The end zone and howling wolf at the 50-yard line pop with purple in the renovated Wyoming Wolves football stadium.
Construction is nearly complete on about $3 million in work to the outdoor athletic complex at Wyoming High School, 1350 Prairie Parkway SW. Improvements include artificial turf, a new track, a new softball field and dugouts, baseball field updates, a new stadium entry plaza, an updated concession stand, sidewalks and batting cages.
Fans will arrive Oct. 11 for the Homecoming game against Wayland, the first matchup in the new digs. (Until the field is finished, home games will be held at Wyoming Junior High, 2125 Wrenwood St. SW.)
The complex will serve all students in sports and beyond, said Athletic Director Ted Hollern, who has worked in the district for 23 years.
“I see it being the anchor of the entire community, when our kids have the opportunity to go out there and show everybody their talents and their skills and what they are all about on a first-class prestigious football field,” Hollern said. “It is the point of pride for everyone. We now have a facility that matches the prestige and expertise of our athletes.”
Over the decades
Construction on a 30-classroom addition is under way
The Wyoming Wolves’ new outdoor athletic complex is near completion
The new end zone
Over the decades
Construction on a 30-classroom addition is under way
Construction on a 30-classroom addition is under way. (School News Network)
Much More to Come
Renovations are just part of $40 million in planned work at the high school. A 30-classroom addition is under construction and should be ready to move into next August, said Principal Josh Baumbach. Renovations school-wide will include new collaborative spaces outfitted to meet technology needs. Hallways will be widened and windows and high ceilings will allow for more natural light. Eventually, ninth graders, who are currently housed at Wyoming Junior High, will be moved to the high school.
“Essentially we are going to have a new high school when this is said and done. Our students deserve the best and our community has stepped up,” Baumbach said.
The work is all part of $79.5 million school improvement bond, to fund facility improvements districtwide, which passed in 2017. It is being split into two phases: $23.5 million for a first phase of improvements and the remaining $56 million in 2022.
For cheerleaders Andraeya Wells, Taylor Boukma and Brionni Strodtbeck, the excitement goes beyond athletics.
“I can’t wait for the freshmen to come up here and have their own wing,” said Andraeya.
Taylor said she’s happy for future Wolves. “They will be brought up with stuff we never had — newer buildings, nicer facilities and everything. They are going to have more opportunities.”
Added Brionni, “It’s fresh and clean. Everything will be new.”
Josh Baumbach is the new Wyoming High School principal. A graduate of the former Wyoming Park High School and Hope College, he most recently served as West Elementary principal for two years. Because Baumbach was highlighted then as a new principal, SNN asked him a few questions specific to his new role.
What’s your favorite thing about high school students? They keep us on our toes and feeling connected. Their sense of perspective is neat. I like learning about their dreams — what they want to do for a living, the opportunities that lie ahead for them. One of my favorite things is the passion they have for anything they are involved in, whether it’s football, theater, band; whatever it is they are all in. The student section at the basketball game and its energy is an example of that.
What’s the most important piece of advice you have for them? What I’ve told our students is get engaged, get connected in something at the high school: band, Key Club, National Honor Society. Enjoy that experience of being a part of something bigger.
What’s your favorite high school memory? I remember the relationships with teachers and classmates, the great pride we took in being from “The Park,” and beating East Grand Rapids in Triple Overtime during our senior season of football.
What roles have you served in during your 17 years in the district?
Sixth-and-seventh grade social studies teacher at Jackson Park Junior High School
Ninth- and 10th-grade social studies teacher at Wyoming Park and Rogers High schools
Assistant principal at Wyoming Junior High
Assistant principal at Wyoming High School
Head varsity football coach at Wyoming Park High School
What is it like to become high school principal in the community where you grew up? It’s a very humbling experience to be the high school principal in the district you graduated from. I love this community, our students, and Wyoming Public Schools. It’s a cool honor and privilege — not something I take lightly. We have a great staff who want to be champions for kids and to make a difference in their lives.
Parkview Elementary School Principal Nick Damico chats with, from left, Anevay Keller and Scarlette Holcombe. (School News Network)
Meet Your Principal: Kristen Fuss
Kristen Fuss is the new Oriole Park Elementary School principal.
Other positions you have held in education: I spent 24 years in Romulus Community Schools. I was a fifth-grade teacher for nine years. After that, I was a Title I Learning Specialist and managed all of our Title I funds and interventions. I was in that position for nine years before being hired as a principal. This was all at the same elementary school that I did my student teaching.
How about jobs outside education? I worked at Kensington Metropark for six years in the maintenance department at one of the beaches.
Education and degrees: Bachelor of science degree from Western Michigan University, a master’s in children’s literature from Wayne State University, and administration certification from Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals.
Spouse/children: No spouse or children, but engaged to be married.
Hobbies/Interests: Reading, spending time with family & friends, traveling.
What kind of kid were you at the age of students at this new school? I was a rule follower and tried to make friends with everyone. I was a student who struggled a bit academically, but had a lot of support around me to help me be more successful than I may have been without the support.
The biggest lesson you have learned from students is… They just want to feel cared for! Building relationships is key to any student’s heart. Building relationships is key to any student’s heart. They will thrive if they feel you truly care for them.
If you walked into your new school building to theme music every day, what would the song be? “I Gotta Feeling. It’s uplifting and makes you feel that everything’s going to be just fine!
New Parkview Principal Nick Damico and his family. (School News Network)
Meet Your Principal: Nick Damico
Nick Damico is the new Parkview Elementary School principal
Other positions you have held in education: I have served as a history teacher, elementary school principal, and middle school principal. I was also a basketball, baseball, and football coach.
How about jobs outside education? Sac-MENTORING, a college mentoring program for at-risk youth operated through Cal State Sacramento.
Education and degrees: Currently a doctoral candidate at Brandman University in Irvine, California. My dissertation is on leadership storytelling and how school and district leaders use storytelling to make transformational change. Master’s degree in teaching from Azusa Pacific University and a bachelor’s degree in government from California State University Sacramento.
Parkview Elementary School Principal Nick Damico chats with, from left, Anevay Keller and Scarlette Holcombe. (School News Network)
Spouse/children: My wife, Vicky, is an Autism Spectrum Disorder teacher for Thornapple Kellogg. We have three beautiful daughters; Lucy, 6, Emily, 4, and Macy , 3.
Hobbies/Interests: Angels baseball and dissertation writing.
What kind of kid were you at the age of students at this new school? I was so immersed in athletics and competition that I counted down the minutes until recess and lunchtime. I was all about playing basketball, soccer, football and any other competitive sport with my friends, including pogs.
The biggest lesson you have learned from students is… Every day is a new opportunity to do right by students. A lot is asked of educators on a daily basis but the most important thing for us is to live by the motto “as much love as you can muster,” which to me means a relentless compassion for our most vulnerable students.
Finish this sentence: If I could go back to school I would go to… Honestly being in the middle of my dissertation … I can’t answer this question without getting knots in my stomach. I am ready for a school break.
If you walked into your new school building to theme music every day, what would the song be? “Whatever It Takes” by Imagine Dragons.
Brian Hartigan high fives students passing by. (School News Network)
Meet Your Principal: Brian Hartigan
Brian Hartigan is the new West Elementary School principal.
Other positions you have held in education: I’ve been an elementary teacher in every grade besides second, including kindergarten. I have taught in North Carolina, Kentucky, Traverse City and was instructional coach in Kentucky and Traverse City. I was most recently the K-12 principal in Glen Lake Community Schools.
How about jobs outside education? Everyone in my family is an educator. My dad was my K-12 principal, my mom was an elementary teacher. My sister is a high school Engilish teacher. The only thing I knew I didn’t want to be was a teacher. I ran a youth sports program in Chicago, working with students ages 3 to 9. Then I got into sales. I missed working with kids, so I returned to college for an education degree.
Education and degrees: Bachelor’s degree in sports management and communications from the University of Michigan; bachelor’s degree in elementary education from U-M; master’s degree in teacher leadership from University of the Cumberlands; master’s degree in educational leadership from Central Michigan University.
Spouse/children: Wife, Jody, and two children: Sophie, a second grader, and Wesley, a kindergartner
Hobbies/Interests: I like being outdoors. My family and I like hiking, biking, camping and going to the beach. I love Frisbees, disc golf, and Ultimate Frisbee.
What kind of kid were you at the age of students at this new school? My dad was my principal, so I guess I was well-behaved and compliant for the most part. I grew up in a K-12 school, so teachers were very familiar with families.That kind of closeness helps you make good choices. I’ve always loved sports since fourth grade when I became interested in going to U of M. That probably had to do with when Michigan won (the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament).
The biggest lesson you have learned from students is… Compassion and forgiveness. When you work in education you realize students are trying their best. Mistakes are made. Second and third chances are necessary and deserved.
Finish this sentence: If I could go back to school I would go to… Seventh grade. That’s the first time I had the opportunity to play organized sports. I love soccer, basketball and tennis.
For more stories on area schools, visit the School News Network, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
The words on notecards whisper, shout, cheer and cry off the wall.
“Didn’t get into Western.”
“My life isn’t really great at the moment. I’m struggling with trust between my mother and I. I am currently going through a break-up and am having a hard time figuring out who I am.”
“My life is great, but sometimes I wish I had a friend to share the good and bad moments of my life.”
“I am thankful for family.”
“I’m losing the roots of my culture. I’m stuck between a deep, traditional Hispanic culture and the American culture. Can’t really carry a conversation with my grandparents. Makes me sad… I’ll try speaking English and forget a word, then replace it with the Spanish words.”
Responses on sticky notes are posted on top of the note cards.
“All your friends are there for you. Don’t worry about being judged because you are perfect the way you are. Keep fighting!”
“Hey, it’s okay. If you ever need to talk call or text me @ __”
“You got this. Keep pushing through…”
“Stay strong and true to yourself, then you’ll be successful.”
Words of thankfulness are among notes about struggles (courtesy photo)
In the hallway at Wyoming High School, students and staff created a Speak Wall, a collaborative board where students anonymously wrote about their struggles, joys, fears and gratitude. In the center of the wall, the words “I want to see you be brave” sum up the purpose of the wall: put yourself out there and tell your story.
In response to notes left on the wall, passersby left messages of encouragement, even reaching out with their phone numbers to those who appear to need a friend.
Sophomore Briayja White helped create and contribute to the wall in Alpha Leadership, an after-school club. “Every now and then I’ll go to look at it,” she said. She’s noticed students are posting things that they might not share openly.
“Everyone has their own problems, so don’t judge people by their appearance because you never know,” she said. “It’s very shocking my peers are going through this stuff and I had no idea.”
Sophomore Diego Quintino posted notes and affirmations. “The experience was interesting to see how many people responded in a positive way to my notes, and also to see how many people are struggling.”
Many students take time to read and reflect on what is written (courtesy photo)
A Way to Speak Out, Reach Out
Student advocate Mark Kuiper got the idea to create the wall from a similar project completed when he was a staff member at Grand Rapids Christian High School.
“I just thought this was a really unique way of getting kids to talk about their pains and struggles, but also their joys and thankfulness,” he said. “The idea is to start the process of being vulnerable and putting yourself out there—big or small.”
Students in Alpha Leadership monitored the wall, keeping track of messages and removing any inappropriate responses. They, and other students in leadership roles, started posting on it, which sparked momentum.
“My big thing was I don’t ever want to walk by and see a notecard that doesn’t have a sticky note on it,” said Kuiper, who plans to use common themes he’s noticed on the wall to start dialogue with students. “We hope it creates momentum into sharing our stories …. We hope it creates conversation that is face to face.”
Students face ups and downs and various struggles. “In my opinion, it’s a great thing for kids to be able to put their thoughts out in a way that’s anonymous,” Kuiper said. “The hope is (that) they are able to take the next step in being brave and talking to someone.”
Kuiper works with social studies teacher John Doyle each semester to plan a celebration to honor students with Alpha Wolf 11 awards. Students are named Alpha Wolves for demonstrating kindness, graciousness and compassion. The theme of this spring’s ceremony was “Student Voice—Be Brave!” and was almost completely led by students. The Speak Wall served as the centerpiece for the ceremony, with activities built around it.
“It was probably one of the most powerful things I’ve ever seen to be able to have the kids participate and express their emotions of gratitude, sympathy,” Doyle said. “It’s really great to see student voice exposed the way we exposed it. Student voice is so important today.”
For more stories on area schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
A Wyoming student writes affirmations on the Speak Wall. (Courtesy photo.)
“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.“
~Winnie the Pooh
Lee High School graduation is tonight.
Pomp and Circumstance
Many members of the Class of 2019 will make that final walk across the stage this week marking the end of their K-12 school years. Kelloggsville High School beat everyone to the punch and hosted its graduation ceremony last week. Godfrey’s Lee High School’s commencement is Tuesday, May 21, at 7 p.m. at Resurrection Life Church and Wyoming High School also has graduation tonight at 7 p.m. at Grand Rapids First. Godwin Heights will have its commencement Wednesday, May 22, at 7 p.m. at its school auditorium. East Kentwood High School has commencement on Thursday, May 23, at 7 p.m. at the school stadium and South Christian’s Class of 2019 graduates on Thursday as well. Next week, Grand River Prep hosts its graduation ceremony at Calvin College’s VanNoord Arena on Thursday, May 30, at 6:30 p.m. WKTV would like to say congrats to all the 2019 graduates.
Avery Robinson III accepts the Alpha Wolf 11 Champion of Character award from Principal Nate Robrahan. (WKTV)
Pack Leaders
Last week, Wyoming High School recognized six more students as Alpha Wolf 11 Champions of Character. There were two each from the sophomore, junior and senior classes. All the students demonstrate the school’s motto of being “kind, compassionate, and gracious.” We wanted to give these students one last around of applause for being so awesome: sophomores Rohim Mohammod and Cameron Simon; juniors Thomas Bushman and Dale Cross III; and seniors Rayne Vieau-Parfait and Avery Robinson III. This year’s Alpha Wolf 11 teacher is math teacher and wrestling coach Steve Zajac.
Grow some food to donate to a local food pantry.
Grow A Row
Michigan State University Extension is encouraging home gardeners to consider “growing a row” of produce for donation to their local food pantry this season. Many northern Michigan pantries are seeking donations of fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs. Pantries ask that donated produce is clean, fresh, ripe, whole, uncut, undamaged and in separate packaging for different produce types. If using pesticides, make sure to follow the pesticide instructions. Please don’t donate produce that you wouldn’t buy for your own family.
Fun fact:
6 years for a 4-year degree
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, about 60 percent of the students who attended a four-year program in 2010 took six years to graduate from the program. It was 59 percent for those who attended public institutions, 66 percent for those who attended private non-profit institutions and 26 percent for those who attended private for-profit institutions.
Wyoming High School students gather for the spring Alpha Wolf 11 Champions of Character awards. (WKTV)
Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember you have within you the strength, patience, and the passion to reach for the stars and change the world.
Harriet Tubman
Junior Dale Cross III
Wyoming High School sophomore Lisa Cross admitted to friends that it was hard to announce the juniors selected as recipients of this year’s spring Alpha Wolf 11 Champions of Character Award. It was hard because, one of them was her brother, Dale Cross III.
“I kept trying not to look at him, but I think he knew,” she said.
As one Alpha Wolf student admitted, you never really know until your name is announced.
Started in 2014, every fall and spring semester, the Wyoming High School students and staff honor six exemplary students with the Alpha Wolf 11 Champion of Character Award — two sophomores, two juniors and two seniors. These students are recognized not for their academic or athletic achievements but for treating others by “being kind, compassionate, and gracious.”
Along with students and staff, special guests included members of the Wyoming community, City of Wyoming officials, public safety leaders, school district administration and members of the Wyoming Board of Education.
“It is always fun to do this and to have this great time together as a community,” said Principal Nate Robrahan. “I think we need to remember that we are a community and we are only better because we are together in what is our community of Wyoming High School, and you guys know enough that I am always so proud to be the principal of this community.”
The fun for many is the revealing of those who will receive the Alpha Wolf 11 Champion of Character Award. Often, the recipients are just as stumped as the students, looking around to see who will be receiving it before realizing that it is him or her.
Sophomore Alpha Wolf 11 Recipients
Sophomore Rohim Mohammod
When Rohim Mohammod came to the school he struggled to speak English, even through he knew three other languages. That struggle has lead him to “pay it forward” by helping others who face the same challenge.
“He is one of these kids who is always trying to make a difference,” said teacher John Doyle who along with a group of students presented the awards. Mohammod has gone beyond just Wyoming High School, but helps immigrants from his country along with discussing human rights and the plight of refugees.
Sophomore Cameron Simon
Cameron Simon is the defintation of “kind, compassionate, and gracious” and is just simply meant to be the next Alpha Wolf, according to the presentators. Sometimes called the class clown, Simon is always willing to give extra support to anyone who needs it. He has participated on the football, basketball, and track teams.
Doyle said Simon never judges and has gone on to volunteer in his community.
Junior Alpha Wolf 11 Recipients
Junior Thomas Bushman
Everyone likes and appreciates someone who makes them feel good about themselves, which is the kind person Thomas Bushman is. He is described as a kindhearted person who greets everyone with a smile and asks them how they are doing, Doyle said. Bushman is polite, outgoing and “ridiculously” nice.
“He is a fantastic leader by example and a true inspiration,” Doyle said with other presenters adding that Bushman continually works to learn and improve for the success of everyone.
“There is a reason this person has a third after his name,” said Lisa Cross of her brother Dale. “You see those named the third are said to have meaning of positive affirmation. They bring the confidence you need in yourself to have in your purpose and your desires. The third represents the mind, body, and spirit. I believe this person, who carries the last name of third, is an essential eleven leader in our school and our community.”
Another student who leads by example, Doyle said of Dale Cross III adding that Dale works hard to make his community better. Lisa Cross noted that because of Dale’s positive mentorship, he already has been selected as a team captain for next year.
Senior Alpha Wolf 11 Recipients
Senior Rayne Vieau-Parfait receives congratulation hugs from friends. (WKTV)
Perhaps no one was more surprised at being named Alpha Wolf 11 recipients than the two seniors.
Rayne Vieau-Parfait is known for her compassion but is content, according to presentators, at being the person behind the scenes. As one presentator put it “she is an excellent listener and when her big round eyes look at you through her glasses, it feels like she can see into your soul.”
Doyle went on to say that Vieau-Parfait is known for being “an easy and interesting person to talk to and she laughs at everything as she has a great sense of humor. She is happy, inquisitive, and very interested in others. She is an excellent example of genuine kindness. Her curiosity is one of her best qualities.”
Avery Robinson III accepts the Alpha Wolf award from Principal Nate Robrahan. (WKTV)
Avery Robinson III started off the ceremony as the student guest speaker and he concluded the event by being named an Alpha Wolf. According to presenters, Robinson is known for giving a voice to everyone.
“There couldn’t be a more perfect theme then student voice, be brave for our last Alpha Wolf recipient today. This Alpha Wolf exhibits bravery in all aspects of their life,” the student presenters said.
Doyle added “He is the hand that will always reach to pick you up when you fall. He is the level headedness you need in times of person turmoil. He’s that brave voice who speaks up for those in the need of advocacy and the kind heart when its compassion, kindness and understanding that you seek.”
Alpha Wolf Teacher Recipient
Teacher Steve Zajac
Receiving the teacher award was math teacher and wrestling coach Steve Zajac. Receiving honorary Alpha Wolf 11 awards were the high school cafeteria staff, who all received aprons with the Alpha Wolf 11 logo.
“When I see what is going in this school, the support and character that is being built right in our community, this is the most amazing place to be,” said Mayor Jack Poll. “So I encourage you as you go on, because some of you will go on to other schools, some of you are going into the workforce, some of you are going to go on to college, remember those words, ‘be kind, be compassionate, and be gracious’ whether you are at your job, someday when you have your own individual families, whatever community you are involved in.
If you keep those things in mind, your life will be better and the community you live in will be better.”
The Wyoming High School cafeteria team with their new Alpha Wolf aprons. (WKTV)
U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga, with Wyoming High School students, at a recent Youth Leadership Summit. (Supplied/Rep. Bill Huizenga’s office)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
A group of Wyoming High School students were among about 200 high school juniors from more than 30 schools across the state in attendance at a recent Youth Leadership Summit hosted by U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga.
This is the second year Rep. Huizenga (Republican-Michigan’s 2nd Congressional District), who represents Kentwood and Wyoming, has hosted the event at Grand Valley State University’s Allendale campus.
The half-day event, held May 3, was designed to provide students with the opportunity to hear from and talk with the congressman and other West Michigan leaders “while exploring what characteristics and qualities will help future leaders succeed in both their personal lives as well as their post high school endeavors,” according to supplied material.
The Wyoming High students were Bria’nna Hoffman, MiKayla Carrasco, Dale Cross, Zachary Fry, Kathryn Johnson and Aleighya Beach.
“It was great to have students from Wyoming High School attend the event, engage with other students, and ask thoughtful questions,” Rep. Huizenga said in an email provided to WKTV. “I hope the speakers provided valuable insight about leadership, overcoming adversity, and capitalizing on opportunities.”
In addition to the congressman, the other featured speakers were Dr. Dale Nesbary, president of Muskegon Community College; Leslie Brown, chairman of Holland’s Metal Flow; and Dakota Crow, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of the Muskegon Lakeshore.
Starting today, area residents and business owners have the opportunity to check out artwork created by some of the talented and creative students of Wyoming High School.
The Wyoming High School National Art Honor Society is hosting its first Paint the Town Purple, which includes an exhibition of juried student work through Thursday at the KDL Wyoming branch, 3350 Michael Ave. SW.
A Wyoming High School student sits next to one of the paintings in the Paint the Town Purple. (Wyoming High School)
The program began with students submitting work in February that was then curated by a jury. Selected work was professionally framed and available for viewing at the Art Gallery of the KDL Wyoming Branch.
Wyoming High School teacher Robyn Gransow-Highley said the National Art Honor Society, which has the goal of creating opportunities to share their love of art with the school, district, and surrounding community, is looking to make the Paint the Town Purple event an an annual one.
“We are really excited and working hard to make this dream a reality for our community,” Gransow-Highley said.
Paint the Town Purple culminates in a grand celebration event at 6 p.m. on Thursday at the library, in the meeting room next to the Art Gallery. The event will feature entertainment by Wyoming High School musicians, light hor d’oeuvres, and the opportunity to meet the students who created the work. Business owners and representatives wishing to partner in this program can do so by pre-purchasing an event ticket, which affords them the opportunity to showcase one of the pieces on display for a year at their business. Art pieces will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, based on the order of sign-in at the event.
Tickets are $100 with proceeds being used to sustain the Paint the Town Purple program and the National Art Honor Society. For more information about the Paint the Town Purple, to purchase a ticket ,or to make a donation, click here.
Michigan State University senior Gabby Huizenga has tinkered with cells, experimented with environmental toxins and hypothesized complex scientific theories about disease — but she still has time to remember her roots.
The Wyoming High School Class of 2015 graduate visited science classes recently to share the pathway she took from high school to a Ph.D. program, and how other young science lovers can take similar routes in pursuing their goals.
Michigan State University senior and Wyoming High School graduate Gabby Huizinga returns to Wyoming to talk about opportunities to go far in science
Huizenga said the hours she spent in MSU research labs — not to mention changing her major a few times– has led her to where she is now: enrolled in the Immunology Postgraduate Doctoral Degree program at University of Michigan. She was accepted into several colleges’ programs before choosing U of M. After listening to her story, Wyoming students asked her about college, financial resources, ways to get involved, and courses to take now and in college.
“I really want to get them excited about science and research and share one particular path they can take,” Huizinga said. “One of the things I didn’t realize is that for a Ph.D., instead of you paying them they pay you. I think that is a great opportunity.” (Many universities fully fund doctoral students with tuition covered and a stipend.)
While finishing up her undergraduate degree, Huizinga is involved in research for MSU assistant professor Andrew Olive, in the Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics. She’s studying how humans and animals interact with invading bacteria or viruses and experimenting with the bacteria that cause tuberculosis. The research could eventually lead to a new tuberculosis drug.
“We are trying to figure out why only five percent of people who are affected with the bacteria actually get TB,” she said.
She’s also researched toxic chemicals produced when waste is incinerated. “We’re wondering if we can use bacteria to clean up the chemicals in the soil because they are really cheap to produce and really efficient,” she said.
Gabby Huizinga is researching the bacteria that causes tuberculosis
High School Students, Take Note
Huizinga said taking AP classes and other challenging courses at Wyoming, where she graduated as co-valedictorian, helped prepare her for college. But learning about myriad options once at MSU led her to explore different paths before choosing a double major in microbiology and molecular genomics and genetics.
She will graduate in May and take the direct route to her Ph.D.
“My dream job would be to be a research professor at a large research institution,” Huizinga said.
Huizinga encouraged students to get involved in college life and offerings in order to make the most of their years there. Attending a diverse school like Wyoming led her to get involved in the honors college multicultural program, Mosaic.
“Attending Wyoming gave me a huge appreciation for the world I don’t think a lot of other students had,” she said, noting she “found her people” through Mosaic.
Junior Lio Matias said it’s interesting to hear about options from a recent Wyoming graduate. “It’s helpful hearing how far she’s come,” he said.
Stephanie Rathsack, who teaches AP biology, honors chemistry and chemistry, said a college student’s point of view and knowledge is valuable to high schoolers.
“It’s nice to hear from someone who is closer in age to them, who can answer questions in a small group setting,” Rathsack said.
Added Superintendent Craig Hoekstra, “I think this is a great opportunity for our students to hear from one of our former students about their Wyoming experience, and the importance of making the most of every life experience to achieve what one sets out to accomplish.”
For more local school news, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
Gabby Huizinga’s undergraduate experience included research on dioxins. (School News Network.)
Aliyah Rivera unwrapped a large present handed to her by her friend, senior Lauren Gonzalez. Inside was a large painting kit with lots of tools for creating masterpieces.
Social worker Nicholle Smith hugs senior Avalon Dexter after receiving bus passes to give to students who have transportation needs
The kit was Aliyah’s wish come true through Winter Wishes, hosted by the Student Council. The Wyoming High School senior, while expressing thanks and excitement, said she hopes to major in art education in college. “It’s going to help me with my portfolio.
“I feel so honored and really happy to be one of the people that makes someone else happy,” said Lauren, Student Council vice president. “People get really joyful when they open a gift.”
Student Council members played elves on the mid-December afternoon, stopping by classrooms to fulfill gift requests submitted by their peers. They usually adopt a district family for Christmas, but this year decided to spread the love among the student body. Winter Wishes is modeled after an idea created by Jostens Renaissance to build climate and culture.
Junior Jabari Pennington opens his gift
“It’s more personal because we get to see the impact it has on them and know we are giving it to our students, said adviser Anna Servo. “Some might not have money to buy Christmas gifts, and some might have friends that just need a pick-me-up.”
Students spent $1,500 in council funds to grant 40 of 70 wishes, which ranged from candy and fuzzy socks to several Class of 2019 senior sweatshirts.
Several students and teachers made wishes to give to others.
Social worker Nicolle Smith’s request was filled for fifteen 10-ride city bus passes to help students with transportation needs.
A cart full of granted wishes
Special education teacher Cathy Kammega received a bowling ball to give to a Special Olympics Michigan athlete. Junior Marshaun Morris received a $15 Target gift card to buy his mother a Christmas present.
Junior Callie Seymour wished for flowers to deliver to her sister, Courtney Seymour, a fourth-grader at West Elementary School. “I knew it would surprise her. She is always looking up to me and I thought it would make her happy.”
Council members were so touched by Callie’s request that they presented Callie with her own flower and a $10 iTunes gift card.
When considering events that have shaped her generation, senior Quiana Wade thought of the killing of Trayvon Martin in 2012, and of U.S. Supreme Court decision to legalize same-sex marriage in 2015.
She included images and messages about both events in her first-place-winning video for the student Mosaic Film Experience Mobile 2018 competition. She was recently awarded $1,000 for the piece. She was also a Top 10 finisher in the contest last year.
Mosaic Film Experience is a film festival for commercial and jury selected works focusing on under-told stories. It was founded in Grand Rapids in 2012.
The criteria this year was to tell a story including the message, “It’s different now,” and to incorporate art.
“The first thing that came to my mind was things that happened in society,” said Quiana, an advance video production student at Wyoming High School.
Mosaic Film Experience Mobile high school winners and finalists also include:
2nd place – Mariah Barrera, City High School
3rd place – Alyssa Dodd, Careerline Tech Center
Finalists:
Irene Kuperus, Careerline Tech Center
Yailine Palomo, Wyoming High School
Willy Vernom, Kelloggsville High School
Kyla Kerridge and Halle White, Rockford High School
Kalil Adams and Jayden Burgen, East Kentwood High School
Morgan Westrate and Lara Johansen, Byron Center High School
Sergio Sepulveda, Innovation Central High School
Wyoming High School senior Quiana Wade is the first-place winner in the Mosaic Film Experience Mobile 2018 competition
Quiana’s video starts with the narrative: “Being younger than now, I didn’t have to be aware of the things that happen around me, but it’s all different now.” It continues, including images and illustrations representing Trayvon Martin, the Black Lives Matter movement, the LGBTQ community and diversity.
She used an iPad to create the video, recording her siblings, friends and her own drawings.
As an African American, she said she’s personally been affected by racial prejudice. She also has friends in the LGBTQ community who she supports.
Quiana said she believes film is a great way to share perspectives and get people thinking. “Perspective is a big thing when it comes to understanding what people go through,” she said.
Quiana plans to major in film production in college, possibly at the Art Institute of Atlanta, in Georgia.
On the screen in front of them, students considered the day’s math challenge: Which of the following numbers are rollover numbers? 8,612; 4,322; 9,867; and 13,859.
The fun began as students in the Wyoming High School Math Circle used different strategies to figure out the answer. Students computed, erased, tweaked and plugged numbers into different formulas. Excitement grew as they collectively came closer to solving the puzzle, until finally – with the white board covered in numbers and variables – the “aha” moment came.
The word “play” comes up a lot in the new Wyoming High School Math Circle, as students with whiteboards and touch-screen technology have fun with numbers and their limitless possibilities. “It’s a place where you can play with math instead of just solving math or learning about math. It’s applying it to puzzles and games which is the side of math I really like,” said senior Jonathan Driggs, an AP statistics student.
Making Math Add Up – A series on the difficulties students have learning math, and what methods some schools and teachers are using with success.
Senior Karen Ruiz examines the problem
“It’s math for the sake of math – just for fun,” said senior Thomas Oliver, who is in AP statistics and AP calculus BC (second-level AP calculus). “In class you are taught math. Here you experience math.”
Numerous Possibilites
Advanced math teacher Eric Retan began offering Math Circle this fall for an hour after school twice-monthly. Six or seven math-minded students regularly attend, delving into number theory, functions, statistics and more. “It’s for anything math-related. “It’s very wide open. It’s open-ended exploration of interesting math.”
Retan said the extracurricular option offers students math beyond what he has time for in class. “It’s for all sorts of things that there isn’t room for in the regular curriculum. It offers us a chance to just play without the constraints of having to get through certain (lessons in a set amount of time).
Senior Jonathan Driggs enjoys using math in puzzles and games
Oftentimes, a warm-up problem takes the whole hour. Not knowing where the numbers will end is part of the fun, students said. “Some of the problems take awhile,” said senior Antonio Plascencia, who is in AP statistics and AP calculus. “When you know where you are going with it and you are going to finally get the answer, it gets you excited.”
Senior Alondra Sot, who is in pre-calculus, likes that even Retan doesn’t know answers to the challenges.
“In Math Circle you are able to explore ideas more,” she said. “I feel like there is a sense of security because you’re not afraid to share answers. Sometimes the teacher doesn’t even know the answer. That’s the point in it being a challenge.”
Alondra Soto and Antonio Plasecencia talk numbers
From left, Becca Hanson, Thomas Oliver and teacher Eric Retan work to solve the challenge.
Junior Tin Nguyen calculates possibilities
Advanced math teacher Eric Retan explains the challenge
Senior Thomas Oliver works on a formula to solve a challenge while behind him, from left, seniors Alondra Soto, Antonio Plassencia and junior Tin Nguyen offer input.
"Sing, sing a song,
Make it simple to last your whole life long
Don't worry that it's not good enough for anyone else to hear,
Just sing, sing a song..."
- "Sing" by Joe Raposo, written for "Sesame Street" in 1971
The airport is alive with music
Several Wyoming and Kentwood high school choirs will be performing at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport’s Holiday Music Festival, which is Dec. 3 – 7. Some of the groups scheduled are Potters House, Legacy Christian, South Christian, Wyoming High School, Lee High School, and East Kentwood High School. Performances are daily from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. andJe are free.
And the winner is…
Jennifer Lewis and Brian Jirous were declared the newest members of the Wyoming Board of Education this week. Both ran in the Nov. 6 election. Jirous was the only candidate who filed for one of the two open seats on the board. Lewis was one of two write-in candidates. It took a couple of weeks for the write-ins to be hand counted, according to school officials. The two will be sworn in at the Wyoming Board of Education meeting set for Jan. 14 at 6 p.m.
Santa is coming to town
While it is still a week yet until Kentwood hosts its annual tree lighting and parade, set for Dec. 7, and the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the Santa Parade, Dec. 8, you can get your celebrating started at Byron Center’s community festivities this Saturday, Dec. 1. The parade portion has been cancelled due to the weather but the chili dinner and holiday concert at Pathway Church, 8350 Byron Center Ave. SW, is still taking place.
Fun Fact:
Light It Up
Ever wonder how many lights you can fit on a Christmas tree? Well a group in Belgium did, managing to get 194,672 lights on a real tree on Dec. 10, 2010. Seven years later, Universal Studios Japan was not about to be out done, so they managed to place 570,546 lights on an artificial tree. You have to admit, that is a lot of lights. (Source)
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) will soon be filled with festive sounds of the season. The 24th Annual Holiday Music Festival will take place the week of Dec. 3-7 in the Grand Hall. Daily performances run from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Some of the groups scheduled to perform are Potters House at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 3; Legacy Christian 7th and 8th Grade Choir at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5; Wyoming High Concert Choir at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 6; East Kentwood Varsity Voices at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6; South Christian High School Madrigals at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec.6; and Lee High School Varsity of Voices at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 7. A full schedule is available on the Airport’s Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/FlyGRFord.
A total of 18 West Michigan schools are scheduled to sing a variety of carols during the Festival. Local choirs representing public and private schools will sing 20 minute song sets throughout the day.
“We love having the schools here during the Holiday Music Festival. The music helps to put passengers and guests in the holiday spirit around the airport,” said GFIA Marketing & Communications Director Tara Hernandez. “We hope to put smiles on passengers’ faces as they listen to the carolers.”
All Festival performances are free and open to the public.
The design for a major high school expansion– including a 30-classroom addition – are taking shape.
“It just looks cool,” said Principal Nate Robrahn, who has been involved in the design process. “It will look like a campus.”
Construction will start in the spring on work that will eventually consist of $40 million in improvements at the high school, 1350 Prairie Parkway SW. The project is funded by the $79 million bond passed by voters last November, which is generating about $23.5 million for a first phase in 2018 and the remaining $56 million for a second phase in 2022.
The addition should be ready for students in 2021, with completion in 2022. Ninth-graders could join 10th through 12th graders at the high school in 2023. Currently, ninth-grade is at Wyoming Junior High.
Robrahn said he looks forward to offering his students wide-open spaces, with room for project-based and group learning.
A large cafeteria with high ceilings to offer an open, coffee-shop feel
A Learning Stair to serve as a unique stairwell and place for formal and informal gathering
Classrooms will have removable walls to allow for team teaching and shared lessons
Wider hallways
Breakout areas for small group work and project-based learning
Added parking, ease and flow on exterior of the building
New softball field on the corner of Prairie Parkway and Burlingame Avenue
Media center relocation
Science lab renovation
Athletic upgrades to include space for wrestling and cheer practice, a new stadium entry plaza, new track and football field surfaces, press box updates, concession area upgrades
Interior and exterior lighting upgrades
Parking expansion on the west side of the building
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
Senior Amber Ching has two folders filled with drawings of colorful, expressive, Anime-style people and animals. They could make perfect characters in a graphic novel.
But Amber likes the idea of creating graphics specifically for a story, complementing the plot and theme, as she’s noticed graphic novelists do that as they combine artwork and the written word.
Senior Josh Ypma reads ‘Maus’
“People tend to change their art style because of how they want to have the story written,” she said.
Students in Wyoming High School English teacher Kevin Mulvihill’s Graphic Novels class – many who read “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” books and superhero comics as youngsters – are eagerly turning the pages of books that cover many different topics and genres through narratives and drawings. Like Amber, they are learning the different techniques and thoughts behind words and images.
The semester course was introduced last year, along with Mythology and Science Fiction classes, as a way to bring more English elective options to students and expand their reading horizons. Worth half a credit, Graphic Novels appeals to artsy students and superhero fans as well as English-language learners, who study language through pictures and words, and those who need to catch up on credits.
Senior Amber Ching draws characters that could be used in graphic novels
Sketchy Selections
Students are required to read 10 books, seven of their choice and three as a class: “American Born Chinese,” by Gene Luen Yang; “Maus,” by Art Spiegelman, the first graphic novel awarded a Pulitzer Prize; and “My Friend Dahmer,” by John “Derf” Backderf. Choice books must come from the categories of superheroes, nonfiction, coming of age, retelling a classic, and science fiction/fantasy/horror. Students create their own mini-graphic novel for their final exam.
Graphic books are not necessarily easy reads, said Mulvihill, who also teaches English 101 at Grand Rapids Community College. Many of them, like the required reads, present heavy themes. Many include lots of text. Plus, superheroes and their adversaries are advanced in all ways. “These villains have a big vocabulary,” Mulvihill said.
Mulvihill was interested in teaching the course because he knew of the popularity of graphic novels among students — and he loves them too.
“I learned how to read by reading comic books when I was a little kid,” he said. “In the summer, my brother and I would ride our bikes to Argos Book Shop in Eastown and get the 5-cent comics out of the 5-cent comic bin and just read. I kind of just never stopped.”
Some students in the course hope to pursue careers in art, graphics or 3-D and animation.
“I’ve always liked to draw comics,” said senior Stephanie Bricero, who is planning to attend Kendall College of Art and Design next year for graphic design. She said she especially likes reading superhero and horror graphic novels. “English and art are my two favorite subjects. By putting my two favorite things together, I can learn about both.”
Kaitlyn Bernatowicz, who graduated last spring, created a graphic novel last school year
Electives Add Choice
Principal Nate Robrahn said adding new English electives provides students with more choice, gives staff more freedom in instruction, and exposes students to the type of specialized courses they may take in college. Plus teachers love sharing their passion for books.
“I have some staff that are ravenous readers and it’s fun to see that carrying over to the kids,” Robrahn said.
Students are eager to have courses that lead them to books and topics they might seek out on their own.
“The kids have responded well,” said Robrahn, who has made it a priority to stock classrooms with books. “I see them engaging more with books and then having more discussion around them. That’s been pretty exciting.”
The high school has also added Reader’s Workshop, a course for which students read books from various genres, have discussions and post on Goodreads.
“You see more kids carrying books and more and more kids reading,” Robrahn said.
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
When Doug Sheldon took over a popular 18-year-old business, his only goal was to make sure everyone was running out the door. After all, the business he bought was The Haunt, one of West Michigan’s most well-known haunted attractions.
“We tried to make sure we had something for everyone,” said Sheldon. “Whether you’re looking for a detailed-type haunted house with a lot to look at or whether you’re looking to get startled and scared behind every corner.”
So Sheldon moved The Haunt to a new location, a 50,000-square-foot facility located behind the 28th West Place (the former Wyoming Village Mall) at 1256 28th St. SW (across from the Wyoming High School.) Sheldon teamed up with The Haunt’s General Manager and Creative Director Ethan Turon, who has designed haunted attractions on a national level, to create a space that has more than 144 rooms with about 100 actors, 63 anamtronics and a Lougaroo prepared to give anyone a frightening good time.
The Haunt Owner Doug Sheldon
Upon first entering The Haunt, guests will visit the Hemlock Manner in the attraction “Exhumed.” Like something ripped from a “Supernatural” storyline, this story is the Hemlock family’s daughter suddenly goes missing, and there’s nothing normal about her disappearance. There are certainly some skeletons in the closet, along with possessed family members and few freshly dug up guests, in this house where visitors have the opportunity to roam the rooms and halls to discover the manor’s secrets.
In the next attraction, mannequins have overthrown the workers and taken control over one of the midwest’s most renowned mannequin factory, the Immortuos Mannequin Factory. But this is no sweet, singing adventure as the zombie-like mannequins are more interested in there next victim, which could be you if you care to clock in.
“The unique thing about ‘Immortus’ is that it’s a never-ending maze,” said Sheldon. “There’s constant twists and turns with scares behind every corner.”
If you should manage to figure a way out of Immortuos, then the next stop is the Vox Sanitarium.
A peek into the Vox Sanitarium
However, don’t be fooled by the smiling man in the lab coat, he is actually a patient with Vox Sanitarium truly fitting the saying “the patients are running the asylum.” Visitors of the sanitarium will weave in and out of the main hallway of the sanitarium meeting different patients, a feature Sheldon said is unique to The Haunt.
“(Vox Sanitarium) is one of the only attractions in the country that has a hallway through the center of it,” said Sheldon. “This hallway gets very full and very creepy”.
If you are still standing, well how about a quick trip to the bayous of Louisiana? Specifically The Lougaru Bayou, where a secret voodoo cult has been living and with their Lougaroo – which Sheldon said is indescribable but dangerous – the cult is ready to take over the world.
You still have time to check out The Haunt, which will be open through Nov. 3. Sundays and weekday hours are 7 – 10 p.m. (note it is not open on Mondays and Nov. 1.) and Friday and Saturday hours are 7 – 11 p.m. Because of long lines, The Haunt has been opening a half hour earlier. Check the website, https://www.the-haunt.com/ for specific details and ticket information. On Saturday, Oct. 27, there will be a Trunk or Treat from 3 – 5 p.m. and a Kids Haunt from 4 – 6 p.m. Sheldon noted that the last two days of The Haunt’s season, Nov. 2 and 3, all be very special and definitely not for scaredy cats.
“We turn the lights off and give you a glowstick. If you were brave enough and weren’t very scared the first time, I guarantee we will get you,” said Sheldon.
And what happens after Nov. 3? Well, you might start hearing a lot of interesting sounds coming from the building…that is construction sounds as Sheldon said they will start building for next year’s event.
Recent Wyoming High School graduate Zayveon Hymon and sophomore Xavier Bailey are spending 20 hours a week this summer working on various repair and maintenance projects (courtesy photo)
Zayveon Hymon and Xavier Bailey are spending the summer as construction crew members, working on minor repairs, major projects and gaining valuable experience to carry with them as they move on to college and careers.
They are learning and using the tools of the trade 20 hours a week and building their résumés with Dale Cross, owner of Wyoming-based Sarge Construction.
“We fix up anything that’s broken,” Zayveon said. “I feel like I could fix a whole house.”
Sophomore Xavier Bailey works on a screen during his job with Sarge Construction (courtesy photo)
Along with developing on-the-job work skills, Zayveon, who graduated from Wyoming High School in May and Xavier, a sophomore, are using what they’ve learned through Teen Outreach — a leadership program they attended all school year at Wyoming High School — in real employment.
Teen Outreach, which meets weekly during the school year, has three components: life-skills development; job placement and community service. Julian Goodson, youth development specialist for Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation, a program through Bethany Christian Services, has taught the class since 2013.
Job placement is a major incentive for getting students to attend, Goodson said.
“The summer job component was the hook. All the other stuff is what they are getting out of it: the ability to learn how to network, public speak. When they came in here they might not have had any experience, but now they have three or four things to put on their résumé.”
Teen Outreach extends into the Summer Youth Employment Program, which connects students to summer jobs. Students are also working at Goodwill Industries, Bethany Christian Services and Wyoming Public Schools. While they said their primary goal is to earn money, they concede that having work, community service and school experience is a huge deal too.
“It gives me money, and it gives me experience for future jobs so I can make more money,” said Cecilia Medina, a Wyoming Middle College student who just completed her senior year in high school and is working at Goodwill this summer. She said she’s learned about professional behavior and expectations, and brings those with her to her job
Xavier Bailey moves soil (courtesy photo)
Show up, Do the Work, Keep your Future in Mind
Zayveon, who graduated in May and is attending Olivet Nazarene University in the fall, said he’s learned public speaking and how to meet expectations in the workforce through Teen Outreach, and by working with Cross.
“The job seems like the golden ticket for the class,” Zayveon said. “The job is a plus, but you learn way more than that.”
The Wyoming students also completed a community service project in early June tied to jobs and careers. They hosted a career day at Madison Place in Grand Rapids with representatives from several companies and career fields who networked with students involved in other Teen Outreach programs.
Cross said Zayveon and Xavier are gaining a lot of hands-on experience working with him. They start each day by picking up materials at hardware stores, and then are off to different sites to help with city inspections, work on plumbing and electrical, even repair decking and foundations. They will develop a sense of areas they could specialize in, Cross said.
Zaveon said he plans to study business management and accounting, and eventually own a contracting or construction business.
The students are good workers, Cross said, always asking what they can do next and lending a helping hand.
Those are skills they’ve learned by practicing them: show up, do the work and keep your future in mind, Zayveon said.
“We step up. That’s what we do.”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
In April, the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce awarded its Brent VanderKolk Scholarship to four area high school graduates.
VanderKolk was a chamber member and the chamber’s legal council along with being a freind to many, said Bob O’Callgahan, President/CEO of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce. VanderKolk passed away in 2011 at the age of 37. The chamber decided to honor VanderKolk by naming the annual scholarship award after him.
This year’s award recipients are: Maria Aguirre from Godwin Heights High School; Adriana Sanchez-Parada from Lee High School; Shontiana Jackson from Wyoming High School; and Allison Biss from East Kentwood High School.
We were able to catch up with two of the students before they walked down the graduation aisle. These students offered a few words of wisdom to those coming into high school and to the Class of 2019.
Adrianna Sanchez
Adrianna Sanchez-Parada
Lee High School
Godfrey Lee Public Schools
Parents: Gallina Parada and Alejo Sanchez
When Adrianna Sanchez learned that one out of three freshmen at her school were failing one to two classes, she decided to do something about it.
“That was a big number of students failing,” Adrianna said. “When I was a freshman, there was a freshman transition class that was helpful to me so I decided to bring that program back.”
Adrianna pulled together members of the upper classes to serve as mentors, offering words of advice and to be there to help guide the freshmen.
“I’ve learned a lot about leadership especially through band,” Adrianna said. “I’ve been a drum major and have gone to a leadership conference where we learned about leadership through service. Through this program, our upper classes were able to show a different type of leadership through service.”
Adrianna has loved being involved at Lee High School and admits her involvement has prevented her from having a job. She has participated in soccer, National Honors Society, Spanish club, drama club, and student council, where she served as president. She plans to attend Western Michigan University in the fall.
Her advice for those entering high school: Try different clubs that you have never thought of and do not be afraid to be different.
Her advice for next year’s seniors: Don’t stress about the little things but also don’t let the assignments slide because it will come back at you. And lastly, watch out for every opportunity that you might have.
Allison Biss with Chamber President/CEO Bob O’Callaghan
Allisson Biss
East Kentwood High School
Kentwood Public Schools
Parents: Cheryl and Brian Biss
“Some people have sports, but I am not the sporty type,” said Allison Biss when thinking about her search for a high school activity that encourage her creativity. She was not a performer and some hobbies she didn’t felt she had started early enough to participate in. But once she discovered film and video, she knew she had found the passion that allowed her creativity to shine.
“You could be given a video and create five clips with the end product being different depending on lighting or how you edit it,” she said.
A WKTV intern, Biss was awarded Central Michigan University’s Lem Tucker Scholarship for broadcasting and journalism, which covers a 100 percent of her tuition, room, and board.
At school, Biss participated in the broadcast program serving as an anchor and primary editor. Outside of broadcasting, Biss has been very active serving as a class officer for three years, on the National Honor Society, Student Council, and JV sideline and competitive cheerleading.
Her advice for those entering high school: It is not as bad as it seems. Always introduce yourself. Be that someone who cracks the joke and eats lunch with new people. Also don’t be afraid to try new things because high school is short.
Her advice for next year’s seniors: Don’t think of the moments as being the last ones, but new beginnings. Enjoy the moments while you have them because it goes by super quickly.
A brand new 3D printer sat inside a closet at Wyoming High School. During the fall of his junior year, Bryan Rosello Lizardo noticed it, realizing the possibilities being lost by keeping it in storage.
“I said, ‘No way! I’m involved in Science Olympiad and robotics and this would be so helpful, just for experience and for the events themselves,’” said Bryan, now a graduating senior.
He inquired about the printer and was told if he wanted to use it, he would have to learn to do so on his own. “I happened to appreciate that challenge,” he said with a grin.
Bryan pored over a book about the printer and its potential to create items with countless applications. “I read it in like two days because I was so interested,” he said.
From there, he started a 3D Printing Club, training students at the high school and Wyoming Junior High, as well as the Science Olympiad team adviser, to use the machine. Bryan’s designs, including a claw robotic arm and components of a Rube Goldberg-style machine, helped the team place in competitions.
Bryan graduated Tuesday, May 22 with a stack of Advanced Placement and Middle College credits. He is headed to the University of Michigan in the fall with enough scholarships and financial aid to cover his tuition in full. He plans to major in aerospace engineering and hopes to eventually land an internship at NASA.
“I want to help with the designing and prototyping of more efficient spacecrafts,” he said.
But just a few years ago, Bryan himself may not have predicted his potential.
“I went from failing all my classes to being the Wyoming High School valedictorian of 2018,” he said. His GPA is 4.17.
(Courtesy Photo) Bryan Rosello Lizardo said helping his mother, Mildred Lizardo, is his main motivation
Shy Learner Needed Motivation
Bryan was born in Puerto Rico and moved at age 2 to the Dominican Republic, where his community had limited access to fresh water, and electricity was sporadic. School offered the basics and that was all, he said.
He moved to Michigan at age 9 with his mother, Mildred Lizardo; older sister, Jazmin; and younger brother, Benjamin, and started attending Grand Rapids Public Schools. He enrolled in Wyoming Public Schools in fifth grade.
Shy and and still learning English, Bryan said he struggled and didn’t put much effort into school until eighth grade. It was then that his sister, Jazmin, who was graduating, told him she wished she would have tried harder in school, and encouraged Bryan to do better.
“I had bad habits. I was a (video) gamer full-time. I didn’t care. It was just that childish mentality.”
But Jazmin’s words made something click. “I started realizing this education was worth a lot more than I thought it was,” Bryan said. “I was able to change my habits because my sister motivated me that much.
“The next year my report card was straight A’s. I got involved in Science Olympiad. I kept going and getting involved in as many things as possible.”
Along with starting the 3D Printing Club, he was on the FIRST Robotics team, served as treasurer for National Honor Society, treasurer for Bible Club, and on Key Club, Student Council and Leadership Committee.
“I challenged myself to take classes that were hard for me as a bilingual student,” he said. “With the combination of Middle College and AP, I’ve gotten prepared for college in a way I would have never been prepared before.”
AP Biology teacher Stephanie Rathsack said Bryan is one-of-a-kind, an accepting and nonjudgmental student known at school for helping others with school work and giving back to the community. She was impressed when he volunteered at a fundraising event for an organization that collects clothes, household items, bikes and Christmas decorations for families in need. He stepped up to translate for Spanish-speaking families.
“Bryan has an amazing attitude,” Rathsack said, by email. “He approaches life and learning with vigor. He is a gentle presence, and friendly to everyone. He doesn’t ever think about what he gets out of doing something for others. He’s aware of others and aware of the impact he can make by observing and offering help and understanding as necessary.
(Courtesy Photo) Working for NASA is a dream of Bryan Rosello Lizardo
Working Hard to Help Mom
A huge motivation for Bryan has been his mother, a proud single parent who is proud to work in a factory assembling car parts.
“It makes me happy to think she’s taking pride in her job. But I know at the end of the day she’s getting to the age where she needs rest and economic peace. That’s what I’m trying to work towards, just helping her out financially.”
He said he believes doubling down on school is the best way to make that happen.
“I knew I had to study to support my family. I didn’t understand how valuable school was until eighth grade, so when I started realizing this is potentially money for my mom, that’s what motivated me to take the AP classes and join the clubs. I knew colleges would look at that stuff and give me and my mom money so she doesn’t have to worry about my tuition later on.”
A life-changing moment for Bryan was earning the Alpha Wolf 11 award in 2016. He said the award, given to Wyoming students who exhibit character at an 11 on a scale of 10, reaffirmed what mattered to him most.
“It’s at the top of my achievement list for everything I apply for,” he said. “Because you can have the best grades and best SAT scores and be really involved, but if you don’t have that character you don’t stand out. You’ll be taken care of if you can show up to your workplace, have a positive attitude and get along with everyone. It’s something I will continue to take pride in after high school.”
Bryan Rosello made the most of his high school experience by earning college credits and starting a 3D printing club
Working on a Dream
The award also caught the attention of a couple, both a U of M graduates, who gave Bryan a scholarship because they were impressed with his character.
Most of all, Bryan said he is thankful to be able to work toward his dreams.
“Knowing I come from the background I come from, I’ve had different experiences than people do here in the U.S,” he said. “Just going through those struggles has allowed me to appreciate a lot more what I have and the resources that are available to me. I do not think I would be taking the course I am today if I did not realize this is something I didn’t have in the Dominican Republic.”
What advice would he give other students? “Look around you as often as you can and appreciate your teachers, principals and friends,” he said.
And stay the course, he added.
“Work hard. Fear regret. Be fearful of regretting not doing something.”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
More than 1,700 students set to graduate from schools in Wyoming, Kentwood
More than 1,700 students will be graduating from high schools in Kentwood and Wyoming during the next couple of weeks. Go here for a breakdown of when some of the local graduation ceremonies are taking place.
Ford Airport leader welcomes Sen. Peters’ introduction of bill to fund airport security
The bill allows airports to use Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds on state of the art surveillance cameras in public areas such as baggage claims or pick up and drop off areas. Go here for the complete story.
Glue-in, souvlaki: Festival of the Arts is all about making memories
The VOICES vintage Airstream trailer, which is a a local and regional oral history project that collects, preserves and shares stories form everyday residents of West Michigan, will be at this year’s 49th Festival of the Arts, set for June 1, 2, and 3. The trailer will be there to collect stories from Festival volunteers and participants. Go here to read the story.
Evolution of Meijer Gardens summer concert series a bit of a surprising success
The venue and the mix of musical genres and audiences has not only been a success, the summer concert series has benefited Meijer Gardens on several levels: promotional, financial and patron inclusiveness. Click here to read the story.
Wyoming High School presents its spring Alpha Wolf 11 awards
Started in 2016, the Alpha Wolf 11 Champion of Character award recognizes six students each semester and one teacher each year for character and treating others by “being kind, compassionate, and gracious”. Read more here.
More than 1,700 students will be graduating from high schools in Kentwood and Wyoming during the next couple of weeks. Here is a breakdown of when some of the local graduation ceremonies are taking place.
Tuesday, May 22
Wyoming High School has 275 students graduating. Graduation is at Grand Rapids First, 2100 44th St. SW, at 7 p.m.
Godfrey’s Lee High School has about 150 students graduating. Graduation is at Resurrection Life Church, 5100 Ivanrest Ave. SW, at 7 p.m. For the school’s top ten, click here.
Wednesday May 23
Godwin Heights High School has 144 students graduating. Graduation is at the high school auditorium, 50 35th St. SW, at 7 p.m.
South Christian High School has 170 students graduating. Graduation is at Kentwood Community Church, 2950 Clyde Park Ave. SW at 7:30 p.m..
Thursday, May 24
East Kentwood High School has around 600 students graduating. Graduation is at the the school’s stadium, 6230 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, at 7 p.m. The rain date is May 25.
Tuesday, May 29
Tri-Unity Christian School has 18 students graduating. Graduation is at Resurrection Life Church, 5100 Ivanrest Ave. SW,at 7 p.m.
Wednesday, May 30
West Michigan Aviation Academy 133 students graduating. Graduation is at Calvin College, 3201 Burton St. SE. at 7 p.m.
Thursday, May 31
Kelloggsville High School has 137 students graduating. Graduation is at Kentwood Community Church, 2950 Clyde Park Ave. SW, at 7 p.m.
Potter House has 53 students graduating. Graduation is Calvary Baptist Church, 1200 28th St. SE at 7 p.m.
Friday, June 1
West Michigan Lutheran High School has 5 students graduating. Graduation is at West Michigan Lutheran High School, 601 36th St. SW, at 7 p.m.
Monday, June 4
Grand River Prep High School has 134 students graduating. Graduation is at Calvin College’s Van Noord Arena, 3201 Burton St. SE, at 6:30 p.m.
Junior Brandon Ratliff (left) dances with a friend during the presentation by guest speaker John Angotti at the Alpha Wolf 11 assembly last week. Ratliff received a Shout-Out from teachers during the assembly.
This year, as part of Wyoming High School’s Alpha Wolf spring program, teachers and students were able to give “Shout-Outs” to others who represented the Alpha Wolf qualities of kind, compassion, and graciousness.
“The thought among some of us teachers was to recognize more students during this champion of character celebration,” said Wyoming teacher John Dolye who along with teacher Jon Bushen organized the Alpha Wolf event.
Teacher Jeff Kordich receives the Alpha Wolf teacher award.
Teachers were asked to consider any student they would like to recognize during the Alpha Wolf assembly. Two students per grade level are recognized and introduced between the main Alpha Wolf 11 recipients. Teachers give each student who receives a “Shout Out” a t-shirt which states “Alpha Wolf 11 Champion of Character” and on the back in large letters “I’ve Got Your Back!” along with an Alpha Wolf 11 lanyard.
After the fall Alpha Wolf assembly, where the the Teacher Shout-Outs were first introduced, students approached Doyle about doing a Student Shout-Out to a specific teacher.
“We thought this was a great student-led initiative,” Doyle said. “We allow one student from each of the three grade levels to select a teacher they feel represents the Alpha Wolf characteristics — kind, compassion, and graciousness.”
Students give the teachers a personalized Alpha Wolf 11 Champion of Character Stainless Coffee Mug with a lanyard and wrist bracelet as well to show their gratitude, he said. The Teacher Shout-Outs lead to the Alpha Wolf Teacher of the Year Award, which is only given during the spring assembly. This year’s winner was Jeff Kordich, a second year teacher to the district. The teacher award is also student-led, Doyle noted.
“We have been so impressed with our student body when it comes to them initiating and adding to this powerful ‘REVOLUTION MOVEMENT’ we call Alpha Wolf 11,” Doyle said.
“We believe that if you lay down the expectation of what kindness, compassion, and graciousness looks like, students will pick it up to run and share it with others — simply amazing.”
Teacher Shout-Outs to STUDENTS:
Dale Cross – 10th grader presented by teacher Jake Ritsema
Callie Seymour – 10th grader presented by teacher Stephanie Rathsack
Guadalupe Rivera-Parda – 11th grader presented by teacher Catye Palomino
Brandon Ratliff – 11th grader presented by teacher Irvin Sigler
Jordan Irwin – 12th grader presented by Mary Alice Miller
Caitlyn Bulthuis – 12th grader presented by teacher Robin Higley
Student Shout-Outs to TEACHERS:
Tom Cornell presented by student Tiffany Le
Jon Bushen presented by student Aliya Rivera
Anna Servo presented by student Long Ho
Clark VerHulst presented by Julyssa Barajas Gutierrez
Wyoming High School Senior Long Ho took the school’s Alpha Wolf assembly in stride. He cheered with his classmates as the names of the sophomore and junior Alpha Wolfs were announced, but as teacher John Doyle began to describe the first of the two senior Alpha Wolfs, he became quiet, putting his down.
“He demands so much of himself,” Doyle said. “When he first got [to the high school], he was afraid to speak in front of groups and he went from there to running about every club the school has, robotics, science olympic…”
Alpha Wolf: Senior Raelynn Watkins
With hands over his head, Ho began to cry. His friends seated around him patted his back and shoulders whispering to him.
“Your 12th grade senior Alpha Wolf is,” Doyle paused and looked directly at the Wyoming High School senior class, “ Long Ho.” The entire auditorium of almost 900 attendees erupted in cheers as Ho stood up and walked down to accept his award and hugs from him his family.
Started in 2016, the Alpha Wolf 11 Champion of Character award recognizes six students each semester and one teacher each year for character and treating others by “being kind, compassionate, and gracious” according to Principal Nate Robrahn. Those words are also part of the school’s motto. The award has nothing to do with what a student does in extracurriculars after school but instead focuses on what they do during school hours, as people, to make the school a better place, Robrahn said. “It is the supreme pack leader who on a scale from one to 10 is an 11.”
Alpha Wolf: Junior Juan-Pablo Marcos
The student body nominates the students they feel should receive the award with faculty, support staff and administration having a say on the final six, which is made up of two from the sophomore, junior and senior classes. This year, it was noted that more than 700 students from the 900 at Wyoming High School voted, a record for the Alpha Wolf program.
In fact, the Alpha Wolf program has become so well received that teachers now do “Shout Outs” to students who also have exemplified the school’s motto. This year, the students approached Doyle, who with teacher Jon Bushen, organized the event, about doing “Shout Outs” for the teachers. Doyle noted that is shows just how well received the program has been.
Alpha Wolf: Junior Nolan Weatherby
So in front of the entire student body, special guests such as Wyoming Department of Public Safety Chief Kimberly Koster and Wyoming Assistant City Manager Megan Sall and guest speaker John Angotti, six students were recognized with every name causing the auditorium to erupt with cheers and applause.
Seniors: Along with Cho, Raelynn Watkins received the Alpha Wolf award. Described as the school’s “Wonder Woman,” Raelynn’s super strengths included lifting up others, generosity and brining people together. “She has been known to take the money she earned from her job and go to the store, dropping off items to others who needed it, often without them knowing who did it,” Doyle said.
Alpha Wolf: Sophomore Marshaun Morris
Juniors: To shouts of “That’s my man!”, Juan-Pablo Marcos was named an Alpha Wolf. Known as “that theater, band kid,” he always has a smile on his face, Doyle said, adding he just makes people happy. Marcos is familiar to many both in school and outside as he has performed in an number of the school’s theater productions including most recently “The 25th annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.”
Known for playing one of the largest instruments in the high school’s band, the baritone saxophone, Nolan Weatherby, was named an Alpha Wolf. Weatherby brings a source of pride to all he does and to all he meets, Doyle said.
Alpha Wolf: Sophomore Hanna Martinez
Sophomores: The nomination comments received for Hanna Martinez pretty much wrote her Alpha Wolf narrative, according to Doyle. “Her goal is to make people happy,” he said. “She is a great listener, sweet person and positive. She greats everyone with ‘Hello Beautiful,’ making everyone feel welcome.”
For some Alpha Wolfs, they don’t know they are leading and such is the case of Marshaun Morris, Doyle said. “No matter how his day is going, he gives a positive attitude to everyone,” Doyle said, adding that he motivates people to be better, making everyone feel special.
Teacher Jake Ritsema with Alpha Wolf teacher Jeff Kordich
Selected as the Alpha Wolf Teacher for the 2017-2018 year was math teacher Jeff Kordich. According to the student presenters, Kordich is known for being in a good mood, passing those positive vibes to others, and for his generosity.
The sounds of the violin, vihuela, flute, guitar, guitarrón and trumpet are coming together in traditional song, complete with upbeat Spanish vocals, at Wyoming High School, where a new mariachi band is bringing a festive feel to the music program.
The traditional Mexican band, made up of high school and junior high students, had its debut performance at the district’s Fine Arts Festival in March. The group serenaded visitors with the songs “Canta, Canta, Canta” by musician Jose Alfredo Jimenez; and “Las Mañanitas,” a traditional birthday song sung in Mexico and other Latin American countries.
Mariachi bands are typically hired to play songs requested from the audience. While the Wyoming band hasn’t quite reached that point, they are hopeful to soon play at restaurants, community events and festivals. They also hope to eventually get traditional costumes, which include ornamented jackets and sombreros.
Striking an impressive pose are, from left, freshman Steven Jimenez, sophomore Ower Sales, sophomore Leo Matias, sophomore Omar Zavala, seventh-grader German Cortes, sophomore Hunter Truax and eighth-grader Danely Alvarado
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage
Trumpeter Ower Sales, a sophomore who helped start the band, said he was intrigued by the idea of bringing Mexican music to the school music scene. “Starting a high school mariachi band would help spread diversity and culture to other people,” he said.
Band director Jane Detweiler wanted to start the mariachi band to give Hispanic students a way to perform traditional music
Wyoming Public Schools’ diverse enrollment includes a large percentage of Hispanic students. Band director Jane Detweiler said she wanted to give them a chance to show off the rich flavor of their traditional music. “I felt it was very important that they could learn music from their own culture,” she said.
Students were excited to get involved. “I grew up around this music and wanted to learn to play it,” said sophomore Steven Jimenez, a trumpeter.
“I wanted to expand my genre of musical experience and learn something different,” said sophomore Hunter Truax, who plays the violin.
“It just brings out our culture and who we are,” added Danely Alvarado, an eighth-grade flutist.
Detweiler said it’s been fun learning songs with the students and being part of the culture. The band rehearses weekly.
“I love being in that culture,” Detweiler said. “We have a great family.”
It was a packed house as East Kentwood High School hosted its fourth annual FIRST Robotics event just before Easter.
More than 800 students from around West Michigan and as far away as Troy and Milan, competed at the two-day event in hopes of landing a spot in the state competition set for April 12-14 at Saginaw Valley State University.
Teams for the Kentwood and Wyoming area included home team East Kentwood’s Red Storm, Wyoming High School’s Demons, Lee High School’s Rebel Robotics, Potter House’s Tactical Hams, and the West Michigan Aviation Academy’s Team Spitfire. There also were teams from Grandville and Grand Rapids such as Ottawa Hills High School.
After 80 some qualifying rounds, the final eight teams were announced Saturday afternoon with team alliance selections made for the semi-finals. Several of the local teams including East Kentwood’s Red Storm, Wyoming’s Demons, Lee’s Rebel Robotics, and Potter House’s Tactical Hams made the semi-finals.
Top Dawgs: Code Red Robotics the Stray Dogs took home the prestigious Chairman’s Award.
But it would be the alliance of Kalamazoo’s Strike Force, Newaygo’s NC Gears, and Hackett Catholic Prep’s Irish Robotics that would bring home the win.
Several local teams did receive awards with Grandville’s Code Red Robotics the Stray Dogs taking home the Chairman’s Award. This is the most prestigious award at FIRST as it honors the team that best represents a model for other teams to emulate and best embodies the purpose and goals of FIRST. Teams who have earned the Regional and District Championship Chairman’s Award can travel to the FIRST Championship to be considered for the Chairman’s Award.
Code Red Robotics the Stray Dogs along with Wayland’s Widlcats and Lee’s Rebel Robotics were a district event finalist. The Wayland Wildcats also earned the Industrial Design Award sponsored by General Motors.
Receiving the Highest Rookie Seed was Potter’s House’s Tactical Hams and the Gracious Professionalism Award sponsored by Johnson & Johnson went to Grandville’s The RoboDawgs.
WKTV broadcast the event live on Saturday, March 31. Visit wkvt.viebet.com to see the broadcast or check the WKTV TV schedule at wktv.org or wktvjournal.org.
The energy in the gym is electric. Mascots lead the crowds in cheers as the teams take the field. Someone runs in front of the bleachers with a team flag with others in the stands holding up illuminated signs of team numbers. It only gets quiet as the match is about to start. The buzzer goes off and the place erupts with noise.
This is March Madness not for basketball, but for robotics, specifically FIRST Robotics. This Friday and Saturday, the madness comes to East Kentwood High School’s field house as the district for the fourth year hosts the First Robotics event.
“I have been superintendent for the district for five years, so I have really gotten the chance to see this event grow,” said Kentwood Superintendent William Zoerhoff, who added that watching the students work as a team to figure out a problem using their STEAM — science, technology, engineering, arts, and math — skills is pretty amazing.
Color coordinated fans are ready to cheer on their team at GVSU’s FIRST Robotics competition.
Started in 1992, FIRST is an international high school robotics competition founded by inventor and entrepreneur Dean Kamen — the man behind the Segway — and MIT professor emeritus Woodie Flowers. In fact, Kamen often has stated that FIRST is the invention he feels most proud of.
The program began with 28 teams in a New Hampshire high school gym, according to the FIRST website. In 2018, it is estimated that more than 400,000 students across the globe will come together and within six weeks, design, build, and program a functional robot which is able to fulfill the unique and complex challenges specific to that year’s game.
“But it is much more than just building a robot, “ said Grand Valley State University’s Dean of Engineering Paul D. Plotkowski. GVSU was one of the first organizations to host FIRST Robotic competitions with the university having its event last weekend. “It’s about teamwork. It’s about students coming together and solving a problem with each student having a specific task in accomplishing the goal.”
Teams are not only required to build a robot, but they have to come up with a business plan to help cover costs for parts and travel. In the cast of Kentwood’s Red Storm Robotics, Zoerhoff said when funding for the school’s program was needed, the students pitched the team and event to Switch which signed on as a major community supporter.
In the end, it is not about winning either, according to Kentwood’s FIRST Robotics Competition organizer Wendy Ljungen, who is a chief consulting engineer for GE Aviation Systems. It is about getting students interested in the field of technology and in fact, there are a vast array of scholarships available to students who participate in FIRST.
“When GE got involved, it was looking at how to get more women involved in technology,” Ljungen said. “GE has been a strong force in creating a balance by encouraging girls and building a better pipeline.”
So nine years ago, a GE group, called Women in Technology, began to look around to see what programs there were to encourage students and specifically pull girls into the pipeline of technology and engineering. They found FIRST and had about three months —which included the two-week Christmas break — to pull together a team. They did and Kentwood’s Red Storm Robotics team became the top seeded Rookie team that year.
Mentors work with the South Christian High School team
From there, GE branched out to help with establishing three middle school teams in Kentwood — one which went to the world competition last year — along with helping with the Wyoming High School’s team the Demons and this year, re-establishing the Ottawa Hills High School team. Those teams along with West Michigan Aviation’s Team Spitfire, Lee High School’s Rebel Robotics, and Potter’s House’s Tactical Hams are among the more than 40 teams that will be at this weekend’s event.
This year’s competition theme is based on a Mario game with the robots required to be able to pick up cubes that can be placed on a scale along with passing them out for stacking. Robots also need to be able to climb a structure with some able to load another team’s robot and climb.
The “game” floor has all the bells and whistles of the Mario game complete with a giant scoreboard showcasing who has the most points. There is a few minutes before a winner is announced as final scores are tallied.
Each team is required to attend two district competitions. Those teams that earn enough points or certain awards, then advance to the state competition which will be April 12-14 at Saginaw Valley State University.
“It has been quite a journey,” Ljungen said. “When we started there was about 200 teams. There are now more than 500 teams with the goal that ever listed high school in the state will have a team.”
The growth of FIRST is evident as to accommodate all the teams with Forest Hills Central High School added to the schedule this year as a new FIRST Robotics event site. That competition is next weekend.
Never ones to shy away from a challenge, Wyoming High School student actors are bringing to the stage the quirky characters obsessed with spelling their way to perfection in “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” a show that combines raucous humor and music with underlying themes that hit home for youth.
Cast members who are presenting the PG-13-rated Tony Award-winning musical comedy recently sat down to talk about how humor and satire can be used to start dialogue.
Taking on their roles has allowed them to go deep into character development, while recognizing strong themes of isolation, anxiety and abandonment.
“It generally highlights a lot of the problems kids actually face today while growing up,” said senior Nick Byrd, who plays “touchy, on-edge” William Barfee. Those include pressure to over-achieve; a hard time making friends; and even for adults, problems moving on from their past.
Added senior Caitlyn Bulthuis, who plays spelling bee host Rona Perriti, “The humor the show brings to the audience is a way to start a conversation that needs to be talked about, especially around abandonment and always feeling like you have to achieve.”
Juan-Pablo Angel Marcos plays last year’s spelling bee champion
Caitlyn said many teens are overwhelmed by their hyper-scheduled lives, like some characters in the play.
“It’s a lot of pressure for kids and I think the kids in the play, even though they are excited to be in the spelling bee, they feel a lot of pressure to do well,” she said. “It’s a good way to start a conversation for students and adults.”
Another theme is winning at all costs, said Juan-Pablo Angel Marcos, who plays “boy scout” Chip Tolentino. There is so much emphasis on winning, he said, that characters dismiss other things that should be more important.
Senior Mellisa Hadzikic agreed.
“They are so focused on this one topic that it kind of consumes them,” said Mellisa, who plays the “shy” Olive Ostrovsky. “Their parents have these high expectations and want them to succeed, but the kids are under so much stress from other things that are happening, it makes them want to explode.”
Mellisa Hadzikic performs during rehearsal on stage
Many ‘Firsts’ for Theater Company
Jeremy Schnotala, 24-year Wyoming theater director whose repertoire includes high school performances of “Willy Wonka,” “Wizard of Oz,” “Cats,” and “Spamalot,” said the play includes a lot of firsts for the Wyoming Theater Company: It’s their biggest set yet, includes audience involvement that requires improv, and adds a “cheerleader” chorus that isn’t in the original production. Plus, serious issues span a wide spectrum of topics.
“What most excites me is how amazing my cast has connected with the story and with each of their roles,” Schnotala said. “I also love how the show juxtaposes humor and emotion. One minute you are laughing, and the next minute you’re crying. I’ve cried several times during rehearsal already. The show is honestly very touching and has some of the most tender moments, as well as the most raucously funny, of any show I’ve ever directed.”
Director Jeremy Schnotala has led Wyoming theater for 24 years, bringing big shows to the stage
Students said they love that Schnotala puts them up to big challenges.
“He respects us and understands we are people who are going to grow up and are growing up,” said senior Alexis Soto-Rodriguez, who plays the “desperate” Vice Principal Douglas Panch. “We are not just elementary school students who aren’t dealing with these grown-up topics. Not watering down or making it easier shows he has a lot of faith and respect in us.”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
From standing in front of a banner declaring “We Can Make the World a Better Place By…,” making paper circles with ideas for completing the thought and posting the hashtag #justiceforparkland, juniors Aliyah Rivera, Seth Martin and sophomore Michelle Rivera collected donations and messages of support to send to students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.
The Wyoming High students said they wanted to reach out to Florida peers who experienced the Feb. 14 mass shooting at their school.
“It was teenagers who were affected the most, so if we teenagers speak up about it more people will be aware,” Aliyah said.
Seth said teenagers are impacted no matter where they live.
“Just because I’m not in Florida doesn’t mean I’m not affected by what happened in Florida,” he said.
Written ideas for making the world better included “spread kindness,” “help each other,” “be a leader,” and “gun control,” among many others.
They also set up a video camera at the recent Wyoming Fine Arts Festival for people to share messages of sympathy and encouragement. Students are emailing their support to the Stoneman Douglas principal and theater teacher.
Gun violence is a complicated issue that needs to be addressed, Aliyah said.
From left, Seth Martin, Aliyah Rivera and Michelle Rivera create a show of support for Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
“There are so many different factors that fall into it. It’s not just one thing. People are so quick to point fingers at just one specific thing, and they aren’t looking at the bigger picture.”
The biggest thing she is an advocate for, she said, are better resources for mental health. “There are not enough people who understand it, who know what it looks like, who know how to help.”
Seth also has ideas for solutions.
“America as it is now can’t do much about controlling guns,” he said, “but they can do a lot about controlling the people who use guns. Doing stronger background checks, trying to keep safer gun control policies will really help.”
Michelle said it was important for them to speak up. “If teenagers don’t do something to help, nothing will change,” she said.
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
Late last year, as they have at the end of each semester for the last three three school years, Wyoming High School students and teachers honored six exemplary students with the Alpha Wolf 11 Champion of Character Award — two sophomores, two juniors and two seniors.
And WKTV’s cameras were there to assist the school in recording the event.
There will be special airings of the event on WKTV cable channel 25 next week, with the Alpha Wolf Awards being broadcast Wednesday, March 14, at 5 p.m.; Friday, March 16, at 11 p.m.; and Saturday, March 17, at 11 a.m.
The Dec. 7, 2017, ceremony was attended by the student body, special guests from the Wyoming community, City of Wyoming city and public safety leaders, school district administration and the Wyoming Board of Education members. There was also a special flag ceremony.
A special guest at the recent ceremony was the staff of the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan and its executive director, Christy Buck, who spoke about the group’s Be Nice initiative. The program works in schools and the community to provide simple, common sense, ways to prevent suicide and be proactive to other dangers resulting from mental illness.
The Alpha Wolf program was led by teachers Jonathan Bushen and John Doyle, who started the program three years ago modeled on a program at Grandville high school, where he kids attended. But many teachers and staff members were involved.
Key conference games, as well as Wyoming Lee’s annual Hall of Fame games, are on the schedule this week as WKTV’s sports crew will be on the road Jan. 12 with a doubleheader of boys and girls basketball at Wyoming High School when the South Christian Sailors challenge the Wolves in a pair of key early year OK Conference Gold games.
On the girls side, Wyoming enters with an 0-1 conference record, 4-3 overall, after opening up OK Gold play with a tough 49-46 road loss at Thornapple Kellogg Friday, Jan. 5, and before another road game Tuesday, Jan. 9, at Forest Hills Eastern. South Christian will enter 1-0 in conference after a 59-29 home win over Forest Hills Eastern Friday, 5-2 overall, before hosting Grand Rapids Christian Tuesday.
On the boys side, Wyoming enters with an 1-0 conference record, 4-2 overall, after opening up OK Gold play with a 67-37 win at Thornapple Kellogg and before a home game Tuesday, Jan. 9, against Forest Hills Eastern. South Christian will enter 1-0 in conference, 4-1 overall, after a 56-50 win Forest Hills Eastern Friday and before a road game at Christian Tuesday.
Wyoming Lee will host Kelloggsville on Friday in the school’s annual Hall of Fame game.
The remainder of the tentative January Featured Game broadcast schedule is:
Tuesday. Jan. 16 — Boys Basketball: West Ottawa at East Kentwood
Tuesday, Jan. 23 — Boys Basketball: NorthPointe Christian at Godwin Heights
Thursday, Jan. 25 — Boys Swimming: Grandville at East Kentwood
Currently, each Tuesday game will be broadcast that night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 at 11 p.m. and repeat on Wednesday at 5 p.m. Each Friday game will be aired that night on WKTV 25 at 11 p.m. and repeat Saturday at 11 a.m. The games can also be seen on AT&T U-verse 99.
All games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktv.viebit.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and features on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/
Local high school sports events this week are as follows:
Monday, Jan. 8
Boys/Girls Bowling
Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights
Unity Christian @ Wyoming
Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
Catholic Central @ Tri-Unity Christian
Tuesday Jan. 9
Girls Basketball
Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville
Wyoming @ FH Eastern
Caledonia @ East Kentwood – WKTV Featured Game
Holland Black River @ Grand River Prep
West Michigan Aviation @ Martin
Zion Christian @ Holland Calvary
West Michigan Lutheran @ WMAES
Hopkins @ Tri-Unity Christian
Christian @ South Christian
Boys Basketball
Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights
FH Eastern @ Wyoming
Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
Caledonia @ East Kentwood
Covenant Christian @ Potter’s House
Holland Black River @ Grand River Prep
West Michigan Aviation @ Martin
West Michigan Lutheran @ WMAES
Hopkins @ Tri-Unity Christian
South Christian @ Christian
Girls Cheer
@ East Kentwood – Falcon Invite
Wednesday, Jan. 10
Boys/Girls Bowling
Godwin Heights @ Belding
Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian
Wyoming @ Zeeland East
Potter’s House @ Wyoming Lee
Boys Wrestling
Godwin Heights @ Coopersville
NorthPointe Christian @ Kelloggsville
FH Eastern @ Wyoming
TBA @ Wyoming Lee
Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
Girls Cheer
Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian
Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
Boys Hockey
Catholic Central @ East Kentwood
Thursday, Jan. 11
Boys/Girls Bowling
Wyoming Lee @ Tri-Unity Christian
Boys Swimming
West Ottawa @ East Kentwood
Friday, Jan. 12
Girls Basketball
Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
South Christian @ Wyoming – WKTV Featured Game
West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House
Holland Calvary @ Grand River Prep
Calvary Christian @ Zion Christian
West Michigan Lutheran @ Creative Technologies
Tri-Unity Christian @ Covenant Christian
Boys Basketball
Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
South Christian @ Wyoming – WKTV Featured Game
Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee – Hall of Fame Game
West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House
Holland Calvary @ Grand River Prep
Calvary Christian @ Zion Christian
West Michigan Lutheran @ Creative Technologies Academy
Students trickle in after school, one or two at a time, into a Wyoming High School classroom. They grab a slice of pizza and sit down to discuss issues that affect their lives and community: school, jobs and ways to give back.
Fresh off a service-learning project they chose to take on to promote the November school bond proposal, they discuss what they learned about school millages and voting, and what their school needs most: bigger classrooms, more space, more buses. And while it’s not something a bond would cover, someone mentions food.
The students in the Teen Outreach Program, discuss how most teenagers who stay after school are hungry, having eaten lunch well before noon.
Mikayla Reynold, a Grace Bible freshman majoring in psychology, and John Napper, a business owner, share how Teen Outreach impacted their lives.
“You know, 80 percent of kids here qualify for free or reduced lunch,” said Julian Goodson, who leads the group of ninth- through 12th-graders.
“That doesn’t mean the other 20 percent can always afford it,” a girl responds.
The seed of an idea is planted. “For our next service learning project, let’s come up with a plan to feed people who are here from 2:30 to 5 p.m. for the rest of the year,” Goodson suggests. The students agree.
Combining Leadership with Jobs, Giving Back
The 10-15 students who attend Teen Outreach every Tuesday are learning important connections between what they do now and where they are headed.
Julian Goodson has taught Teen Outreach since 2013
Goodson, a youth development specialist with Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation, started the class in 2013, initially as a way to engage students at risk of truancy. Since then, it has been opened to all students who could use a boost toward school and work success, or who just want to step up as leaders.
The program has three components: leadership or life-skills development; job placement; and community service. It also extends into a Summer Youth Employment Program.
Each student has an individual goal plan with action steps, and Goodson holds them accountable to their plans by checking in with them each week.
Part of the picture, Goodson has found, is helping meet basic needs, which helps them get to school in the first place. That’s why he comes to each meeting with boxes of pizza in hand.
“It’s extremely rewarding. A good majority of them just really need a caring adult,” Goodson said. “That’s true for a lot of youth in general. They just want to know someone cares about them. I just happen to be that person. … I get to know them as individuals and really meet them where they are at.”
The class teaches networking, resume-building and public speaking skills. Students are placed in summer jobs at local businesses and organizations, including the Wyoming Branch of Kent District Library, Goodwill Industries, Family Fare, Applebee’s, Bethany Christian Services and Wyoming Public Schools.
Completion of the Teen Outreach Program, 10 hours of involvement in a service learning project, and a summer job make for a great head start. “That’s a pretty robust resume for a teenager,” Goodson said.
A Unique Ability to Relate
Goodson relates to his students. As detailed in his book, “Thoughts of a Foster Dad,” his own childhood was thrown into turmoil after his mother died and his father was arrested multiple times. With his wife, Stacey Goodson, he has fostered many children, including 2017 Wyoming High School graduate Donnie Alford.
Four years ago, feeling as if he missed his calling to be a teacher, Goodson left the corporate world of sales to work with at-risk youth and foster children. It led him to GRCCT, and to Wyoming Public Schools to teach Teen Outreach. He also teaches at Covenant House Academies, and at Innovation Central High School in Grand Rapids Public Schools.
He faced an immediate challenge at the outset, he said: “How do you get a truant kid to come to an after-school program?” The answer was to build up their self-esteem. Instead of making it sound like a punitive way of getting them to school, students were invited based on their untapped leadership potential.
It was potential senior Zayveon Hymon can now see in himself. He said the class has made a major difference in his life. He worked a summer job at Lighthouse Property Management.
“I wasn’t a great leader,” Zayveon said. “I wasn’t coming to school every day and I wasn’t doing good on my grades. Julian approached me and said ‘I think you can be a leader, you just haven’t shown it yet. If you want to you can join my class.’
“I’ve met lifelong friends and learned how to be a leader,” he added. “My leadership skills improved a lot and, on top of that I learned handiwork (through the summer job). I improved my grades and actually wanted to come to school.”
Envisioning Success
After the bond discussion, students interviewed Wyoming High School graduates and Teen Outreach Program alumni Mikayla Reynolds, a Grace Bible School freshman majoring in psychology, and John Napper, a business owner. Both credit Goodson and the class for helping them turn their lives around.
“I eat, I sleep, I breathe college. I make good grades,” said Reynolds, describing how the class helped her realize success was an option after rocky years in high school. “This class impacted me because it really fine-tuned my leadership skills. I was always an introvert, always quiet and never wanted to step up to the plate. This class pushed me out of my comfort zone.
“It takes a good leader to push you out of your comfort zone,” she added. “It takes a great leader to push you to a place you never thought you would go.”
Every weekday at about 1:30 p.m., Sheila Gurd arrives at West Godwin Elementary School to deliver hundreds of sack suppers from Kids’ Food Basket to classrooms, making sure no kindergartner through fourth-grader will go hungry at night.
By the time she arrives, Gurd’s likely already been volunteering at the Godwin Middle School, helping with fundraisers or Popcorn Day. At West Godwin, she recently popped 200 bags of popcorn for Family Night.
Gurd, whose children are second-grader Camblouw and eighth-grader Aidan, is the “go to” parent volunteer at West Godwin, which currently lacks a Parent Teacher Organization, said secretary Kristi Bast. At the middle school, Gurd is on the PTO.
A humble person who said she doesn’t ever want a title, Gurd just likes to help out.
Sheila Gurd delivers sack supper to students at West Godwin every school day
“I love seeing the kids’ faces every day. I love to help and deliver the Kids’ Food Basket food,” she said. “I’ve been here from Day One, very involved. I want to show other parents I want to be involved. I like to do it.”
She also likes to be present in her children’s school day. “Knowing that they know I’m in the building, if they have the problem, I’m right there to assist them.”
Gurd, a Wyoming native who graduated from Wyoming Rogers High School (now Wyoming High School) in 2000, is also a gold medalist in the pentathlon for Special Olympics Michigan.
Bast said Gurd is filling a big need at the school, which has a high percentage of economically disadvantaged students.
“(Without Sheila) we would not be able to get by, honestly,” Bast said. “We don’t have enough staff members. There’s not extra money or extra people. She’s been very good about coming in and being a volunteer with us.”
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The Wyoming High Wolves on the field, in the team’s opening-season game and a WKTV featured game. The team will again be featured with WKTV coverage this week. (WKTV)
Wyoming High School head football coach Irvin Sigler III would likely call it an “opportunity” not a “challenge”, but he had to know his team was going to have some growing pains this season after he took over the program midway though the summer.
With new coaches and a new system, the Wolves experienced some competitive, and not-so-competitive, games as it opened the season 0-5 including tough losses to OK Gold Conference powers Grand Rapids Christian and East Grand Rapids.
But with Sigler’s first win leading the Wolves last week, a 33-21 home win against conference foe Middleville Thornapple Kellogg, the coach thinks his team is close to flourishing in the new system.
Wyoming head coach Irvin Sigler (WKTV)
“There’s always that question in the back of your mind, and this game definitively answered it for us,” Sigler said, in an interview with WKTV. “We understand now what it takes to win a game and how to accomplish that. (It was a) major milestone as far as I am concerned. Something we really had to work at.
“The most important thing we did (against Middleville T-K) was battle through adversity. We had a lot of tough situations, some self-imposed with turnovers, and yet found a way to stay together and figure out how to win.”
Wyoming has experienced its share of “tough situations” so far this season.
After staying close until late in its season opening game, a 28-6 loss to Holland, and the Wolves (1-5, 1-3 in the OK Gold Conference) played three of their next four games on the road with a 20-16 home loss to Wayland being their most competitive contest.
After another road game this week, against another conference power — South Christian (5-1 2-1 in OK Gold) — Wyoming will close the season with two more home games, a non-conference tilt against Greenville (3-3, 1-3 in OK White) and a conference game against Forest Hills Eastern (3-3, 2-1).
And Sigler expects his team will continue to grow within the new system and strive to be competitive week-in and week-out, for several reasons.
The first reason is that his team is learning from their sometimes-hard lessons, both on and off the field.
“I tell our kids that a football game is a microcosm of life,” Sigler said. “There will be great things that happen and really tough things. We’ve got be resilient in the face of both. We’ve got to handle both situations with equal grace. Learn how to do that, and you learn how to navigate in life.”
Another reason for optimism is that he has players getting back from injury and players who have set an example for the rest of the team, win or lose.
He said that senior Donnie Buentello and junior J’Darious (JD) Jones, both running backs, have gotten healthy and “are starting to play really well. Donnie is a very quick and shifty runner, JD is a more of a one-cut and slash type player. The compliment each other very well.”
He also said the offensive line has solidified as senior Elijah Harden has moved into the right tackle position and “started playing really well”, as has senior tight end Grant Nabors.
On the defensive side, Sigler praised junior Rush Bash, the team’s leading tackler, as a “big hitter” who is getting comfortable in the new defensive scheme. He also pointed out senior defensive ends Sean Dewent and Travis Wright — “As these two go, our team goes, (and) both had great games against TK. Both … do a great job as leaders on our team.”
Sigler made special point of pointing out senior offensive and defensive lineman Jackson McClure: “Playing both ways on the offensive and defensive line, he’s had a great season and his strength and durability have allowed him to be a two-way player in the toughest of positions.”
The final reason Sigler sees optimism for his team to finish this season and in the future is the work being done at the junior varsity level.
“Our JV team has had a really difficult year,” Sigler said. “They’ve not had the numbers for a game every week — yet they have really toiled to get better and have given a great deal to our program. It’s hard to practice on weeks when you know that you won’t have a game. Yet these guys have really done special work and we feel they are going to have a great contribution to our future.”
That future starts with the teams remaining three games of this season.
The Wyoming against South Christian game, to be played at Byron Center Friday, Oct. 6, is the WKTV featured football game of the week and will be broadcast the night of the game on Comcast Channel 25, usually at 11 p.m., and repeated on Saturday at 11 a.m. on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T U-verse Channel 99 in Wyoming & Kentwood.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and features on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/
New Wyoming High School football coach Irvin Sigler, at his introductory press conference in June. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
WKTV Staff
news@wktv.org
On the latest episode of “WKTV Journal: In Focus”, WKTV’s public affairs show, we bring to the public a discussion with Irvin Sigler III, Wyoming High School’s new head football coach and dean of students.
In the discussion with on “In Focus”, which will air twice a week on WKTV channels starting this week and running through Aug. 27, WKTV’s Ken Norris talks to “Coach Sig” about his on-the-field work with the Wolves but also the “opportunity” of his off-the-field work for all the students at the school.
“I don’t know that I see challenge (with his dean of students position), what I see is tremendous opportunity,” Sigler told WKTV. “The ability to interact and work with a wide variety of students. The ability to spend time one-on-one with them. To be able to help them, and advocate for them.”
Taking the dual job at Wyoming, he said, “was a slam dunk once we talked about the teaching position in the building, because I feel like I have tremendous passion for helping people to succeed.”
As part of WKTV’s season-long football coverage schedule, the station’s cameras and announcers will be at Sigler’s first game leading the Wolves, Thursday, Aug. 24, a home game against Holland.
“WKTV Journal: In Focus” will start airing on Tuesday, Aug. 15, the program will air on Tuesdays and Thursdays, at 6:30 p.m., on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel.
Donnie Alford owns his past with a perspective on where he comes from, where he is today and why it all matters that seems mature beyond his 18 years. The Wyoming High School senior, who graduates June 1, tells his story with the precision and detail of a writer, stating his intent to reach out to struggling young people.
“I kind of want to tell you everything, because I want to be an inspiration for kids not to give up,” he said as he began our interview.
In true autobiographer form, he starts at the beginning: “I was born Sept. 4, 1998.”
Julian and Stacey Goodson took Donnie in as a son
Donnie’s family lived on the South Side of Chicago in the Robert Taylor projects, public housing that was notorious for drugs, gangs and violence. “You couldn’t sit above a certain level in the house because you had to be afraid of stray bullets that would fly in the home,” he said. “We always tried to stay below couch-level because it was dangerous.”
Yet many residents, including his family, had few other options. “When I was 5 or 6 years old, they tore down all the the project housing in Chicago, which forced thousands and thousands of mostly African-Americans to be homeless.”
For Donnie, that piece of Chicago history was real life. After a few nights sleeping in an old Volkswagen, he joined his relatives– 14 people total – in a three-bedroom apartment where he lived for the next two years.
“My bedroom wasn’t a bedroom; it was a really big closet. I used my clothes as a bed. I didn’t get my own mattress until I was in fourth grade.”
Donnie Alford smiles just talking about basketball
Moving to Grand Rapids
Donnie’s mother, Shawntay Hill, left Chicago for Grand Rapids to search for work and a new place to live. She came back for Donnie when he was almost 9-years-old.
Life in Grand Rapids was “me and my mom against the world,” he said. Fortunately, Donnie found happiness on the basketball court.
“Basketball is my passion; it’s my life,” he said. “Basketball saved me from some rough times. If it wasn’t for basketball, quite honestly, I would probably be doing what the majority of kids that come from my situation do -– the gang and drug life.
“Basketball was like a safe haven. When I was on the court all my problems would disappear for those split seconds when the ball was in my hand.”
But that passion didn’t yet transfer to the classroom, because Donnie didn’t see the point of trying. By then, his father was serving a more than 20-year prison sentence. “My father gets out of prison when I am 24 years old,” he said. “I can’t remember a moment when my father was free.
Donnie Alford looks to Julian Goodson as a father and example
“I didn’t care about school because, why would I? I didn’t think I was going to be anything in my life.”
When Donnie was 10, his mother gave birth to a boy, Armontae, and Donnie soon embraced the idea of becoming a big brother. But when the baby was just two months old, Donnie’s mother had a stroke and a heart attack, shaking the little stability he had in his life.
Shawntay spent the next seven years, from age 31 to 38, in a near vegetative state at a nursing home, never relearning to walk or talk. Her absence left a huge void in Donnie’s life.
“My mom was like my best friend. Growing up, I was an only child. We did everything together. She was the one who taught me to play basketball.”
With his mom in the hospital, Donnie spent the next few years living with aunts in Grand Rapids and Wyoming, content to get by with D’s in school.
Teacher Kellie Self could see the potential Donnie had in her sixth-grade class, even though he battled frustration and anger.
“I remember him being a brilliant kid who was an incredible writer,” she said. “I knew how capable he was, and that he could accomplish anything he put his mind to. However, I don’t necessarily think he believed that himself yet.
“Honestly, I didn’t treat him any differently than I treat any of my other students, but he responded differently to my encouragement and nurturing -– he literally thrived from it. I kept telling him he could do anything he wanted, and just how smart I knew he was.”
Donnie Alford earned a scholarship to play basketball at Olivet College
Self remembers one particularly rough day for Donnie.
“The social worker and I were in the hallway talking with him and she asked him what was wrong. He screamed, ‘I just want to see my mom!’ ‘You want to see your mom? I’ll take you there!’ the counselor replied. He couldn’t believe we could actually do something like that.”
Self ran back to her classroom and grabbed an African violet flower someone had given her and told him to give it to his mother. “I still have the photo of him next to his mom holding the flower, with with a huge smile on his face.”
Enter the Goodsons
Fate twisted Donnie’s freshman year, when he met Stacey and Julian Goodson, foster parents to many children including a good friend of Donnie’s. They took Donnie in when he was almost 16.
“They were always on me about my grades, he said. “It was like a culture change. The first semester I had straight D’s. I finished the second semester with straight B’s.”
Stacey and Julian both reached Donnie in their own ways. “Julian did it with basketball,” Donnie said, but it was much more than that.
“He told me he cared about me and he loved me. I never had a man in my life tell me he loved me. He actually cared about me and wanted me to be great. He didn’t just see me as a kid living in his house. He felt I was his son.”
Julian remembers Donnie coming to them with a fierce sense of independence. But after learning he was part of the family, Donnie grew leaps and bounds as a student and community member.
“One of the biggest things he learned was how to be a part of a family structure and unit,” Julian said. “He showed incredible leadership among his peers and siblings. … It was really just seeing what type of potential he had. He was able to tap into his potential and he found he was good at a lot of things, not just basketball.”
Julian was the male example Donnie needed.
“Growing up I never seen a successful African-American man,” Donnie said. “I didn’t really know what that was. Julian was there to show me African-American men can be successful, because I didn’t believe we could in this world. He showed me we could. He gave me hope.”
Stacey reached him with what seemed to Donnie like super powers.
“Stacey does so much,” he marveled. “She works, coaches sports, comes home, deals with all our problems, cooks dinner and still has time to laugh and be a good mom to all of us. She’s like superwoman. … I have mad love for her.”
The love is mutual.
“I’ve seen him mature a lot, as far as being an older sibling,” Stacey said. “I’ve also seen him mature in his priorities, what they are and what they need to be aligned with as far as academics and so forth.”
For so long, college wasn’t on Donnie’s radar. No one in Donnie’s family had graduated high school since the early 2000s, much less gone to college. But as his grades improved and more opportunities in basketball came his way, that began to change. The Goodsons gave him the opportunity to play travel basketball, and his team won every weekend.
Promises to His Mother
While Donnie began to excel, he remained hopeful that his mother would someday get better. But last year, doctors informed him she was 98 percent brain dead following a major medical setback. At that point, he said, “I realized my mom was never going to be the same again.”
He and relatives made the heart-wrenching decision to pull her off life support. “I watched my mom suffer for seven years. It was quite honestly the hardest thing I ever had to do in my life.
“My mom was a free spirit,” he added. “She loved to have fun, to laugh and talk and joke and dance.”
Shawntay Hill died May 15, 2016, exactly one year before Donnie was interviewed for this story.
“When my mom died, it was surreal. I couldn’t believe it. It was literally like a part of me died. I lost my best friend and my mom at once. I didn’t connect with anyone like I did with my mom.”
He found support at school from his friends and teachers. “The thing I like about Wyoming is it’s like a family.”
Before his mother died, Donnie made some promises to her.
“I promised my mom I will graduate. I would graduate high school and I would go to college and graduate from there. I told her I would play collegiate basketball. I told her I will do it all for her, and so far I have kept every word.”
‘A Poor Kid from the South Side’
To keep his word to his mother, Donnie, a guard for the Wyoming Wolves, had to up his game in a major way. Always an energetic, up-tempo player, he described himself as average overall. But senior year, “Every time I stepped on the court I was one of the best players.” He ended the year as all-conference honorable mention and all-area honorable mention.
He also improved thanks to the Goodsons, both coaches in Wyoming, who gave him access to the gym and weight room during the summer before his senior year.
“I worked out the whole summer and my motivation was my mom.” He got up every day at 7 a.m., and headed to the track for two hours to run the bleachers wearing a 25-pound weighted jacket.
He would go home for breakfast and then head back to the gym. From noon to 2:30 p.m. he was in the weight room and from 2:30 to 6 p.m. he was in the gym. “I would make 2,000 threes a day, 5,000 free throws, I would dribble until my arms were numb. I would do sprints until my feet hurt.”
He was also inspired by varsity boys basketball coach Tom VanderKlay, who demonstrates life skills to help athletes be successful men in the long run, Donnie said.
Donnie has received a scholarship to play basketball next school year at Olivet College, where he plans to major in personal training and physical therapy.
“Sometimes it doesn’t feel real,” he confessed. “At one point I was content with being like everybody else (from similar backgrounds): I’m going to either end up in jail or sell drugs. That’s the only way out. That’s all I knew.
“Who would ever have thought a poor kid from the South Side of Chicago would go on to play college basketball?”
Always Improving
Donnie’s GPA has climbed from a 1.5 his sophomore year to a 2.7. He hopes to end the year close to a 3.0.
He’s looking forward to his next step.
“My plan is to go to Olivet and dominate. I don’t plan on being an average player. I don’t want to be average anymore. I want to be great.”
Donnie said he grateful to many people who have supported him.
“Most of the kids who come from my situation, they don’t get out of Chicago, let alone finish high school and go to college. To be the first college student (from his family) is going to be pretty amazing. I’m going to continue to work hard and make sure I am the first college graduate.
“I’m just blessed.”
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