September 01, 2010
Belding girls golf hosted the OK Rainbow Jamboree at Ridgeview Golf Course yesterday. Individual scores for Belding and team scores are below.
Belding
Kenzie Dahl-51
Arianna Leppink-54
Melissa Beute-61
Tayler Reeves-64
Total: 230
W. Catholic 212
FHN 197
Cedar Springs 230
Comstock Park 226
Coopersville 215
Calvin Christian- 215
The next event will be another OK Rainbow Jamboree at Iron Wood Golf Course hosted by Calvin Christian. It begins at 3:30 p.m.
August 31, 2010
The girls golf team played Central Montcalm at Ridgeview Golf Club yesterday. They enjoyed a warm day on the course and a great victory. The individual and team scores are below.
Belding
Kenzie Dahl-48
Mary Rose Jakeway-62
Arianna Leppink-54
Tayler Reeves-62
Total - 226
Central Montcalm-256
The girls will play again today at Ridgeview Golf Club at 3:30 p.m. for the OK Rainbow Jamboree.
August 30, 2010
Belding Area Schools has been busy planning and implementing some of the many bond projects that will take place over the next three years. Click on the link below for completion photos, before and after renderings, and a technology schedule. Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.
Update on BAS Bond Projects
August 27, 2010
The boys and girls cross country team competed int he Lakewood Cross Country Invitational on August 25. Click the link below for results.
Boys Results
Girls Results
Splits
August 24, 2010
Before thousands of people from Belding and Greenville make their way to Black Field on Friday for the big Belding vs Greenville rivalry football game, several student-athletes will have paid homage to the historic rivalry the day before. Cross country runners from Belding and Greenville boys and girls cross country teams will run nine miles together from Belding to Greenville this Thursday, August 26th. The run begins at Rudness Field in Belding Thursday, August 26th at 8:00am. (The field is located a block north of Belding High School at 850 Hall Street.) The runners will deliver the game ball for the big game on Friday by concluding the run at Black Field in Greenville at approximately 9:30 am.
“Five years ago a new tradition began,” said Belding Cross Country Coach John Carlson. “We wanted to show our communities that we can work together and still have a fun rivalry. Each year this run connects the two communities on a level greater than games.”
The nine mile run, which alternates starting points in Belding or Greenville each year, originated in 2006 when former Greenville cross country coach Nick Springsteen of Greenville, wanted to have the runner deliver the game ball to the varsity football game as a symbol of unity in a storied rivalry.
“It’s a great event,” said Trevor Schmachtenberger, head coach for the Greenville Cross Country boys team. “Our parents and athletes enjoy interacting with our Belding rivals. We encourage one another, celebrate together and get a great workout. We hope the community will come out and support this very special event.”
After introductions and opening statements, the runners will leave from Rudness Field at 8:00am.. The run ends at Black Field at approx. 9:30am. The runners will then go to Greenville High School for refreshments. The route is attached to this release for media use.
For more information contact John Carlson (616.794.1025) or Steve VanWagoner (616.318.8949).
August 23, 2010
Check out our football team featured on WOOD TV 8! They are preparing for a great football season and looking forward to the fan support they get year-after-year.
BHS Football Featured on Maranda Where You Live
August 18, 2010
Read the back-to-school letter from new principal, Jesus Hernandez, and find out about all the upcoming back-to-school events at Ellis Elementary!
Dear Parents,
Let me introduce myself. I am Jesus Hernandez, the new principal at Ellis Elementary School. I am truly excited for the opportunity to serve Belding Area Schools. With 19 years of experience and training as a principal at Grand Rapids Public Schools, and most recently serving as a principal at Wyoming Public Schools, I feel prepared to meet this new challenge with confidence and anticipation of the work ahead.
I look forward to sharing more of my personal information, educational background and professional qualifications when we meet at the open house and the ice cream social. I am eager to get to know all of the families at Ellis Elementary, so do not hesitate to introduce yourself whenever the opportunity is presented.
For now, let me share the pertinent details needed for another smooth start to the school year.
Start of School Schedule
September 7 – Grades 1 and 2
September 8 – Kindergarten and Kinderstart Section A
September 9 – Kinderstart Section B
School Times (Kindergarten – 2nd)
8:40 AM – 3:45 PM
Breakfast/Lunch Prices
Universal breakfast is offered free to all students.
Elementary Lunch - $2.00
Milk - $0.35
Important Back-to-School Events
August 30
Family Picnic: all students and their families welcome
5 – 7 PM
Kinderstart Open House: tour building and meet teachers
5 – 7 PM
September 7
Kindergarten Open House: tour building and meet teachers
4 – 6 PM
September 21
Information Night & Ice Cream Social: all students and families welcome
5 – 7 PM
Class Placements
Class placements are enclosed with this letter. Due to confidentiality policies, class lists will not be posted. If you have moved or have a different postal address and this letter was forwarded to you from the postal service, please call the office to provide us with a current address. The Ellis office phone number is 794-4100.
Please understand that parent requests for classroom placements were given careful consideration and were honored whenever possible. Even so, there simply was no way to give everyone their first choice. In several cases 2nd and sometimes 3rd choices needed to be selected to ensure that rooms were fairly balanced in size and represented proportional numbers of boys versus girls with special education guidelines taken into consideration when necessary. There are many factors that go into classroom assignments, but you can be assured that the choices are never done randomly or hastily, and in fact, are always selected with your student’s individual needs in mind so that he or she has the greatest opportunity for academic achievement and social growth.
Transportation
Elementary routes and stops will be the same as last year. Some route and time adjustments may be required after the start of the school year. Parents will be notified of any changes. Letters will be mailed by the third week of August to the kinderstart, kindergarten, and ECSE students listing bussing arrangements. Kinderstart/kindergarten ID tags will be enclosed.
School Supply List
These items are suggested, but not required, for elementary students:
• Book bag
• Pencils and erasers
• Scissors
• Pencil box
• Crayons/colored pencils
• Glue sticks/ glue
• Two pocket folders
• Two – 70 page spiral notebooks
In conclusion, let me say that the start of school is always an exciting time for students and faculty. We all feel the anticipation of opening day, and in some cases, maybe even a little fear. Assure your child that the teachers and staff at Ellis, and especially Mr. Hernandez, want them to be happy learners. We will do our very best to make their time at school safe and productive, and will provide them strong building blocks for a successful school career. The possibilities are endless and I am so ready to get started! I will see you soon!
Sincerely,
Jesus Hernandez
Principal
Ellis Elementary School
August 16, 2010
The Annual Education Report (AER) provides key information on the 2009-2010 educational progress for Ellis Elementary. Please click on the link below for full details and information.
Ellis Elementary Annual Education Report
August 16, 2010
The Annual Education Report (AER) provides key information on the 2009-2010 educational progress for Ellis Elementary. Please click on the link below for full details and information.
BASE Annual Education Report
August 13, 2010
The Annual Education Report (AER) provides key information on the 2009-2010 educational progress for Woodview Elementary. Please click on the link below for full details and information.
Woodview Elementary Annual Education Report
August 13, 2010
The Annual Education Report (AER) provides key information on the 2009-2010 educational progress for Belding Middle School. Please click on the link below for full details and information.
Belding Middle School Annual Education Report
August 13, 2010
The Annual Education Report (AER) provides key information on the 2009-2010 educational progress for Belding High School. Please click on the link below for full details and information.
Belding High School Annual Education Report
August 13, 2010
The Annual Education Report (AER) provides key information on the 2009-2010 educational progress for the district of Belding Area Schools. Please click on the link below for full details and information.
Belding Area Schools Annual Education Report
August 09, 2010
We are anticipating another great school year and are anxious to have our students back into the classroom learning and achieving.
Belding High School Start of School Schedule
Start of School
Tuesday, September 7
Time
7:25 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Lunch/Breakfast Prices
Lunch: $2.25
Milk: $.035
Breakfast: Universal Breakfast is offered free to all students.
High School Student Schedules/Pictures
Schedule pickup and school pictures are on a drop-in basis for grades 10 - 12.
Seniors: Monday, August 23, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Plan to have a picture taken for your student
ID card.
Juniors: Monday, August 23, 11:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. School pictures will be taken at this time.
Sophomores: Tuesday, August 24, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. School pictures will be taken at this time.
New Student & Freshman Orientation: Tuesday, August 24, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m..
Freshman orientation is an activity led by our student group the “O-Squad.” All 9th graders should plan to attend to receive schedules, have pictures taken, sign up for clubs and sports, tour the school, find lockers, and participate in activities designed to prepare students for a successful transition to the high school. This orientation is designed for students. Parents do not need to attend. Please call the high school at 794-4900 if transportation is needed.
August 09, 2010
We are anticipating another great school year and are anxious to have our students back into the classroom learning and achieving.
Woodview Elementary Start of School Schedule
Start of School
Tuesday, September 7
Time
8:50 a.m. - 3:55 p.m
Lunch/Breakfast Prices
Lunch: $2.00
Milk: $.035
Breakfast: Universal Breakfast is offered free to all students.
Welcome to Woodview Cookout
August 31 - 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. – Welcome to Woodview Cookout. The building will be open for parents and students to tour.
August 09, 2010
We are anticipating another great school year and are anxious to have our students back into the classroom learning and achieving.
Belding Middle School Start of School Schedule
Start of School
Tuesday, September 7
Time
7: 30 a.m. - 2:35 p.m.
Lunch/Breakfast Prices
Lunch: $2.25
Milk: $.035
Breakfast: Universal Breakfast is offered free to all students.
Middle School Orientation, Student Schedules and Pictures
August 23, Monday - Schedules will be available our web site in the office.
August 23 - September 2 - 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. – 7th & 8th grade students may stop by the office to pick up schedules, find classes, and try out lockers.
September 1, Wednesday - 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.—6th Grade and New Student Orientation. Parents and students meet in the gym for a brief orientation and then head to classrooms to meet the teachers and visit lockers. All students must be accompanied by
a parent/guardian.
September 3 - 6 - BMS office closed
September 7, Tuesday - 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.—Curriculum Night. Parents will follow their student’s schedule, meet the teachers, and learn about classes.
September 8, Wednesday - Picture Day
August 09, 2010
We are anticipating another great school year and are anxious to have our students back into the classroom learning and achieving.
Ellis Elementary School Start of School Schedule
Start of School
Grades 1-12: Tuesday, September 7
Kindergarten and Kinderstart Section A: Wednesday, September 8
Kinderstart Section B: Thursday, September 9
Time
8:40 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.
Lunch/Breakfast Prices
Lunch: $2.00
Milk: $.035
Breakfast: Universal Breakfast is offered free to all students.
Ellis Elementary Open Houses
August 30 - 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Open House for all Kinderstart students
September 7 - 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Open House for all Kindergarten students
September 21 - 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Parent Information Night & Ice Cream Social
August 09, 2010
Mr. Rousseau, director of music education at Belding Middle School, will be hosting a band open house for 6th graders on Monday, August 30 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. This is an informal open house for families to check out the bandroom, rent instruments or see if a current instrument is in need of repair before the start of the new year.
August 05, 2010
Boy’s soccer practice will begin August 11th at 5:30 p.m. on the high school baseball field.
August 04, 2010
This edition of the Belding Banner features important back to school information. Check it out!
The Belding Banner - August 2010
July 28, 2010
Mr. Jesus Hernandez was recently hired as the new Ellis Elementary principal. Mr. Hernandez earned his bachelor of arts degree from Aquinas College and his master’s of science in education from the University of Wisconsin. Prior to joining Belding Area Schools, he served as an elementary administrator in the Grand Rapids and Wyoming Public School districts for 19 years. We are very excited to have Mr. Hernandez join the staff at Belding Area Schools and share his passion and expertise with our students and families. Mr. Hernandez and his wife, Jane, have two children, Jonah and Sophia.
July 27, 2010
Belding Area Schools offers a wide variety of community enrichment programs through their community education program. View all of our current programs below.
Enrichment Classes
Click here to see the wide variety of enrichment classes we offer our community. There is something for everyone!
For more information, call 794-4646 or email .
July 07, 2010
The information below reflects the Budget and Salary/Compensation information of Belding Area Schools as required by Transparency Reporting.
Fiscal Year 2010-2011 Board Approved Budget
2010-11 General Fund
2009-10 General Fund
Athletic Fund
School Lunch Fund
Resolution
Personnel Expenditures
Personal Expenditures
Current Operating Expenditures
Operating Expenditures
Current Bargaining Agreements
Administrator Handbook
BEA Contract
BESPA Contract
Bus Driver Agreement
Employer Sponsored Health Care Plans
Administrator Benefit Plan
Bus Driver Benefit Plan
Paraprofessional and Cook Benefit Plan
Secretary and Custodian Benefit Plan
Non Union Support Staff Benefit Plan
Teachers Benefit Plan
Audited Financial Statements
Financial Audit
Employee Compensation Information
Employee Compensation
District Paid Association Dues
Association Dues
District Paid Lobbying Costs
Belding Area Schools has no lobbying costs to report.
June 30, 2010
A familiar face will be stepping into some big shoes on July 1, as Belding Area Schools Assistant Superintendent Leslie Mount will become the new superintendent.
Superintendent Chuck Barker announced his retirement in May and the Board of Education voted unanimously to hire Mount as his replacement on June 3.
A little history
Mount, 35, is the daughter of Dennis and Joyce Caverly of Greenville. She graduated from Greenville High School in 1992, six years after her future husband, Steve Mount.
She enrolled that fall in the business department at Grand Valley State University in Allendale, thinking business was the direction she wanted to head.
But within the year, she realized that she didn’t enjoy business and relished every history-related class. So she switched her major to history at the end of that year.
The change in course didn’t slow Mount down, however. She still finished her undergraduate degree within four years, even earning the 1996 Outstanding History Graduate.
Romance was trickling into Mount’s life as she met Steve, the brother of a roommate, while at college. They were married after she graduated and Mount was quickly hired for her first job out of college - as history and government teacher at Belding High School.
Young leader
While Mount was busy teaching, she continued to study hard, earning her master’s degree in building administration in 1999. She also spent many hours chairing improvement boards, advising class leaders and coaching girls basketball.
“I think some of those things helped prepare me for where I am today,” she said.
Mount taught at the high school until 2003, when she was hired as assistant superintendent for the district. She was joined by Superintendent Chuck Barker in early 2004 and the two enjoyed several years working side by side.
The two are now working together to make as seamless a transition as possible at the end of the month.
“I’m very confident that Leslie will lead this district in a very positive way,” Barker said of his replacement. “She’s been in Central Office for seven years and she’s been my right hand.”
He said Mount has had very good preparation for the transition.
“She just continues to impress me,” Barker said.
Outside the Central Office
When she’s not busy down at Belding Central Office, Mount enjoys spending time with her husband and 12 year-old daughter, Peyton, who is going into seventh grade this fall.
“We like to go downhill skiing and going to different school events,” Mount said.
Steve works as regional manager for an optical company and the family is currently residing in Greenville. However, they’ve been trying to sell their home for a year so they can move closer within the district.
Exercise is one of Mount’s favorite pasttimes, keeping herself in shape by running and trying fitness programs.
“I make a point to exercise every day, making that a priority,” Mount said.
Like most educators, Mount enjoys curling up with a good book. Sometimes that’s a textbook on all the latest education techniques. But when she needs to unwind and relax, a good novel does the trick.
But Belding education is her real passion.
“I’m just really excited about this opportunity,” Mount said.
She said she plans to keep Belding’s current focus “on the kids” and continuing the upward trend Belding has been making, despite the economy.
“There’s plenty on the plate,” Mount said.
She said she hopes people in the district will feel comfortable enough to approach her if they have any questions or concerns.
“Problems can be fixed if they’re addressed from the beginning,” Mount said. “At the end of the day, we’re all here for the same reason - to give kids the best education we can.”
As Seen in The Daily News
Jessica Dudenhofer
Staff Writer
June 30, 2010
As a member of the Belding soccer team, junior Charlene Kehoe wanted to get a youth camp started to help teach the game she loves to the children of the community.
With the help of a leadership camp and Redskin coach Blaine Kemme, her dream became a reality.
After attending the Judy Foudy Sports Leadership Acadamy last year, Kehoe received the confidence to push her plan forward.
“(The JFSLA staff) want us to give back to our community and I wanted to do a soccer camp for the kids (in Belding) because they don’t have much beside the soccer program,” Kehoe said. “So I decided to do a free camp for the kids.”
After returning from the Acadamy last summer, Kehoe started taking steps to get her plan into motion. She approached Kemme about doing the camp. Between then and Tuesday night, they went through the process of finding a place to hold the camp, finding volunteers and getting the equipment.
On the first night, the camp drew 35 participants ranging from ages 8-14.
“As far as Charlene taking the initiative for this I am very thrilled to see this,” Kemme said. “That’s one of the major things they taught at the Judy Foudy camp. In addition to the soccer skills, they taught (the campers) to be a leader in the community, not just in soccer but in general.”
The Belding Youth Soccer Camp will continue tonight and Thursday at the Belding High School practice soccer fields.
As Seen in The Ionia Sentinel Standard
By Andrew Roberts
Sports Editor
June 28, 2010
Read The Belding Banner newsletter for everything you need to know about BAS.
The Belding Banner - June 2010
June 17, 2010
The Belding softball team scored all its runs in the first inning, and that was all they needed Tuesday afternoon against Williamston.
In the Redskins’ first ever quarterfinals appearance, they struck for three runs in the first, while the Hornets, who were state semifinalists last year, scored their only runs of the game in the bottom half of the inning as Belding earned a 3-2 win.
Just two days after winning its first regional championship, the Lady Redskins became the first team from Belding since the 2003 girls basketball team to make it to a state semifinal.
“This was a great ball game,” Belding coach Mikayla Linebaugh said. “As always, I didn’t say much before the game, just let the girls settle in and they were ready to go.”
Belding wasted little time getting their offense going. On the first pitch of the game, lead-off hitter Kelsey Pollock hit the ball to the outfield fence for a double.
“I was kind of nervous when I stepped to the plate,” Pollock said. “After the first inning I calmed down.
“This is just awesome.”
Mackenzie Dahl drew a walk to give the Redskins two base runners with no outs. After Kyleigh Linebaugh moved her teammates over with a sacrifice bunt, and Taylor Johnson reached on an intentional walk, sophomore Morgan Hill hit into a ground out, but drove in the first run of the game. Kyleigh Hicks then hit a two-out, two-run double.
Williamston’s Leah Hosking drove in a pair of runs in the bottom of the first with a two-out, two-run double of her own.
Linebuagh struck out five batters while walking one and giving up two runs on five hits in seven innings of work.
At the plate, Pollock went 2-4 with a double and a run scored, while Hicks went 1-3 with two RBIs. Hill and Reminga also earned hits for Belding.
The Redskins (36-2) will travel to Bailey Park in Battle Creek on Friday to take on Mt. Pleasant in the semifinal round of the state tournament. The Oilers defeated Pinconning 1-0 in their quarterfinal game at Central Michigan University.
As Seen in the Ionia Sentinel Standard
By Andrew Roberts
Sentinel-Standard sports editor
June 15, 2010
This time Belding’s softball team didn’t allow their Division 2 regional final against Hudsonville Unity Christian to go to extra innings this year.
The Redskins beat the Crusaders 9-3 in the final Saturday at Hope College to win their first regional title and secure their spot in the quarterfinals Tuesday.
The last time Belding (35-2) and Unity Christian met was the regional semifinals in 2009, and the Crusaders beat the Redskins 2-1 in nine innings for the trip to the regional finals.
Redskins coach Mikayla Linebaugh credited “timely hitting, good pitching, good defense and our bats finally came around” for the win this time around.
Belding jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the second inning, keyed by a two-run single by Kelsey Pollock. But Unity Christian came back with three runs on three hits and a walk in the third inning to tighten up the game.
“I told them (Belding) keep their heads and they’ll work it out,” Linebaugh said.
The Crusaders, who beat Fruitport 5-0 to get to the regional final, had only two baserunners the rest of the way.
Belding put the game out of reach with five runs in the sixth inning, keyed by a bases-loaded double by Morgan Hill.
“They (Unity Christian) didn’t score again and at 4-3 we would have won anyways, but it was nice to get those runs,” Linebaugh said.
The rest was Kyleigh Linebaugh, who gave up the three runs on five hits and a walk, striking out three.
Pollock, Linebaugh, Mackenzie Dahl and Mindy Reninga had two hits each in the game.
Belding got to the final by hammering Grand Rapids Catholic Central 11-2.
The Redskins scored in the opening frame on singles by Pollock and Linebaugh and a Taylor Johnson groundout. The Cougars took the lead in the top of the third when two runs scored on a Katie Collins infield single.
But Belding came back in the bottom of the inning and scored four runs, led by a two-run homer by Johnson, her 49th career homer.
The Redskins put the game away with three runs in the fourth and three more in the sixth.
Linebaugh struck out 10 in the complete-game three hitter for the win.
Johnson was 3-for-4 with three runs scored and four RBIs to lead Belding offensively. Syleigh Hicks added three hits and Linebaugh had two to help her cause.
Belding, ranked 10th in the state in the latest Michigan High School Softball Coaches Association poll, will head to East Lansing for the quarterfinal game against Williamston Tuesday at Ranney Park.
As Seen In The Daily News
By Chip Burch
Daily News Correspondent
June 11, 2010
Congratulations to the third annual “Staff of the Year” recipients and nominees. On June 9, Belding Area Schools recognized outstanding staff members nominated by their peers who demonstrate loyalty, commitment, positive human relations skills, and excellent organizational skills as they relate to the overall positive educational climate of the district and our community.
The recipients of the 2010 “Staff of the Year awards were:
* Deb Wright, “Secondary Staff of the Year”
* Jen Mahar, “Elementary Staff of the Year”
* Dan Feuerstein, “Support Staff of the Year”
These recipients were selected from a group of very deserving staff members. Support staff nominees were Michelle Felt, Dawn Hall, Ryan Kelley, Brian Loper, Sandra Onstwedder, Rachelle Ostrander, and Heidi Wilker. Secondary staff nominees included Olga Albert, Heidi Armock, Matthew McGuire, and Dan Scholtens. Elementary staff nominees were Sharon Blanch, Deborah Gasper, Renee Gillespie, Jenna Lalick, and Craig Nichoson. Belding Area Schools is proud to honor the leadership and work ethic demonstrated by these individuals.
June 11, 2010
Schedule pickup and school pictures are on a drop-in basis for grades 10-12.
Seniors: Monday 8/23 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. Seniors plan to have a picture taken for your student ID card.
Juniors: Monday 8/23 from 11:00-1:00 p.m. School pictures will be taken at this time.
Sophomores: Tuesday 8/24 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. School pictures will be taken at this time.
Freshman Orientation: Tuesday 8/24 from 11:00-1:00 p.m. Freshman orientation is an activity led by our student group the “O-Squad.” All 9th grades should plan to attend to receive schedules, have pictures taken, sign up for clubs and sports, tour the school, find lockers, and participate in activities designed to prepare students for a successful transition to the high school. This orientation is designed for students so parents do not need to attend. Please call the high school at 794-4900 if transportation is needed.
June 09, 2010
Belding High School held its commencement ceremony for the class of 2010 on May 27, 2010.
The following students were recognized with gold cords as Senior Scholars:
* Andrew Backing
* Elizabeth Brownell, Joseph Conley
* Maxwell Dykla
* Christian Ferman
* Hannah Humprheys
* Jared Siegel
* Alexa Ward
These students received blue cords and graduated with the honors of Suma Cum Laude:
* Naomi Andres
* Jessica Brownell
* Christopher Daller
* Kyle Gibson
* Tyler Mayer
* James Scott.
Elizabeth Brownell, Joseph Conley, and Alexa Ward were selected by a committee of staff and students to deliver commencement addresses. 148 students received their diplomas on May 27, 2010.
June 09, 2010
Ellen (Cotter) Satterlee, a 1968 graduate, was selected as Belding High School’s first recipient of its Distinguished Alumni Award. Mrs. Satterlee received her award at a luncheon in her honor at the Candlestone Inn on May 27, 2010. Mrs. Satterlee was invited to address the class of 2010 at the commencement ceremony. Ellen Satterlee was the keynote speaker and was honored as the first Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. Satterlee has been the executive director of the Grand Rapids based Wege Foundation for the past 22 years. She is also on the Board of Trustees for Aquinas College. “Develop an attitude of gratitude,” Satterlee told the graduates. “Be thankful for every second you’ve been given.”
June 08, 2010
One of the requirements for your English course next year is that you read an assigned novel prior to school reconvening in September. The rationale for this assignment is:
• Reading is a vital skill which will help you develop stronger vocabulary and writing skills.
• Proficient readers perform better academically and on standardized tests (ACT, MME, SAT ).
• Reading throughout the summer break will stimulate your mind and better prepare you for the upcoming school year.
• Independent reading and reading comprehension skills are vital to a student’s success at the post-secondary level.
Below you will find a link to information about the reading selections for freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors. The reading is to be completed by the first day of school. Additionally, you should review the text prior to the first day of your English class in order to prepare for class discussion, the writing of a 30 minute timed persuasive essay response and a multiple choice comprehension test.
We encourage you to read additional novels throughout the summer. Any BHS English teacher can assist you with a summer reading list. We look forward to working with you and are excited about teaching these courses. If you or your parents have a question concerning this assignment, please feel free to contact me (794-4920, ) or any BHS ELA teacher.
Summer Reading Requirements
June 04, 2010
During last night’s board meeting, the Belding Board of Education named Assistant Superintendent Leslie Mount as the new superintendent beginning July 1. Mount has been with the district for 14 years. She began teaching history and government at Belding High School in 1996. She began her career in central office, under the leadership of Superintendent Charles Barker, in 2003 as director of curriculum and technology. Over the next few years her skills allowed for more and more oversight and in 2007 she officially became the assistant superintendent.
She received her master’s degree in educational leadership from Grand Valley State University. She completed her educational specialist from Grand Valley in educational leadership as well. Her alma matter honored her with the Outstanding Alumni Administrator Award in 2006. She holds several certifications including a Superintendent Preparation Series Academy certificate of completion, State of Michigan administrative certification, and a State of Michigan secondary professional teacher certification.
Mount played an instrumental role in the district’s national NCA Accreditation and passing of the bond extension this year. In addition, her guidance and expertise in curriculum has benefited students of Belding Area Schools in many ways including: Belding High School junior’s significant increase in ACT composite scores, increase in writing proficiency, and upward trends in standardized test scores in all areas for all students.
During her time in central office, she has worked closely with building principals and administrators, focusing on key issues such as staffing, professional development, scheduling, finances, and curriculum. She continues to focus on these important issues as well as the bond construction projects as the head liaison with the architect and engineers for the scheduled bond renovations and improvements.
During her first 90 days as superintendent, Mount hopes to meet with a variety of groups to focus her efforts on the most important issues facing education and to gather input to keep BAS on the path to continued improvement and excellence. She will meet with community members, visit classrooms, attend parent teacher organizations, and meet with many BAS staff members to begin a true team effort.
Personally, Mount has been married to her husband, Steve, for 14 years. They have one daughter, Peyton, currently attending Belding Middle School. As a family they enjoy playing and watching Belding sports and traveling. They are strong supporters of the district and community and look forward to their role making the school district and community flourish.
June 04, 2010
Belding High School’s newsletter, “Friday Focus,” gives you the most up-to-date information on important events and happenings in our building.
Below is our final Friday Focus of the 2009-10 school year. We hope everyone has an enjoyable summer! Check back in the fall for the most up-to-date information for the 2010-11 school year!
Friday Focus, June 4, 2010
June 03, 2010
Check out the BMS video announcements. The daily announcements will be posted to the web site by 1 p.m. daily. Don’t miss out on everything you need to know at BMS!
The June 3rd announcements will be the last of the 2009-2010 school year. Watch for another year of announcements starting this fall!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
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June 02, 2010
For the third straight year, Mr. VanDoornik’s class will be giving at least $500 to animals in need in Ionia County. This year’s ‘Talking Zoo’ was a huge success. The students worked extremely hard on their projects by researching, writing, practicing and and preforming.
In addition, to many Woodview staff members helping to support this project and many parents worked hard to make this event possible.
The class is still selling Talking Zoo pens for 50 cents each. After the sale is complete, the final tally for money raised will be known and a representative from the Ionia County Animal Shelter will make a visit to the classroom to accept the donation.
May 28, 2010
Read our most recent Ellis Elementary newsletter to find out about all the great things happening at our school.
May 28, 2010
May 28, 2010
Read our latest Woodview Elementary newsletter for information and events happening at our building.
May 28, 2010
May 27, 2010
As a convenience to parents, Belding Area Schools now provides parents an easy way to add money to their child’s food service account. Online payments can be made into food service accounts through the Skyward Family Access parent portal they currently use. We have contracted with RevTrak, a national credit card payment processor, to provide a secure site for making payments.
Online Payments Are Easy And Convenient!
Parents can make online payments from home or work, 24/7. If their child’s food service balance is low, it only takes a few minutes to add money to it using their VISA or MasterCard credit or debit card. Payments are made through the student’s Skyward Family Access account.
To make online payments:
* From our website, http://www.bas-k12.org
* Click on the “Online/Login” tab and then the Skyward Family Access link
* Log in to Skyward Family Access (you will need your Login and Password)
* Select the Food Service menu on the left side of the window
* Use your MasterCard or VISA (Debit or Credit Card) – card number & expiration date required
* Click here for On-Line Payment Directions
Payments made through Skyward Family Access will immediately be posted to the student’s food service account. Parents will be charged a $1.50 fee for the convenience of making an online payment.
May 26, 2010
Track & Field athletes and parents, join us on Thursday, June 3 for the awards banquet at the Belding High School Commons.
Click here for more information.
May 25, 2010
Project Graduation 2011 has created a website for BHS students and parents to keep them posted on activities, need for volunteers and more. Check it out for important information, deadlines and fundraising activites.
Project Graduation 2011 Web Site
May 25, 2010
Belding senior Taylor Johnson tied the all-time MHSAA softball record Monday night for home runs. It happened in the second game of a doubleheader vs. Sparta. The HR was the 11th of her season and 48th of her career. The softball team is currently 30-0.
Watch the video of Johnson’s home run here.
May 24, 2010
The Belding track and field team had a banner day at the regional track meet in Cooeprsville. The Redskins had five individuals qualify for finals. This is the highest total in over 14 years for our teams.
EllaKate Wagner was regional champ in the shot put and took 3rd in the discus. She has really been focused the past two weeks, and it really paid off with a huge throw on her 5th toss of the day in the shot put.
Ray Bordeaux ran past three guys in the last 50 meters of the 200 dash to grab 2nd place in that race. He has been running 3 x 300 meters in practice the past couple of weeks and the longer intervals are really paying off. He also qualified in the 400 meter dash with a strong 3rd place run during some of the hardest rain of the evening.
Luke Baylis broke the school record in the 1600 meter run with a time of 4:29.1. He ran the last lap in 64.9 seconds to take 4th place and qualify on time for finals.
Sophomore Scotty Foote ran a great high hurdle race and took second place running into a strong SW headwind and some heavy rain. He made a great lean at the finish to get the automatic qualifer position for finals.
In the pole vault, Zak Chickering shot over 12’ 9” and leaped his way into the state finals. It was his career best in a meet, and it gave him 4th place overall.
Also earning medals at the regional meet were: Brooke Denham with a 5th place finish in the high jump; Andrew Backing with a 6th place effort in the pole vault; and the girls 4 x 400 relay placed 8th consisting of Corynne LeBel, Hannah Humphreys, Brooke Denham and Rhiannon Bowen
Track and field action continues at home on Tuesday, May 25th with the Belding Sports Boosters 9th and 10th Grade Invitational.
As Seen In
The Daily News
May 14, 2010
Belding Middle School’s weekly newsletter gives you the most up-to-date information on important events and happenings in our building.
Middle School Newsletter, May 14, 2010
May 12, 2010
Boys and girls in grades 1st through 8th are invited to attend our 2nd annual summer track & field camp!. The camp will take place from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. six evenings in late June (the 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 28th and 29th) at the Belding High School Athletic Complex.
Click here for more information and to print the registration form.
Track and Field Summer Camp
May 12, 2010
The boys varsity golf team took fifth on the par 72 L.E. Kaufman Golf Course. The OK Blue Conference Jamboree was hosted by West Catholic.
Belding
Cody Christensen 85 (finished 6th)
Kyle Haverstick 87 (finished 9th)
Conor Wisman 93
Jake Fletcher 99
Total:364
West Catholic 329
Forest Hills Northern 344
Sparta 363
Cedar Springs 364 (beat Belding by playoff by using 5th man score)
Belding 364
Comstock Park 369
Coopersville 460
GRC One player
The next event will be the Sparty Cup hosted by Sparta at Cedar Chase Golf Course. It will be held on May 14 at 9 a.m.
May 11, 2010
After 40 years of service to the Belding Area School (BAS) District, Charles Barker announced his retirement as superintendent to the BAS board of education and staff. The board formally accepted his resignation at the regular board meeting on May 10th. Barker’s last day with the district will be July 1, 2010.
“Chuck Barker is recognized throughout our community and beyond as the face and heart of Belding Area Schools,” said Tom Humphreys, board of education president. “After 40 years of service we will miss his dedication and leadership, but wish him well as he heads into retirement.”
The 2009-2010 school year has been a landmark year for BAS. Under the leadership of Barker, the district passed a school bond extension as well as became one of only 25 school districts in Michigan to receive NCA District Accreditation.
“Mr. Barker is certainly ending his career on many, many high notes,” added Humphreys. “He is leaving this district in good shape in every regard and has made many prudent and vital decisions that have positioned us well for years to come.”
Barker began his career at BAS in 1970. Prior to becoming superintendent he served as assistant superintendent, high school principal, elementary principal, high school assistant principal, middle school principal, mathematics teacher, high school guidance counselor, as well as a coach for football, wrestling, and baseball, all for Belding Area Schools.
“It has been a great 40 years,” stated Barker. “I have truly enjoyed spending the last 40 years in this community with my family and the many staff members and friends who have been at my side through the ups and downs of education. I am confident in the leaders at BAS and know they can continue our great district down the path to a successful future.”
May 07, 2010
With implementing unique ideas to deal with specific needs in their schools, Belding Middle School and Woodview Elementary School were selected as 2010 Education Excellence Award schools.
The awards honor the top three local school districts in eight different categories statewide. Belding Middle School was selected for its math program enhancements, and Woodview for its reading enrichment program.
Each school will receive a sign that expresses its achievement, a trophy and $200 to help continue their programs.
“It is an award program and statewide, so the schools in Belding are competing with schools across the state to find who is the most innovative programs in their categories,” said Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB) Communication Specialist Sarah Ford. “We want programs that can be the best of the best to show what other school districts are doing that is working, and can be replicated across the state.”
Belding Middle School was honored for Improving Student Achievement in Math and Science. The school implemented a program to generate interest in math, and bring up the students’ test scores.
Roughly four years ago, Belding Middle School’s math department analyzed math programs due to new state requirements, and the research revealed that the students were below the state average in Michigan Education Assessment Program, and that students were not interested in math. Now, math is one of the middle school’s most prominent departments.
“We looked at our programs, and math was one of our strongest programs,” said Belding Middle School Principal Julie Milewski. “We incorporated technology, and pulled data over the last five years; and lo and behold we were the finalists in that category.”
The program that is implemented is called Clickr, which is a way for students to immediately give answers so teachers can see where students are and automatically give feedback.
“It’s fun for kids and it gives the teachers the ability to see where kids are and adjust their instruction accordingly,” said Milewski. “We have been watching our scores (with MEAP and the Explore Test), and both those areas have been going up. We have also seen interest (in math rise), and students taking advanced math and algebra in the eighth grade.”
Woodview Elementary School was awarded with Improving Student Achievement in English, Language Arts and Social Studies. The school staff saw a need for advanced student training in 2004.
Woodview is a Title 1 school, which receives funds to focus on at-risk students, or struggling students. In 2004, Woodview wanted to focus on students who were excelling in reading and social studies.
“It’s just really a testimony of the vision we had in 2004; traditionally, Title 1 focuses on the needs of the struggling students, and we envisioned a program that would see our advanced readers, and to see that succeed is very special,” said Woodview Elementary Principal Mike Burde. “It’s a hats off to Mrs. Mount and the teamwork associated with the program for making it a success.”
The Reading Enrichment students are given a weekly sheet with the assignments and expectations of the class, and the group then meets twice a week for discussions, exploring viewpoints and sharing different opinions.
“We created a program called Reading Enrichment,” said Burde. “We needed to create a program to challenge our readers with opportunities (that regular class studies do not offer).”
The schools will be honored on May 11, and in the fall one school will be selected from the different categories to receive first place and be awarded with $1,500 to help their program continue into the future.
“It’s really exciting to see so many different schools implement these unique programs,” said Ford.
As Seen in the Ionia Sentinel Standard
By Jon Szerlag
May 07, 2010
With implementing unique ideas to deal with specific needs in their schools, Belding Middle School and Woodview Elementary School were selected as 2010 Education Excellence Award schools.
The awards honor the top three local school districts in eight different categories statewide. Belding Middle School was selected for its math program enhancements, and Woodview for its reading enrichment program.
Each school will receive a sign that expresses its achievement, a trophy and $200 to help continue their programs.
“It is an award program and statewide, so the schools in Belding are competing with schools across the state to find who is the most innovative programs in their categories,” said Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB) Communication Specialist Sarah Ford. “We want programs that can be the best of the best to show what other school districts are doing that is working, and can be replicated across the state.”
Belding Middle School was honored for Improving Student Achievement in Math and Science. The school implemented a program to generate interest in math, and bring up the students’ test scores.
Roughly four years ago, Belding Middle School’s math department analyzed math programs due to new state requirements, and the research revealed that the students were below the state average in Michigan Education Assessment Program, and that students were not interested in math. Now, math is one of the middle school’s most prominent departments.
“We looked at our programs, and math was one of our strongest programs,” said Belding Middle School Principal Julie Milewski. “We incorporated technology, and pulled data over the last five years; and lo and behold we were the finalists in that category.”
The program that is implemented is called Clickr, which is a way for students to immediately give answers so teachers can see where students are and automatically give feedback.
“It’s fun for kids and it gives the teachers the ability to see where kids are and adjust their instruction accordingly,” said Milewski. “We have been watching our scores (with MEAP and the Explore Test), and both those areas have been going up. We have also seen interest (in math rise), and students taking advanced math and algebra in the eighth grade.”
Woodview Elementary School was awarded with Improving Student Achievement in English, Language Arts and Social Studies. The school staff saw a need for advanced student training in 2004.
Woodview is a Title 1 school, which receives funds to focus on at-risk students, or struggling students. In 2004, Woodview wanted to focus on students who were excelling in reading and social studies.
“It’s just really a testimony of the vision we had in 2004; traditionally, Title 1 focuses on the needs of the struggling students, and we envisioned a program that would see our advanced readers, and to see that succeed is very special,” said Woodview Elementary Principal Mike Burde. “It’s a hats off to Mrs. Mount and the teamwork associated with the program for making it a success.”
The Reading Enrichment students are given a weekly sheet with the assignments and expectations of the class, and the group then meets twice a week for discussions, exploring viewpoints and sharing different opinions.
“We created a program called Reading Enrichment,” said Burde. “We needed to create a program to challenge our readers with opportunities (that regular class studies do not offer).”
The schools will be honored on May 11, and in the fall one school will be selected from the different categories to receive first place and be awarded with $1,500 to help their program continue into the future.
“It’s really exciting to see so many different schools implement these unique programs,” said Ford.
As Seen in the Ionia Sentinel Standard
By Jon Szerlag
May 05, 2010
The Vocational Education Millage proposal vote was held on Tuesday, May 4 and the millage passed in the county.
Yes Votes - 2,781
No - 1,111
May 04, 2010
Scheduling for the 2010-2011 school year is ready to begin! Please review the presentations below for important dates and detailed instructions for scheduling. If you have any questions, contact Belding High School at 794-4900.
Master Schedule of Classes
Online Scheduling Overview
Online Scheduling Instructions
May 04, 2010
The boys varsity golf team placed fifth at the OK Blue Conference Jamboree played at The Highland’s par 36 course and hosted by West Catholic.
Belding
Cody Christensen 42
Conor Wisman 45
Justin Laux 46
Joe Conley 53
Total- 186
West Catholic 163
Forest Hills Northern 166
Sparta 170
Comstock Park 182
Belding 186
Cedar Springs 191
Coopersville 212
GRC one player
The next event will be the OK Blue Conference Jamboree at Cedar Chase, hosted by Sparta. It will begin at 3:30 p.m. on May 5.
April 29, 2010
The Belding Boys golf team took fifth Wednesday at the OK Blue Jamboree hosted by Coopersville. Seven teams gathered to play the par 36 course at Moss Ridge.
Belding
Cody Christensen 40
Conor Wisman 41
Kyle Haverstick 46
Justin Laux 51
Total- 178
West Catholic 151
Forest Hills Northern 156
Sparta 169
Comstock ParK 176
Belding 178
Cedar Springs 180
Coopersville 199
The team’s next event will be Friday, May 1 at Cedar Chase starting at 3:30 p.m.
April 28, 2010
Ellis raised $324.16 on Crazy Dress Day for Camp Quality. The kids dressed wacky outfits to have fun and raise money for this great organization! Camp Quality believes in bringing optimism and happiness to the lives of children and families affected by cancer through fun therapy. Thanks to all the parents who helped their children participate in this fun day.
April 27, 2010
The 2nd grade concerts that were to take place at the Belding Community Showcase have been rescheduled for May 13 and will take place at Ellis. The times are listed below:
Concert Information:
6:30 p.m. – Mrs. Jenks, Ms. Lalick, Miss McFadden
7:30 p.m. – Mrs. Hill, Miss Barker, Mrs. Patterson
April 27, 2010
On Monday, the Belding boys golf team hosted the OK Blue Conference Jamboree at Candlestone Golf Course. Individual scores for Belding and team scores for the par 36 course are below.
Belding
Cody Christensen 46
Conor Wisman 44
Kyle Haverstick 46
Justin Laux 54
Total- 190
West Catholic- 155
Forest Hills Northern- 175
Sparta- 171
Comstock Park- 176
Cedar Springs- 185
Belding- 190
Coopersville- 206
The next event will be the OK Blue Jamboree at Moss Ridge hosted by Coopersville on April 28 at 3:30 p.m.
April 27, 2010
e-bites is our parent newsletter that encourages healthy eating and living for you and your family.
Nutrition for Parents Newsletter
May/June Food Services News
How can I get more nutritional information?
Chartwells has teamed up with Belding Area Schools to provide it for you! Visit http://www.eatlearnlive.com for nutritional and other informative information. You can even sign up to receive free e-newsletters to be sent directly to your e-mail address.
April 27, 2010
Check out our February edition with nutrition news for kids including a fun recipe idea!
Nutrition for Kids Newsletter
May/June Newsletter
How can I get more nutritional information?
Chartwells has teamed up with Belding Area Schools to provide it for you! Visit http://www.eatlearnlive.com for nutritional and other informative information. You can even sign up to receive free e-newsletters to be sent directly to your e-mail address.
April 23, 2010
Sign up for the Be a Pro Dance Clinic, hosted by Kristine Albert, Indianapolis Colts Cheerleader. The clinic will be held on May 8 at Greenville High School for grades 3-5 and 6-12.
Click here for the registration and waiver form.
April 22, 2010
The boys varsity golf team played at the OK Blue Conference Jamboree at Egypt Valley Country Club on Wednesday. Hosted by Forest Hills Northern, the day was sunny with light winds for the par 36 course.
Belding
Cody Christensen 43
Conor Wisman 48
Kyle Haverstick 51
Joe Conley/Justin Laux 53
Total - 195
West Catholic
165
Forest Hills Northern
173
Sparta
179
Comstock Park
185
Cedar Springs
188
Belding
195
Coopersville
212
The next event will be hosted by Belding at Candlestone Golf Course. It begins at 3:30 on April 26.
April 21, 2010
The boys varsity golf team played in the OK Blue Conference Jamboree, hosted by Comstock Park, at Scott Lake Golf Course on Tuesday. This par 35 course was played in perfect, sunny and 65 degree weather. The team’s next round will be held today at Eygpt Valley Country Club at 3:30 p.m.
Belding
Cody Christensen 42
Conor Wisman 46
Kyle Haverstick 46
Joe Conley 48
Total- 182
West Catholic- 155
Forest Hills Northern- 161
Sparta- 163
Comstock Park- 165
Cedar Springs- 170
Belding- 182
Coopersville-195
Grand Rapids Central- No Show
April 21, 2010
We currently have one beautiful ranch-style home for sale. Check out photos and information below!
Belding Area Schools Build-A-Home Program
Belding Area Schools Build-A-Home program constructs homes of the highest quality. Name brand products including windows, flooring and cabinetry are used in all of our homes. Because the program teaches students how to become experienced and professional builders, we only allow the highest standards of workmanship. In many cases we go above and beyond standards to make sure students have learned the best possible way to build homes and please homebuyers.
What does this mean for you?
If you purchase a Belding Area Schools Build-A-Home you can expect a home of excellence, character and, most of all, great value.
For more information or to take a tour of one of our beautiful homes, please contact us at 616-794-4700.
2008 Home Information and Photos
April 19, 2010
Check out Belding Middle School’s monthly newsletter for important news and events!
Belding Middle School, April 2010
April 19, 2010
The boys varsity golf team started the season strong as they took sixth at the Cedar Chase Invitatational. Individual Belding scores and team scores are below. The next round will take place today at 9 a.m. at Glenkerry Golf Course for the Greenville Invitational.
Belding
Cody Christensen 43
Conor Wisman 46
Kyle Haverstick 46
Joe Conley 50
Total 185
W. Catholic- 158
Forest Hills Northern- 163
Sparta- 172
Comstock Pk.- 176
Cedar Springs- 178
Coopersville- 213
G.R. Central- Default
April 16, 2010
Woodview Elementary students became published writers Tuesday, when they received hardcover books of their own words and illustrations.
“The students learned that hard work really pays off, and that writing is a lot of work; that it’s not done when you first take your pencil to the paper the first time, that is just the beginning of the process,” said Woodview Elementary Literacy Coach Kari Reynolds.
Students went through the whole process of first draft and revisions, all the way to the publication process. The cost for the roughly 425 books was paid for by a service learning grant in the amount of $400.
The publication was through Nationwide Learning, and the students received a free hardcover of their own work.
This is the third year of students receiving their own hardcopy book, and they have learned to appreciate the books that are on their library shelves.
“They have to see a finished product to get them excited to do it,” said Reynolds. “This was my way of showing them that this is what can happen when you work hard on your writing.”
Select students will go to Ellis Elementary school and read their work to inspire the kindergarten students to write, which is one of Woodview’s main goals.
“We picked three goals that we are working to improve upon, and writing is one of those goals,” said Reynolds. “This is one way of doing that.”
As Seen in The Ionia Sentinel Standard
By Jon Szerlag
April 16, 2010
We are pleased to announce the 2010 Belding High School Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees. The induction ceremony will take place on Sunday, May 2nd at 2:00 pm in the Commons area of Belding High School. Lunch will be served promptly at 2:00 with the ceremony to follow.
The 2010 Inductees are:
1997 State Championship Football Team
Brent Cummings
John Baum
Dr. John Conroy
Tom Morse
Dean Webster
All of these people have done tremendous work for Belding High School and the community of Belding, it will be a pleasure to welcome them to the Hall of Fame. In depth profiles of the inductees will be presented the week of the ceremony, we hope to see you there on May 2 to honor some of Belding’s finest.
April 01, 2010
Read The Belding Banner newsletter for everything you need to know about BAS.
The Belding Banner - April 2010
March 26, 2010
History came alive for Woodview Elementary fourth graders Thursday night. Between 100 and 150 children and their families flooded the Belrockton Museum in Belding for a “Night at the Museum.” Historical figures such as Eli Whitney, Teddy Roosevelt and Belding’s own silk girls made their way through the museum, thanks to the work of several Belding High School drama club members and history students.
“It’s been a lot of fun,” said Cory Bomgaard, an 11th grade drama club member. “The kids seem most interested in the time difference — (my character) is living in 1838, but they keep telling me it’s 2010.”
Bomgaard played a everyday farmer and set up shop inside the Broas cabin room. The room, which is paneled in rough hewn timber, is designed to replicate the one-room cabin that housed Belding’s first settlers.
Event organizer Jan Mehney said the event was going very well.
“I’m very happy,” she said after the first hour. “It looks like we will be busy throughout the night.”
The evening was the capstone for Woodview’s “March is Reading Month” activities.
“Our theme this year was ‘Journey through Time’ and where better to do that than at the Belrockton?” Mehney said. “It’s a good way to introduce the kids to history, and it’s a good way to encourage positive interaction between the high schoolers and the kids.”
In addition to touring the rooms filled with Belding’s history and chatting with historical figures, the students also had the chance to try their hand at a few historic activities.
Members of the Grand Valley Carvers were on hand to teach the children how to carve figurines out of soap. The Girl Scouts introduced the youngsters to the art of weaving, while volunteers showed others how to make candles and churn butter.
Madyson Scheid said she’d been to the Belrockton a time or two before, but never for an event like this.
“I’ve been here on Halloween,” she said. “I’ve been here, I don’t know, maybe three or four times. It’s cool.”
Scheid said her favorite part of the evening was interacting with the high school characters.
“I really liked letting the jail man go,” she said, referring to a student dressed as a convict. “I went in there and let him out and he ran off. He hid in a closet, but my mom said she didn’t see him and then he got away.”
The convict, played by senior drama club member TJ McKowan, said he had already been released four times within the first hour.
“But they keep catching me and putting me back,” he said with a smile.
The event was made possible through a grant from the Belding Education Fund and the generous efforts of the volunteers.
As Seen in The Ionia Sentinel Standard
by Holly Setter
March 25, 2010
Public Act 146 of 2006 (also known as the Michigan Green Schools Act) gives schools the opportunity to achieve state recognition as an official Green School. We are pleased to announce that Ellis Elementary, Woodview Elementary, and the Belding Alternative Education building have successfully completed the program and will be awarded Green School Certification on Earth Day, April 22nd. Certification is awarded based on the completion of at least 10 of 20 approved environmental activities. Some of the activities taking place at BAS include:
• Recycling paper
• Recycling batteries
• Recycling printer ink cartridges
• Reusing Magazines and newspapers
• Establishing a birdhouse habitat
• Instituting an energy saving program
• Observing Earth Day
• Ecology poster contest
• Establishing a natural Michigan garden
• Hosting a visit from an Ecological spokesperson
Each school achieving Green School Certification will receive an official certificate signed by the Governor, and the right to display the Green School flag. For more information on Michigan Green School Certification, visit http://www.michigangreenschools.org.
March 25, 2010
Woodview Elementary participated in the Odyssey of the Mind Region 13 Tournament held on March 20 at Greenville Middle School. Two of their four teams performed well enough to advance to the State Finals on April 17 at Davenport University.
The Woodview Division 1 teams to advance took first place in the category of Column Structure and second place in the Discovered Treasures category. Their performance at the State Finals will determine their eligibility for the World Finals which will be held in Lansing, MI at Michigan State University.
“We are very pleased of our students’ performance at this year’s Odyssey of the Mind Regional Tournament,” said Woodview Principal Mike Burde. “All four of our teams showed great enthusiasm and teamwork, representing our school well. Their parents and Odyssey coaches should be very proud.”
Odyssey of the Mind is the world’s oldest international creative problem solving competition among students kindergarten through college. The purpose of Odyssey of the Mind is to promote creativity and problem-solving in a variety of areas from building mechanical devices and balsa wood structures to presenting dramatic and technical performances. Odyssey of the Mind develops team building skills, divergent thinking, presentation and organization skills.
March 15, 2010
With another game that went down to the final minutes Friday night, the Belding boys basketball team survived to earn a 58-52 win in the district championship game at Belding High School.
“This was a very nice job by our guys, our seniors stepped up, our young guys stepped up, too,” Belding coach Brian Babbitt said. “We are a very battle-tested team and we knew they were going to come back, but our guys said no and took care of business. (Tri-County) came in hitting 10 three’s per game over the last few games and they won 14 games for a reason.”
The Redskins held the lead for the entire game, and built up a 10-point advantage in the third quarter. They never trailed until the 4:23 mark of the fourth quarter when Tri County completely erased a 10-point deficit, taking a 42-41 lead.
The Vikings took their biggest lead of the night with 2:19 left to go in the game in the form of a 52-47 advantage. From that point, Belding outscored Tri County 9-1.
Redskin senior Chris Daller led the comeback effort, scoring the first points of the run with a field goal. After the Vikings picked up their final point on a split at the free-throw line with 1:54 left, Daller scored off a steal to pull Belding back to within one with 1:32 left to play.
With 29 seconds left, fellow senior Tyler Mayer scored on a drive while drawing a foul. With the score tied, Mayer stepped to the line, but missed the free throw. However, a technical foul gave the Redskins two more free throws and the ball. Junior forward Gil Corder stepped to the line and drained both shots to give Belding the lead for good.
“Once I hit them both it was huge. Something you always dream of,” Corder said. “(To win it at home) it’s undescribable. My whole family is here. It’s just awesome.”
Mayer led the Redskins with 12 points and four rebounds. Corder finished with 11 points and eight boards, while junior Ray Bordeaux chipped in with 10 points and two steals.
Daller finished with 10 points, three rebounds, five assists and two steals.
After battling through a tough season in the Ottawa-Kent Blue conference, Daller said his team was prepared for a tough district tournament.
“It wasn’t the best year record wise we wanted, but our tough league made us ready for the district tournament,” he said. “To get through Sparta was a big feat for us and to come back to beat Tri-County after they took a five-point lead with two minutes, I think we came together as a team during this tournament.”
Belding (10-13) will travel to Sparta High School on Monday to take on Fremont, who defeated Whitehall 53-50 to win the Big Rapids District.
View the Ionia Sentinel Standards’s YouTube Highlights of this game.
As Seen in
The Ionia Sentinel Standard
Sports Editor, Andrew Roberts
March 11, 2010
To encourage students to focus on their goals and dreams, a former NFL player turned motivational speaker visited Belding Area Schools to motive students.
Shawn Harper, who played for the Colts and the Rams, started Wednesday off at Belding High School, then traveled to Belding Alternative Education (BASE) and ended his day at Woodview Elementary.
“I think it’s a great opportunity for our students to hear somebody who had learning disabilities,” said BASE Principal Diane Grummet. “For him to come to alternative education where it’s an uphill battle for students, I think it will inspire them and let them know that their dreams can come true from hearing somebody who has been in their shoes.”
The message Harper brought to students included that with hard work, respect and setting goals, they could make their dream come true.
“Each and every one of you has a dream, a calling and a destiny,” said Harper to Woodview students. “You have to be able to see your dream and vision, and you can’t let dream-breakers get in your way.”
Harper shared personal stories with the students about struggles he faced in school, and how if students don’t focus on their dreams at an early age they can lose sight of what is important to them.
“The message that Mr. Harper brought to our kids is simple: having a vision and hard work equals success,” said Woodview Elementary Principal Mike Burde. “Traditionally, our nation has stressed ability as the determining factor in a student’s success; however, we know this isn’t true. Having dreams and working hard are determining factors in regards to student achievement, and Mr. Harper reminds students of this simple truth.”
Harper has been a motivational speaker for 10 years, and has traveled to Europe and across the United States to give his message of working hard toward a goal or dream.
“If they are getting the message in their belief system at a young age, then they will have the confidence going through their lives,” said Harper. “I’m just reinforcing what teachers and parents are saying.”
While Harper was at Belding High School, he didn’t only give a motivational talk, he had a workshop for students to participate in.
He had the students write down what their dreams were and the good qualities inside themselves, according to Belding High School Principal John Dieter. Harper also told stories of friends who had dreams, but strayed away due to drugs or other bad choices.
“I think it inspired (the students) and taught them that things won’t be easy and to keep an eye on (their dream),” said Dieter. “I think our kids could relate to his message of overcoming life’s obstacles.”
Deiter brought Harper to Belding Area Schools because he felt the students should have a motivational speaker, which the schools have not had recently.
“I wanted somebody with a message and diversity,” said Deiter. “I looked at his bio, and thought that he would be a great benefit for our kids.”
As Seen in The Ionia Sentinel Standard
By Jon Szerlag
March 11, 2010
The BHS varsity boys basketball team won a very hard-fought game last night against rival Sparta and will now be playing in the District Championship game on Friday night at 7:00. The game will be here in Belding and is sure to be a great one.
March 08, 2010
The Belding girls varsity basketball team finished their regular season on February 26 with a 56-18 win over Grand Rapids Central. Belding finished in a tie for third place in the OK Blue with a 9-5 record. The teams overall season record was 13-7. Belding then won the district championship last week with 68-27 win over Central Montcalm in the semifinals on Wednesday, March 3 and a 59-42 victory over Lakeview in the finals on Friday, March 5. Belding now travels to Shelby on Tuesday, March 9 and plays Big Rapids in the regional semifinals. Belding now stands 15-7 for the 2009-10 season.
March 08, 2010
Ellis Elementary held a Hat Day to raise funds for victims of the earthquake in Chile on Friday, March 5. Most of the Ellis students and staff wore their favorite hat. Ellis students and staff raised $206.16! The money has been donated to the American Red Cross to assist their relief efforts in Chile.
March 02, 2010
The first grade classes went to Camp Rogers on February 25 and 26 and were amazed by all of the little things in nature they were able to find, even in the winter. They went searching for animal prints and ways to work together as a team to accomplish tasks. Among the favorites were snowshoeing, seeing the 40 foot high tree house, toasting marshmallows by a fire and sledding on cookie sheets. WOW! One of Mrs. Jackson’s favorite quotes from one of her first grade students was, “I never knew you could sled on a cookie pan!”
February 23, 2010
The 7th and 8th grade “A” teams traveled to Wyoming to take on Wyoming Newhall-Jackson Park on Monday. Belding came away victorious in both games.
The 8th grade team improved to 4 – 0 on the season with a convincing over the Newhall Blue Team. Mackenzie Breimayer led the way with 17 points. Belding dominated in the paint as Gabby Holyfield powered in 16 points and Tayler Reeves had 9 points in the low post. The rest of the scoring was as follows, Stefanie Harig with 6 points, Rachel Hunt scored 3 points, and Erin Robach and Hannah Linebaugh both chipped in one basket for 2 points each.
The 7th grade team moved their record to 3 – 1 for the year. Monica Baylis had a strong game inside for Belding and scored 16 points, Mariah Carlson popped in 12 points, Larissa Syrjala and Alyviah Mason both had 3 points.
Both teams return to action on Wednesday. The 7th grade “A” and “B” teams are at home versus Coopersville, and the 8th grade “A” and “B” teams travel to Coopersville. Tip-off is at 4:15 for the “B” team games.
February 23, 2010
On Tuesday, February 23, district residents of Belding Area Schools voted to approve the bond extension. The community supported the proposal in an overwhelming majority.
Final vote: Yes = 1288 (66%) No = 665 (34%)
It passed in five out of five precincts.
Thank you, Belding, for your support. Stay tuned for updates on the renovations and improvements to come.
February 21, 2010
The recent recalls on beef have stirred some questions and concerns. We want to assure parents we are going above and beyond in our measures to assure our students are having safe meals each and every day.
As of February 22, all of our beef has been cleared for consumption. If you have any questions, please contact our food services department.
February 21, 2010
Two BHS wrestlers qualified for the state tournament by placing at regionals. Josh Headworth was regional champion at 140 pounds, and Myron Hosey placed 4th at 215 pounds. They will be wrestling in the state finals at the Palace of Auburn Hills March 4th, 5th, and 6th.
February 17, 2010
Belding took on the Comstock Park Mill Creek Panthers on Tuesday. The 8th grade teams swept Comstock Park while the 7th grade teams split with the Panthers.
The 8th grade “A” team improved to 2 - 0 on the season with a 36 - 10 victory over Comstock Park. Rachel Hunt led the way with 10 points; Mackenzie Breimayer had 9 points; Stephanie Harig and Gabby Holyfield scored 5 points each; Ivey Campbell had 4 points; Brittany Ricks chipped in 2 points and Hannah Linebaugh had 1 point.
The 8th grade “B” team played their first game of the season, and they came away victorious with a 19 -13 win. Carrie Smith scored 7 points; Mariah Paloma dumped in 4 points; Mackenzie Krieger, Alyx VanderRoer, Sarah Rodel and Sabrina Heaton all had a basket for 2 points each.
The 7th grade “A” team moved their record to 2-0 on the season, as they defeated the Panthers 51 - 14. Mariah Carlson paced the team with 12 points; Monica Baylis had 10 points; Alyviah Mason pumped in 9 points; Larissa Syrjala scored 8 points; Mackenzie Sower had 2 buckets for 4 points; and Harley Rode, Mackenzie Rode, Emily LIddicoat, and Danielle Rode all had 2 points.
The 7th grade “B” team fell by a score of 31 - 18. It marked the first game ever for all 13 Belding girls on the team. Maddie Laux kept the ‘skins in the game with 10 points; Joesi Krieger, Ryleigh Boss, Talitha Jones and Kate Ward all had a basket for Belding.
Both 7th grade teams and the 8th grade “A” team return to action today at Sparta. The action tips-off at 4:15.
November 19, 2009
Superintendent Charles Barker announced that Belding Area Schools was awarded District Accreditation from the AdvancED Accreditation Commission, the national commission that awards the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI) accreditation seal. This means that the district and all of its schools are accredited, and that Belding Area Schools is recognized across the nation as a quality school system.
The accreditation process involves three ongoing components: 1) meeting high quality standards; 2) implementing a continuous process of improvement; and 3) engaging in quality assurance through internal and external review. The district’s accreditation is for a five-year term with regular monitoring of progress and reporting occurring during the term.
Dr. Mark Elgart, President/CEO of AdvancED, stated, “District Accreditation is a rigorous process that focuses the entire school system on the primary goal of creating lifelong learners. Belding Area Schools is to be commended for engaging in this process and demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement.”
“This is a validation from an outside group for all of the hard work and dedication our staff members give every day for our students. I want to thank each and every staff member and our community for supporting us,” said Barker. “Belding Area Schools truly is ‘The right size. The right choice.’”
