SPRING 2009 NEWSLETTER
Dear Friends of the West De Pere School District,
I would like to thank the many community members that I have visited with during these past nine months as the Superintendent of the West De Pere School District. It was through the many conversations that I had with a large number of you that assisted my first year vision for the West De Pere School District. I do appreciate the insight that was presented to me, but also want to express that by keeping our eye on the target (student achievement) we accomplished much during the 2008-2009 school year.
I would like to extend my deepest appreciation as well, to the many school parents that have communicated to me the positive progress that is being demonstrated in our schools. We do have our challenges, as any school district does in this ever-changing world; however, it is critical that the members of this fine community continue to support the dedicated teachers, students and support staff as we identify how WE can be more effective in a variety of ways in the years to come. By keeping the doors open, the conversation honest, and a vision that is open to all possibilities, the West De Pere School District will demonstrate positive growth year after year.
I have a great appreciation of and would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our administrative team, teachers and support staff and congratulate them on the job they are doing to keep focused on high quality standards for all while raising the bar in regard to student achievement. The work that is being done internally with curriculum initiatives, innovative scheduling, assessment monitoring, and staff development will assist our schools through continuous efforts toward higher expectations for all students and staff.
Beginning in April 2009, we will be asking community members, administrators, teachers, parents and a few students to join in a collaborative and collective effort to update the Strategic Plan to assist our district with future goal setting, planning and development. Strategic planning is essential in providing direction and improvement to any organization. Recognizing that schools and programs will change as a result of our global society, the Board of Education and the District will continue to seek improvements for the benefit of all our students.
I would like to conclude by expressing my congratulations and thanks to the many students in our school district that have demonstrated proficiency in the classroom, on the court, field and stage in a variety of ways. It is the personal growth, relationship with others, character development, faith and trust in each other that has a lasting significance in our life. Continue to set your goals high and reach your full potential while learning in the West De Pere School District.
My first year as the Superintendent of the West De Pere School District has been very rewarding for me and I need to thank all of you for the opportunity to serve the many students and staff in this school district. Please continue to be open to the possibilities of becoming a great district and, together, WE will unleash all of our energy to become the best for each other, but most importantly for the students who attend our district schools.
If you are interested in learning more about our district accomplishments, Strategic Plan process and/or want to discuss any other district concerns as we move forward together to becoming a great school district, I would welcome your call at 337-1393, email at jzegers@wdpsd.com or stop in and visit our district office at 930 Oak Street. Thank you for your financial support in the past, present and into the future. As always, let’s continue to live our “Vision of Pride and Excellence.”
West De Pere Schools School Calendar
2008-2009
April 10-13 K-12 No School
May 8 K-12 Early Dismissal
May 25 K-12 No School
June 11 K-12 Last Student Day
West De Pere Schools School Calendar
2009-2010
September 1 K-12 First Student Day
September 7 K-12 No School
September 25 K-12 Early Dismissal
October 28 K-12 Early Dismissal
October 29-30 K-12 No School
November 25-27 K-12 No School
December 3 9-12 Early Dismissal
December 24-31 K-12 No School
January 1 K-12 No School
January 15 K-12 Early Dismissal
January 22 K-8 No School
February 19 K-12 Early Dismissal
March 5 9-12 Early Dismissal
March 12-19 K-12 No School
April 2-5 K-12 No School
May 7 K-12 Early Dismissal
May 31 K-12 No School
June 10 K-12 Last Student Day
“Focus on Energy” Rebates
Submitted by Kevin J. Hanson
Business Manager
Rising energy costs have placed an additional burden on already tight school district budgets. Heating fuels during the winter, summer and fall of 2008, were 40-50% higher that they were as little as two years previously. With Revenue Controls limiting Wisconsin school districts to CPI-U inflationary increases averaging
less than 2.8% per pupil, school district classroom expenditures must either be trimmed or innovative energy
saving - energy purchasing practices must be used.
Anticipating this problem five years ago, the West De Pere School District worked with Wisconsin Public Service to conduct a system wide energy audit of our facilities. The objective was to identify and invest in energy saving technologies that would have a payback of one and a half years or less. That is, the energy expense savings due to investment would pay for the initial expense of the technology within 18 months or less. In addition, federal and state energy rebates were to be applied for in an effort to further minimize the reinvestment burden to the school district. I am happy to say that $41,704.70 in WPS “Focus on Energy” rebates have been collected in the past two years alone due to our labors.
Since the WPS audit, the school district has modernized 95% of our facilities to digitally-controlled thermostats and controls. Now, 95% of our facilities can be efficiently managed from one location. Also, motion detecting lights were included in the 2000 and 2006 referendum facility improvements to further improve efficiencies. 85% of the West De Pere School District’s lighted areas have the capability to automatically shut off when motion is not detected. Nearly all of the over one-thousand school district computers connected to our network are timed to turn on and off at preset times electronically, again managed at one location. Every effort has been made to, where possible, use technology to take the potential human inefficiency element out of the daily process.
West De Pere Schools has been replacing older and less efficient T-12 fluorescent lights with the more advanced T-8’s in classrooms and hallways. Over the past two years, we have exchanged energy consuming halogen lamps with high efficiency fluorescent in our gymnasiums. Energy efficient boilers for heat as well as higher efficiency windows were added to the High School and Middle School in the 2000 referendum. Hemlock Creek Elementary was constructed in 2007 with energy savings in mind.
West De Pere has not depended solely on referendum resources for energy efficient upgrades. A significant portion of annual maintenance expenditures are allocated to energy efficient technology. Boiler tune-ups, chiller tune-ups, additional Variable Frequency Drives, Rational Ovens in food service, digitally controlled vents and the expansion of the number of fluorescent lights and digitally controlled thermostats in the district have been financed and upgraded through strategic planning of annual maintenance budgets.
The school district will not rest when it comes to energy savings; every dollar we can save on energy is a dollar that can be used in the classroom to help students. New technologies with quick payback times continue to be explored. Passive, solar, and geothermal systems as well as better electronic management software are being evaluated. West De Pere Schools and Wisconsin Public Service with their “Focus on Energy” program are functioning as partners to improve energy efficiencies, reduce energy expenses and subsequently help kids!
Stowe Scholarship
West De Pere High School has 2009 Harley and Della Stowe Scholarship applications available to any West De Pere graduate that is in college. Applications can be picked up at the High School or on the High School website. The deadline is May 1, 2009.
Schepp Named as 2009
Herb Kohl Fellowship Winner
David Schepp, Band Director at West De Pere High School, was recently named as a Kohl Fellowship Recipient. Mr. Schepp is in his 19th year of teaching, the last 12 of which have been as Director of the West De Pere High School Instrumental Music Program.
The Kohl Teacher Fellowship program recognizes and supports teaching excellence and innovation in the State of Wisconsin. The goal is to support teachers in the pursuit of their unrealized goals for their classrooms or professional development. Annually, the Foundation awards 100 Wisconsin teachers with $1,000 Kohl Fellowship grants, and each Kohl Fellowship recipient's school receives a matching $1,000 grant. Recipients professional accomplishments are celebrated at a recognition luncheon in the spring. Ironically, this year the reception is being held on March 28th at West De Pere High School.
David was a Golden Apple Award winner in 2001 and has led the West De Pere Marching Band to three state marching championships, as well as Concert Band awards, Jazz Band events and numerous State Solo & Ensemble events.
Schepp Named as 2009
Herb Kohl Fellowship Winner
David Schepp, Band Director at West De Pere High School, was recently named as a Kohl Fellowship Recipient. Mr. Schepp is in his 19th year of teaching, the last 12 of which have been as Director of the West De Pere High School Instrumental Music Program.
The Kohl Teacher Fellowship program recognizes and supports teaching excellence and innovation in the State of Wisconsin. The goal is to support teachers in the pursuit of their unrealized goals for their classrooms or professional development. Annually, the Foundation awards 100 Wisconsin teachers with $1,000 Kohl Fellowship grants, and each Kohl Fellowship recipient's school receives a matching $1,000 grant. Recipients professional accomplishments are celebrated at a recognition luncheon in the spring. Ironically, this year the reception is being held on March 28th at West De Pere High School.
David was a Golden Apple Award winner in 2001 and has led the West De Pere Marching Band to three state marching championships, as well as Concert Band awards, Jazz Band events and numerous State Solo & Ensemble events.
School Performance
School Performance data for 2007-08 is now available on the WINSS link on the Wisconsin Dept. of Public Instruction website at: http://www.dpi.state.wi.us/sig/index.html. Data analysis is given in these two areas: Academic Performance and Student Demographics. Additional information including 2007-08 Attendance & Behavior data is not yet available. When this information is released from the state in the spring, a complete report will be available on our district website. If you wish to have a copy of this School Performance Report, please call 337-1393 to confirm that it has been published.
Farnsworth Selected for
Einstein Butterflies & Friends Project
Mark Farnsworth, Speech and Language Pathologist at Hemlock Creek Elementary School, has been selected to participate in the Einstein Project’s Butterflies & Friends on Parade 2009.
The Butterflies & Friends on Parade is a community awareness and fundraising event benefiting The Einstein Project, a nonprofit organization that provides nationally recognized hands-on science to Wisconsin schools.
This event provides recognition for the artists, and brings public awareness to The Einstein Project. Through science units and professional development for teachers, Einstein science ignites a child’s enthusiasm through creative and exciting hands-on science learning while exploring the wonders of the world. The funds raised during this event will help The Einstein Project fulfill its mission and continue to provide proven resources to educators that are easy to implement and measurably raise students’ critical thinking skills.
This year the art pieces represent critters from our natural world. Artists had the opportunity to choose from aluminum butterflies, fiberglass/resign frogs and turtles. The art pieces will be placed on display in outdoor locations for public viewing/interaction throughout the summer along the Fox River Trail that runs through downtown Green Bay starting mid-June. September 2-3, 2009 the art pieces will be removed and on Tuesday, October 6, 2009 the Butterflies & Friends on Parade art pieces will be auctioned off with proceeds going to The Einstein Project.
Hundreds of applications and designs were submitted for consideration for the 2009 Butterflies & Friends on Parade. Mr. Farnsworth’s design was selected by a panel of judges. His art piece entitled “PONDEMONIUM” will be on display this summer along with 27 other artists’ art pieces. Mr. Farnsworth’s art piece will reflect the life and colors around a pond. His design will incorporate pebbles, ceramic/mirror tiles and stain glass. The color palate will range from earth tones to the various hues of blue, green and yellow stain glass. The design will be on a fiberglass/resin turtle. The design will be geometric, but will possess an ebb and flow appearance to reflect the ebb and flow of life around the pond. More information on the Einstein Project can be found at www.einsteinproject.org.
Four Year-Old Kindergarten 2009-2010
The School District of West De Pere is excited to be working with our community child care providers to offer a Four Year-Old Kindergarten program for the 2009-2010 school year. Providing young children with early educational experiences creates students who are more successful throughout their educational career. This partnership will provide a developmentally appropriate, community-based program, with a focus on the whole child. This will be achieved through a positive, safe learning environment with opportunities for purposeful play. We will provide the foundation for all students to reach their fullest potential and become life long learners in a global community. The four year-old kindergarten program has established the following points:
• The program will be located at the following locations:
◊ Westwood Elementary
◊ Hemlock Creek Elementary
◊ Our Lady of Lourdes
◊ Encompass Early Education Center
◊ Kiddie College Academy and Child Care
• Each location will offer a half-day program. Some locations may offer a morning and an afternoon session, while other locations may offer only a morning session.
• All locations will follow the school calendar.
• Depending on space availability at each site, children may be served at a location (either a school or child care facility) outside of their home school attendance area. If this occurs, transportation will be provided.
• Children must be 4 years old before September 1, 2009.
• Four year-old kindergarten is a voluntary program.
• Transportation will be provided and will follow the same regulations as what is provided to our kindergarten students.
• The four year-old kindergarten program will be developmentally appropriate and may include but will not be limited to:
◊ Readiness skills
◊ Language development
◊ Social development
◊ Emotional development
◊ Physical development
◊ Self-help skills
• The curriculum is based on the Wisconsin Model Early Learning Standards (www.collaboratingpartners.com) and can be found on the West De Pere School District website, www.wdpsd.com under Hemlock Creek Elementary or Westwood Elementary, then under general information.
• Parents will be made aware of the district belief that four-year-old kindergarten is designed as a one year four year-old kindergarten experience for children to attend in the year prior to their enrollment in general kindergarten.
If you are interested in registering your child for four year-old kindergarten or have any questions about the four year-old kindergarten program please call either Westwood Elementary (337-1087) or Hemlock Creek Elementary (425-1900) Offices (Monday – Friday 7:30 am -3:30pm).
Five Year-Old Kindergarten Registration 2009-2010
The School District of West De Pere recently held kindergarten registration for children who are planning to attend kindergarten in the fall of 2009. In case you missed it, do not attend our 4k program and you are planning on sending your child to kindergarten, please register your child as soon as possible at your school of residence: Hemlock Creek Elementary School, 1900 Williams Grant Drive, De Pere or Westwood Elementary School, 1155 Westwood Street, De Pere. Children must turn 5 years of age on or before September 1, 2009 and live in the West De Pere School District to be eligible for the West De Pere kindergarten program. For registration you will need to bring your child’s birth certificate, their immunization record, and proof of address. The child does not have to attend the registration. If you have any questions, please call 425-1900 ext. 3320 for Hemlock Creek or 337-1087 ext. 1322 for Westwood.
Notes from the Nurse
Dawn Schaefer RN, BSN (920) 337-1087 ext. 8031 E-mail: dschaefer@wdpsd.com
Get a Jumpstart on
Immunizations
It’s not too early to start thinking about getting your student vaccinated to meet the new state requirements for the following school year 2009-2010. Many parents this year have experienced a lot of frustration getting their child scheduled for their necessary vaccines. Here are the new requirements for the next school year:
• Kindergarten and 1st grade will now require 2 Varicella (Chickenpox) vaccine doses.
• Grades 6, 7, and 12 will require Tdap (Tetanus booster with Pertussis) and 2 Varicella (Chickenpox) vaccine doses. Chickenpox disease history is acceptable.
• Grades 9 and 10 will require Tdap (Tetanus booster with Pertussis).
If your child received a tetanus booster in the last 5 years that is acceptable, we are just asking you inform us of the date. If your student has had chickenpox disease, then your child does not need the two chickenpox vaccines. Vaccines are available through your healthcare provider or your local Public Health Department.
I know the vaccine requirements are confusing, but if you have questions please give the school nurse a call at 337-1099 ext. 8031. The Wisconsin immunization requirements and immunization record forms are also available on the West De Pere School web page (www.wdpsd.com), under district info, school nurse, immunization record forms.
Summer School 2009
Submitted by Jo Boss
Elementary Associate Principal
West De Pere School District will again be offering a wide variety of enrichment and academic-based programs during the summer of 2009. This year the programs at Westwood and Hemlock Creek will mirror each other and students will sign up for classes at the school they attend. This means that each elementary will offer a wide range of programming at the facility your child attends.
There will again be the Luke Stempa Fine Arts Institute, two elementary musicals, high school musical and a showoff session at the end of the first three weeks. The students will also perform in Green Bay for the Fourth of July Celebration.
Tutoring will be available the first three weeks in the morning at Hemlock Creek or Westwood and in the afternoon at the Phantom Knight School of Opportunity. In July and August tutoring sessions will be available at the Phantom Knight School of Opportunity only.
Getting Ready for Kindergarten will be offered as well as Getting Ready for Classes for all grade levels. These classes are meant to give a jump start for the upcoming school year. Some new courses being offered are ”Paws”sitively Pet, Microwave cooking and snack making for Grade 1-4, Beginning Spanish (Westwood) or Cultural Enrichment Spanish (Hemlock Creek). Middle School offerings include Getting Ready for Sixth Grade, Cool Tech Tools for School, Digitales, Piano, and CSI De Pere.
Summer Children’s Gardening Projects will be in backyards throughout the community throughout the summer (if you wish to sponsor a backyard garden contact Jo Boss at 337-1087 x 1323).
Look for Summer School information the first week of April. Booklets will be sent home with the West De Pere elementary students and available for pickup at the West De Pere Middle School and Our Lady of Lourdes School offices. Registration forms will also be available to print off from the West De Pere web site, www.wdpsd.com.
We look forward to continuing to offer summer programming for your children grades kindergarten through 12. If you have further questions about the programs, please call Jan at 337-1087.
Did you know…
• The West De Pere School Board recently adopted revisions to the K-12 Music, Art, and Physical Education curricula, and approved resource funding to support those changes. The new curricula will be implemented in the 2009-2010 school year.
• The K-12 Language Arts Curriculum is currently under review. This process will include updates to grade level learning targets, assessments, professional development, and an evaluation of existing resources.
• West De Pere students in grades 4-8 participate in the NWEA MAP (Northwest Evaluation Association Measures of Academic Progress) assessment. This is a computerized test adapted to be appropriate for each child’s level of learning. The data is used to determine students’ instructional levels, and to measure academic progress throughout the school year in the areas of reading and math. The NWEA MAP tests are administered in October, January, and April.
• It only takes 20 minutes a day to make the difference! Authorities on reading research emphasize the importance of uninterrupted daily reading as the single most effective way to improve literacy skills.
• Looking for some great educational websites for your children? Check these out…
K-12 Educational Resources http://thinkfinity.org/home.aspx
K-12 Math http://www.coolmath4kids.com/
K-8 Learning Games http://www.funbrain.com/
K-12 Spelling:
http://www.spellingcity.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1105&Itemid=176
Submitted by Kimiko Ott, Director of Teaching and Learning
337-1393 X8029
Parking Issues at the Schools
Submitted by Office Kevin DuBois
School Resource Officer
There have been some parking issues at the schools recently that need to be addressed. The schools are properly posted for parking and the signs need to be followed. The reason the school parking lots are posted the way they are is the need to keep the lots open for access by all. This also keeps the lots open for access by emergency vehicles to the schools. In case of an emergency, they need this area to respond for the safety and well being of our students and staff.
When dropping off or picking up your children, please use the authorized parking spots to allow an orderly flow of traffic. If you are going into the school or walking your children in, please park in the designated areas.
Some of the parking issues are taking place both during and after school and during events. Please park in designated parking spots only to allow access for buses and emergency vehicles.
Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
Summer Reading
Submitted by Lisa Hollihan-Allen
K-12 Reading Specialist
Looking for a way to keep your kids reading over the summer? Start a Book Club! Kids from kindergarten through twelfth grade will benefit from continuing to read during June, July and August. Book clubs offer readers of all ages the opportunity to socialize with other readers and to engage in conversation over reading.
Basics of Starting a Book Club
Who: What a great way for a group of friends to stay in touch over the summer. Even two readers can be a book club, but you might want to try for five or more so that the meeting can still happen if some of the participants can’t make it.
Where: Book clubs can meet in your home, backyard, the park, the library, or a local restaurant. If you call ahead, the library or a restaurant may even be able to provide your group with a quiet corner or private room to meet.
When: How often you meet will depend on the groups and the books you read. For older readers, once a month would give everyone time to read the book, but if the books are shorter, younger readers could even meet once a week if time permits.
How to Choose a Book: The American Library Association (www.ala.org) is just one place you will find recommended book lists. The group could vote on the book, participants could take turns choosing a book, or the librarians (public or school) could recommend titles for all age groups.
What to Discuss: Among the many topics to consider, think about discussing the characters, relationships, setting, the ending, theme, and overall feelings about the book. Check online for book club questions to go along with books. Younger readers may need an adult or older reader to lead the discussion.
Why: Reading is a skill. That skill can deteriorate over the summer if it is not practiced. A book club is an excellent way to keep those skills up while spending time with friends!
Happy reading!
School Census
SCHOOL CENSUS FORM TO FILL OUT
Accurate census data is critically important to many aspects of any school district. It helps us make more accurate future class-size projections, anticipate growth and accompanying needs, identify specific target populations, fulfill our state-mandated child-find obligations and acquire state funding.
As we begin to work on the school census, we are asking for your help. If you live in the West De Pere School District and you have children between the ages of 0 and 19 as of June 30, 2009, please fill out the census form on the next page.
All children need to be counted for this census, even if your children do not attend the West De Pere Public Schools.
Please return your completed census form ASAP.
You can return the form by:
• mail, drop off, or fax to the West De Pere District Office (930 Oak Street, De Pere 54115 fax: 337-1398)
• drop off, mail, or send the completed form with your student to any of the West De Pere Public Schools.
By law, you are required to supply this information (all information remains confidential). Your cooperation will help us meet the needs of the students and residents of the West De Pere School District. If you have questions please contact Ginny at 337-1393 ext. 8010. Thank you for your help!
Primal Percussion
Submitted by Sandi La Luzerne & Kristine Landreman
Westwood Artist in Education Committee
Westwood Elementary welcomes Tom Krueger for a Drumming Residency February 4-10. This program included students in 4 year old kindergarten through grade 5.
Tom Krueger, an artist from Michigan, taught the students how to design, construct, and play drums. He worked with the students to create a school wide drumming performance on February 10.
Tom believes that drumming is all about energy. He brought his energy to the residency to honor the individual, build community, self-esteem, and acceptance.
This residency has been sponsored through generous donations from the Westwood P.T.O., community members, and the Westwood Flower Bulb Sale.
Submitted by Stephanie Albers
Elementary Teacher
Westwood Elementary School is proud to present the musical Annie! Our talented 4th and 5th graders will be presenting three shows at West De Pere High School on Thursday & Friday, April 2 & 3 at 7:00 p. m. and Saturday, April 4 at 2:00 p.m. Admittance is free, but all attending are asked to bring a canned food item for Paul’s Pantry. A dessert social will follow the Thursday and Friday night shows. Hope to see you there!
Readers’ Theatre
Submitted by Hemlock Creek First Grade Teachers
To celebrate their awesome reading skills, first grade classes at Hemlock Creek Elementary invited parents to come into their classrooms for a Readers’ Theatre Presentation. First Graders practiced very hard to be ready to perform the Readers’ Theatre plays for their audiences. After a great performance, students and parents enjoyed cookies and milk together. Way to go Readers!
King Birthday Celebration
Submitted by Marge Hannon
Elementary Teacher
Hemlock Creek students celebrated Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday and Inauguration day with visits from special leaders in our district. School board members and district administrators were invited into the classrooms to read a book about leadership, freedom, or treating others as equals. The readers also shared their own life stories about these qualities and life values. They told us about experiences in their life and how someone or something influenced what they did. They talked about how they chose to become a leader in our district.
Pictured is Mr. John Zegers, West De Pere School Superintendent. Mr. Zegers was one of the leaders who read to the students.
10K Training
Submitted by Mary Bain and Tara Kempen
Elementary Teachers
Third, fourth and fifth graders at Westwood and Hemlock Creek are training for the Bellin 10K run on June 13, 2009. Participating students practice running after school three days a week to work up to the 6.2 miles of the run. Staff and parents volunteer their time to help students develop this healthy lifestyle goal. This has turned into a yearly event for many of our districts’ families. The Run has very festive atmosphere and the smiles on our kids faces upon completion of the run shows that our West De Pere students know they have achieved a major goal. Keep running! Pictured are student runners from the 2008 race.
Living Museum
Submitted by Kay Cota
Elementary Teacher
The third grade students in Lois Lensmeyer, Sara Lang, Marge Hannon and Kay Cota’s classrooms, have been researching famous people from the present, as well as from the past. In February, the children presented their final project to family and friends in the form of a “Living Museum”. The students were dressed as the person they researched and created displays and speeches. What a way to learn about history!
Community Outreach
Submitted by Mary Bain
Elementary Teacher
First grade students at Hemlock Creek are putting their Good Citizen Curriculum into practice with a community outreach project. In each first grade classroom, students are using what they’ve learned in Science/Health about healthy eating with the five food groups and planning a meal for Freedom House. The menu will be a kettle of soup, fresh baked bread, and fruit for dessert. Each classroom is making a different type of soup, making use of the kitchen areas in Hemlock Creek’s resource rooms. The meal will be served on March 12, with a visit from a representative of Freedom House to help students further understand how they are helping this community resource.
Corn Husk Dolls
Submitted by Sandi La Luzerne
Elementary teacher
Third grade students at Westwood Elementary welcomed Judy Jourdan, artist and corn husk doll maker. The presentation was part of the Native American Unit where the students learned about the Oneida culture and the legend of the corn husk doll. Judy told the story while she patiently and carefully constructed a corn husk doll.
Child Nutrition
Programs
The School District of West De Pere participates in the USDA nutrition programs. If you think your child may be eligible to receive free or reduced lunch prices, please contact Mary at 337-1393 ext. 8019 to obtain the necessary forms.
UWGB Professor Reads to Students
Submitted by Crissy Kersten
Elementary Teacher
Thank you to Dr. James Coates, Professor of Education at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay for doing a read aloud for the 2nd grade classrooms at Hemlock Creek Elementary School. February was Black History Month and the 2nd grade students were read a book titled, Tar Beach, by Faith Ringold. The book talks about a young African American girl who dreams of flying over the roof of her urban home. The book was based on a piece of art work. Dr. Coates, and his wife Fran Coates who is also a Professor of Art at U.W.G.B., put together a slide show for all of the 2nd graders at Hemlock Creek. While the slides of the book were projected, Dr. Coates read the book. He ended his presentation with the famous "Drifters" tune titled, "Up on the Roof." Thank you Dr. Coates for your awesome presentation, and thank you to our 2nd graders who were a great audience!
Elementary Music News
Submitted by Bonnie Seiler
Westwood Music Teacher
In February, the fifth graders from Hemlock Creek & Westwood Elementary schools celebrated the performing arts with a music recital playing instruments and/or singing. The instruments included recorder, saxophone, trumpet, flute, clarinet, trombone, snare drum, and electric guitar. The music included Disney songs, jazz, folk, movie, rock, and classical. Thank you for sharing your talents with us!
The following Westwood concerts are being held in the Westwood gymnasium for the families of the students:
• April 17 at 2:30 p.m., fourth graders will play a variety of patriotic and wacky songs on their recorders.
• April 23 at 2:30 p.m., second graders “Mac ‘n’ Cheese” Music Revue.
• May 14 at 7 p.m., Elementary Choir presents “Songs of Broadway”.
• May 19 at 2:30 p.m., third graders present “I Need a Vacation”.
Book Fair a Success
Submitted by Alison Casady & Margaret Gonzales
Middle School Library Aides
Many thanks to everyone who supported the Middle School book fair this year. We were able to purchase over $2,600 in materials for the middle school library. Purchases included books and two listening stations for use in the library and individual classrooms. In addition, we collected and donated approximately $150 worth of books to Golden House through our “One for Books” program. The many hours our parent volunteers spent running the book fair and the delicious baked treats they made, were greatly appreciated. Special thanks to all the parents, students and staff who helped make this a successful fundraiser for our school! All of you are the reason why West De Pere Middle School is the best!
A Message to the New President
Submitted by Sheila Kohl
Middle School Teacher
Recently, students in Mrs. Kohl’s and Mrs. Stacie’s 6th grade class created documentaries for the C-Span competition, “A Message to the New President.” Utilizing resources such as the Kids Voting USA curriculum, Time for Kids magazines, wikis, and their own personal experiences, students developed persuasive pieces on topics of their choice. Bullying, school lunches, Iraq, and child obesity were some of the issues chosen. Students then developed the scripts and created taping schedules to complete the filming. Special thanks to Ms. Gonzales and Mrs. Casady in the middle school library, as well as to all faculty and staff who agreed to be interviewed.
Incentive Program
Submitted by Sharee Bock
Middle School Teacher
This school year, the Eighth Grade Incentive Program is striving to improve the on-time completion of assignments. At the end of each grading period, any student who completed all assignments on time in their CORE classes for that grading period has their name entered into a drawing for prizes such as a gift card or a free class t-shirt. The eligibility for the drawing starts over with each grading period. The winners of the drawings for the first three grading periods include: Brad Ambrosius, Taylor Arndt, Stephanie Beyer, Alex Christensen, Nick Dykema, Kristina Eggener, Maddie Faust, Justin Feaker, Jessie Huettl, Jennifer Kane, Andrew Koltz, Shalene Krause, Maria Lancelle, Carina Lasee, Erin Laundre, Lorenzo Lindley, Maikou Lor, Shannon Massey, Rachael Micolichek, Cassandra Micolichek, Baldemar Ramirez, Rachael Schweiner, Maddie Seifert, Corey Steier, Tasnia Tabassum, Kim Tenor, Bridget VandeKreeke, Shawn Vandenberg, Sydney Waldschmidt, and Brent Zey.
Congratulations to all of the students who qualified for these drawings and good luck to all the eighth grade students in the last three grading periods!
Congratulations to all of the students who qualified for these drawings and good luck to all the 8th grade students in the last three grading periods!
Business Partnerships
Submitted by Patti Jo De Villers
Middle School Teacher
The School District of West De Pere has received a $1700 donation from Thilmany Nicolet Mill toward the support of the stock market simulation game. The 10 week fall and spring state-wide competition for grades 6-12 involves investing and managing a hypothetical $100,000 portfolio in the market, offered through Economics Wisconsin. Our district is honored that Thilmany Nicolet Mills has been a longstanding supporter of the game, which allows students the opportunity to experience first hand the realities of the economy.
Clay Masks
Submitted by Toni Smith
Elementary Teacher
Students in Mrs. Scanlan’s fifth grade art class learned about African masks out of clay. After adding the finishing touches to their masks, their classroom teacher, Mrs. Smith, had the students write an emotion poem to express the feelings depicted in the masks. The students were extremely creative in their artwork and with their words.
Reading it Forward
Submitted by Elizabeth Searles
Middle School Teacher
Eighth grade reading students in Mr. Hansen’s, Ms. Searles’, and Mrs. Seroogy’s classes were teamed up with 1st through 3rd graders at Westwood to teach a literacy lesson. Eighth graders learned the strategies that good readers use while reading and were asked to teach a literacy lesson based on these skills. After studying folklore and learning about its various components, eighth graders began planning a literacy lesson. These lessons began by selecting children’s folklore such as a folktale, fairytale, legend, myth, or fable. Next, the students were required to teach a small activity that involved one or more of the strategies: visualize, connect, question, infer, evaluate, analyze, recall, or self-monitor. Their lessons involved reading the story, teaching the strategies on which they focused, and implementing a fun, strategy-centered activity, all within the thirty-minute time frame. These novice teachers quickly learned the hard work and effort that is required of a teacher on a daily basis. As classroom educators, we observed intense involvement and learning by both students and “teachers.” Congratulations to eighth graders who shared the joys of reading by paying it forward with young readers.
Family & Consumer Science News
Submitted by Patti Jo De Villers
Middle School Teacher
West De Pere Middle School students enrolled in Ms. Patti Jo De Villers’
Entrepreneur and Family & Consumer Sciences classes have been very busy!
Lessons of the Heart
Seventh and eighth grade classes are learning how to think with their heads and act with their hearts as they participate in workplace simulations that pair students up with guests that serve in the role of clients. Woodside Manor residents and kindergarteners from Syble Hopp School interact with the students on a personal level, each gaining a refreshing perspective on the special uniqueness of all individuals. The senior citizens and students have visited the N.E.W. Zoo, shopped for holiday needs at Bay Park Square, and have enjoyed a Sweet Heart Celebration hosted by the students and facilitated by the food service personnel and Mrs. Debbie Dhein’s and Mr. Shawn Smith’s music students. Upcoming spring events include lunch and bowling and a Fox River Trail walk. Syble Hopp kindergarten students came to the middle school in December for “Crafts and Singing with Santa” and will soon be returning for a “Spring Fling,” including games and crafts. Students enrolled in the classes learn firsthand the similarities of child growth and development and aging processes. Each simulation allows students to experience the responsibilities involved in serving clients and explore career options that involve care giving. West De Pere Middle School is very proud that the students are capable and willing to serve others, responsibly modeling intellectual and emotional intelligence.
School Work Sites
Middle school Careers, Entrepreneur and Family and Consumer Sciences students are provided with opportunities to work side by side with employees at community work sites to experience the responsibilities and work habits involved in being a good worker, to realize how the education they are receiving now will be put to use in the future, and to explore career options preparing students to make course selections at the high school level compatible with personal career goals. A sincere thank you is extended to the work sites listed below for their willingness to share their expertise with our youth:
West De Pere Food Service Personnel: Mary Tarkowski, Ann Vissers, Gail Stupka, Collette Sinkewicz, Mary Butler, Carrie Marquis, Heidi Raisanen, and Rose Coenen; Broadway Chevrolet; Great Harvest Bread; Walmart; Salvation Army; Festival Foods; Woodside Manor; Syble Hopp School; and Nohl Stores.
Junior Achievement
Students participated in the Junior Achievement Programs titled, “Economics for Success” (grade 6) and “It’s My Business” (grade 7). We are honored that the volunteers listed below are so willing to share their expertise with our students:
Kevin Keller, IBM Corporation; Matthew Gehri, Prevea Clinic; Kevin Ress, Associated Bank; Nicole Nohl, Nohl Stores; April Worm, Ameriprise Auto & Home Insurance; Terri Deprez, Jilayne Robinson, and Michele Farnsworth, Humana, Inc.
"Rabbit and Tiger"
Submitted by Michelle LeBrun
Elementary Teacher
Mrs. LeBrun's second grade class presented the play "Rabbit and Tiger" by F.C. Nicholson. The students invited family members to enjoy the show. Students worked on voice inflection, presentation, costume design and set design. Mrs. LeBrun and their family members were very impressed in their presentation and hard work. Good job second grade actors and actresses!
“Grease”
Submitted by Laura Rollin
High School Music Teacher
The West De Pere High School Fine Arts Department performed the musical “Grease” on February 26-28. Thankfully, the opening night performance took place despite a healthy dose of typical Wisconsin weather, still managing to fill approximately half of the 452 auditorium seats. And, for the first time in WDPHS history, the Friday and Saturday evening performances were completely sold out (and then some)! All three performances were absolutely spectacular!
Rehearsals for “Grease” began early January and were consistently held on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 6:00-9:00 p.m. At total of 62 students in grades 9-12 were involved in this production to include cast, crew and pit band members.
The cast consisted of 46 students in grades 9–12. The role of Sandy was played by Brooke Schumacher. In 2007, Brooke had the leading role in West De Pere High School’s production of “Cinderella”, which unfortunately had its opening night performance cancelled due to inclement weather. Danny was played by Michael O’Malley, who made his debut as a lead role in a musical. Rizzo was played by Jaime Willems and Kenicke was played by James Kimball. Other leading roles were held by Amy Vannieuwenhoven, Kate Osterberg, Megan Dowd, Alyssa Delloro, Joe Landwehr, Gabe Valladares, and Nathan Ney. Secondary roles were played by Danielle Kindle, Trevor Dowd, Katie Cornelissen, Lydia Hujet and Skye LaRock Hill, Tim Hopkins, Wil Rowe, and Lee VanEss.
The show was directed by Laura Rollin, WDPHS Choir Director, and Sarah Lisowe, Music Teacher in the Green Bay School District. Ashlee Schramm, WDPHS English Teacher, served as Technical Director and Jennifer Zurawski, WDP Business Education Teacher, was the show’s choreographer. Many others were involved in the musical from the Teen Angel Choir, ensemble, pit band, stage crew, costumes…the list goes on. Everyone was a huge part in the success of the musical. Thank you to all for their hard work and devotion.
Middle School
Counselor Update
Submitted by Leon Bunker
Middle School Counselor
Mike McGowan, known for his presentations on substance abuse and life skills, spent February 11 with the West De Pere Middle School students. He met with all the peer mentors, peer helpers and student council members as well as all the students by each grade level. His stories were entertaining as well as thought provoking. Topics covered by various grade levels included substance abuse, decision making, goal setting, building relationships, respect, manners, success and planning for high school. While meeting with the various peer leaders, he talked about relationships, trust, skill building and the roles of peer mentors, peer helpers and student council.
West De Pere High School
Greenhouse Plant Sale
Submitted by Clara Hedrich
High School Agriculture Teacher
The West De Pere Horticulture/Landscaping class is growing a variety of plants in their school greenhouse for use in plantings around the high school, in the community and for a plant sale. There will be a wide variety of plants available for sale including annuals, perennials, hanging baskets and some vegetables.
Open house will be held Wednesday, May 6, from 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. during the annual FFA Awards night. Plants will also be available for sale during regular school hours, before school and after school. Stop in the high school office for directions to the greenhouse. If you have any questions regarding the plant sale, please contact Mrs. Hedrich at 338-5200 ext. 4278 or chedrich@wdpsd.com.
“Booster Bash” a Success
The West De Pere Booster Club held its first “Booster Bash” on December 14, 2008, at the S.C. Grand. The fundraising event featured the Packer game on large screen TV’s along with raffles, prizes and lots of fun. The event raised $9,370 for the Booster Club. What a great day! The winners of the large raffle are as follows:
$3000—Ben Berken Television—Carol Linssen Wii System—Annette Thiesfeldt
$500 each—Sue Blohm, Amy Gildernick, Dixie Karau, Lisa Schumacher, Pat Gevers
This fundraiser would not have been possible without everyone’s combined efforts and contributions. Thank you!
Middle School
Art Corner
Submitted by Theresa Schlatter
Middle School Art Teacher
• Eighth grade students have the opportunity to leave their mark at the middle school by designing a ceiling tile. Unfortunately, one student from the graduating class of 2009 will not be making his own ceiling tile. Two years ago, the class of 2009 lost a fellow classmate, Luke Stempa. Three 8th grade students thought about their fellow classmate and wanted to remember him. Kelly Romenesko, Brook Van De Hei and Bridget Van De Kreeke worked during their lunch hour and after school for four weeks creating the perfect ceiling tile for Luke. They had things drawn on the tile that he loved in life, music and Star Wars! The three students also had everyone in the 8th grade graduating class sign his ceiling tile. These three students put in a lot of time and effort into designing Luke’s ceiling tile that is displayed by the Band room doors. Thank you for being compassionate students!
• Art Club has been meeting every Monday since November. One big project we created was a life-size Santa Claus for the Band and Chorus Holiday Concert. We hope you enjoyed seeing the Santa up on stage along with Frosty the Snowman. Art Club has also been doing small crafts for the themed holidays. I want to extend a big thank you to my volunteers, Mrs. Seifert and Mrs. Beyer. Thank you very much for volunteering your time to help with Art Club.
• Students in Mrs. Schlatter’s art class participated in a community service project last September. The Red Hat Ladies’ Club organized this project and money they collected benefited meals for the N.E.W Community Shelter. Our students decorated plates that were sold throughout the community, and our students had the opportunity to purchase the plate they designed for a $5.00 donation. Students enjoyed creating a gift for our community.
Students Travel to Costa Rica
Submitted by Julie Flynn
High School Foreign Language Teacher
Sixteen West De Pere High School students and one Middle School student traveled to Costa Rica March 11-19 with Sra. Flynn and Srta. Marx, West De Pere High School Foreign Language Teachers. They stayed with host families in the town of Tres Ríos for four days while doing a service project of painting the cafeteria of a local school. Then they were off to discover the beautiful sites of the country. They rafted down the Sarapiquí river, visited Arenal volcano, relaxed in the hot springs of La Fortuna, and zip lined through the rain forest. They also traveled by horseback to La Fortuna Waterfall, visited Manuel Antonio National Park, and ate dinner at a restaurant that was once a crashed airplane. These students brought home experiences they will have forever.
Spelling Bee Winner
Submitted by Christine Seroogy & Kristin Blanchard
Middle School Teachers
Lily Howe, a sixth grader at West De Pere Middle School, competed in the CESA District Spelling Bee on Tuesday, February 3, at Washington Middle School. After having practiced for months and winning both the grade level and the school competitions, she placed 2nd out of all the contestants from our area. Congratulations, Lily; West De Pere is proud of you!
Pom & Dance State Champions
Submitted by Jennifer Zurawski
Pom & Dance Head Coach & Business Ed. Teacher
In front of a packed La Crosse Center, the West De Pere Pom & Dance Team earned first place in Division 2 Kick and second place in Division 2 Pom at the WACPC State Pom/Dance Competition. The team is coached by Jennifer Zurawski and Casey Crevier, led by captains Carly Crevier and Val VanDenHeuvel, and officers Jennah Landwehr and Hannah VanHefty. This is the eighth state title for the dance team in the past nine years. To view pictures and videos from the event, please visit the team website at www.phantomdancers.com. The team would especially like to thank their 2008-2009 sponsors: Murphy Development, VOS Electric, Ambrosius Concrete, Business Development LLC, Extended Stay – Airport, Ambrosius Studios, Hein Construction, Home Instead Senior Care, Lamers Bus Lines, NEWisconsin MRI Center, Spectrum Surfaces, Barb’s Centre for Dance, Country Kids Inc., Sidekicks Bar & Grill, SnapSports, and Fed-Ex/Kinkos.
West De Pere Kohl
Scholarship Recipients
Submitted by Lisa Boyd
High School Counselor
West De Pere High School is proud to announce two Kohl Scholarship winners. Ryan Ballard has been selected as the 2009 Kohl’s Excellence Scholarship recipient and Nadia Deane will be awarded the 2009 Herb Kohl Initiative Scholarship. Both students are outstanding seniors who have been leaders in school and have achieved excellence in the classroom. Ryan was chosen to receive the scholarship based on his exceptional scholarship, leadership, citizenship and school and community involvement. Nadia’s award was founded on her high level of motivation to achieve, and strong promise for succeeding in college and beyond. Nadia is the daughter of Fuad and Shannon Deane. She will be attending the University of Wisconsin at Oshkosh in fall to seek a degree in the medical field. Ryan is the son of Michael Ballard and Connie Ballard. In fall, he will be attending the University of Michigan to study Engineering.
Celebrate Success
Submitted by Lisa Boyd
High School Counselor
West De Pere High School has selected three students to attend a multicultural recognition night called Celebrate Success at the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay in April. Area high school juniors were selected for this award based on academic achievement and civic involvement. Our students who will receive the Celebrate Success award are Anika Abid, Mariah Danforth-Moore and Iaong Moua. The students, along with their parents and a school counselor, Mr. Klingeisen, will attend the celebration dinner and awards ceremony. Anika Abid is the daughter of Rezaul and Ava Abid. Mariah Danforth-Moore is the daughter of Lisa Moore and Stephen Danforth. Iaong Moua is the daughter of Kham and Ge Moua.
Pictured from left to right are Iaong Moua, Mariah Danforth-Moore and Anika Abid.
Java with John
Join West De Pere Schools Superintendent John Zegers for coffee and conversation at the Nicolet Restaurant, 525 Reid St. from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. on the following dates:
Thursday—April 23, 2009
Friday—May 22, 2009
Board of Education Meetings
School District of West De Pere residents are cordially invited to attend our monthly board meetings. March and April 2009 board meetings are scheduled for 6:00 p.m., March 25 and April 15 at the West De Pere Middle School, 1177 South Ninth Street. After the elections and reorganization in April, more dates and times will be available. An opportunity is provided at each meeting for citizens to address our Board of Education. Please visit our district webpage www.wdpsd.com for up-to-date regular board meeting date information prior to the monthly meeting (http://www.wdpsd.com/district/district_info/board_meetings.htm) or call the District Office (337-1393) to confirm the date and time.
