WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL classes discuss Native American experiences

On February 1, Chief Ted Roll of the Wyandotte Indians, along with two of his associates, spoke to social studies classes at West Middle School.  

They discussed the Native American experience, past and present. They explained how the Downnriver area was their homeland before many were displaced to Canada, Ohio, Kansas and Oklahoma.      

This marked a very dark period in U.S. history, because the American government issued the policy of “assimilate or annihilate” these indigenous people. Many children were taken from their families to be educated in the ways of the “white man.”

Fortunately today Native American are free to celebrate their culture. There are about 1,300 Native Americans who belong to the Wyandotte Tribe.  Their strong voice and educational policies continue to enlighten everyone about their past struggles and present victories. 

HOLLAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL youngsters happy to be wrong!

Mrs. Madden's kindergarten friends have never been so happy to be wrong! 

Last week these Holland Elementary School pupils predicted that “Punxsutawney Phil” would see his shadow on Groundhog Day, February 2. They were very happy to hear that he didn't see it, and that spring would come early (outside recess!). They enjoyed learning all about of the tradition and the fun it can bring.

BLAIR MOODY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL classes hit the Sportsplex

On January 27, pupils from the classes of Ms. Gray, Ms. Erdei and Mrs. Trigge at Blair Moody Elementary School went to the Taylor Sportsplex for a fun-filled day of activity and exercise.

The children and their families were able to kick some soccer balls around, play with bubbles and really enjoyed playing with the giant parachute. Staff at the school said they definitely be returning there for another field trip next year.

HOOVER MIDDLE SCHOOL eighth graders gear up for high school

Like their counterparts at West, eight graders at Hoover Middle School are gearing up for high school.  On February 3, counselors from Kennedy and Truman high schools came for an important visit. They are helping our eighth-grade Hoover Hawks register for their freshman year.  Thank you to all the counselors for helping Hoover high school-bound students.

HOLLAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL celebrates with bingo

Holland Elementary School students concentrate as they play bingo with candy hearts. They demonstrated great behavior in January.

WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL enhances social studies programs

The seventh grade social studies teachers at West Middle School have been taking classes during the school year to enhance the education of their students. The program is offered through the Michigan National Geographic Alliance. 

The Alliance provides training and materials. As a condition, the professors associated with the program make classroom visits.

Ms. Fairbairn, from the university recently visited West. She observed the seventh graders using desk maps, and Nystom Atlases, as part of the continued studies of ancient history. 

Ms. Fairbairn was impressed with the seventh grade students at West Middle School.

JOHNSON EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER classrooms have crazy busy week

Mrs. Long's and Mrs. Connolly's preschool classroom at Johnson Early Childhood Center made funny hats for crazy week. Also, the children started to visit the library.