March 11, 2010
There is a two-hour delay for Thursday, March 11 due to fog.
High School senior exit interviews will be held two hours later today.
Exit Interview Schedule
Testing/Guest Speaker/Exit Interview 9:25-12:25
1st Block 12:25-12:55 PM (W/B Lunch 12:55-1:25)
1st Block 1:00-1:25 PM (W/A Lunch 12:25-12:55)
2nd Block 1:30-2:00 PM
3rd Block 2:05-2:30 PM
1st Block on 2nd Floor = 1st Lunch
1st Block on 1st Floor = 2nd Lunch
Our two-hour delay policy is as follows:
Belding Area Schools Two-Hour Delay Policy
When the weather requires the District Administration to delay the start of school by two hours because of fog, snow, ice or other conditions , it is important that parents, students and staff understand what a “two-hour delay” means.
First of all, in the event of a “two-hour delay, there will no morning Pre-K programs. Afternoon sessions of these program will start on schedule. Buses will pick students up at their regular bus stop two hours after their normal, scheduled time. For example: if a child normally catches the bus at 6:30 a.m., the pick-up will be at 8:30 a.m. on days when a two-hour delay is called. Likewise, school will start two hours after the normal start-time, so High School students will begin classes at 9:25 a.m. and morning Heartlands will be cancelled; middle school students will begin classes at 9:30 a.m.; Ellis Elementary students will begin classes at 10:45 a.m. and Woodview Elementary students will begin classes at 10:50 a.m.
If the start of school is delayed, breakfast will not be served but lunch will be available as usual. Dismissal time will remain the same. Safety remains the primary focus when the determination is made to close school or delay the start of school by two hours. From time to time, it may be predicted that a two-hour delay will allow morning fog to lift or roads to be cleared. If the weather has not cleared after the two-hour delay, school will be cancelled for the day and broadcast via local media. Please remember that parents always have the right to make the final decision if they feel it is not safe to send their child(ren) during inclement weather.
March 10, 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!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
File may take a few seconds to load.
Video announcements will resume Monday, March 15.
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 05, 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, March 5, 2010
March 05, 2010
Belding High School’s newsletter, “Friday Focus,” gives you the most up-to-date information on important events and happenings in our building.
Friday Focus, March 5, 2010
March 04, 2010
Read about the upcoming important and fun events at Belding’s Alternative Education Building.
Upcoming Events
March 5
End of 2nd Trimester
Teen Court - Ionia
March 9, 10, 11
ACT/MME
March 8
Third Trimester begins
March 12
½ day
March 15
Board of Education Meeting
March 22
No School – PD
March 30
Bowl –a-Thon – Belding Lanes
March 31
Alternative Education Forum – Ionia
April 2 – 11
Spring Vacation
April 12
School Resumes
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 26, 2010
Read our most recent Ellis Elementary newsletter to find out about all the great things happening at our school.
February 26, 2010
February 26, 2010
Believe it or not scheduling for the 2010-11 school year is ready to begin. Please review the presentations below for information on 8th grade scheduling and high school electives. If you have any questions, contact Belding High School at 794-4900.
High School Electives
8th Grade Orientation
February 26, 2010
Read our latest Woodview Elementary newsletter for information and events happening at our building.
February 26, 2010
February 25, 2010
Kinderstart/Kindergarten Screening and Preschool Registration will be held on April 22 and 23, 2010.
Children who will be five years old on or before December 1, 2010 are eligible to attend kinderstart and kindergarten in the fall. Screenings will take place at the administration building located at 1975 Orchard Street. Registration forms are available below. Please return registration forms by March 10 to any school office to receive a screening appointment.
Please click on the links below to find out more about our Preschool, Kinderstart and Kindergarten programs.
Preschool Program
Kinderstart Program
Kindergarten Program
For information regarding kinderstart and kindergarten contact Deborah Rogers at 616-794-4703 or .
For information regarding preschool registration contact Angela Bush at 616-794-4713 or .
Necessary Forms
Complete and return the Screening Form to register your child for the Kinderstart/Kindergarten Screening:
Screening Form
Complete the following forms to be handed in at the Kinderstart/Kindergarten Screening and Preschool Registration:
Emergency Form
Transportation Form
Health Appraisal Form - Can be completed after screening; must be completed by a physician.
February 25, 2010
The Belding High School Drama Club will be putting on Footloose, March 18th, 19th, and 20th at 7:00 p.m. in the high school auditorium. Ticket prices are eight dollars for the side section seats and $10 for the center section seats. They can be purchased at Westside Store starting on March 8th. They can also be purchased at the door. We are looking forward to seeing you there!
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 19, 2010
The 2010 Belding Youth Baseball & Softball sign-ups are taking place now through March 24th. This program is for all girls and boys ages nine-16.
$35.00 Sign Up Fee for T-Ball or Coach Pitch
$40.00 Sign-up Fee for Minors and up
Maximum for household $100.00
Complete the sign-up form by clicking here.
February 19, 2010
The 2010 Belding Youth Baseball & Softball sign-ups are taking place now through March 24th. This program is for all girls and boys ages nine-16.
$35.00 Sign Up Fee for T-Ball or Coach Pitch
$40.00 Sign-up Fee for Minors and up
Maximum for household $100.00
Complete the sign-up form by clicking here.
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.
February 16, 2010
Four Belding High School wrestlers advanced through individual districts. Joshua Headworth and Anthony White were both district champions. Jordan Gross took third and Myron Hosey took 4th. All four wrestlers now get to compete at the regional tournament and have a chance to advance on to the state finals. The team will be in Hamilton on Saturday and with any luck, we’ll be headed to the Palace of Auburn Hills in a few weeks for the Individual State Finals.
February 10, 2010
The 14th Annual Belding Community Showcase will take place on Thursday, April 29, 2010.
Belding Area Schools, in cooperation with the City of Belding, will host the Community Showcase from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the high school. You won’t want to miss this huge community event—mark your calendar now!
Representatives and students from the schools, as well as many community organizations and businesses*, will be there to showcase their activities and projects. Displays and demonstrations will be running continuously throughout the main floor and gymnasium of the high school. There will be snack stations scattered throughout the building.
* Display reservation forms for community and nonprofit groups, as well as those for businesses, will be available here on our school website. Forms will be posted and accepted from March 1st to April 12th.
* If you would prefer not to have a booth, but would like to have your information or “freebies” included in the goody bags, we plan to assemble 500 of them. To have your things included, please drop off your materials to the front desk at City Hall by between April 1st and April 20th.
For additional information, you may contact:
Jan Mehney at
Kareen Thomas at
Business Registration Form
Community Group Registration Form
February 09, 2010
The Belding Middle School girls’ basketball teams kicked off their season on Monday, February 8th with a pair of wins. The eighth grade team defeated Newhall by a score of 40-32, and the seventh grade team defeated Newhall 28-16.
The eighth grade team was led by Mackenzie Breimeyer with 14 points, Stephanie Harig had 9 points, Hannah Linebaugh and Rachel Hunt each chipped in 5 points, Taylor Reeves and Gabby Holyfield both scored 4 points.
The seventh grade squad was led by Mariah Carlson with 14 points, Monica Baylis pumped in 8 points, Mackenzie Sower, Mackenzie Rode and Larissa Syrjala all hit a bucket for 2 points each.
Belding returns to action on Wednesday. The seventh grade teams will host Cedar Springs, and the eighth grade teams will travel to Cedar Springs. The “B” teams will get the action started at both sites at 4:15, and the “A” will play at about 5:30.
February 08, 2010
On Friday, February 5, staff and students at BAS wore red to help raise awareness for Women’s Heart Disease on “National Wear Red Day.” Heart disease is the number one killer of women. All buildings participated and some even raised money. Woodview elementary raised $152 for the American Heart Association. It was a great day raising awareness for heart disease.
February 05, 2010
Read The Belding Banner newsletter for everything you need to know about BAS.
The Belding Banner - February 2010
February 01, 2010
Read about everything that is going on at BASE in the BASE monthly newsletter.
BASE Newsletter, February 2010
February 01, 2010
The Belding High School wrestling team took first place in Wayland on Saturday. The team went an amazing 4-0 on the day. Five of the individual BHS wrestlers were also 4-0.
Those individuals were:
* Eric Rasch
* Devin Bailey
* Anthony White
* Joshua Headworth
* Myron Hosey
Three other wrestlers were 3-1:
* Matthew Sanborn
* Zack Johnston
* Todd Haller
January 29, 2010
The Belding athletic department has been getting a lot out of a ‘Daller’ for several years. Even before he was the water boy for the Redskin football team, senior Chris Daller has been involved in sports, including the last four seasons where he has competed in football, basketball and baseball for Belding High School.
During his time as a varsity athlete, Daller has seen his share of successes and near misses.
In the 2007-08 boys basketball season, Daller played a role in Belding earning a district championship. Then in the 2008-09 season, Daller and the Redskins returned to the district title game, but unfortunately for Belding, they fell short in their bid for back-to-back district championships.
Last fall, Daller captained the offense of the Redskin varsity football team, as the quarterback ,that nearly earned a spot in the playoffs after a 0-3 start.
After starting the current basketball season 0-4, The Redskins earned their first victory in their own holiday hoops tournament, defeating Wyoming Godfrey-Lee 63-40. Then, in the title game,
Belding gave Godwin Heights a scare, nearly upsetting the Wolverines in a 73-69 loss. Daller finished with 22 points and eight assists combined in the two-games of the tournament. Currently, the Redskins are 3-8 on the season.
Daller, the son of Tom and Jennifer Daller, grew up always determined to win in whatever sport he played. His competitive spirit is still visible in his play, and has made him a leader in all three sports he has played as a student-athlete at Belding.
After graduating this spring, Daller is hoping to continue playing his favorite sport, baseball, at the next level for Aquinas College.
Out of the sports you play, which is your favorite and why?
Baseball, because I have been around it my whole life and no matter what the score is, it never gets dull.
How did you start playing sports? At what age?I have been playing sports ever since I can remember. I was very competitive when I was younger. I wanted to win in every sport I played.
Have any of your family members played sports? If so, who and what sport?
My dad played football and baseball.
Who do you try to emulate in your life? Why?
In my life I try to emulate my dad. He is a hard working man who puts his family before anything. When a challenge arises, he never backs down and gives it all he has.
What kind of person do you think your teammates would say you are?
I would think that my teammates would say that I am a good leader and competitor. I work hard and would sacrifice anything for my teammates.
What experiences have you had in sports that have made you the athlete you are today?
I have really learned from the opportunities I had when I was moved up to varsity as an underclassman. It helped me understand what it meant to be a varsity athlete.
What has been your favorite memory of playing sports at your school?
My favorite memory about playing sports in high school is when I was a freshman and I started in the district tournament game.
What is something that not everybody knows about you?
I used to be the water boy for the varsity football team.
What are your plans after high school? Do you plan on attending college?
I am planning on attending Aquinas College where I will pursue a potential baseball opportunity there.
As Seen in the Ionia Sentinel Standard
By ANDREW ROBERTS
Sentinel-Standard sports editor
January 29, 2010
Check out Belding Middle School’s monthly newsletter for important news and events!
Belding Middle School, February 2010
January 29, 2010
e-bites is our parent newsletter that encourages healthy eating and living for you and your family.
Nutrition for Parents Newsletter
February 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.
January 29, 2010
Check out our February edition with nutrition news for kids including a fun recipe idea!
Nutrition for Kids Newsletter
February 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.
January 25, 2010
On Saturday, the varsity wrestling team wrestled at the Lakeview Individual Invitational. They finished 4th out of 12 teams for the day. Joshua Headworth won the 145 lb weight class with a Technical Fall in the finals. Myron Hosey also won his weight class with a 3-1 victory in the finals. Two other wrestlers, Matthew Sanborn at 130 lbs and Zack Johnston at 152 lbs, finished in 4th place on the day. The team will be home on Wednesday for a double dual and in Wayland on Saturday for their final invitational before conference and district competitions.
December 28, 2009
The cast for the spring muscial, Footloose has been chosen. Thanks to each and every student who tried out for the program. We are excited for a fun and energizing show for our community.
FOOTLOOSE CAST LIST
Ren McCormack ... Kyle Rasch
Ethel McCormack ... Alexa Ward
Rev. Shaw Moore ... Maxwell Dylka
Vi Moore ... Chelsea Middlebrook
Ariel Moore ... Emily Sluiter
Lulu Warnicker ... Shelby Davis
Wes Warnicker ... Cory Boomgaard
Coach Roger Dunbar ... TJ McKowen
Eleanor Dunbar ... Brookelle Antonides
Rusty ... Allie Granzo
Urleen ... Hilary Mills
Wendy Jo ... Teryn Gasper
Willard Hewitt ... Paul Ostrander
Chuck Cranston ... Kevin Stout
Lyle ... Liam Crystler
Travis ... Kyle Miller
Jeter ... Jake Fletcher
Bickle ... Ryan Burton
Garvin ... Zak Chickering
Cop ... Ben Lynema
Betty Blast ... Tabby Gibbs
Principal Harry Clark/Chorus ... Garrett Hall
Cowboy Bob ... Jake Corl
Cowboy Band ... Bret Priest, Alex Harger, Logan Stuaffer
Townspeople
Marissa Linderman
Alex Ellis
Bree McNee
Baily Baragrey
Tegan Harris
Jess Hayes
Skippy Moore
Curtis Kirkendall
Jordon Congdon
Teen Chorus
Kyle Gibson
Rafael Pastrano
Jorge Ruiz
Joonas Sihvonen
Laisa Santos
Monika Nemeckova
Beatriz Fonseca
Elizabeth Wittenbach
Izzi Rytlewski
Meghan Loser
Marissa Montero
Emily Swider
Katie “P” Groening
Hannah Thome
Emily Kunkle
Sarah Junkleman
Megan Hopkins
Logan Helms
Christy Gasper
Aimee Gasper
Aubrey Griffioen
Tara VanWagoner
Talar Quillan
Alex Vanloo
Rikki Valentine
Emilee Renucci
Meghan Moon
Heather Thompson
Bridget Crystler
Congratulations for making it in the cast!
December 27, 2009
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.
December 17, 2009
The Belding girls varsity team is now 4-0 on the season with recent wins over Kent City (59-35) and Cedar Springs (67-50). The freshman and JV teams are currently 1-3 each but are improving with each game. Belding plays Coopersville at home on Friday, December 18. They are at Holt on Tuesday, December 22. They return home after Christmas break, on Friday, January 8 with Comstock Park.
December 16, 2009
Armed with $100 gift cards, dozens of area children hit the toy aisles of Meijer and Walmart as part of the annual “Shop with a Cop” event.
Officers from all three law enforcement agencies helped 55 area youngsters find what they wanted most this holiday season.
“This is one of the best days of the year,” said Michigan State Police Post Commander Pat Richard. “Being out here, lending a hand to these kids who aren’t as fortunate as some, it just warms your heart.”
The children racing through the aisles to pick up Barbies and Transformers action figures were handpicked by school officials in Ionia and Belding to participate in the program. Traditionally, the program has been for underprivileged children in the districts but with hard times hitting more homes than usual, the selection criteria became more strict.
“It was really, really hard,” said Belding social worker Amy Duffy-Barnes. “We looked at financial need, and then narrowed the list down to kids who have had a change in their environment — they have lost a parent, have had sick parents or are going through a tough divorce — and finally, we looked at which kids would benefit most from a positive interaction with a police officer.”
The law enforcement officers enjoyed the chance to relate with the youngsters in good times as well.
“I’m loving every minute of this,” said Ionia Public Safety officer Craig Pickens. “Too many times, when an officer comes into a kid’s life, it’s a bad thing. This kind of program does us good, too.”
The youths selected relished the day out of school, and many came with the hopes of doing a little Christmas shopping for their families.
“I’m excited to shop,” said Sheiltia Burns of Ionia. “I’ve got a list, and I really want to get my grandma some shoes.”
The officers were touched by the sentiment, but said that wasn’t what the event was about.
“We want you to shop for yourselves,” said Sheriff Dwain Dennis. “I know you might want to shop for others, but today is about you.”
David Escoberdo, store manager at Walmart, said he has noticed the children’s desire to shop for others over the years.
“It’s pretty touching sometimes,” he said. “You see the kids shop the way they do and some are more interested in getting gifts for their family members.”
This was the first year that Meijer participated in the program, and the staff there were happy to welcome all of their younger shoppers.
“This is just a great opportunity to support the community that supports us,” said store director Scott Flanagan. “We’re excited to have all three police agencies and all of the kids here.”
Richard said the support of the retailers is pivotal to the event.
“I’m thankful that we have partners like Meijer,” Richard said. “Without them, we wouldn’t be able to do this.”
As Seen in the Ionia Sentinel Standard
By Holly Setter
December 14, 2009
The varsity wrestling team competed at the Tri-County Invitational on Saturday. The team improved to 6-6 overall with a 4th place finish for the day. The team defeated Grandville and Grand Rapids Christian on the road and had a narrow loss to Cedar Springs in a battle for 3rd. Wrestlers Anthony White, Josh Headworth and Myron Hosey were all undefeated on the day, while Anthony Luscombe, Matt Sanborn and Zach Johnston all recorded 3-1 records.
The team will not be in action again until the new year when they host the Belding Invitational on January 2nd in our home gymnasium.
December 02, 2009
Our varsity wrestling team is getting some momentum with two meets behind them. Check out their current and individual records.
Wednesday 12/2
L 18-55 vs W. Ottawa
L 36-45 vs Spring Lake
Saturday 12/5
L 24-59 vs Spring Lake
L 12-66 vs Comstock Park
W 56-24 vs Wyoming Park
W 48-35 vs Central Montcalm
Individual Records
Joshua Headworth 5-1
Anthony White 5-1
Myron Hosey 5-1
Devon Heintzelman 5-1
Zach Johnston 4-2
Cody Scheidel 3-3.
December 02, 2009
The varsity girls basketball team is now 2-0 with a 66-34 win over Creston on Tuesday and a 82-46 win over Greenville on Friday. Our freshmen and JV teams are both 1-1 with both teams defeating Grand Rapids Creston on Tuesday, but each losing to Greenville on Friday.
All of our teams are working hard and improving with each practice. The varsity is coming together with great team play and chemistry. All three teams will play at Kent City on Tuesday.
December 01, 2009
Belding Area School district residents will be voting for Board of Education members on Tuesday, May 4, 2010. The current terms of Terry Boni and Timothy Flynn expire.
To be eligible for election, a person must be a registered voter in the school district, a citizen of the U.S., be at least 18 years of age, a resident of the State of Michigan for at least 30 days, and a resident of the Belding Area School District for at least 30 days prior to May 4, 2010.
The positions are four-year terms beginning July 1, 2010. Interested persons who wish to have their names on the ballot must secure signatures from a minimum of 40 registered voters or pay a $100 non-refundable filing fee in lieu of a petition. Petitions are available at the Superintendent’s Office, 1975 Orchard Street, Monday through Friday during normal business hours or at the Ionia County Clerk’s Office. The deadline for candidates to file petitions is 4:00 p.m. on February 9, 2010.
December 01, 2009
Try-outs for Footloose will be held on December 9th, 10th, and 11th in the auditorium at the high school. Try-outs will be held from 2:45 to 4:45 p.m. The cast list for Footloose will be posted outside of room 100 on December 14th.
For more information please contact Nicki Faasen at 794-4931 or .
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.’”
November 17, 2009
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
November 16, 2009
Give your son a great experience with the game of basketball when they get to work on fundamentals and learn exciting ways to advance their skills from Varsity players, Coach Babbitt and the Belding Boys Basketball Coaching Staff. The Youth Winter Basketball program is offered for two groups: 3rd and 4th graders as well as 5th and 6th graders. Read the information belore for details and to register.
5th and 6th Grade Youth Basketball
3rd and 4th Grade Youth Basketball
November 13, 2009
Dear Belding Families and Friends,
We are launching a new tradition at Belding High School beginning in 2010. We would like to welcome back a distinguished alumnus of Belding High School to be recognized at our commencement ceremony.
We are asking for your help in getting out the word about this new program. If you know of a BHS alumnus who graduated 10 years ago or more, and who has distinguished himself or herself in the ways outlined below, please consider nominating him/her. Our selection committee will review all nominees, narrow down the field, and review each nominee considered a potential choice for this year. All nominees will remain candidates for each year following this one.
The senior class will invite the distinguished alumnus to address the graduating class on May 27, 2010. The address should be brief and perhaps motivational in nature. Other plans for honoring our distinguished graduate will be developed as the year progresses. When considering your potential nominee, please reflect on the following:
* Involvement in Belding Area Schools, or the district in which the nominee resides.
* Significant career achievements, dedication, and commitment demonstrated within his or her profession.
* Continual demonstration of positive character.
* Demonstration of outstanding community service and leadership. One who has significantly benefited his/her community through active participation in volunteer activities, government or civic organizations or devoted time and effort toward activities that benefit the general public, perhaps with a specific focus on education.
* Has earned honors or awards.
* Demonstration of success in setting and fulfilling worthwhile goals.
* Demonstration in daily life the importance of adhering to, and modeling a set of positive values.
If you would like to nominate someone you feel is deserving of the honor of being named the first, in what we hope is a long line of outstanding Belding graduates, click here to complete the alumni nomination form or contact us at one of the addresses below. Our deadline for submission this year is Friday, March 26, 2010. Thank you for your interest in the Belding High School Honored Alumni Program.
John Deiter
Principal, Belding High School
850 Hall Street
Belding, MI 48809
Rachelle Ostrander
Renaissance Director, Belding High School
850 Hall Street
Belding, MI 48809
ostrandr@bas-k12
November 13, 2009
Dear Belding Families and Friends,
We are launching a new tradition at Belding High School beginning in 2010. We would like to welcome back a distinguished alumnus of Belding High School to be recognized at our commencement ceremony.
We are asking for your help in getting out the word about this new program. If you know of a BHS alumnus who graduated 10 years ago or more, and who has distinguished himself or herself in the ways outlined below, please consider nominating him/her. Our selection committee will review all nominees, narrow down the field, and review each nominee considered a potential choice for this year. All nominees will remain candidates for each year following this one.
The senior class will invite the distinguished alumnus to address the graduating class on May 27, 2010. The address should be brief and perhaps motivational in nature. Other plans for honoring our distinguished graduate will be developed as the year progresses. When considering your potential nominee, please reflect on the following:
* Involvement in Belding Area Schools, or the district in which the nominee resides.
* Significant career achievements, dedication, and commitment demonstrated within his or her profession.
* Continual demonstration of positive character.
* Demonstration of outstanding community service and leadership. One who has significantly benefited his/her community through active participation in volunteer activities, government or civic organizations or devoted time and effort toward activities that benefit the general public, perhaps with a specific focus on education.
* Has earned honors or awards.
* Demonstration of success in setting and fulfilling worthwhile goals.
* Demonstration in daily life the importance of adhering to, and modeling a set of positive values.
If you would like to nominate someone you feel is deserving of the honor of being named the first, in what we hope is a long line of outstanding Belding graduates, click here to complete the alumni nomination form or contact us at one of the addresses below. Our deadline for submission this year is Friday, March 26, 2010. Thank you for your interest in the Belding High School Honored Alumni Program.
John Deiter
Principal, Belding High School
850 Hall Street
Belding, MI 48809
Rachelle Ostrander
Renaissance Director, Belding High School
850 Hall Street
Belding, MI 48809
ostrandr@bas-k12
November 11, 2009
Two area cross country runners achieved season-long goals by earning all-state honors Saturday in the state finals at Michigan International Speedway (MIS).
Ethan VanDePerre of Montabella was 15th among all runners in the Division 4 race in 16:56.5 while Luke Baylis of Belding was 17th in 16:36.5 in the Division 3 meet.
The top 30 in each division earned all-state honors.
“It was a good job for my last race,” Baylis said. “I was hoping for faster, but that works. The course was nice and temperature was nice but the wind was kind of rough.”
For Baylis, a senior, it was his first and last high school race.
“I wasn’t nervous,” he said. “I had a lot of support around me. It was a great season. We had a good team. It was a great way to end my cross career.”
“It’s a great end to a great career,” said Belding coach John Carlson. “It’s nice to be all-state today.”
Among runners who were with a team in the Division 4 race, VanDePerre placed 10th. Also for Montabella, Dima Lavender was in 101st in 18:55.8, Parker Eldred 107th in 19:04.9, Caleb Garner 135th in 19:45.6, Thomas Ranney 173rd in 22:12.8 and Tanner Hansen 179th in 23:04.9.
“I thought I ran pretty good,” VanDePerre said. “I was with a group from second place through sixth. They dropped me at around the mile-and-a-half mark.”
He said the first half of the race was his best performance.
“It’s one of the best races I’ve had,” VanDePerre said. “My sophomore year I didn’t expect to get all-state but I did. I placed 25th.”
His best time ever has been 16:36, which he missed by 20 seconds.
“I don’t think anyone’s times were that fast,” VanDePerre said. “I thought the temperature was nice. It was a little windy.”
“The boys ran pretty well,” said Montabella coach Jeff Kauffman. “We still have some illnesses. Ethan had one of the highest places we’ve ever had at a state meet.” Montabella was 20th of 27 teams.
In the girls race for Division 4, Montabella’s lone qualifier, Emily Malina, was 141st in 23:00.9.
“She was OK,” Kauffman said. “It’s a little tougher to run by yourself.”
As Seen in The Daily News
John Raffel
Sports Editor
November 11, 2009
Belding Alternative School of Education (BASE) received an Academic Service Learning Grant to build picnic tables. The students figured the price of each table by measuring and calculating cost. They learned to work together while starting and finishing a major project. These new tables will accommodate both BASE and Adult Education students. Twenty nine students participated in this project.
November 11, 2009
The Ionia Complex Emergency Response Team (ERT) from the Department of Corrections recently visited with students at Belding Alternative Education. They shared thoughts, experiences and ideas with the students. They also talked about making good choices in life, setting goals, meeting those goals, and believing in themselves.
November 11, 2009
The Varsity Volleyball Team ended their 2009 season with an impressive 55-8-1 record and a district championship. Belding lost to Whitehall in regional semi-final action on Tuesday, November 10.
November 09, 2009
Luke Baylis, senior at BHS, capped off a terrific four-year cross country career this past Saturday at the MHSAA State Championship Meet. Baylis finished 17th overall which earned him First Team All-State honors. Congratulations to Luke on a fantastic career!
He has had many other recent honors, including his victory in the OK Blue Conference Championship as well as being named the Ionia Sentinel-Standard’s Athlete of the Week. Read the Athlete of the week article below. You can also find his conference victory article written by The Grand Rapids Press by clicking here.
As Seen in the Ionia Sentinel Standard
Belding senior Luke Baylis has had a solid career on both the cross country and track teams at Belding High School. However, this season has already been record breaking.
Earlier this fall, the son of Dale and Susan Baylis reset the boys cross country record at Belding during the Belding Booster Invitational at Lightning Bend Park. Baylis finished the race with a time of 16:14, beating the old mark by seven seconds.
Although Baylis has had a great deal of success on the trails, he prefers taking his game to the track where he gets to compete against more than just long distant runners. However, he has had a great deal of fun with his cross country mates.
Baylis isn’t the only one in his family to take part in athletics at Belding High School. Every one of his siblings ran track, as well as competing in other sports.
Spending most of his life on a farm has also inspired Baylis in his career goals. After graduating in May, he his looking to attend Michigan State University where he hopes to either study soil sciences and biology for agriculture, or environmental law.
Out of the sports you play, which is your favorite and why?
Track, I prefer to run fast and enjoy being involved with different types of runners.
How did you start playing sports? At what age?
I started running in sixth grade.
Have any of your family members played sports? If so, who and what sport?
All of my older siblings ran track. Both my sisters ran cross country and my brother played football. My younger sister just started and she plays basketball as well as runs cross country.
Who do you try to emulate in your life? Why?
My dad. He has been a strong provider and has taught me to be a good man.
What kind of person do you think your teammates would say you are?
My team and I have always been close, yet they look up to me with my experience for answers.
What experiences have you had in sports that have made you the athlete you are today?
Although our team is small, we have always wanted to do well and qualify for state. Our team has always acted as a family and pushed each other to do well.
What has been your favorite memory of playing sports at your school?
I have always enjoyed our small goofy team and the fun things we do on the road. We tend to cause a little trouble, but always have fun.
What is something that not everybody knows about you?
I grew up on a small farm.
What are your plans after high school? Do you plan on attending college?
I would like to attend Michigan State for soil sciences and biology for agriculture but I have also contemplated attending law school for environmental law.
November 09, 2009
The Belding High School Marching Band took sixth Saturday in Flight 4 of the Michigan Marching Band Association State Finals.
Director Jonathan Schnicke said it was his band’s best performance of the season.
“The show was very clean,” he said. “We went in ranked seventh so we went up a spot and we are happy with that - especially for what we had to overcome this year.”
Belding finished second at last year’s finals, but this year members of the marching band were knocked out mid-season for about two weeks with the flu.
“We basically had to come to a screeching halt in our preparation,” Schnicke said.
Belding finished Saturday’s competition, which took place at Ford Field in Detroit, with a score of 76.25 - 8.85 points behind the winner, Godwin Heights High School with 85.10. Marysville took second place with 80.5 points, Newaygo came in third with 80.05, Grant was fourth with 76.6 and Allegan finished out the top five at 76.6.
There were 23 bands competing in Belding’s division this year. The top 10 are invited to the state finals.
Schnicke said judges Saturday had mixed reviews of the group’s performance, which was based on the Apollo 13 mission to the moon.
“There were seven judges that judged us. We were ranked second by one, seventh or eighth by another, so there was a variety of scores,” he said. “There are always things to work on for next season, but I thought we put out a good quality product that everyone can be proud of.”
The band’s focus this year was trying to increase the visual demand of their performance and the level of difficulty in their design formations.
“The amount of drill we incorporated far surpassed any show we’ve done in the past,” Schnicke said. “Each week we continued to add to the performance and tweak things here and there.”
Sophomore trumpet player Allison Granzo said she was most proud she hit the visual in the third song.
“It was recently added and I kept forgetting,” she said.
Granzo agreed with Schnicke that Saturday was the group’s best performance. Next year she would like to see the band improve its rank in the state and have more self discipline.
“Just increase the amount of practicing we do on our own,” she added. “I thought we did pretty good with that this year, but I think next year we can do better.”
Granzo said the thing she likes best about marching band is meeting people.
“You become one big family with everyone,” she said.
As Seen in The Daily News
Danielle Arndt
Daily News staff writer
November 06, 2009
Some of the area’s top runners are preparing for what they hope will be the race of their life on Saturday in the cross country state finals at Michigan International Speedway (MIS) near Brooklyn.
Luke Baylis of Belding will be in the Division 3 boys race while Emily Malina of Montabella will compete in the Division 4 girls meet. The entire Montabella boys team has qualified.
Baylis will be running in his final high school cross country race. He placed fifth last weekend in the regionals with a time of 16:37.
“I am just thrilled to go. I have wanted to go down there for a long time,” he said after Saturday’s regionals.
“He has had a standout season for us,” said Belding coach John Carlson. “He should be a top 20 finisher on Saturday and the top 30 earn all-state.
“Luke has made running a year-round sport for himself. His dedication and perseverance has really been passed on to our younger athletes. He was the No. 1 selection for the boys all-conference team in the O-K Blue.”
Baylis was the conference champ in a time of 16:12.
“He broke the Belding High School cross country record for a second time this year with his effort in the conference championship meet,” Carlson said. “Luke was also first team all-conference in the O-K Blue as a junior, and first team all-conference as a sophomore in the O-K Silver.”
Montabella was third in the boys regional race. Ethan VanDePerre placed second overall to lead the Mustangs.
The Division 4 girls race starts at 10 a.m. The Division 4 meet is at 11 a.m. and the Division 3 boys race at 11:30 a.m.
The awards presentation for other divisions, boys and girls, will be at noon.
As Seen in The Daily News
John Raffel
Sports Editor
November 06, 2009
The Belding football banquet will be held on Monday, November 9. Please see the information below for further details.
Football Banquet Information
November 06, 2009
The Belding Varsity Football team completed their 2009 campaign with a 5-4 record. The team got off to a slow start by losing close games to Greenville and Unity Christian. After a defeat at the hands of a great West Catholic team, the team’s record stood at 0-3. Rather than hang their heads or quit, the team worked hard and reeled off four straight victories over Comstock Park, Forest Hills Northern, Sparta and Grand Rapids Central. The homecoming victory over Sparta with a score of 41-21 was an especially sweet victory.
Victories in the last two games would assure the team a trip to the playoffs. In week eight, Belding came up just short in an exciting 14-12 loss to Cedar Springs. In the final game of the season, Belding rallied from a 7-0 deficit in the 4th quarter to defeat Coopersville 10-7. This is the first time Belding has defeated Coopersville at Coopersville in many years. The outside hope of a wild card addition to the playoffs was dashed, but everyone is very proud of how the team came together, winning five out of their six last games.
November 06, 2009
The Varsity Volleyball team won their second straight district championship by defeating Central Montcalm at Sparta on Thursday, November 5. Belding advances to the Lakeview regional Tuesday, November 10 to face the winner of the Newaygo district at 7:00 p.m.
November 05, 2009
The Varsity Volleyball team defeated Tri County in the district semi-finals on Wednesday, November 4. They will face Central Montcalm in the District Championship game at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 5 at Sparta High School.
November 03, 2009
The Varsity Volleyball team was victorious in the first round of district action on Monday, November 2 defeating Lakeview. They will travel back to Sparta on Wednesday, November 4 to face Tri County at 7:00 p.m.
November 02, 2009
The Varsity Volleyball concluded their regular season on October 31 with a second place finish in the OK Blue Conference. They now take their 52-7-1 record to Sparta where they will face Lakeview in the first round of the MHSAA District Tournament on Monday, November 2 at 7:00 p.m.
October 29, 2009
Varsity volleyball continued their winning ways by defeating Cedar Springs, Hamilton, and Hastings at the Hamilton Quad on Wednesday, October 28 bringing their record to an impressive 49-5-1. They will travel to Forest Hills Northern to compete in the Conference Tournament on Saturday, October 31.
October 27, 2009
Those interested in wrestling this year will start practice on Monday, November 16. Competitions begin on December 2. For more information contact wrestling coach Travis Meyer.
October 27, 2009
Open conditioning for all winter athletes will begin on Monday, November 2. Wrestlers are encouraged to attend. Open conditioning will be held after school. For more details contact wrestling coach, Travis Meyer.
October 25, 2009
Luke Baylis ran across the finish line and right into a bear hug from his father Dale.
The Belding senior runner won the O-K Blue Conference cross country championship meet Wednesday at Riverside Park with a time of 16 minutes, 12.2 seconds—7 seconds better than runner-up Connor Mora of Cedar Springs.
“This meant a lot to my family,” said Baylis, who also enjoyed the win with sister Monica. “I got a nice break at the end of the season, and that really helped today. We didn’t run as many races on our schedule and I had the last week off, and that was good because my (quadriceps) were getting tired. But today, I felt really strong, and that helped out there.”
Coopersville senior Meredith Busman won the girls race with a time of 19:22.1—6 seconds better than runner-up Katie Weiler of Cedar Springs.
“This is my second year running,” Busman said. “Last year, I hit a wall at the end of the season and my times never improved. But in the offseason, I worked really hard and was a lot more prepared for this season. There was no wall this year, and my times have basically improved every race.”
Weiler led Cedar Springs to the conference title. The Red Hawks, like many teams in West Michigan, have battled illness. They scored 60 points, 14 better than second-place West Catholic.
“The girls ran well for what they have been going through the last week,” Cedar Springs coach Jen Kahler said. “With all the sickness, aches and pains and homecoming, there’s been a lot of distractions. And our school seems to be getting worse, so that worries me.”
Following Weiler to the finish were teammates Breeann Ovokaitys (sixth, 20:06), Amanda Balczak (13th, 21:10), Jessica Titus (19th, 21:32) and Madi Phelps (20th, 21:45).
The boys race and conference title were won by Forest Hills Northern. The Huskies scored 37 points in the conference meet, four points ahead of runner-up West Catholic.
The Huskies were led by William Trice, who was fifth with a time of 16:53. He was followed by teammates Zach Stepanovich (sixth, 16:54), Jacob Towne (seventh, 16:56), Ben LaFave (ninth, 17:01) and Grant Cook (10th, 17:06).
“All year long, we’ve been talking about running as a pack,” Forest Hills Northern coach Joe Curcuru said. “Today, our top-five runners were 13 seconds apart. We knew West Catholic would be tough up top, so we had to be deeper.”
As Seen in The Grand Rapids Press
Jeff Chaney
Conference Meet Splits
October 21, 2009
The Varsity Volleyball team was victorious against Coopersville on Tuesday evening bringing their record to 46-5-1. On Wednesday, October 28, they will travel to Hamilton to compete in a quad.
October 21, 2009
Due to illness in Wayland, the 8th grade football game scheduled for tonight, October 21, at 6:30 p.m. has been cancelled. The schools will try and reschedule for October 28, but no reschedule date has been finalized. Watch for more information.
October 19, 2009
Actually, the hats were on at Woodview on September 25 for the first Student Council Hat Day of the 2009-2010 school year. The ALS Association is the charity that received the benefits of this Hat Day. Students had the choice to donate $1 for an ALS Foot or $5 for an ALS Wristband.
The Student Council collected $635 by selling 100 wristbands and a whole lot of feet. Student Council President Lexie Syrjala presented a check to Mrs. JoAnne Harrell who represented Woodview at the Walk to Defeat ALS in Grand Rapids on October 10. Mrs. Harrell was joined by team captain Mrs. Jennifer Bloss and many other Belding High School Alumni who joined the Rally for Lynn Cooper and others who are suffering from Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
Mrs. Harrell, Mrs. Bloss and Lynn Cooper’s family thank the WV families and staff for the terrific support of their efforts to make people aware of this disease and are grateful for the concern shown to fellow members of our community. The BHS Alumni Team raised just over $3,000 for the ALS Association. Hats off to you Woodview!
October 16, 2009
Science Olympiad will be having their first team meeting on Tuesday, November 3rd from 2:45-3:30 in Mrs. DiSpirito’s health room (237). All participants planning to be in Science O should attend the meeting. We will discuss events which are available this year, days of the week each event will meet and a permission slip will be passed out. We are looking forward to a great season and hope to earn as many, or more, awards as we did last year. Any one who enjoys science, working with others and would like to be part of a team, Science O is for you. You not only learn, but you have fun. If you have any questions, please feel free to give me a call at 794-4440. Look forward to seeing you all on November 3rd at 2:45.
October 15, 2009
High school seniors at BAS were able to receive help applying for college, scholarships and financial aid at College Saturdays.
Belding Area Schools has been hosting College Saturdays since mid-September with the last day in mid-October.
High school English teacher Michael Ostrander said the event provides students a designated time to think about the college application process.
“Many of our students find the process to be intimidating - all they need is a little help and a push in the right direction,” he said.
Students from other schools are welcome, and a few have attended.
“The only problem with students from other districts coming is that our staff does not have their transcript information to provide accurate information,” he said.
Typically, five high school teachers, one or two middle school teachers, a counselor and an administrator are on hand to help seniors send transcripts, write application essays and letters of interest and provide a list of local scholarships and search engines where students can learn about options for financial aid.
Ostrander said College Saturdays has been successful in helping more than 100 students apply for and get accepted to college in the last two years. BAS has hosted four Saturday events and one Thursday event this fall.
As Seen in the Daily News
October 14, 2009
On October 13, 2009, the Volleyball program held a “DIG PINK” night to benefit breast cancer. They surpassed their goal of raising $1000 for this cause! As you know many of our own friends and family members have been touched by this terrible disease, whether breast cancer or some other form. The girls felt that this was a wonderful way to show their support and commitment to those and many others who may encounter this disease.
The team sold “volleyballs” that purchasers signed in honor of or memory of someone. All the volleyballs were on display at the Dig Pink game.
The team defeated Cedar Springs in four games. The night was a huge success for both the Lady Redskins and those fighting against breast cancer and for a cure!
Varsity teams from Belding and Cedar Springs post together after the games.
October 12, 2009
Months of practice culminated in a flash of color and rhythm during Saturday evening’s Michigan Competing Band Association (MCBA) Belding Invitational at Rudness Field.
Eleven teams from across mid-Michigan performed their own individual works of musical marching art in front of bleachers full of shivering fans as temperatures dropped to freezing levels.
“All in all we had a good crowd,” said Belding High School (BHS) Band Director Jonathan Schnicke. “I was very happy it stopped raining.”
The frigid and damp wind didn’t keep the young performers from rousing the audience with storytelling through wind, percussion, guard and synchronized marching.
Schools from three different flight groups competed for state points for their performances in musical, visual, music and general effect. Belding’s invitational competition was the first of four competitions scheduled across mid-Michigan through October before the MCBA State Finals at Ford Field in November.
“When the show started, there was a really good crowd,” Schnicke said. “The bands were really great.”
Rockford was the only Flight I band while DeWitt and Northview were the only bands to perform in Flight III, with Northview coming out on top. The remaining eight schools, including BHS, competed in Flight IV competition.
Because Belding was hosting the invitational, their performance was for exhibition only. But an enthusiastic local crowd waited until the end of the competition for Belding’s 2009 “Apollo 13” show.
“I think it went really well,” said Belding drum major Max Dykla. “This was the first open competition and these (competitions) determine how we place going into state.”
Belding’s other drum major, Garret Hall, said the band has been working on arranging music and practicing since “school ended before the summer.” After finishing fourth at state in 2006 and 2007 and second in 2008, the BHS Marching Redskins are eager to do well again this year.
“We practice every Monday and Wednesday for three hours,” Hall said. “So we’re definitely dedicated.”
Dykla and Hall said Belding’s program is still a little rough around the edges, but many more hours of work will go into the performance before the state finals.
“It’s the beginning,” Dykla said. “And we’re going to come a long way before we finish.”
Schnicke said his band’s visual program needs to be refined and enhanced as the band works for state.
“It’s a work in progress,” he said. “We have a great group and they are working hard.”
Durand’s Marching Railroaders earned first place in Flight IV with their 2009 show, “If Walls Could...,” featuring music from Danny Elfman and Claudia Brandt.
The Michigan Competing Band Association State Finals will be Nov. 7 at Ford Field in Detroit.
As Seen in The Daily News
Jessica Dudenhofer
Staff Writer
October 10, 2009
The Varsity Volleyball Team finished third at the St. Johns Redwings Invitational. The tourney included several top teams in mid-Michigan. The volleyball team is currently 44-5-1.
October 07, 2009
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
NEW CLASS
BEGINNERS PILATES
Beginners pilates is a method of conditioning the body that uses stretching and strengthening exercises. It strengthens muscles, improves posture and increases flexibility. Please bring a mat. This will be a 6 week class held on Mondays from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., October 12—Nov. 16th. Cost is $24 for the 6 wk session. Class fee will be collected by the instructor. Certified instructor: Valerie Dawdy.
ADULT CO-ED VOLLEYBALL
Open Co-ed Volleyball for Adults will be held every Sunday starting October 25th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. through April 18, 2010 at the Middle School Gym. Join at any time. No need to pre-register. Cost is $3 per visit or $30 for season pass. Coordinator: Randy Loveland. No children please.
PAWS-ability BEGINNER DOG OBEDIENCE
This is a basic beginner class for dogs and their owners. The goal is to help YOU teach your dog how to become a COMPANION, not just a pet. It is important for you to become the PACK LEADER for your dog. If you do not—often the dog takes this role for himself. Teaching methods use a combination of positive reinforcement with food, voice, and correction. Class time is spent practicing new skills or “commands” in a social atmosphere with people and dogs. The class is especially good for new puppies—about 12 weeks and up, but it is also open to “non-puppies”. Dogs joining your family from the shelters or rescue organizations have an opportunity to begin life anew. Bring a copy of current vaccinations to class. Class will be held on Mondays for 7 weeks, October 26—Dec. 7, from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m. at Woodview Elem. School. The first class will be an Orientation without dogs. Cost of $50 is due Oct. 22nd. Instructor: Ann Bromley.
ADULT 5-ON-5 BASKETBALL
Adult 5-on-5 Basketball will be held every Wednesday, October 28th through April 22, 2010, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Middle School Gym. Cost is $3 per visit or $30 for season pass. Coordinator: Tony Sower.
TAE KWON DO
Klingbeil Institute of Tae Park Tae Kwon Do welcomes you to come and be a part of one of the largest martial arts organizations in the world. We have open enrollment, so you can start at any time! Classes are held on Tuesdays and/or Thursdays at the Middle School cafeteria from 6:30–8:00 pm. Classes are open to children (ages 5+), adults and families. Cost is $15 per month for one night/wk; $25 per month for 2 nights/wk. Family discounts are available. Class fee is collected by instructor. Call instructor, Roland Demorest, at 616-754-0395 or Community Education for more information.
HYPNOSIS WORKS!
Weight Control
Tuesday, October 20th, 6:00-7:45 p.m.
You can learn to control your appetite, to increase your desire to eat healthier, and to increase your motivation to exercise regularly with hypnosis. The hypnosis session includes a weight control “tool kit” and a half-hour reinforcement tape.
Smoking Cessation/Stop Smoking Forever
Tuesday, October 20th, 8:00-9:30 p.m.
You can quit smoking forever in only one hour with hypnosis. Includes a stop smoking “tool kit” and a half-hour reinforcement tape.
Classes are held at Belding High School. Class fee must be pre-paid at the Community Ed. office by Oct. 16th. Cost is $45 per class. Hypnotherapist: Beverly Carboneau.
ZUMBA
Zumba is a cardio workout inspired by Latin and international rhythms. It is a mixture of body sculpting movements with easy to follow dance steps. Come ready to have fun! Classes are held in the middle school cafeteria (enter from south side of building) on Saturdays and at the Administration Building on Wednesdays as follows:
Saturdays, 9-10 A.M., Middle School &/or
Wednesdays, 6-7 P.M., Admin. Building
Cost is $4.50 per class or $35.00 for 10 classes. Payment will be collected by the instructor. Certified Instructor: Valerie Dawdy.
SANCHIN-RYU KARATE
Youth Sanchin-Ryu Karate & Self Defense
Children learn the Martial Art of Sanchin-Ryu which builds self-confidence and develops focus and discipline. Students are taught alternatives to fighting in a positive, go-at-your-own-pace environment. We also address the growing concerns we have for our kids’ safety today. Our goal is to empower children with proven techniques to handle a variety of everyday scenarios they may encounter. Topics include: How to deal with strangers, bullies, peer pressure, and conflict resolution.
Adult & Family Sanchin-Ryu Karate
Taught on an individual basis, students study in a non-competitive environment while working on Sanchin-Ryu’s practical movements and no-nonsense approach to self-defense. We study three levels of self-defense: physical, mental and emotional.
The next session will be held on Mondays for 8 weeks, Nov. 16th—Jan. 25th (no class 11/30, 12/21 & 12/28). Register with instructor on first night. Classes are held in the middle school cafeteria as follows:
Youth Class (K-8 Gr) - 6:30-7:30 PM
Adult & Family - 6:30-8:30 PM
Cost for 8 week session is $20 for Youth Class, $30 for Adult Class & $60 for Families.
October 06, 2009
Read The Belding Banner newsletter for everything you need to know about BAS.
The Belding Banner - October 2009
October 05, 2009
Belding Area Schools won a gold award in the 2009 Michigan School Breakfast Challenge sponsored by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE). Last school year, BAS increased the number of students eating breakfast each school morning from 382 to 1,259. That’s an increase of 229 percent!
The MDE began the challenge as a way to increase the number of students who ate breakfast before each school day. Michigan superintendents were challenged to increase student participation in their district’s School Breakfast Program by 50 percent. With the implantation of the district’s Universal Breakfast program started by Food Services Director John Klapko, BAS well surpassed the 50 percent increase.
Through Universal Breakfast, all students receive a free and nutritious breakfast each morning. To assure all students have access to breakfast, it is served in their classrooms. Teachers thus play a major role in the program and were trained by the food services staff on tracking participation. Teachers have been pleased to be a part of it as they have noticed better attendance and fewer behavioral problems with their students.
Parents have also benefited from the free program. Many of the district’s working families did not have the time to feed their children a healthy breakfast. In addition, it has helped take some financial burden off many in the Belding community who have been affected by the economy. Families can now be sure that all students will be able to eat a nutritious meal when they arrive at school.
The MDE funds part of the breakfast program. Even with offering the program free to all students, the program has so far broke even.
Superintendent Charles Barker and Food Services Director John Klapko stand with the 2009 Breakfast Challenge banner representing the honor.
October 01, 2009
Luke Baylis has set a new Belding cross country record.
Now the Redskin senior wants to break into the 15-minute area.
At Wednesday’s Belding Invitational at Lightning Bend Park, Baylis was first in 16:14.
Belding was fourth as a team with 105 points. Forest Hills Northern topped the seven-team field with 31 points.
Also for Belding, Colton Klapko was 13th in 17:34, Derek Nichoson 34th in 18:50, Hunter Brown 49th in 19:30 and Eric Rasch 52nd in 19:36.
“It was absolutely perfect conditions. The course is always a little sandy but the great weather more than made up for it,” Belding coach John Carlson said. “Luke Baylis really posted a great time today while shattering the school record.”
“He broke the 9-year-old school record that Josh Miller set at the Division 2 state finals back in 2000 in a time of 16:21. Miller earned all-state honors with that effort. Miller went on to be a college All-American at Aquinas College, and he is now an assistant coach at Rockford High School.”
“It was positive focus. Everything was there,” Baylis said. “I love running here. It’s by far my favorite course.
“Now I’m going for breaking into 15 minutes.”
Colton Klapko ran another career best, Carlson noted.
“Eric Rasch really turned some heads with a personal best of 19:37,” Carlson said. “He ran a career best by 62 seconds on Saturday and then came back today and dropped another 41 seconds today. He just ran his way into our top seven today.”
The Belding girls were sixth among seven teams with 146 points. Cedar Springs won with 31.
Tara VanWagoner was 13th for Belding in 21:36, Ashley Kemme 28th in 23:19, Corynne LeBel 34th in 23:26, Hailey Willingham 51st in 27:16 and EllaKate Wagner 58th in 30:34.
“Tara VanWagoner ran her career best. She dropped below 22 minutes for the first time in two years. She got injured halfway through the year last season. It is nice to see her racing without pain,” Carlson said. “It was great to see Ashley Kemme and Corynne LeBel also run their fastest races ever.”
Belding Invitational Splits
As Seen in
The Daily News
John Raffel
Sports Editor
Baylis crosses finish line setting new school record.
