring Musicals
I am proud of the Abbott students for their performance of Big River. I want to thank parents and staff who made this production possible. Join us for Orchard Lake’s performance of Fame March 25 & 26 and West Bloomfield High School’s performance of Les Miserables April 22-24.
American Idol Raffle Tickets
American Idol Raffle tickets will be sold at Hiller’s Markets on Orchard Lake Rd. and in Commerce Township this weekend. Tickets can also be purchased at JAX Kar Wash and Buddy’s Pizza locations as well as all West Bloomfield schools. To order by phone call 1-888-WIN-IDOL (888-946-4365).
Bus Stop Safety
Due to the warmer weather, more students are walking to and from bus stops. Please be cautious, drive slowly, and watch out for students.
Professional Development Day
On March 9, our teachers participated in a full day of professional development on the topic of brain-based learning and how that impacts our children. Students have already begun to experience these strategies in practice in their classrooms.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Friday, February 26, 2010
Superintendent’s Message
February 26, 2010
INCORRECT OAKLAND PRESS ARTICLE
Amendment to Bond Resolution
Please note that in Thursday’s Oakland Press on page 2, an article ran that INCORRECTLY stated that WBSD is eyeing a $15 million bond issue. This implies that the Board of Education is going to ask voters to approve $15 million for capital improvements and technology. THIS IS NOT TRUE.
At Monday night’s board meeting, the Board of education DID AMEND the November 2009 bond resolution proposal regarding the hoped for sale of $15 million in ARRA Federal Qualified School Construction Bonds through the Michigan Municipal Bond Authority.
The Oakland Press will be running a correction to this article in the Friday, February 26, 2010 edition.
Budget Amendments
At Monday night’s board meeting, the general operating budget was amended and we are preparing to go into deficit spending. As required by law, we have submitted a letter to the Michigan Department of Education notifying them that we anticipated ending the fiscal year, June 30, 2010, with a $3.1 million true budget deficit. As a result, we are preparing a deficit elimination plan that by law must be submitted to the state.
Culver’s and Pistons Game Event
The Culver’s and Pistons Game event this past Sunday was amazing! I want to thank all the parents, students, staff, and community members who came out to support us. Culver’s Restaurant was PACKED with enthusiastic Butter-Burger lovers, served by all of the Principals, Administrators as well as myself! We got MOST of the orders right! This one-day event was very lucrative for us in that we were able to raise over $500 from Culver’s and approximately $12,000 from the Pistons Organization. This is all for the benefit of the West Bloomfield Educational Foundation. We hope to make this an annual event.
American Idol Raffle Tickets
We are getting ready to kickoff the American Idol Raffle. This will be our biggest and best fund-raiser yet! The prize includes airfare, hotel accommodations for three nights, and tickets for four people to the American Idol Finale in Los Angeles, May 25-26, 2010. If you are interested in purchasing a raffle ticket, please go to the foundation’s website www.wbef.org Tickets are $50 each or 3 for $100.
Abbott Musical
Abbott Students will be performing “Big River” this weekend (Friday at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.)at West Bloomfield High School. Senior citizens are reminded that they can use their “Gold Card” to get into this event for free. If you do not have your card yet, you can obtain one from any of our school offices.
Phone Bank
Parents will be calling to solicit donations through our Phone Bank this Sunday for the West Bloomfield Educational Foundation. This was made possible through the generosity of Quicken Loan and Todd Lunsford who arranged for us to use the Quicken Loan facility.
It’s not too late to volunteer! Please call Heidi Tischer at 248-225-7037 or email at heidi.tischer@gmail.com and let her know that you are available to help out this Sunday, February 28, from 5-8 pm.
Quicken Loan is located at 20255 Victor Parkway, Livonia, MI 48152, on the third floor.
Enrollment
Throughout the district, we are planning for next year’s schedule of classes as we begin to look at enrollment numbers. In the next few weeks, you will be hearing radio ads for School of Choice openings for next school year. Due to the increase of resident student enrollment, it appears that we will have openings primarily in kindergarten and first grade.
February 26, 2010
INCORRECT OAKLAND PRESS ARTICLE
Amendment to Bond Resolution
Please note that in Thursday’s Oakland Press on page 2, an article ran that INCORRECTLY stated that WBSD is eyeing a $15 million bond issue. This implies that the Board of Education is going to ask voters to approve $15 million for capital improvements and technology. THIS IS NOT TRUE.
At Monday night’s board meeting, the Board of education DID AMEND the November 2009 bond resolution proposal regarding the hoped for sale of $15 million in ARRA Federal Qualified School Construction Bonds through the Michigan Municipal Bond Authority.
The Oakland Press will be running a correction to this article in the Friday, February 26, 2010 edition.
Budget Amendments
At Monday night’s board meeting, the general operating budget was amended and we are preparing to go into deficit spending. As required by law, we have submitted a letter to the Michigan Department of Education notifying them that we anticipated ending the fiscal year, June 30, 2010, with a $3.1 million true budget deficit. As a result, we are preparing a deficit elimination plan that by law must be submitted to the state.
Culver’s and Pistons Game Event
The Culver’s and Pistons Game event this past Sunday was amazing! I want to thank all the parents, students, staff, and community members who came out to support us. Culver’s Restaurant was PACKED with enthusiastic Butter-Burger lovers, served by all of the Principals, Administrators as well as myself! We got MOST of the orders right! This one-day event was very lucrative for us in that we were able to raise over $500 from Culver’s and approximately $12,000 from the Pistons Organization. This is all for the benefit of the West Bloomfield Educational Foundation. We hope to make this an annual event.
American Idol Raffle Tickets
We are getting ready to kickoff the American Idol Raffle. This will be our biggest and best fund-raiser yet! The prize includes airfare, hotel accommodations for three nights, and tickets for four people to the American Idol Finale in Los Angeles, May 25-26, 2010. If you are interested in purchasing a raffle ticket, please go to the foundation’s website www.wbef.org Tickets are $50 each or 3 for $100.
Abbott Musical
Abbott Students will be performing “Big River” this weekend (Friday at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.)at West Bloomfield High School. Senior citizens are reminded that they can use their “Gold Card” to get into this event for free. If you do not have your card yet, you can obtain one from any of our school offices.
Phone Bank
Parents will be calling to solicit donations through our Phone Bank this Sunday for the West Bloomfield Educational Foundation. This was made possible through the generosity of Quicken Loan and Todd Lunsford who arranged for us to use the Quicken Loan facility.
It’s not too late to volunteer! Please call Heidi Tischer at 248-225-7037 or email at heidi.tischer@gmail.com and let her know that you are available to help out this Sunday, February 28, from 5-8 pm.
Quicken Loan is located at 20255 Victor Parkway, Livonia, MI 48152, on the third floor.
Enrollment
Throughout the district, we are planning for next year’s schedule of classes as we begin to look at enrollment numbers. In the next few weeks, you will be hearing radio ads for School of Choice openings for next school year. Due to the increase of resident student enrollment, it appears that we will have openings primarily in kindergarten and first grade.
Friday, February 19, 2010
February 19, 2010
Budget
Learn more about our proposed budget adjustments at the Board Meeting on Monday, February 22 at the West Bloomfield High School at 7:00 pm. We will amend the 2009-2010 budget into deficit as well as the resolution for the 2010 school building and site bond. The school will also be showcasing many of their unique programs that make it a premier high school, contributing to what makes us a high caliber school district.
A budget presentation will also take place at Ealy Elementary at their PTO Meeting on March 2 at 7:00 p.m.
Our dedication to education is very clear - you see it in everything we do, every day. It starts with one small seed... We plant those seeds all over the district. We’re growing our school district with new ideas, collaboration, partnerships and support from parents, business members and residents.
We want to help our schools and teachers build connections - no matter how hard the economy has hit the budget. That is why we want to give everyone the opportunity to share their ideas and suggestions for our budget issues. We welcome your input on all aspects of our budget issues and encourage you to attend this presentation at Ealy’s PTO meeting.
Legislation
On March 10 the SOS Save our Students, Schools and State (www.sosmichigan.org) will be gathering at the Capitol in Lansing at 1:30 p.m. for a rally to send another strong message to Lansing – we need actions, not words! We may want to consider going to Lansing for this rally. If we do, we want parents, school supporters and ALL SOS members to join us that day. It will occur at a crucial time, just as the legislature is considering the state budget. We will keep you informed.
Finally, SOS is planning a postcard campaign to help get parents and communities involved and allow them to express their frustrations to Lansing. We’ll send you more on that later. In the meantime, we'll be doing editorial board meetings in communities across the state.
At this time there is discussion with a few of our surrounding communities including Walled Lake to invite our legislators to speak in our community so that you may share your concerns before they vote on a final budget.
Pistons Tickets
JOIN US for a great night!
There is still time to purchase tickets to the Pistons game for this Sunday, February 21 at 6 pm at the Palace of Auburn Hills. Tickets can be ordered on our website www.wbsd.org . Join us for a fun dinner before the game at Culver’s Restaurant between 4 and 6 pm, and our own principals and superintendent will be your servers! Proceeds from the game and the dinner will go towards the Educational Foundation.
Phone Bank
The foundation is looking for volunteers to make calls to solicit donations at their phone bank on Sunday, February 28, 2010 at
Quicken Loan, 20255 Victor Parkway, Livonia, MI 48152, on the third floor.
Training will be provided before your shift starts. Please recruit as many people as possible.
Call Heidi Tischer at 248-225-7037 or email heidi.tischer@gmail.com by 02/24/2010 to let us know if you can help out.
A SPECIAL THANK YOU to Todd Lunsford for making it possible to use the Quicken Loans facility.
American Idol Raffle Tickets
Beginning at the end of February, the foundation will be selling raffle tickets to win a trip for four to the American Idol finale on May 25-26 in Los Angeles.
This includes airfare and hotel accommodations for FOUR people. American Idol Finale tickets are not available to the general public, so this is a great opportunity to buy a chance on a very exclusive event.
Tickets can be purchased starting February 28 at all West Bloomfield schools, JAX Kar Wash, and Buddy’s Pizza locations, or by calling 1-888-WIN-IDOL.
Tickets are $50 each OR 3 for $100. Buy a ticket and help support the West Bloomfield Educational Foundation.
Learn more about our proposed budget adjustments at the Board Meeting on Monday, February 22 at the West Bloomfield High School at 7:00 pm. We will amend the 2009-2010 budget into deficit as well as the resolution for the 2010 school building and site bond. The school will also be showcasing many of their unique programs that make it a premier high school, contributing to what makes us a high caliber school district.
A budget presentation will also take place at Ealy Elementary at their PTO Meeting on March 2 at 7:00 p.m.
Our dedication to education is very clear - you see it in everything we do, every day. It starts with one small seed... We plant those seeds all over the district. We’re growing our school district with new ideas, collaboration, partnerships and support from parents, business members and residents.
We want to help our schools and teachers build connections - no matter how hard the economy has hit the budget. That is why we want to give everyone the opportunity to share their ideas and suggestions for our budget issues. We welcome your input on all aspects of our budget issues and encourage you to attend this presentation at Ealy’s PTO meeting.
Legislation
On March 10 the SOS Save our Students, Schools and State (www.sosmichigan.org) will be gathering at the Capitol in Lansing at 1:30 p.m. for a rally to send another strong message to Lansing – we need actions, not words! We may want to consider going to Lansing for this rally. If we do, we want parents, school supporters and ALL SOS members to join us that day. It will occur at a crucial time, just as the legislature is considering the state budget. We will keep you informed.
Finally, SOS is planning a postcard campaign to help get parents and communities involved and allow them to express their frustrations to Lansing. We’ll send you more on that later. In the meantime, we'll be doing editorial board meetings in communities across the state.
At this time there is discussion with a few of our surrounding communities including Walled Lake to invite our legislators to speak in our community so that you may share your concerns before they vote on a final budget.
Pistons Tickets
JOIN US for a great night!
There is still time to purchase tickets to the Pistons game for this Sunday, February 21 at 6 pm at the Palace of Auburn Hills. Tickets can be ordered on our website www.wbsd.org . Join us for a fun dinner before the game at Culver’s Restaurant between 4 and 6 pm, and our own principals and superintendent will be your servers! Proceeds from the game and the dinner will go towards the Educational Foundation.
Phone Bank
The foundation is looking for volunteers to make calls to solicit donations at their phone bank on Sunday, February 28, 2010 at
Quicken Loan, 20255 Victor Parkway, Livonia, MI 48152, on the third floor.
Training will be provided before your shift starts. Please recruit as many people as possible.
Call Heidi Tischer at 248-225-7037 or email heidi.tischer@gmail.com by 02/24/2010 to let us know if you can help out.
A SPECIAL THANK YOU to Todd Lunsford for making it possible to use the Quicken Loans facility.
American Idol Raffle Tickets
Beginning at the end of February, the foundation will be selling raffle tickets to win a trip for four to the American Idol finale on May 25-26 in Los Angeles.
This includes airfare and hotel accommodations for FOUR people. American Idol Finale tickets are not available to the general public, so this is a great opportunity to buy a chance on a very exclusive event.
Tickets can be purchased starting February 28 at all West Bloomfield schools, JAX Kar Wash, and Buddy’s Pizza locations, or by calling 1-888-WIN-IDOL.
Tickets are $50 each OR 3 for $100. Buy a ticket and help support the West Bloomfield Educational Foundation.
Friday, February 5, 2010
February 5, 2010
Last night we held our fifth and final Budget Coffee Talk at Orchard Lake Middle School where there were approximately 50 people in attendance. It was an extremely productive evening where those who intended listened to an informative presentation on finances provided valuable feedback and input. Community input is an extremely important element of this process as the Board of Education looks to make important decisions regarding our school district.
In addition, we will be making a brief presentation at these upcoming PTO meetings. They will take place at the following schools:
· West Bloomfield High School on February 8
· Green Elementary February 9th
· Ealy Elementary on March 2
Please remember that Count Day is on February 10th. It is imperative that all students are in class that day, so please understand the importance of their attendance.
Our educational foundation has been incredibly active over the past few months. The SOS campaign is in full swing. They have a very informative website at WBEF website, www.WBEF.org where you can find out about all of the activities that are in the works. There is also an FAQ page that responds to the important questions being asked regarding the Save our Schools campaign. Please refer to it often as new things are happening every day!
Last Sunday the WBEF conducted a phone bank for the SOS campaign. I want to thank the many volunteers who devoted their Sunday afternoon to helping to raise nearly $10,000 for our school district. The next phone bank is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 28 from 12 to 5 pm. We need volunteers, so if you can donate a couple of hours of your time to help this worthwhile cause, please contact Heidi Tischer at 248-225-7037.
Watch for the next issue of the Laker newsletter inserted into next Wednesday, February 10 edition of the West Bloomfield Beacon. It contains information on the great student programs that are taking place in our schools as well as hundreds of donors to the WBEF are listed also.
This edition of the Laker also announces the next very exciting fundraiser sponsored by the WBEF. We think that this will be our best fundraiser yet, because it promises some great fun for four lucky people!
In addition, we are asking all of our basketball fans to join us at the Detroit Pistons game on Feb. 21, where proceeds will go towards the WBEF. The Detroit Pistons have been extremely supportive of the WBEF and its efforts to help us raise $2 million. The Pistons have not only discounted the tickets to the game but are donating 50% of all sales towards the SOS Campaign. Go to the WBSD website and watch our incredible, entertaining You-tube video on the homepage, taped right in the Pistons locker room with Coach John Koessler, Rip Hamilton, Austin Daye and our own principals and myself encouraging your support of the WBEF. In addition, our own Laker Express will be singing the National Anthem at the game.
As a bonus, of the principals and myself have volunteered to staff the Culver’s Restaurant just north of the Palace before the game, from 4-6 pm, and will be serving you your meals! Join us as Culver’s has graciously offered to donate 25% of all receipts to the SOS campaign. We also accept TIPS!
Congratulations to the following WBHS students who signed National Letters of Intent for scholarships at the Press Conference on Wednesday February3: Christian Bilkovic, Wayne State University – Baseball; Lawrence Brown, Saginaw Valley State University – Football; Cameron Fields, Grand Valley State University – Football; Aaron Foster, Bowling Green (Ohio), Football; Matt Judon, Grand Valley State University –Football; Vince Simpson, Western Illinois University – Football; Jenn Topor Winona State – Softball.
Another congratulations goes to Sheryl Hauk, Vocal Music Director and the WBHS Choral students who will be singing several numbers at the New York City Jazz Festival at Lincoln Center on February 28!
Life on a college campus seems to be agreeing with our Oakland Early College students who are performing well academically. In the fall 2009 semester, OEC students took nearly 300 college courses, ranging in subject from Calculus III and Linear Algebra to Guitar and Yoga. Our students had an exemplary college course pass rate of approximately 92% , a transfer rate of 87%, and carried an aggregate course grade of 2.8 GPA. Several of our students served as officers in the college’s Phi Theta Kappa academic honors society.
In addition, we will be making a brief presentation at these upcoming PTO meetings. They will take place at the following schools:
· West Bloomfield High School on February 8
· Green Elementary February 9th
· Ealy Elementary on March 2
Please remember that Count Day is on February 10th. It is imperative that all students are in class that day, so please understand the importance of their attendance.
Our educational foundation has been incredibly active over the past few months. The SOS campaign is in full swing. They have a very informative website at WBEF website, www.WBEF.org where you can find out about all of the activities that are in the works. There is also an FAQ page that responds to the important questions being asked regarding the Save our Schools campaign. Please refer to it often as new things are happening every day!
Last Sunday the WBEF conducted a phone bank for the SOS campaign. I want to thank the many volunteers who devoted their Sunday afternoon to helping to raise nearly $10,000 for our school district. The next phone bank is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 28 from 12 to 5 pm. We need volunteers, so if you can donate a couple of hours of your time to help this worthwhile cause, please contact Heidi Tischer at 248-225-7037.
Watch for the next issue of the Laker newsletter inserted into next Wednesday, February 10 edition of the West Bloomfield Beacon. It contains information on the great student programs that are taking place in our schools as well as hundreds of donors to the WBEF are listed also.
This edition of the Laker also announces the next very exciting fundraiser sponsored by the WBEF. We think that this will be our best fundraiser yet, because it promises some great fun for four lucky people!
In addition, we are asking all of our basketball fans to join us at the Detroit Pistons game on Feb. 21, where proceeds will go towards the WBEF. The Detroit Pistons have been extremely supportive of the WBEF and its efforts to help us raise $2 million. The Pistons have not only discounted the tickets to the game but are donating 50% of all sales towards the SOS Campaign. Go to the WBSD website and watch our incredible, entertaining You-tube video on the homepage, taped right in the Pistons locker room with Coach John Koessler, Rip Hamilton, Austin Daye and our own principals and myself encouraging your support of the WBEF. In addition, our own Laker Express will be singing the National Anthem at the game.
As a bonus, of the principals and myself have volunteered to staff the Culver’s Restaurant just north of the Palace before the game, from 4-6 pm, and will be serving you your meals! Join us as Culver’s has graciously offered to donate 25% of all receipts to the SOS campaign. We also accept TIPS!
Congratulations to the following WBHS students who signed National Letters of Intent for scholarships at the Press Conference on Wednesday February3: Christian Bilkovic, Wayne State University – Baseball; Lawrence Brown, Saginaw Valley State University – Football; Cameron Fields, Grand Valley State University – Football; Aaron Foster, Bowling Green (Ohio), Football; Matt Judon, Grand Valley State University –Football; Vince Simpson, Western Illinois University – Football; Jenn Topor Winona State – Softball.
Another congratulations goes to Sheryl Hauk, Vocal Music Director and the WBHS Choral students who will be singing several numbers at the New York City Jazz Festival at Lincoln Center on February 28!
Life on a college campus seems to be agreeing with our Oakland Early College students who are performing well academically. In the fall 2009 semester, OEC students took nearly 300 college courses, ranging in subject from Calculus III and Linear Algebra to Guitar and Yoga. Our students had an exemplary college course pass rate of approximately 92% , a transfer rate of 87%, and carried an aggregate course grade of 2.8 GPA. Several of our students served as officers in the college’s Phi Theta Kappa academic honors society.
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