WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL students conduct food chain activity

Mrs. Fent's and Mrs. Schulte's sixth-grade classes at West Middle School have been studying ecology. As part of the study students are becoming familiar with the following terms: predator, prey, food chain, food web, consumers, producers and decomposers. 

    

During the week of October 22, sixth grade students conducted a food chain/food web activity. Students took on the various roles of specific producers, consumers or decomposers. With the use of yarn students constructed several food chains. By doing this lab activity students could visually see how overlapping food chains formed a food web.

    

This activity was very well received. Students gained a better understanding that the sun is the principle source of all food energy. They were surprised to learn that as you went further down the food chain less and less energy was received. For most students realizing the vital role that decomposers play in the ecosystem was quite an eye-opener. Through these hands on activities students are able to gain and retain knowledge much better.

-- Submitted by Sara Bochenek

HOOVER MIDDLE SCHOOL learn code programming

In the seventh-grade science classes and STEM Club at Hoover Middle School, students are learning how to code by programming the Dash Robot.  

WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL hears from animal farming expert

On October 23 a very special presenter, Brece Clark, returned to West Middle School. Clark spoke with all seventh-grade science students on Modern Animal Agriculture. Another term for this practice is “factory farming.”

    

Clark's presentation gave the students much food for thought. One question that was raised during the presentation was why are some foods ethically responsible, while other foods are ethically irresponsible.

Clark also presented the idea that certain food choices are culturally or religiously dependent. That is, some cultures eat dogs, while here in the United States eating dogs is not culturally acceptable.

Clark told the students that 95 to 99 percent of all animals raised, are in factory farming conditions. Overcrowding and dark and unsanitary conditions are the norm. Most animals we consume have been injected with antibiotics that are fast becoming immune to superbugs.

     

With the information presented by Clark, students were asked to question their present diet and see if there were opportunities to make healthier and ethically inspired food choices. Even small changes in our diet can lead to major improvements in our health and environment.

Thanks to Clark for visiting West’s seventh-grade science students. The information presented was interesting and thought provoking.  As we analyze our food choices we will be able to make healthier choices based on Clark's ethically inspired presentation.

-- Submitted by Sara Bochenek

WAYNE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE offers skilled trades program

Skilled Trades are among the fastest growing job sectors in the country. Are you interested in learning HVAC, carpentry, cement masonry, ironwork or other general labor skills? Wayne County Community College has the programming and worksite training to take your career to the next level. Training is both fast and affordable. You may qualify for special grants. Call 800-713-6433 for more information. #WantMoreStartHere

TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL Band and Choir Concert scheduled

The Taylor High School Band and Choir Concert will be held at 7 p.m. October 30 in the high school gymnasium.

FORMER TEACHER Thomas Kurginski passes away at 73

Former Taylor Schools teacher passes away:

THOMAS KURGINSKI of Taylor passed away on October 22, 2018 at the age of 73.

Beloved husband of Kathy.
Survived by one brother, Ernest (Judy) Kurginski.
Loving father of two furbabies.

Survived by many extended family members.
Preceeded in death by his parents Ernest and Helen Kurginski.

Thomas taught in the Taylor District for 33 years. 

Memorials can be made to the Michigan Humane Society or WAG Animal Rescue in honor of Thomas.

TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL: Attention athletes

Attention Taylor High School Athletes:

All students interested in participating in a winter sport MUST have a current physical on file with the school.  A current physical is one that has been completed on or after April 15 of the previous school year. 

Tryouts for the Girls Basketball Team will begin on November 12.  All girls that are interested in playing on the freshman, junior varsity, or varsity team MUST have a current physical on file.  Any girls that have questions can see Coach Putnam in Room 419 for additional information.