2016-september - School Life Troy

Transcript

SEPTEMBER 2016 Catherine Lu, a 10th-grader at IA East, practices her dives at the Troy High pool. Lu will dive on the Athens team this year. Diving into the new school year Photo: Rodney Curtis, School Life. United, Daring, & Dedicated By Rodney Curtis, School Life Troy Name another sport where opposing teams, cross-town rivals, practice together every day. Time’s up; bet you didn’t come up with any. The girls diving teams from Athens and Troy High practice together every day. Adding yet another element, students from the International Academy East also practice with the teams, rotating back and forth from one high school’s pool to the other throughout the week. “They want to beat each other, but they also pull for one another,” said girls diving coach Bob Schurig after practice at Troy High. “I kind of like it, because you have the rivalry, but it’s great to see them improve,” said assistant coach Luke Thomas who dives for the Troy boy’s team. “They like to have a lot of fun.” Fun wasn’t the first word that came to IA East junior Joanne Duy’s mind when she went out for the program this summer, “I wanted to try something new, but after the first day I wanted to quit.” Duy stuck with it though, “My friends pushed me and now I really look forward to practice.” Laughing in the hallway afterward, Duy and her friend Catherine Lu — also of IA East — waited for their ride home and playfully tried to get water out of each other’s ears. They will both dive as members of the Athens team. Schurig enjoys the obvious camaraderie between the three different schools. As they all practiced together on a warm August evening, it was tough to tell which girl dove for which school. Now in his 34th year as a diving instructor, Schurig says, “Diving gives girls confidence. It’s a team sport, but it’s an individual exercise.” Being up on the board by yourself, Schurig says, “It’s scary; there’s a lot to overcome.” But the girls have their teammates with them — all three school’s worth — laughing together when someone messes up, cheering together when they nail a perfect dive. To outsiders it may be an odd way to practice. But the girls see it a bit differently. Athens diver Rosemary Northcote, a freshman, says, “Our first competition is against Troy. It’s probably going to feel like just another practice!” “It’ll be fun, though,” says fellow Athens frosh Jessica McEachern, “because we’ll know all the people we’re competing against.” Northcote and McEachern weren’t done, even after 2 1/2 hours of practice. They pulled on their backpacks and headed off to Oakland University for yet another couple hours of diving practice with yet another program, Legacy Diving. And THOSE kids come together to practice from schools all across the county. Keeping New Teachers Happy Friends kept saying you have to apply…to Troy Mike Thomas is one of dozens of new teachers to the Troy School District. He’s finding out why hundreds of other district teachers rave about Troy School District. School Life’s Rodney Curtis picks up the story from here. There are three reasons why Mike Thomas is a kindergarten teacher: “#1, Kindergartners say it as it is; they aren’t afraid to tell you what they think,” he explains. Mike Thomas puts together a toy shopping cart in his new Hamilton Elementary kindergarten classroom. Photo: Rodney Curtis, School Life P “#2, The amount of learning they achieve is Check out: so immense in one school year. If they could do that every year, wow!” he says. “They just LOVE learning; the more knowledge you give them, the happier they are.” “#3, Kindergarten rooms are so filled with love. If you’re having a bad day, go to a kindergarten classroom. They have so much love to give. Plus, they all tell you you’re the best at everything; best drawer, best storyteller, everything. It really boosts your self esteem,” he concludes with a laugh. "Happy Teachers" Continued on page 5 School Events pg. 9 Elementary Lunch Menu pg. 10 www.schoollifetroy.com Experts right away. When your child is sick, you want the best care – and you don’t want to wait. That’s why now, we offer new Call Today. No Delay. appointments. See Children’s experts the same day, the next day, or whatever day works for you and your child. There’s only one Children’s Hospital of Michigan and it’s at the DMC, where taking care of kids isn’t just part of what we do, it’s everything we do. CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF MICHIGAN TROY TROY 75 STERLING HEIGHTS WARREN BIRMINGHAM ROYAL OAK Call 313-745-KIDS to see a Children’s expert today. 1 696 HAZEL PARK 102 102 SOUTHFIELD 53 10 39 94 96 DEARBORN 2 • September 2016 • School Life in The Troy School District 3 CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF MICHIGAN DETROIT High school leaders roll out welcome mat for freshmen There were hopes: “I’m looking forward to a new school, new people,” said Sarah Moilanen. “I’m looking forward to making new friends, joining new clubs,” said Noah Scudder. And there were fears: “I’m nervous about getting lost,” said Collin Lucas. “I’m nervous my classes are going to be really far apart,” said Laura Livingston. And there were moments of Zen: “I feel like I should feel nervous, but I don’t,” said Veronica Ballios. “It’s just a bigger middle school,” said Natalie Matichuk. All of these emotions and many more ran through the minds of the incoming freshmen during Orientation at Athens High School. The Athens student council dances and cheers as they welcome new freshmen and their parents. Photo by: Rodney Curtis, School Life Troy High freshmen Megan Cheenapally, Emma Kleiman and Jamie Kropinski wait in line at the ID and Athletic pass table. All three were a bit nervous about getting around the school. Cheenapally said, “It's a lot bigger than middle school and more people.” Photo by: Rodney Curtis, School Life Current Athens students did their best to alleviate freshmen stress and make them feel welcome. The Student Council danced and cheered outside of the gym as new students arrived. 4H sophomore Emily Cottrell brought in bunnies for new students to observe. And then there was senior Emily Levine. Levine, one of many NHS volunteers, decked herself out in red sneakers and a matching red bandana. But she upped the ante, wearing a crazy tutu as she passed out organizing planners and helped give incoming freshmen their schedules. “I’m a senior, these are freshmen,” explained Levine. “Kids are naturally scared, but I wanted them to get pumped up instead.” Most of the kids seemed to feel the energy in the gym. “These are new beginnings,” said Dominic Minchella, whose father, Gino, works in the district. Speaking of new beginnings, Mirza Baig bought a house and moved his whole family — including freshman Fareeha — to Troy from just a little way up north. “I chose Athens over Rochester; it’s a nicer school,” he said. Troy High Orientation: Advice From Seasoned Sophomores Waiting in line to change around their schedules, three Troy High sophomores at first seemed out of place during Freshmen Orientation. But when they were engaged in conversation, they offered up these great nug- gets of advice for their younger peers. “Get involved so you can meet new people.”
“Keep your cool; don’t get stressed out.”
“Walk fast in the hallways. There are so many kids; it’s so crowded.”
“Get on the teacher’s good side.”
“Do your homework and don’t procrastinate. Turn it in on time.”
“Get grounded with your study skills. High school really matters and dictates your future.”
“This isn’t High School Musical or Mean Girls.” -Brought to you by Anna Fairman, Lauren Miller and Vrushali Ambardekar. On a related note, the Student Council welcomed incoming freshmen with cheers and high fives. “They all look so young,” said council sophomore Annie Smuts. “Were we this small?” sophomore Danielle Reed asked. Classes available for all ages and levels with convenient day, evening and weekend hours. www.schoollifetroy.com • School Life in The Troy School District • September 2016 • 3 From the Superintendent Superintendent - Dr. Richard Machesky What's New in 2016-2017? Birmingham noted that, while the many new enrollments have kept the administrative offices busy and created the need to hire 48 new teachers, "It's a great problem to have." There are two outstanding kindergarten positions yet to be filled, so, all told, there will be 50 new TSD teachers this year. Welcome to the start of another great school year! This is an exciting time to be part of the TSD. As a district, we have always prided ourselves on being among the best in Oakland County, the best in the state, by some measures, the best in the nation. Last year's enrollment was 12,710, up from 12,556 for 2014-2015 and 12,573 for 2013-2014. Enrollment in the district has increased every year since 2010-2011. But that isn’t enough. It’s not enough for us to be a good. It’s not enough to have our schools excel. Our aspirations for our students go much further. Last year, we told you about our goal to benchmark ourselves against the best in our nation and the best in the world. This year, we embark on the journey to get there. It’s an ambitious goal, one that will require hard work and the dedication of everyone in ONE Troy, but it’s a goal that we are confident that we can accomplish. We have the finest teachers, support staff and administrators in the world. We have the tools and technology and backing of our parents and greater Troy community. We have engaged, curious, passionate students who seek to understand the world around them in a deep and meaningful way. We have what it takes to succeed. Over the next year, we will be studying how the best school systems in the world educate students: how are they set up, what supports and programs are in place to ensure success and how might we implement key aspects of their systems here in Troy. And most importantly, what can we learn from these success stories that will ensure learning for ALL students. That the mission statement of the Troy School District: Ensure learning for all members of the school community. And in this district, all means ALL. We cannot begin to become a world class district without recognizing that we must set ambitious outcomes for every student, in every classroom, every day—and then deliver on those ambitious outcomes. We are ONE Troy, and we will reach this goal together. We are thankful to have you with us along this journey. Whether you are a parent, a student, an employee or a community member, you are a part of the ONE TROY family. You are what make us great. Your input and support are invaluable as we focus on deepening learning, collaborative decision making and focusing our direction on becoming a world class district that serves the educational needs of every student. District hires new school resource officer New principal at Martell Elementary School John Pagel has joined TSD as the new principal at Martell Elementary School. Pagel has 25 years of experience in education. He comes to TSD after serving for 16 years as principal of Deerfield Elementary School in the Avondale School District. Pagel also held many other positions within Avondale, including technology director, mass media curriculum chairperson and district school safety committee member. He also managed the implementation of the technology bond at Avondale. "I am so thrilled to join the OneTroy learning community and am truly excited and humbled by the opportunity to serve the wonderful families of Martell Elementary," Pagel said. "I am inspired by the curiosity and excitement of our young learners. Their enthusiasm for life and learning is infectious. I live by the core belief that all children can learn, and it is our responsibility as educators to ensure that our children Pagel has a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from The University of Michigan and a masters of arts degree in Educational Administration from Wayne State University. TSD enrollment to reach record highs TSD Deputy Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Mark Dziatczak announced last February a projected 12,710 enrollment for the 2016-2017 school year, the same amount actually enrolled for 2015-2016, but that didn't account for the many new families moving into the district. Enrollment numbers have far surpassed that projection, said Kerry Birmingham, TSD director of Communications and Strategic Initiatives. “We have enrolled hundreds of students this summer," said Birmingham. "We are projected to set a new record for the district, with more than 12,800 students enrolled." Julian will be in the schools every day, and said his responsibilities range from addressing safety concerns at the school and district levels to stranger danger and other societal issues to traffic issues. Julian, a Troy resident, has been an officer in the city for eight years. "I grew up in Troy," he said. "I always knew I wanted to be a police officer here." When the opportunity to join TSD came up, Julian was excited to make a change, he said. "It's just fun interacting with the kids," he said. "It's a nice change of pace." Julian noted that most people interact with police officers or see them only when there's a problem. TSD students have even said they become fearful when they see a police officer, but Julian is set on changing that. "There's a lot of negativity out there," he said. "I'd like to create in kids a positive impression of police in these formative years." Julian has already met some of the students in the district, and he said it's been a positive experience all-around. He's given presentations to adolescents on drug and alcohol awareness during summer school programs. You can see more about our plan and the work we are now undertaking in our opening day video on the front page of the district website (www.troy.k12.mi.us.) Take a look at the passion of our teachers and staff and I am sure you will agree that we will reach our goal by 2020. "I try to make it fun," he said. "I try to get a lot of interaction and a lot of engagement rather than just lecturing the kids." Julian, who served six years as a sergeant in the Michigan National Guard, started his career as a Detroit police officer and moved briefly to the Warren Police Department before hiring on with Troy. Julian The best is yet to come! Dr. Richard Machesky Superintendent Troy School District School Life is a monthly publication, which focuses on TSD students, staff and community, and is designed to increase communication between district schools and parents. The opinions, statements and claims expressed in this newspaper are not necessarily those of the district or its officials. The Troy School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, age, religion, color, national origin, or disability in providing education services, activities or programs. It is the intent and policy of this District to conduct its activities in compliance with all Federal and State laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, sex, age, religion, color, national origin, or disability. are able to reach their full potential." John Julian is the new school resource officer for the district, acting as a liaison between the schools and the Troy Police Department, and striving to keep all schools and extracurricular school activities safe. "What's New?" Continued on page 5 Publisher: Editor: Photographer: Advertising Sales: Raad Alawan Patricia Benavides Rodney Curtis, School Life Raad Alawan (248) 631-4816 [email protected] Mailing Address: School Life P.0. Box 804 Troy, MI, 48099 4 • September 2016 • School Life in The Troy School District E-mail photos and stories to: [email protected] For advertising rates and information, contact Michelle Torres at (248) 403-0016 The deadline for ad submissions is the 15th of each month for information to be included in the following month’s publication School Life is published the first of each month and is available FREE to parents, students, faculty, and the community in the Troy School District. A complimentary copy is sent home each month in the backpacks of students. Additional copies are available in school offices and various locations throughout the communities. All creative concepts, designs and layout for all advertisements are the sole property of School Life and may not be reproduced in any other publication without prior approval. "Happy Teachers" Continued from page 1 Mike Thomas is the new kindergarten teacher at Hamilton Elementary School. Coming off a six-year gig in the Ferndale School District, Thomas knew something was special with Troy, “I have lots of friends who are teachers in Troy and they kept saying, ‘you have to, you have to, YOU HAVE TO apply for a job here.’” mini shopping cart, “I have an area right over here,” he points, “one week it’s a kitchen area, then the kids might make it into a restaurant the next week. Or in this case, a grocery store.” He is impressed, too, that the administration is committed to letting and encouraging kids to play, “That’s why I’m getting all this stuff sent to my classroom.” But in the first year it is so critical to hook the kids in and engage them. Thomas continues, “The administration here in Troy is the way all administrations should be; they focus on kids first.” As the new teacher chatted with visitors, he kept on unwrapping fun play items for his classroom; toy work tools, a As for his teaching philosophy, Mike Thomas says, “I think the number one part of my job is to make kindergartners happy and love school.” He continues, “Because then the kids know school is a great place. Other years, if things go bad, they can chalk it up to something else and go on.” Hamilton parents — and more importantly, their kindergarteners — are fortunate to have such a kind, caring soul working with them. "What's New?" Continued from page 3 performs many different functions within the Troy Police Department, including serving on the tactical support team, the social media team and the City of Troy diversity committee. He's also a public information officer, a field training officer and a fair and impartial policing instructor. Julian has a four-year-old daughter who's attending Troy schools this year. He said he enjoys living where he works and having a vested interest in the community's safety. Relief for Athens students: New heating and cooling system Many district bond projects are wrapping up, with the new heating and cooling system at Athens High School among the most anticipated. Much of the heating and cooling equipment was original to the building, which opened in 1974, so there was a lack of airflow and reliability in the system, said TSD Director of Operations Rob Carson. Upgrading the heating and cooling system for the nearly 400,000-square-foot building was quite a task, as much of the equipment was built into the walls, so walls and roofs had to be opened to crane out old equipment and insert the new equipment, Carson explained. The project is being completed in two phases, with phase one -- the classrooms, offices and teaching areas -- nearly complete and just needing testing and minor adjustments. Phase two will encompass the athletic areas and will begin next summer. "The students should expect more consistent temperatures and air exchanges throughout the entire building, along with little disruption from equipment failures," Carson said. "A new building controls system was also part of this construction project, which allows us to remotely manage the equipment and make adjustments." This new feature enables building maintenance to customize programming for individual spaces and efficiently diagnose any problems that arise, he explained. School Board Corner Good Policy is the Best Policy consultations with outside school law experts led us to decide that our policy book would be strongest if we did this work in conjunction with an outside legal partner—particularly given the speed of change we have seen recently in State Welcome back, everyone! With the kickoff of and Federal laws and requirements. professional development for our staff on August After reviewing proposals from two school 30 and the first day of classes on September 6, legal firms in the spring, we decided to contract the 2016-17 School Year has officially begun. with the law firm of Lusk Albertson to help us We on the Board of Education shift back to meet- with this task. Our Policy Committee and Cening twice a month starting in September, so our tral Office staff have been meeting with the Lusk workload increases this month as well. One of Albertson lead, Kevin Sutton, for several months our biggest tasks as a Board over the next three now and have made significant headway. Kevin months will be thoroughly updating the entire has definitely made the process more efficient. In policy book for the District. August the full Board approved the first round by Karl Schmidt Vice President, Troy School Board of Education One of the Board of Education’s primary responsibilities is to develop and maintain strong policies for the District. These policies establish priorities, rules, and procedures and form the basis for developing strong administrative guidelines as well as protecting the District legally by making sure we are compliant with State and Federal law and are treating all individuals within the District fairly and consistently. Over the years, our policy book has continued to grow as new issues impacting education arose. About two years ago, we as a Board decided to systematically review every policy to make sure each was still clear, relevant, and necessary. This is important work, but it can be very painstaking as well! Although we made steady progress, of edits to our policy book. We anticipate several more workshops before we have the book cleaned up, crisp, and ready to handle any issues facing the District. Our goal is to have a fully updated policy book approved and posted on our District website by January when new Board members take their seats. One added bonus of working with Lusk Albertson is that they will continue to help us maintain the policy book moving forward so that it remains compliant as school law changes in the future. Thank you again for your continued support for the important (but sometimes not so exciting) work of our great District! TSD also recently completed the band and theater addition and remodeling at Troy High School, as well as one classroom addition; the Boulan Park and Larson Middle School office additions, and mechanical and electrical upgrades; the Niles bathroom and Smith Middle School gym and locker room renovations; and the roofing at the administration building. Upcoming projects include mechanical and electrical upgrades at Athens; Troy High school chiller replacement, pool dehumidification and gym light replacement; International Academy East and Hamilton Elementary mechanical and electrical upgrades; International Academy East conversion of locker rooms to classrooms; site work and site lighting at Athens and Troy High Schools, Smith and Schroeder Elementary; several roofing projects; and concrete replacement and painting at various schools. Expiration date of offer 9/30/16 Cannot be combined with other offers. www.schoollifetroy.com • School Life in The Troy School District • September 2016 • 5 Athens Varsity Football Red Hawks Date Opponent Place Time August 25 Warren Mott Home 7:00 p.m. September 1 North Farmington Away 7:00 p.m. September 9 Stoney Creek Away 7:00 p.m. September 16 Southfield A & T Home 7:00 p.m. September 23 Clarkston Away 7:00 p.m. September 30 Lake Orion Home 7:00 p.m. October 7 Oxford Away 7:00 p.m. October 14 West Bloomfield Home 7:00 p.m. October 21 Troy Away 7:00 p.m. KARATE CLASSES $19 for 4 Weeks! Photos by: Visual Sports Network Troy Varsity Football Colts Date Opponent Place Time August 25 Walled Lake Central Away 7:00 p.m. September 1 Avondale Away 7:00 p.m. September 9 Bloomfield Home 7:00 p.m. September 16 Royal Oak Away 7:00 p.m. September 23 Detroit Country Day Home 7:00 p.m. September 30 Stoney Creek Away 7:00 p.m. October 7 Berkley Home 7:00 p.m. October 14 Pontiac Home 7:00 p.m. October 21 Athens Home 7:00 p.m. Self-Confidence Self-Control Hours: M-F: 9-5:30pm Sat.: 10-3pm (8/13-6/1) www.spiritwearrochestermi.com • [email protected] 6 • September 2016 • School Life in The Troy School District Courtesy Integrity Game Time! WISHING THE TEAM, COACHES, PARENTS AND TEACHERS AN OUTSTANDING SEASON! • Varsity Sweaters • and more! 248-852-0710 Discipline Respect www.TroyMartialArts.com SPIRITWEAR • Varsity Jackets • Screenprinting • Embroidery Perseverance 151 West Auburn Rd., Rochester Hills (Between Rochester Rd. & Livernois) Auburn Center Strip Mall Call us today to score your dream home! Stacy Miletti When EXPERIENCE and RESULTS matter (248) 877-8528 Real Estate One • 70 W. Long Lake Rd • Troy, MI 48098 www.schoollifetroy.com • School Life in The Troy School District • September 2016 • 7 Creating A Spectacle “This was seven times harder than in middle school,” Kyle Brennecke explained. The freshman percussionist in the Troy Colt Drumline had just finished a week of band camp and was exhausted after putting on a Sneak Peek Performance show for parents and friends back at the high school. 213 members of the Troy Colt Marching Band spent a week that alternated between sweltering and soaking at Faholo Conference Center in Grass Lake, Michigan. “It was a lot of hard work, but it paid off in the end,” added senior trombonist John Jalkanen. Junior Hyonjoon Kim seemed to agree, “It was a great time of family, of unity,” he said. Previewing the band’s upcoming marching season is an annual tradition. The students show off what they did at camp and share some of what’s in store for the fall. New this year, a large artificial rock wall that goes along with their theme Carved In Stone. Their 2016 show features songs that rock including oldies like ELO’s Turned to Stone and Paul Simon’s Loves Me Like a Rock. No, nothing from the Rolling Stones or Rocky (yet!). This year’s band features other firsts, like their largest number of sousaphones ever (14), and their biggest color guard to date, (30 members). There were also 30 alumni who came back to help the band including Spencer Eaton, class of 2015. “It was amazing,” he said, “The best part was watching them start from scratch on day one and progress to where they are now, a week later.” More than two dozen parents and assorted other adults also helped the Colt marchers including Theresa Clancy who said, “This is the best I’ve ever seen them after camp. They’re coming back sharp and sounding great, all in one week!” Director Brian Nutting summed up the band’s experience after the Friday night Sneak Peek, “There’s a real outward joy and passion these kids have for creating a spectacle.” The band has ten scheduled performances so far this fall, including home football games and marching band festivals/invitationals and an indoor Colt Spectacular at the end of October. For more information, feel free to visit troycoltbands.org. YOUR BRIDGE FROM HOSPITAL TO HOME. MedBridge focuses on short-term patients requiring a higher level of medical care and rehabilitation. We offer: • Complex medical care • Intensiv e rehabilitation • Skilled nursing For additional information on MedBridge contact: Heartland Health Care Center - Oakland 248.729.4400 SKILLED NURSING AND REHABILITATION At MedBridge, we can help you get back to your life - and everything you love. Our shortstay medical and rehabilitaion units focus on helping you reach your recovery goals. With an industry-leading percentage of patients returning home after a short stay, MedBridge is your best way home. medbridgerehab.com ©2016 HCR Healthcare, LLC 8 • September 2016 • School Life in The Troy School District The mellophone section performs along with the Troy Colt Marching Band during their Sneak Peak Performance after a week at band camp last month. Photo by: Rodney Curtis, School Life :HOFRPH%DFN6WXGHQWV Perspectives offers you and your family a great team of experienced mental health professionals, and we will match you to a therapist for your specific needs and goals. 248-244-8644 Troy School District 6th  -FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL - Leonard Welcome Back Parents Coffee, 9:15am -Schroeder Elementary Tears & Cheers, 9:10am 7th - Boulan Park Middle Ice Cream Social, 6-7:30pm - Troy High New Student/Make-up Pictures 8th - Smith Middle New Parent Orientation, 7pm - Boulan Park Middle New Parent Orientation, 7-8pm - Larson Middle Basketball Jones 6th Grade Assembly - Athens High Picture Make-up Day 9th - Smith Middle Picture Make Ups, 7-11am - Larson Middle Picture Make Ups - Leonard Room Parent Meeting, 9:30am - Troy High String Camp (Sept 9th-11th) - Costello Elementary Picture Day - Baker Middle Picture Make-up Day - Athens High Class Meetings 12th - Smith Middle IM Flag Football, 3-4pm - Leonard Instrumental Music Parent Info Night @ Athens HS, 7pm - Troy High Boosters Meeting, 7pm - Martell Elementary 5th Grade Student/Parent Band & Orchestra Info Night @ Athens, 7pm - Costello Elementary PTO Meeting, 7pm 13th - Smith Middle Cross Country Club, 3-4pm - Bemis Elementary Curriculum Night (Grades 3-5), 6-7pm - Wass Elementary Curriculum Night (Grades 3-5) - Leonard PTO Meeting, 7:30-8:30pm - Hill Elementary Curriculum Night (Grades K-2) - Martell Elementary Curriculum Night (Grades K-2) 14th - Smith Middle Student Council Meeting, 7:40-8:10am - IA East Coffee with the Counselor, 7:45-8:45am - IA East Picture Retakes, 8-11am - Larson Middle Magazine Sale Kickoff Assembly - Troy Union Curriculum Night, 6:30pm - Leonard Curriculum Night (Grades 3-5), 6:30-7:30pm p e r s p e c t i v e s o f t r oy. co m September Events - Troy High Sophomore Class Ring Sales - Martell Elementary School Picture Day - Schroeder Elementary Curriculum Night (Grades 3-5), 6:30-8pm 15th - Smith Middle Cross Country Club, 3-4pm - Larson Middle Welcome Back Dance, 2:45-3:45pm - Bemis Elementary Curriculum Night (Grades K-2), 6-7pm - Wass Elementary Curriculum Night (Grades K-2) - Leonard Curriculum Night (Grades K-2), 6:30-7:30pm - Leonard Fall Fundraiser - Troy High Sophomore Class Ring Sales - Hill Elementary Curriculum Night (Grades 3-5) - Martell Elementary Curriculum Night (Grades3-5) - Hamilton Curriculum Night (Parents Only), 6:30-7:30pm - Schroeder Elementary Curriculum Night (Grades K-2), 6:30-8pm 16th - Larson Middle Band @ AHS for Friday Night Lights, 6-9pm - Leonard 3rd Grade Relatives, 3-4pm - Costello Elementary PTO Welcome New Family’s, 6:30pm 19th - Smith Middle IM Flag Football, 3-4pm -Smith Middle HW Help, 3pm - IA East “How to Pay for College Night”, 7-8pm - Troy High ANP Meeting, 7pm - Hamilton School Picture Day - Baker Middle PTO Meeting 20th - Smith Middle Cross Country Club, 3-4pm - Smith Middle ELD Family Night, 7-8pm - IA East Music Booster Meeting, 6-7pm - IA East PTIA Meeting, 7-8pm - Troy Union Kaiser School Pictures - Leonard School Picture Day - Troy High Parent Coffee, 9:30 21st - Smith Middle Tech Talk, 7-8pm - IA East Principal’s Dialogue Meeting, 7:45-8:45am - Troy High Open House, 6:30pm - Hamilton PTA Meeting, 7pm - Athens High Open House, 6:30pm 22nd - Smith Middle Curriculum Night, 7-8:30pm - Smith Middle Cross Country Club, 3-4pm - Smith Middle Welcome Back Dance, 3-4pm - Boulan Park Middle Open House/Curriculum Night, 7pm - Larson Middle Open House, 7-9pm - Troy High Dept Chair Meeting, 6:45am - Troy High Cap/Gown Orders during lunch (boys) - Hill Elementary Picture Day - Baker Middle Open House, 7-8:30pm 23rd - Troy High Cap/Gown Orders during lunch (girls) - Martell Elementary Fun Run 26th - Smith Middle IM Flag Football, 3-4pm - Smith Middle HW Help, 3pm - Athens High Senior Parent Night, 7pm 27th - Smith Middle Cross Country Club, 3-4pm - Troy High Gilchrist Financial Aid Pres., 7pm - Schroeder Elementary Kaiser Picture Day 28th - HALF DAY -Smith Middle Student Council Meeting, 7:40-8:10am - Smith Middle 7th Grade Parent Preview for Human Sexuality, 7-8pm - Leonard Back to School Celebration, 5-8pm - Athens High Powder Puff Game, 6pm 29th - Smith Middle Cross Country Club, 3-4pm - Smith Middle Pep Assembly (7-Period Day) - Athens High Lip Sync Battle, 7pm 30th - IA East Olympics, 12-2:35pm - Wass Elementary Maria Dismondy Assembly - Athens High Homecoming Pep Assembly - Athens High Parade Leaves Costello, 5:30pm - Athens High Homecoming Varsity Football vs Lake Orion, 7pm Please note that all events, dates, and times are subject to change. Perspectives of Troy Counseling Centers The new school year is a great time to improve your habits! Perspectives offers individual, group counseling & workshops on the topics of Self-Harm, Anger, Social Skills, Anxiety, Student Motivation, Self-Esteem, Bullying, Addictions and much more! 248-244-8644 perspectivesoftroy.com www.schoollifetroy.com • School Life in The Troy School District • September 2016 • 9 ‘ConfidentLee’ summer camp turns student into entrepreneur This isn’t Devesh Sure’s first business venture; he wanted to make that perfectly clear. “My first job was doing chores for money,” he said. “It wasn’t just at home it was for neighbors, anyone.” Selling lemonade is actually the seven-year-old’s third job. “This summer at camp I had a Lego building job with my business partner, Rishab.” During the summer my mom enrolled me at ConfidentLee’s summer camp. At the summer camp we learned about how to come up with a business idea and how to make it work. “Camp was so much fun that after everday camp I was ready to try out a different business idea,” Devesh said. So this summer, Mr. Sure set up a lemonade stand, hawking the drink for a very reasonable 25 cents a cup. “I also sold juice boxes,” he adds. Along with a stuffed Pikachu and a Lego model of Venice, Italy, Sometimes business Devesh Sure, 7, sells lemonade in front of his Troy home. Photo: boomed. “I was selling lem- Rodney Curtis, School Life onade left and right,” he said. “But I had learned how to handle money and deal with customers at ConfidentLee.” Other times, not so much, “Sometimes I just stood there, shy.” Regardless, when it was quitting time, he got to play around; video games, more Lego, which incidentally was the business idea that he and his friend Rishab were working on at the ConfidentLee camp. Always the visionary, Devesh said, “My third job would be working at the park, cleaning it. After I’m done, I’ll play, go down the slide, etc.” But he didn’t stop there. “My fourth job would be being a policeman, catching robbers ...” Note to all would be reprobates: stay out of Troy, this kid means business (sorry). Finally though, Devesh Sure nailed down his perfect fifth and final job, at least until he comes up with another business idea. “I want to be a stay at home dad. That would be so fun.” Kid’s got his priorities straight. ConfidentLee is an enrichment program that builds confidence and boosts self-esteem in children. It offers mini-courses that teach children public speaking, communication, leadership, entrepreneurship and social skills. For more information please contact www.confidentlee.com or call 248-301-0030. Students: Jump-start your savings by setting goals By Janice Quigg/Senior Marketing Specialist, OUR Credit Union “Develop smart savings habits.” We hear that statement often, but sticking to it and saving consistently for the future can be a difficult task, especially for students. Setting goals can help make saving purposeful. Parents, teachers and other mentors can help students set realistic savings goals. Individuals who set their own savings goals are more empowered to reach them. Short and long term goals will look different for everyone. Younger students may save their allowance money for a toy, while an older student’s short term goal may be to save for a game system, a phone or computer. The time frame for a long term goal for younger students may be one year, where older students may think longer term for things like a car or college. Students learn by example so sharing your own savings goals, taking them to the credit union and talking about money will encourage them to save wisely. Look for a deposit match offer or consider matching a deposit once they’ve hit a milestone you’ve both agreed on. Learning to manage money at an early age better prepares students for the future. Teaching good money skills is a sound investment for parents, who often are the ones helping their adult children when they run into real-world challenges. For more information on savings tips, please visit: www.ourcuonline.org 10 • September 2016 • School Life in The Troy School District Troy School District Elementary Lunch Menu September 7-9 WED Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza or Soybutter and Jelly Sandwich or Chicken Caesar Salad & Breadstick, Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Mixed Greens, Baby Carrots, Cucumber Coins, Diced Pears, Orange Smiles, Banana THURS Cheese Quesadilla with Shredded Lettuce and Salsa
or Cheesy Breadsticks & Pizza Dipping Sauce or Peppi Pizza Salad & Breadstick, Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Fiesta Corn, Celery Sticks, Orange Smiles & Diced Peaches, Fresh Apple, Cucumber Coins FRI Pancakes & Syrup with Turkey Sausage or Yogurt
 or Grilled Cheese Sandwich
or Classic Chef Salad & Breadstick, Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Baby Carrots, Applesauce, Mandarin Oranges, Celery Sticks & Grapes September 12-16 MON Popcorn Chicken & Dinner Roll or Grilled Cheese Sandwich
or Classic Chef Salad & Breadstick, Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Sweet Potato Fries, Mixed Greens, Cucumber Coins, Baby Carrots, Orange Smiles & Fresh Apple TUES Creamy Macaroni & Cheese or Cheesy Breadsticks & Pizza Dipping Sauce
or Garden Tossed Salad & Breadstick, Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Steamed Broccoli, Baby Carrots, Pineapple Tidbits, Grapes & Apple Slices WEDS Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza or Soybutter and Jelly Sandwich or Poppin Chicken Salad & Breadstick ,Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Mixed Greens, Baby Carrots, Celery Sticks, Banana & Mandarin Oranges THURS Crispy Chicken Drumstick & Dinner Roll
or Cheesy Breadsticks & Pizza Dipping Sauce
or Cobb Salad & Breadstick, Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Chick Pea Salad, Celery Sticks, Apple, Diced Pears or Orange Smiles FRI French Toast Sticks & Syrup with Yogurt
or Grilled Cheese Sandwich or Chicken Caesar Salad & Breadstick, Fruit & Veggie Offerings:
Hash Browns, Carrots, Cucumber, Applesauce, Diced Peaches, Orange September 19-23 MON Chicken Nuggets and Dinner Roll or Grilled Cheese Sandwich or Peppi Pizza Salad & Breadstick, Fruit & Veggie Offerings:
Corn Niblets, Baby Carrots, Broccoli Buds, Fresh Apple & Pineapple Tidbits TUES Cheeseburger, Hamburger, or Veggie Burger
or Cheesy Breadsticks & Pizza Dipping Sauce
or Classic Chef Salad & Breadstick, Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Mixed Greens, Sliced Tomatoes, Celery Sticks, Diced Pears, Orange Smiles, Apple Slices WEDS Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza or Soybutter and Jelly Sandwich or Chicken Caesar Salad & Breadstick, Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Mixed Greens, Baby Carrots, Cucumber Coins, Banana & Mandarin Oranges THURS Fiesta Beef & Cheese Nachos or Bean & Cheese Nachos with Shredded Lettuce and Salsa or Cheesy Breadsticks & Pizza Dipping Sauce
or Garden Tossed Salad & Breadstick, Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Refried Beans, Celery Sticks, Carrots, Orange Smiles, Grapes and Apple FRI Pancakes & Syrup with Turkey Sausage or Yogurt
or Grilled Cheese Sandwich
or Cobb Salad & Breadstick, Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Baby Carrots, Cucumber Coins, Orange Smiles, Diced Peaches, & Fresh Apple September 26-30 MON Chicken Tenders with Roll or Grilled Cheese Sandwich or Garden Tossed Salad & Breadstick, Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Cinnamon Baked Apples, Red Delicious & Granny Smith Apples, Fruity Applesauce, Cucumber Slices, Carrots TUES Cheese Lasagna with Dinner Roll
or Cheesy Breadsticks & Pizza Dipping Sauce
or Chef Salad with Breadstick, Veggie Offerings: Steamed Broccoli, Mixed Greens, Celery Sticks, Diced Peaches, Grapes, Apple Slices WEDS Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza or Soybutter and Jelly Sandwich or Chicken Caesar Salad with Breadstick, Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Mixed Greens, Baby Carrots, Celery Sticks, Fresh Apple, Banana or Pineapple Tidbits THURS Beef or Bean Taco with Shredded Lettuce and Salsa or Cheesy Breadsticks & Pizza Dipping Sauce or Poppin Chicken Salad & Breadstick Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Refried Beans, Celery Sticks, Baby Carrots, Orange Smiles, Applesauce, or Fresh Apple FRI Waffles & Syrup with Yogurt or Grilled Cheese Sandwich or Peppi Pizza Salad with Breadstick Fruit & Veggie Offerings: Hash Browns, Baby Carrots, Broccoli, Mandarin Oranges or Apple Slices School is in Session! TODAY’S LESSON • • • • • Reasons to Join OUR Credit Union : Scholarship Opportunities Safe place to save your cash Oakey Dokey’s Kid Club and Teen Accounts Free Coin Machine T HIS OFFER: Get a $50 match with a new Youth Savings Account!* Check out all the benefits: www.OURcuonline.org 6693 Rochester Rd Troy, MI 48085 Federally insured by NCUA *Matching deposit up to $50 for all Youth Accounts (under 18). Offer ends October 31, 2016. Bowling Leagues Birthday Parties weekday youth league at 5:00 on Fridays Adult/Youth Youth, Adult & Youth/Adult Leagues league on Sign-up today! Sundays at 4:30 Expires: October 14, 2016 ............................. ............................. ........................................ One FREE Game of Bowling with a Paid Game! This coupon entitles the coupon holder and each person in coupon holder’sgroup to one free game of bowling if at least one game is paid for by each group member. 1950 E. Square Lake Road, Troy, MI (248) 879 - 8700 | TroyLanesBowling.com ........................................ The Birthday Child is the STAR! Book a party with us! Weekly Specials Affordable Family Fun! TroyLanesBowling.com www.schoollifetroy.com • School Life in The Troy School District • September 2016 • 11 When it’s an emergency... does your child have a Beaumont doctor? Childhood emergencies never seem to happen between nine and five. That’s why we offer specialized Pediatric Emergency Care at Beaumont – 24/7. And if your child needs to be admitted to the hospital, you’ll be right where you want to be. At Beaumont, you get the most advanced care for the ones who matter most. Pediatric Emergency Care at Beaumont Hospital – Troy Specially designed area just for children, featuring private rooms. 12 • September 2016 • School Life in The Troy School District