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June 04, 2010

EXAM SNACKS FOR NEXT WEEK!!

We are coming up on the end of the final trimester of the school year...so once again, the Exam Shack Committee is putting out the call for donations of drinks and snacks that help carry our students over the top. Please consider bringing in something that can be easily served to students on the run between their all-important finals.

Please contact Exam Snack Chair Deena Cook at 453-5251 or at brcooker@hotmail.com to let her know how you can help.

It's the last time we will be bugging you 3 times a year (yay!) so please do what you can for our students. It certainly does make a difference.

Thanks much.
Exam Snack Committee


May 21, 2010

Wahoooooooo!

The final pies have been sold and the #1 Pie Seller can officially be
awarded to .....Emily Witte!

The race to win the cash prizes was a very close one ~ it went back and
forth between 3-5 students, but Emily made a big push the last weekend of the sale
and on the last day, turned in an order for 17 more people who wanted 1-2 pies each,
bringing her total to 54 pies!!

#2 spot went to Natalie Glatz who also got busy when the sale was extended
and sold 14 more pies, for a total of 44 pies sold.

Great job ladies and happy spending!

There were many students who sold over 20 pies and it goes to show
that single pie sales can definitely win the game!

FYI~ The quantity of pies sold for City alone was 587! We've received some
rave reviews about how delicious the pies are, so my hint for those of you
who sold this year....keep your list for next year. You'll have some happy
people when you call them to order again!

Best of all, everyone from all the schools had a great time working together while raising money for their individual programs.

Teri O'Driscoll
City PTSA That's A Lotta Pies! Chair


May 13, 2010

Final Courtyard Workday on Saturday, May 15.

Parents, students, and other volunteers: we will be making the courtyards even more beautiful and functional on Saturday, May 15, 9 am to noon. Please join us to plant flowers, assemble a picnic table and bench, weed and mulch. Come when you are able. Snacks will be provided! Direct questions to Elise Tripp, 735-3841 and elisetripp@yahoo.com


May 07, 2010

It's a Great Day to Make a Pie!

And that's what we will be doing on Saturday. Remember, if you ordered one, two or more...pickup will be from 1-4pm at the school. We are now able to take credit and debit cards too!!

So don't forget,... because there is nothing like a piece of apple pie a la mode after you've run the 5/3 Riverbank Run Or instead of running the Riverbank Run!

Thanks to everyone who supports City, Blandford, CFE and Zoo students through your purchases or donated time and efforts.


May 05, 2010

Attention GRPS/City Parents! Parent Meeting Monday 5/10

MARK YOUR CALENDAR - YOU ARE INVITED!

DISTRICT WIDE PARENT MEETINGS ON PROPOSED CHANGES FOR 2010-2011 SCHOOL YEAR
Monday, May 10, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Locations:
Central High School (421 Fountain NE)
City High-Middle School (1400 Fuller NE)
Creston High School (1720 Plainfield NE)
Ottawa Hills High School (2055 Rosewood Ave. SE)
Union High School (1800 Tremont NW)

Please note: Parents with students in elementary or middle School are encouraged to attend a meeting at the feeder high school.

Parents are welcome and encouraged to attend one of the district wide parent meetings to learn more and ask questions about the budget issues and proposed changes for 2010-2011 school year. Topics include, but are not limited to:

High School Instructional Delivery Model (Traditional, Blended, Online)

High School Electives (Traditional, Hub, Online)

Middle School Model

Elementary Art/Music/Physical Education Changes

Information on the proposed changes is also available online at www.grpublicschools.org (FAQs, videos on blended model, and more) and airing on Cable Channel 27.

John Helmholdt
Director of Communications & External Affairs
Grand Rapids Public Schools


April 29, 2010

GRPS SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATE FORUM....

was lightly attended, around 40 people, but very informative. All 5 candidates gave the audience a bit more insight into how each would handle various education issues, disagreements with GRPS administration, representation of GRPS' interest at the state legislature and other areas. Thanks to all the participants and to the Education Advocacy Committee for bringing this to City. The forum was taped and will air on GRTV's LiveWire Channel 24 at these times:

Fri 04/30 @ 7:00 PM
Sat 05/01 @ 10:00 AM
Sat 05/01 @ 7:00 PM
Sun 05/02 @ 10:00 AM
Mon 05/03 @ 9:00 PM

Watch and VOTE May 4!!!


THE 'LAST CHANCE' PIE SALE! ORDER DATE EXTENDED TO MAY 3

Through a special arrangement with the 'Pie Guys"... we will be taking orders through May 3!!
How many more can we sell? This is the (ABSOLUTE) last weekend to
contact anyone you can about buying some of our
very own City Pies! For more details about these delicious Michigan apple and blueberry pies, check earlier posts below

Here are 3 ways you can get more sales:

-Ask friends and family.
-Ask parents if they'd consider bringing an order sheet into work
- Email/FaceBook/Tweet/Text ...(shucks, you can even call) people you know who may be interested and attach this link:
http://slothwerks.com/order/

The link takes your customers to a web page order form.
Ask your customer to put your name in the blank and designate City
as the school of choice. They will pay for their pies when they pick up on
Saturday May 8th from 1-4pm.
As long as your name is on their order, you receive the credit for the sale. Total pie count will be based on completed pie sales at the end of the day Saturday the 8th....so it doesn't count if people don't pick up their pies on Saturday. Cash, check or credit card accepted.

Why should you help sell pies? MONEY! You can win $100 or $50.

There will be 2 cash prizes awarded to the top selling students.

First place will receive $100. Second place will receive $50.

And remember if you have taken orders on the paper forms already, put them
in a sealed envelope along with any money collected, and place it in the PTSA mailbox in the
office by 3pm Monday.

Thanks for all your work and think about who else would be interested in
buying some pies so you can win that $100 or $50

Good luck!!!

PS--Center For Economicology sold 452 pies!! Congrats to Mr. Boosamra, the students and parents!!!

Mrs. O'Driscoll
PTSA That's Alotta Pies Chair


April 17, 2010

City PTSA Business Meeting Tuesday 4/20 @ 6:30p

There will be a regularly scheduled City PTSA Business Meeting Tuesday April 20 at 6:30p in the Media Center. Please email any agenda items to Lisa Glatz, City PTSA Secretary at lisalglatz@comcast.net.


Graduation Unchanged for 2010

Dear GRPS Students, Parents, Staff and Supporters:

Here is an update on the high school graduations for this school year. As you know, the High School Graduation Committee, comprised of the high school principals and district staff, were exploring the possibility of a citywide graduation ceremony for this school year along with school-based graduation events and activities.

Due to logistical considerations, the decision has been made to keep the high school graduations as originally planned for this school year. The High School Graduation Committee will continue to work on plans for a citywide graduation ceremony and school-based graduation activities with the goal of implementation for the 2011 graduation.

The high school graduations for this school year are as follows:

Continue reading "Graduation Unchanged for 2010" »


April 03, 2010

OUR OWN SENATORS SEND MONEY TO OTHER DISTRICTS

Here is the issue:
On Wednesday, March 24, 2010, the Senate passed a school aid budget that would give the richest schools in the state an increase in the foundation grant next year, while cutting our schools by $100 or more per student .

Continue reading "OUR OWN SENATORS SEND MONEY TO OTHER DISTRICTS" »


March 28, 2010

Per John Helmholdt, GRPS Communications Director From a Friday Phone Call:

The Tuesday registration for classes is akin to a 'pre-registration' to determine how much interest there is in each elective so a decision can be made on whether or not to carry that elective. ( i.e. not enough enrollment-a class of 5-10 probably wouldn't make it)

Next, staffing for each class has to be determined. According to Helmholdt, no student will absolutely be held to their choice. He apologized for the mass of misinformation, and accepted a good part of the responsibility. We also have to take into consideration that Dale Hovenkamp was out Wednesday through Monday, so none of this information was able to come down through him, if indeed he even had many details.

Whether or not you agree that this is a workable plan (and certainly opinion is running against it) the process has been very poor, to say the least. Hopefully, we'll have more details from City's Tuesday session, 7pm in the Multipurpose Room.

We need to keep our eyes on the prize: International Baccalaureate World School certification, and what that will mean to our students and staff. Budget cuts are a reality. We know they are coming, courtesy of Michigan's financial crisis, and the lack of will to fix the structural deficit in funding education. While we should never let up lobbying for what's best for City, it is truly up to Lansing to create a more stable environment for all primary, secondary and post-secondary education.

Wayne Glatz
City PTSA President, 2009-10


March 26, 2010

VERY IMPORTANT-Parent Information Night

There will be a meeting at City High-Middle School on Tuesday, March 30 at 7 PM in the Multi Purpose room. This meeting is to present next year's schedule. The presenters will be City's administrative staff, Franklin Campus staff and PTSA members. Please join us!


March 20, 2010

Spirit Week is gone...but not City spirit.

What a week! And what a game! One has to wonder what CIty would be like with a varsity basketball team.
A shout out to all who participated in the events of the entire week, helped with setups and volunteered dozens of hours.
A special thank you to Matt Dreisbach, because without his determination, we would not have had the scoreboard working.

Thanks Everyone!


Thanks to all who attended...

...the GRPS Futures Summit II this morning at OHHS. While opinions vary on how effective this meeting was, the first step to action is awareness.

We have been promised by district that there will be meetings with parents in each of GRPS' five high schools to further discuss the hub concept, blended learning (the combining of online and face-to face teaching) and current/future budget realities. At this time no date or time has been set, but we will keep you posted. There will also be further information/results from today's summit on the GRPS website http://grpublicschools.org/grps1/, hopefully SOON.

In the meantime, ask questions of those of us who did attend the summit and our staff/administration. You should brief yourself as much as possible in preparation for this meeting, to be well informed as to the potential effects of these proposed changes. Also, encourage others to do the same so we have a well-informed City community.

Thanks much.

Wayne Glatz
City PTSA president, 2009-10


March 18, 2010

ACTION REQUIRED--IF YOU CARE ABOUT YOUR SCHOOLS...PLEASE ATTEND!

** High Priority **
** Reply Requested When Convenient **

Dear GRPS Stakeholders:
I am writing to invite you to a very important event that we are hosting for students, parents, staff, and all community stakeholders to discuss how GRPS can continue to build upon our school improvements and educational reforms, while at the same time implementing the changes that will be necessary to address the financial challenging facing the district and meet the needs of the 21st Century learners.

In follow up to our Futures Summit last November and the information provided in the March 10 State of Our Schools address, your participation and input is again important to help us develop our new instructional model and develop a plan that maintains our positive momentum.

WHAT: GRPS Futures Summit II

WHEN: Saturday, March 20, 2010
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon

WHERE: Ottawa Hills High School
2055 Rosewood SE - Grand Rapids, MI 49506

WHO: Open to students, parents, GRPS staff, media and community members.
Child care will be provided.

To watch the video from the State of the Schools address and learn more about the instructional model concept, please log onto the GRPS web site: www.grpublicschools.org.

Thank you for your consideration and prompt response to this invitation. I ask that you please RSVP to Tara Rietberg at 819-2197 or email at rsvp@grps.k12.mi.us. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,
Bernard Taylor, Jr., Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools


PEGASUS PULSE NEWS PLUS!! - PARTIES JOIN FORCES, PUBLIC BENEFITS

In a rare display of bipartisan cooperation, the PTSA Pepperoni Pizza Party has voted to give up its geographical high ground in the cafeteria and combine forces with the Sophomore Sausage Sellers, all in the effort to bring pizza to the masses at a significantly reduced cost to the American public.
When interviewed, PTSA Party spokesperson Wayne Glatz said, "Hey, if we can set aside our differences and join forces, why can't Congress?"

This fracture erupted years ago when the 2 parties found themselves at the SAME table during an officially-sanctioned band concert, both selling the SAME flavor of skittles in an effort to offset the mounting school funding deficit.

It further escalated when the 2 were again thrust into the awkward situation of having very similar coupon books.. within earshot of each other. "We just couldn't cross the aisle and work with the opposition then', Glatz said. " It was very competitive at that time in our party's long, proud history...and our constituency wouldn't hear of it!"

Those days appear to be over as the 2 will sell pizza and pop TOGETHER, unified to serve the public needs of pre-game hunger and thirst. Never understated, when reached for comment, the Sausage Sellers spokesperson, Ms. JoeAnne Peterson was quoted as saying, "This is a giant step forward to help bring unity to our school...and the world. After all, WE ARE CITY FAMILY."

###


March 12, 2010

CHEAP EATS....HOT SEATS!

Spirit Week is upon us, and that can only mean one thing. Seeing all of our teachers run around in gym shorts!
Yes... the annual Homecoming Basketball game is this Friday, 3/19. Tipoff is at 6pm...more or less..

So if you are wondering how you are going to squeeze in a meal after work, PTSA has the answer! Why not join us for dinner in the cafeteria before the game. Not a potluck, no messy crockpots to carry into the bleachers, but a meal provided by us, at a price similar to the dollar menu at McDonald's!

We are still working out the details, menu included, but count on joining us for food, conversation and NO dishes, at the City PTSA Pre-Game Meal Deal, this coming Friday 3/19, from 4:30-6:15pm.
No RSVPs allowed. Just be there!

And if you have a desire to be on the other side of the serving line (volunteer??), please contact Wayne Glatz wayneaglatz@comcast.net about helping out.

The (Soon-To-Be-Forming) City PTSA Pre-Game Meal Deal Committee


March 11, 2010

Attention All Region C PTA Leaders

You Are Cordially Invited to Join:

Mary DeYoung-Smith, Michigan PTSA President
Shaton Berry, Michigan PTSA President Elect
Ruthann Jaquette, Michigan PTSA Vice President
Vickie Craig, Field Service Director, Region C
for Outreach and Support at a Round Table for PTA Officers,
Committee Chairs, and Future Leaders
Saturday, March 27, 2010
1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

City High Middle School
Media Center
1400 Fuller Ave. NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49505

We would like to know how things are going in West Michigan. Please send your questions, concerns, and successes to Vickie Craig (below) so that we may prepare for a productive afternoon.
We look forward to meeting all of you!

Day Care provided
Pre-registration requested

RSVP to Vickie Craig, mvcraig@att.net
616-247-6536


Economicology II-Sale Proceeds To Go To City

Mr. Peter Wege has written a followup to his first book, Economicology: The Eleventh Commandment, titled Economicology II.

Like its predecessor, this book draws on the work of contemporary environmental scientists, along with Peter's own viewpoints. Through an extensive bibliography, readers are encouraged to dig deeper by going to individual authors' source material and read their complete works.

Mr. Wege and the foundation will be generously donating all the proceeds from the book to City and its Economicology and International Baccalaueate World School programs.


March 10, 2010

While there is still much yet to do...

...we have a lot to be very proud of.

I recently came across the following unsolicited letter to the Grand Rapids Press, November 2007, and even though the alumna who wrote it graduated back in 1992, much of the storyline of City remains the same. And in an era of statewide budget cuts, declining urban enrollment and increased competition from suburban districts and charter schools, City continues to move forward... #2 in MME scores statewide 2 years running... one of the top 200 schools nationwide... just a few weeks away from being IB World School-certified.
And there is much, much more.
While some things have changed, (no more downtown campus, class sizes have increased), we should all be proud of this school, its teaching and administrative staff, and above all, its students.
Read on:

Alumna gives plug for City High
By The Grand Rapids Press
November 02, 2007, 12:25AM

Time to focus on something a little more fun. Last week I had a story about Grand Rapids' City High looking to add the rigorous International Baccalaureate program.

Plus, the district is working with local philanthropist Peter Wege to explore adding a program or even a school-within-a-school based around "economicology," a premise that a healthy economy and healthy ecology are compatible.

Word of this reached Hawaii, where City High grad Elizabeth Hew Len now lives. She was known as Beth Santarelli while she still was a Michigander.

Here's what she had to say:

"Thank you so much for your recent article about City High's forward thinking philosophy.

My mom, Cynthia Santarelli of Grand Rapids sent the article to me ( I live in Honolulu, HI ). I am a PROUD City High Graduate,

Continue reading "While there is still much yet to do..." »


March 09, 2010

WEDNESDAY THEATRE CLASSES AT CITY

Acting classes will begin March 17 in the multipurpose room from 2:15-4:15 every Wednesday for students in grades 9-12. Mr. Ellis and his two acting coaches will meet weekly after school with City High students who want to act in scenes and monologs this trimester. Hopefully, enough students will participate to stage a cabaret or showcase night of their work in early June before the summer vacation. If you are interested, attend this coming Wednesday and see everyone who is joining the class!

For more information, contact Roger Ellis at ellis.roger@ymail.com


February 26, 2010

EXAM SNACK THANK-YOU

Thanks to everyone who contributed exam snacks for the 2nd trimester finals. They were much appreciated by our students! Since there is 1 more trimester to go, we will be asking everyone to contribute something in May. Also, the junior class will be having MME exams on March 9-11. These are very important exams for their future college plans, so we may need additional snacks and drinks for those days also.

Your support is greatly appreciated...and very worthwhile as our students continue to outperform ALMOST the entire state! (we were #2 for the last 2 years!---just behind the International Baccalaureate World School in Bloomfield Hills!!!)

A special shout-out goes to Deena Cook for organizing snacks for our kids.

Thanks again...from the City PTSA


CIty High-Middle Pre-Festival Orchestra Concert

There will be a pre-festival concert Tuesday March 2 @ 7pm in the City Gym, to allow our fantastic City High and Middle School orchestras to 'tune up' their repertoire before the Orchestra Festival on Thursday March 4 at East Grand Rapids High School. Please come and support our terrific musicians and their Iinstructor, Mr. Bob Ward.

The actual festival will be on Thursday, March 4, with the Middle School performing at 2:15pm and the High School performing at 6:15pm. The public is invited.


February 25, 2010

March Forth for Our Students--IMPORTANT March 4th Meeting

GRPS Students, Parents, Staff, Stakeholders, and Media:

On behalf of the Grand Rapids Board of Education's Legislative
Committee and the City High-Middle Education Advocacy Committee
, you are invited to attend a community forum to learn more about and discuss the significant structural issues facing the state budget and public education system.

WHAT: "March Forth for Our Students, Schools & the State! A Community
Forum on School Funding, State Taxes, and the State's Structural
Deficit

WHO: Special Presentation by Award-Winning Author and Economist Dr.
Charles Ballard.

Continue reading "March Forth for Our Students--IMPORTANT March 4th Meeting" »


Textbook Returns

If your student has any textbooks (including novels) that they do not need for the 3rd trimester, please ask them to return them to the media center next week. Also please remind them if they have taken out any library books and those books are past due, to please return those also to the media center. Thank you for your help in reminding your students.


February 24, 2010

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR WII BOWLING FUNDRAISER EVENT

This may be the best excuse for Community Service hours yet! Sloth I, City Parent, is hosting a fundraiser event for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Michigan Chapter on Saturday, March 13th noon to 4:30pm at Pietro's Backdoor Pizzeria in Grand Rapids. Get an easy four hours of service hours assisting with monitoring the tournament, reporting scores, and assisting with games. Sloth is looking for four fun-filled, out-going City students willing to dress in ORANGE, work hard, and

Continue reading "VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR WII BOWLING FUNDRAISER EVENT" »


EXAM SNACK SHORTAGE

Second trimester exams are here- This Thursday and Friday, Feb. 25th and 26th. We are in need of donations of snacks, juices and water and also volunteers to hand them out on exam days.

Please contact Deena Cook at 453-5251 or at brcooker@hotmail.com if you can help out....Or drop any snack donations off in the office. Please help our students stay alert and performing at their peak.

Thanks much.

City PTSA Exam Snack Committee!


Save the Date for Hello, Dolly!!!

18 City High students are part of the cast of the upcoming City/Union production Hello, Dolly.
We congratulate them and also recognize the six student leads (all from City)
Caira Cronin, Eric Hill, Leanna Morris, Emily Bennett, Nick Music and Alec Spaulding.

Performances are the evenings of March 25, 26 and 27 and a matinee on the 27th.

The fundraising efforts are underway to pay for the expense of putting on a musical production. Anyone interested in advertising a business, recognizing a cast member, etc with an ad in the musical program can contact ecronin@arborcircle.org or call her at (616)460-3471. Ad space is $125 for a page, $75 half page, $30 business card size.
If there is any other way you think you can help, please let us know.

Let's support these talented students!!!


February 19, 2010

OPPORTUNITY--The Young Scholars Program

I am the manager of community outreach for the Center for Talent Development at Northwestern University and the Jack Kent Cooke(JKC) Young Scholars Program which is a national scholarship program for high achieving 7th grade students with financial need.


The program provides exceptional students with individualized educational guidance and educational services, which could include tutors, summer programs, on-line classes, computers, and possible tuition support through their high school years and continued support as they enter the college of their choice.

I am eager to make this opportunity available

Continue reading "OPPORTUNITY--The Young Scholars Program" »


Auction Donations NEEDED Please!

The City Nights, City Lights Auction is fast appoaching - March 26, 2010! Parents, we need your help by making a donation. We have several opportunities to help sponsor an auction item. Many City teachers have donated their time to spend with our students. For example... teachers taking a group of kids to go paint ball, Craig's Cruisers and dinner and a movie.

We need familes to make a TAX DEDUCTIBLE donation to help sponsor some of these events. OR, if you know of a business or individual that has a special talent they could donate, please don't hesitate to ask them if they would be willing to donate to this cause.

Please send your check to the City office. We appreciate your help in making this year's auction a success! If you need other ideas for auction donations, please contact kim_waalkes@yahoo.com

Thanks to everyone who has already donated to City PTSA's primary fundraiser!

The Auction Committee


February 17, 2010

CASH FOR CLASS IS BACK... at D & W 2/14-20 and Family Fare 2/21-27!

Please make sure and shop at D & W February 14 - 20 ...AND at Family Fare February 21-27, to participate in Cash for Class!

The number to give the cashier for City High/Middle is 87993.

2% of all sales will be given back to City High/Middle PTSA to support school programs. This is a very generous program by Spartan Stores that helps schools all over our region. Please support them as they give back to us!

Thanks much!
City PTSA


February 15, 2010

City Drama OR ANYONE Interested In Forensics/Debate Support

Our next Drama/Forensics/Debate Boosters meeting will be held Saturday, February 20th, 9am-10am at the Community Media Center, 1110 Wealthy, 2 doors west of Wealthy Theatre.

Hear updates on spring drama opportunities at City and the final count from the Variety Show.
Please make every effort to attend!

Ann Kuipers
Booster Chair


February 11, 2010

CIty PTSA Business Meeting Tuesday 2/16

Even though students have Monday 2/15 and Tuesday 2/16 off, these are in-service days for staff. Since the building will be open, we will have our monthly PTSA Business Meeting Tuesday night at 6:30p in the Media Center.

Wayne Glatz
City PTSA President


February 10, 2010

COUNT DAY THURSDAY 2/11

Dear GRPS Students, Parents, Staff and Supporters:
As a result of the snow day today and in accordance with the state rules, the "new" Count Day is tomorrow/Thursday, February 11.

We are asking all of you to please

Continue reading "COUNT DAY THURSDAY 2/11" »


GRPS Closed Today--Count Day STILL Very Important to CITY

GRPS is closed today due to severe weather. Count Day will commence on Thursday, February 11, 2010 but may be subject to change again if weather conditions require the district to be closed for another day.

As a part of GRPS and the Michigan Public Schools, Count Days in September and February are VERY important to City High/Middle to receive our fair share of state monies.

Please make every effort to have students present when the Count Day COUNTS, be it Thursday 2/11/2010, or in the near future. It will be well publicized which day will be the official Count Day. Stay tuned.

Thanks!
City PTSA


February 05, 2010

Check The Backpacks!

City PTSA directories and membership cards were distributed to students via first hour teachers this week...and SHOULD be finding their way home in their backpacks.

If they didn't voluntarily give them up, please check backpacks and folders. Check the cards for errors and let Ted Bonarski know as soon as possible at tbonarski@comcast.net

We apologize for the lateness of the directory and are working on alternatives for next year.

Thanks much for your patience.

Wayne Glatz
City PTSA President


FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN'T HEARD....

...City's cafeteria will be undergoing a $1 million renovation, starting in May 2010 and continuing over the summer, due to be complete in August! The drawings were presented to City PTSA at our business meeting last week, and the changes are dramatic!! Seating will be increased, the room enlarged and much less 'institutional' looking, 3 new food service lines and a new kitchen, plants and environmentally-freindly lighting, AND an IMAX mini-theatre (...well, maybe not the theatre)...but it is nice!

This is exciting news for our school, and came about through a federal grant obtained by Paul Baumgartner, Nutrition Service Director at GRPS.

So if you have REALLY enjoyed having lunch in the old room, take one last look in May beacuse you won't recognize the place in the fall. We will try to get some artists' renditions put up so you can see what it will be like.


February 04, 2010

Parents, Have You Donated to City's Auction?

Our City Nights, City Lights Auction is Friday, March 26, 2010, and it is the largest school wide fundraiser for the year. We need City parents to help by securing donations or making a donation of your own. Below are some ideas of popular items. Please download the following file and return it to the office by February 26, 2010.
Download file

* Gift certificates for car washes, Blockbuster, local restaurants, stores, etc.
* Are you an artist? Donate some of your artwork.
* Do you knit? You could donate a custom made item, like a scarf, hat or mittens.
* Write a tax deductible check, to help cover expenses of the auction (i.e. postage, marketing supplies, thank you notes).


February 03, 2010

Mulick Park Elementary Fun Night March 18

Looking for kids to organize elementary school-aged kids' activities, everything from face painting (a favorite, of course) balloon art, paper-based crafts, interactive games, etc., March 18th Thursday 5:00pm - 9:00pm. during the
Mulick Park Elementary Fun Night at the Woodland Mall Barnes & Noble.

Bring ideas to the table! And spread the word... a percentage of B&N purchases (including cafe sales) get allocated to Mulick Park Elementary as part of a book fair that day.
Contacts: Sloth I (616) 475-5532 mulickpark@slothwerks.com
and Amy Lyman (616) 443-0333 talyman@comcast.net


February 01, 2010

A Parent's Thoughts On The Arts...

This weekend our high school hosted their annual Variety Show. Like most high school events, there was in attendance people of all ages: students, parents, grandparents, siblings, literally covering the age spectrum from five to seventy five. Friday night opened with a saxophone quartet and I was immediately drawn in, captivated by the piece that these teenagers performed. Three young women sang solos. Two belted out contemporary pop songs, and the other sang and strummed two soulful originals: one that she composed herself and one written by her stepfather. The choir sang as a whole and the boys ventured a song without the accompaniment of the female voices. There was a jazz band,

Continue reading "A Parent's Thoughts On The Arts..." »


A REALLY BIG Thanks...

...to ALL who helped make this year's Variety Show such a success. We won't even try to name everyone,,,there are too many who donated time, efforts, money, and of course, talent to make this show work! THANK YOU!!!

A special shout-out to the marvelous teachers at City who teach, encourage and nurture our kids to have the confidence to stand up and strut their stuff before peers and parents. You are much appreciated.

The Drama, Forensics and Debate Boosters.


January 29, 2010

WOW! City ROCKS the House!!!

For all of you who DIDN'T attend the City Variety show tonight, you missed one of the most awesome displays of pure talent on one stage!

The good news is...you have one more chance. If the Saturday night show is anything like tonight you will NOT want to miss it. So, come on down...7pm , 5 buck or your activity pass, support our kids and prepare to be wowed.

CITY HAS TALENT!!!


COME IN FROM THE COLD-Thursday Night Variety Show WAS A BLAST!

If you missed last night, you STILL have tonight and Saturday night to hear and see some of the most talented kids in West Michigan - City Kids, at the 2010 City High/Middle Variety Show, in the (warm) Multipurpose Room. For 5 bucks (or an activity pass), come see the greatest show on earth...right here, right now...your students! We have an assortment of concessions, courtesy of the school's clubs and organizations, and City Nights, City Lights! Auction tickets will also be on sale. Ever have tapas? We have a sampling of what will be on the menu during Auction March 26. Come join us this wintery weekend!
The show starts at 7p and Friday and Saturday nights are packed....so come early.

See you at the Show!
City High/Middle Drama Boosters


January 23, 2010

City PTSA Business Meeting Date Change

Just a reminder that the City PTSA business meeting has been changed from 1/19 at 6:30p to 1/26 at 6:30p due to the City School Fair and Open House on 1/19.


January 15, 2010

City High/Middle Variety Show Thurs.-Sat. Jan. 28-30

The acts have auditioned..the program is being designed...and the nights are booked. Get ready for the 4th Annual City High/Middle Variety Show, January 28-30. This show features some of the most talented students in the city....YOU!

Tickets are only 5 bucks and student activity passes will be honored. There will also be a wide variety of refreshments available in the lobby before the show and during intermission, provided by City's finest clubs and organizations.

So make it a night (or 3!) out and plan to be at the City High/Middle Variety Show January 28, 29 and 30. All shows start at 7pm.

Come support your school!


December 18, 2009

Directory/Membership Card Update

There have been a number of parents inquiring as to when the directory and the membership cards will be available. Our Membership Chair, Ted Bonarski, has been working hard on this, painstakenly checking and compiling the entries made on the blue membership forms to weed out any errors before the directory goes to press at KISD.
He has caught numerous errors or information not filled in completely, and that has contributed to the delay. That committee will be workiing on ways to streamline the process for next year to avoid long term delays. This year's directory and cards should be out shortly after the Christmas break.

Thanks everyone for your patience and understanding.


2010 City Nights, City Lights Annual City PTSA Auction

The 2010 Annual City PTSA Auction, City Nights, City Lights, has a new date and place - Friday March 26, 2010 at San Chez Tapas Bistro's 3rd floor, downtown on Fulton St .

Come enjoy a night out on the town while supporting City PTSA and our students - mingle with friends, munch on San Chez' delicious hors d'oeuvre and bid on d a wide selection of donations . A cash bar will also be avalable.

Tickets are $20. and will be sold at upcomnig City events or by contacting Sharon Hayward sharonhayward@comcast.net or Wayne Glatz wayneaglatz@comcast.net

Space is limited so be sure to make your reservation or purchase your tickets early. And if anyone has an item or service for donation, please contact Kim Waalkes kim_waalkes@yahoo.com

Thanks for your support of City and the students!

The Auction Committee



Variety Show Auditions January 6 & 7

It's time to ready your act! The first round of auditions for the City High Variety Show was December 16 and Thursday December 17...and we had a good turnout of some really talented students. AND NOW, WE NEED YOU!
A second round of auditions is scheduled for Wednesday January 6 and Thursday January 7.

Auditions are open to all City students, grades 7 - 12, and will be held immediately after school in the multi-purpose room. We welcome any act, singing, dancing, comedy, drama, music, you name it, we'd love to see it. So..get your act together and come join the fun!!

Acts chosen will perform at the Variety Show, January 28 - 30.


December 15, 2009

Just Released--No Teacher Layoffs This School Year

This email just went out from GRPS. You may have seen this announcement on yesterday's news-


Dear GRPS Staff:

As you may have seen or heard in the media, many school districts
throughout the region and the state are making mid-year layoffs due to
state budget cuts.

I am pleased to inform you that GRPS will not be one of them this
school year.

This is due in large part because we have spent the last decade
cutting, consolidating, closing and right-sizing the district's
finances to bring our operations in line with our enrollment. In the
last ten years, we have cut more than $65 million out of the operating
budget, closed or consolidated more than 20 schools and programs, and
cut hundreds of jobs from top to bottom. This school year alone, we have
cut nearly 80 teaching positions; eliminated eight administrative
positions; and implemented a 10% cut in non-salary budgets, among other
cuts and changes.

It is also important to note that with the exception of GRESPA, every
employee group, both union and non-union, are paying more for
health care and/or have made concessions on health care and compensation
this school year which has helped to improve the district's overall
financial status.

These changes and cuts, while extremely difficult, were ultimately
necessary given the fact that our enrollment has declined by more than
7,000 students in the last ten years, state funding has not kept pace
with inflation, and our expenses continued to increase, with health care
costs rising more than 35% in the last five years.

These right sizing efforts were also necessary to prepare us for the
perfect financial storm that we are now facing, a storm that is
projected to grow even worse next year. We knew it was coming. We have
planned for it, prepared for it, and are as ready as we possibly can
be.

While we are able to avoid mid-year lay offs this year, I am taking
some additional measures now to further position us for the significant
financial challenges that lie ahead. Effective immediately, I am
implementing an across the board hiring freeze on all non-essential
positions and five Central office administrative positions that are
currently vacant are eliminated.

Continue reading "Just Released--No Teacher Layoffs This School Year" »


December 11, 2009

City Band Winter Concert WEDNESDAY 12/16 - 7pm

This is one we all look forward to---the City Band Winter Concert Wednesday December 16 @ 7p. Our musicians will be putting out their best for this holiday program.

So bring a friend or 2 and come enjoy the talents of our band, under the direction of Mr. Schroeder. Their toe tappin' music will get you moving and blow away the cold!


City Choir Winter Concert THURSDAY 12/17 - 7pm

Not to be 'upstaged' by the band and orchestra, the City Choir will perform Thursday December 17 at 7pm. Now their voices will really shine in the new bandshell!

So if you don't want to wait till the Variety Show in January to hear them, come to the winter Concert! And if it looks like a really busy week at City....well, it is!! Keep an eye on the weather and the PTSA Google calendar for any cancellations.


City Orchestra Winter Concert TUESDAY 12/15 - 7pm

If this week''s snowfall has gotten you in the holiday spirit, then make a point to attend the City Orchestra Winter Concert TUESDAY December 15 at 7pm. This will be the orchestra's debut using City's portable bandshell, which should greatly improve the acoustics of the gymnasium. A big thanks to CBOP and Mr. Ward for spotting a good deal and moving quickly to obtain the shell.

Maybe we'll even get to hear our talented students play "Sleigh Ride" or "Let It Snow"!!


Textbook returns!!

If your student has any textbooks that they are not using this trimester, please have them return those books to the media center as soon as possible. If textbooks are not returned, students will be billed for them.


December 05, 2009

CIty at Blandford Presents "A Christmas Carol" December 17

The perennial favorite Christmas story, A Christmas Carol, will be performed by this year's Blandford students December 17, 7pm, in the Royce Auditorium of St. Cecilia's Music Society. This is always a must see production!
Many of our students have been in the play, stage crew, chrous or greeters in the past, and the score is performed by members of the City Orchestra under the direction of Mr. Ward.

Afterward, everyone is invited upstairs to a reception in the ballroom with homemade treats provided by Blandford parents.

Ms. Dyke and Mr. Lende and all the parent volunteers go all out to make this show happen....so please come out and support them!


December 03, 2009

GRPS Futures Survey--VERY IMPORTANT FOR CITY STUDENTS!

The following information is from John Helmholdt, Director of Communications and External Affairs at GRPS, regarding a survey GRPS has undertaken to try to prepare for impending budget cuts. It is extremely important that City parents participate in this survey AND to let our voices be heard by speaking out.. The cuts are real, and if we at City intend in having any say in how they affect our students' education, please voice your concerns. Start by submitting the survey, which can be found here.

From John Helmholdt's emal:
The Grand Rapids Board of Education is asking all students, parents, staff, and community members to please take a few minutes to complete the "Futures Survey" which is aimed at gathering input about how to keep the district moving forward with education reforms and improvements while at the same time preparing for the state budget cuts.

Over the last decade, Grand Rapids Public Schools has cut more than $65 million out of the operating budget, closed or consolidated 20+ schools and programs, privatized bussing and substitute teaching services, and cut hundreds of jobs. Despite a decade of right-sizing financial reforms, over the last four years GRPS has experienced remarkable gains in academic achievement. The number of schools meeting state and federal assessment standards have nearly doubled from 26 in 2006 to 45 today - just 10 schools shy of the entire district meeting the standards.

While GRPS has endured through the perfect financial storm, the district is now facing the most severe budget cuts and financial challenges of the decade. This year alone, GRPS is facing a mid-year cut of $292 per pupil ($165 per pupil cut plus a $127 proration cut) - a cost of more than $5.5 million. Next year, the funding short fall is projected to be even worse with per pupil cuts that could range from $250 to $1,000 per pupil or more. A detailed independent analysis of the state's School Aid budget issues that was presented by former State Senator Ken Sikkema at the GRPS Futures Summit on Saturday November 21st is available here.

You are also welcome and encouraged to watch the entire GRPS Futures Summit on-line at www.grps.tv
###

Remember, school funding is being cut statewide. GRPS and every other district is making preparations for this.But how they affect our students at City is up to us. Please take action by filling out the survey, thinking about their effect on our school. Then speak out on behalf of our students.

Thanks much!

Wayne Glatz
City PTSA president, 2009-10


November 20, 2009

NORTH vs. SOUTH

Student parking has been moved to the north parking lot to ease congestion after school. The south lot should be used for vistor parking. GRPS is looking into creating a 'cut-through' between the 2 lots as well. All this is an effort to keep excess cars from having to travel in front of the school during peak times.

Please try and remember to park in the designated areas. Old habits die hard and it will take a while to get used to the changes.

The good news is: unlike downtown, NO parking tickets will be issued to 'violators'

Thanks!


November 17, 2009

Reflections Project - 'Beauty is,,,'

About Reflections 2009-2010 Theme 'Beauty is,,,'

Each year, the PTA Reflections Program challenges students to create art inspired by a specific theme. Themes are selected from hundreds of ideas submitted by students to the PTA Reflections Program Theme Search.
Past themes have included: 'Exploring New Beginnings...', 'If I Could Give the World a Gift...', 'A Different Kind of Hero...', and most recently, 'I Can Make a Difference by...' and 'Wow!'
The 2009-2010 theme is 'Beauty is...'

Continue reading "Reflections Project - 'Beauty is,,,'" »


November 13, 2009

GRPS Futures Conference Next Saturday-Register NOW!

GRPS Futures Conference: Improving Education in a Budget Crisis, Saturday, November 21 from 9am to 2pm at Ottawa Hills High School. Seating capacity is 500 and lunch will be provided, so RSVPs are required by calling 819-2197 or rsvp@grps.k12.mi.us.

Students, parents, staff, and community members are encouraged to take part in this half day conference and brainstorming session about how to chart a new course and re-imagine our public school system in the face of a financial crisis.


November 06, 2009

1st Annual Recycled Art Market - Saturday 11/7 9a-3p at City

Don't miss your chance to shop for unique, innovative, and handmade gifts for the upcoming holidays!
This is a truly remarkable collection of artists who incorporate recycled materials in their work.

Check out http://slothwerks.com/recycled-art/ to view a few of the artists joining us.

Recycle + Reuse = Remarkable Art. Admission is just $1 per person.

Teri O'Driscoll has been working hard to make this unique event happen and is looking for volunteers to help set up Friday and staff it Saturday. The Seniors will have coffee and delicious snacks available too. For more info, email grcityptsa@gmail.com

Tell your family and friends to come and enjoy unhurried browsing during the 1st Annual Recycled Art Market and support City students!

We Recycle Everything.....Even This Post!



November 04, 2009

NON-HOMESTEAD MILLAGE RENEWAL PASSES!

An operating millage renewal on non-homestead property easily passed in the city of Grand Rapids Tuesday night. The renewal passed 67-33%.

The millage provides crucial funding for the school district. Thanks to everyone for supporting this necessary millage renewal. Without it, GRPS would have faced $29,000,000. in funding loss in addition to the amount now being cut by the state.


October 30, 2009

2nd CITY SWEATSHIRT PICKUP--MONDAY 11/2 11a-1p

Students can pick up the sweatshirts ordered at registration on Monday 11/2 from 11a-1p in front of the cafeteria. Please make every effort to pick them up Monday as they will have to be picked up at my house after that. These sweatshirts are really warm and very durable.

Thanks for your order!
Wayne Glatz
City PTSA president, 2009-10


October 27, 2009

No school Tuesday, Nov. 3--GRPS Professional Development Day

No school for students on Tuesday, November 3. All GRPS staff will be attending Professional Development meetings. Great day for students to go on a college visit, catch up on homework, or relax for the day.


October 23, 2009

Crosswalk Markings Make Mysterious Appearance!!

GRPS Facilities recently repainted the crosswalk markings between the main entrance and the grassy area on the west side of the front drive. In addition, they will be placing new signs to remind drivers to drive carefully and watch for people crossing to the parking lot.

Other changes to come include moving student parking to the north lot and the visitors/overflow to the south lot. This also will be marked in an effort to alleviate traffic congestion, especially after school.

We'll keep you posted when those changes will go into effect.


SWEATSHIRTS ARE IN...and so is cooler weather!

The emproidered and personalized City sweatshirts are here and will be available for pickup during middle school and high school lunch hours Monday 10/26. If you purchased a sweatshirt, please have your student pick it up at this time.
Thanks for your patience as these take considerably more time to produce due to the custom logo embroidery and the name placement on the back. They are warm and they look great!

Wayne Glatz
City PTSA president


THIS EVENT WILL BE A SELLOUT!!

How about...well attended!

The City Middle and High School orchestras will present a Fall Concert October 28, 7p in the gymnasium. You have probably caught a few bars if you've visited school lately. Come see and hear what our talented musicians have been rehearsing for their first performance of the school year.
And since the event itself is free, why not buy a DVD of the performance? Or support CBOP or Senior Grad night?

And as always...thank you for your support.


October 16, 2009

2 Department Stores Aid CBOP Fundraising

City Band and Orchestra Parents (CBOP) is still selling YOUNKERS coupon books for $5. CBOP keeps the entire $5, and the buyer gets a coupon for $10 off the purchase of $10 or more, plus several bonus coupons. Coupons are good for Saturday, November 14, but Younkers will allow people to pre-buy items starting November 1 (lots of people have said they'd be out of town on 11/14). So - all the savings, none of the lines & crowds. We need students (and parents) to help sell coupon books in store (see attached flyer). Students get Community Service Hours for helping at Younkers. Students do not have to be a part of Band or Orchestra to participate. (If you come help, dress nice & no blue jeans!)

Also, CBOP would like to thank Kohl's Department Store. They are signed up to come help with the Fall Orchestra Concert October 28 at 7p.. Every time they help, they make a $500 donation to our program!


City Students' Applications for GRCF Grants a Record

We have a new school-wide record for grants submitted!

22 student-authored grants were hand delivered this Tuesday to the Grand Rapids Community Foundation by City PTSA's Grants Chair Marissa Gonzalez, who organized the project.

These mini-grants of up to 500. each are awarded by GRCF for classroom needs. In addition to the student mini-grants, GRCF also awards:

*INDIVIDUAL CLASSROOM TEACHER GRANTS OF UP TO $1,000 for individual or classroom
projects.
*TEAM OR DEPARTMENTAL GRANTS OF UP TO $2,000 for team or departmental projects that show
evidence of cooperative planning and teaching.
*BUILDING GRANTS OF UP TO $5,000 for building projects that will benefit the entire building.
*CROSS-SCHOOL DISTRICT GRANTS OF UP TO $10,000 for new projects that promote collaboration
and serve students in both the public and private school setting.

Mr. Hovenkamp reviewed the student grants and said that many were very well written.

Additionally, John Tindall authored a Teacher Grant for $1500 for his Broadcasting & Journalism class.

We can expect to hear back around Thanksgiving as to which grants will be funded. Congratulations and many thanks to all who participated and we look forward to seeing the results!!


October 01, 2009

PTSA Directories Might Be Ready By Thursday Conferences

Ted Bonarski, PTSA Membership chair, has been working hard to try and have the directories ready by the Thursday conferences. All the data entry will be finished Saturday with the KISD print shop doing the printing and stapling early next week.

Since we moved to trimesters conferences have moved forward 4-6 weeks and that puts a strain on Ted since we take new memberships up to the Annual Potluck.

Thanks to Ted and his committee members for putting it all together.


September 29, 2009

COUNT DAY IS TOMORROW SEPTEMBER 30th!!!

"nuf said!

Be in school tomorrow! The September count represents 75% of the per pupil amount we receive from the state. The other 25% comes after the February count.

The legislature is about to take $218. from GRPS (yes, that includes City) per student. DON'T LET THEM TAKE MORE!!!

See you in school tomorrow.

Thanks!

Wayne Glatz
City PTSA president 2009-10


September 18, 2009

Grab One Before The Music Stops...

a CHAIRpersonship, that is! We have filled most of the City PTSA Committee Chair positions for this year and committees are being formed BUT, there are still a few key chairs left. There are 2 open vice president slots on the Executive Committee, the Nominating chair, the chair of the Communications Committee and the chair of the newly formed Transportation Committee. The Fundraising Committee is in dire need of a chair and it seems that this is the toughest one to fill. I have received numerous great fundraising ideas, but they really need a chairperson to coordinate all of them and to get a committee in place. No surprise that we (City PTSA) are getting asked to help financially in more and more areas..hence the importance of getting this one going.

Continue reading "Grab One Before The Music Stops..." »


NEW!! Sports Boosters Group Forming @ City

Michele Lussky, a City Middle parent is looking to start a Soprts Boosters Club at City. She has volunteered to organize this group for the support of our organized sports teams. Anyone interested in joining this effort, please email Michele at devoelussky@yahoo.com. She will also have an information table at the City PTSA Annual Potluck this Thursday...so stop and say hello and get on board to help.


September 16, 2009

1st Annual Recycled Art Show--Save the Date!

SAVE THE DATE:
1st Annual Recycled Art Show
Saturday November 7th 2009
9a-3pm
GR City High/Middle School

Plan to join us for the first art show in
this area to feature artists who incorporate
any kind of recycled material in their art...
All artists will be selling their work.

Think of it as a Recycled Artists Market...
It will be a great opportunity to find some unique
handmade gifts!

***If you are a City student or parent who is
interested in participating in this fun event
, contact
City parent Teri O'Driscoll at teriodriscoll@gmail.com for more information.


September 10, 2009

First PTSA Business Meeting is September 15 @ 6:30p

The first City PTSA Business Meeting of the school year will be Tuesday September 15, 2009 at 6;30p in the City High/Middle Media Center. All PTSA executive staff, committee chairs and co-chairs, representative(s) from the affiliated programs (CBOP, Drama/Forensics/Dabate and Senior Grad Night) are invited to attend. We will be discussing the overall structure of City PTSA for the year as well as committee budgets. An agenda will be emailed shortly.

Continue reading "First PTSA Business Meeting is September 15 @ 6:30p" »


September 01, 2009

DRAMA BOOSTERS DEBUT MEETING FOR 2009-10

Mark your calendars for Thursday, September 17, 7 - 8pm at City High for our first Drama Boosters meeting. At this meeting we will be discussing and deciding on our Drama productions for the year including "As You Like It," our fall play production, as well as the possibility of a spring musical.

Please try your best to make this meeting, especially if you have interest and/or opinions regarding either of these productions!

If you can't make the meeting, but have any questions or comments about either the Fall Play or the discussion on a spring musical, please feel free to email me your questions, comments, or concerns so that I can address them at the meeting.

Ann Kuipers, Booster Chair akuipers@telereports.com


August 28, 2009

CITY PTSA WELCOMES YOU!!

Welcome to City High/Middle School! And, I am especially pleased to welcome the hundreds of you who have signed up to receive an ongoing stream of information we call the Pegasus Pulse. The Pulse is a weekly e-mailer from City HM PTSA and it is the favorite way for City families and friends to keep in touch. By routinely browsing the various entries and following your interests through our PTSA web site (www.cityptsa.com), you can remain actively involved in our school.

The Pegasus Pulse is just one of the many ways that City H/M PTSA works to improve your experience at City.

Continue reading "CITY PTSA WELCOMES YOU!!" »


IT'S NEVER TOO EARLY...

Parents of Seniors: The Senior All Night Party planning committee is forming and wants to extend an invitation to all who wish to help make graduation night an evening our seniors will never forget.

Please join us on Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2009, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at City High school, (location in school to be announced). Come and see how you can lend your talents to this grand endeavor.

Phone or e-mail Alice Christensen at 245-3456, thegr3@sbcglobal.net or Annette Witte at 458-6198 jawitte5@ameritech.net for any questions.

We hope to see you there.


COURTYARD ALERT!

The PTSA Building and Grounds Committee is looking for volunteers (parents, students, and staff) to assist in the further transformation of the school courtyards. A $5000 Lowes Toolbox for Schools grant will pay for materials, but we need YOU to make it happen! Please contact Elise Tripp at 735-3841 or elisetripp@yahoo.com to express your interest in participating in this exciting project this fall. Specifically, we need the following assistance:

Continue reading "COURTYARD ALERT!" »


WELCOME BACK POTLUCK & OPEN HOUSE 9/24/09

Renew friendships and welcome newcomers. Siblings are welcome! Enjoy delicious food, tour the building, visit classrooms and meet teachers. Thursday, September 24 from 5:30-6:45pm. Open House immediately follows potluck.

Bring a dish to pass to serve 8-10. Plates, cups, silverware, and beverages provided.
Any questions, contact Nikki Steed at 780-8627.

This is City's biggest social event of the fall so don't miss out!!!
Thanks and see you there.


VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR WELCOME BACK POTLUCK 9/24/09

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR WELCOME BACK POTLUCK & OPEN HOUSE!! 9/24/09

-Can you donate a couple bags of ice??
-Can you loan an ice cooler for the night??
-Can you help with decorations and set up??
-Can you help clean up and put away supplies afterwards??

Please call Nikki Steed at 780-8627


June 04, 2009

CITY HIGH SCRIP PROGRAM IMPORTANT SUMMER NEWS

Hi Scrip Users,

First of all, I would like to thank you on behalf of CBOP, Forensics and the PTSA General Fund for using the scrip program this year. I cannot speak for the other groups, but I know that the music program was kept alive through the monies raised by scrip this year. All music and instrument supplies, festival registration fees, transportation costs, and awards were purchased by our parent group this year to help to keep the City High instrumental music program the finest in GRPS!
Secondly, I'd like to thank Rose DeBie-Bowman for her faithful service in administrating the Scrip program this past year.

Continue reading "CITY HIGH SCRIP PROGRAM IMPORTANT SUMMER NEWS" »


June 01, 2009

EXAM SNACK SHORTAGE

We are short on exam snacks for finals this week, probably due to the addition of the third trimester. If you are able to donate any snacks like granola bars, cheese and crackers, bottled water or other single serving snacks, please contact Deena Cook (453-5251) right away. Please help our students to end this transition year strong!

Thanks for your help.


May 02, 2009

Congratulations to Academic Games Teams!

The Senior team made up of the following City students won the National Championship in the Equations and LinguiSHTIK games:

Terrence Carrothers
David Casaletto
Michael Myckowiak
Kierstdea Furey
Theodore Petzold

This team also received a national fourth place in Sweepstakes, which is an award based on the best all around gaming team.

Kierstdea, Theodore, and Michael had perfect scores in LinguiSHTIK.
Theodore and Kierstdea had perfect scores in Equations.
Michael received 7th place in Sweeps and Theodore received 10th in Sweeps.

The Junior team made up of the following City students:

Tatiana Dixon
Alison Robinson
Nick Music

Earned third place in the nation in Equations.

Nick Music earned a perfect score in Equations and individually placed third in the nation in Equations.

Thanks for all of your support.

Crystal Petzold
Academic Game Sponsor


April 30, 2009

Congratulations to 2009-2010 PTSA Officers!

Our City H/M PTSA held its annual election last Tuesday to seat new officers for the 2009-2010 School Year. We would like to congratulate and extend a sincere "thanks for serving" to our new officers. They are:

President - Wayne Glatz
Vice Pres - Mary Verduin
Vice Pres - Gayle Schaub
Secretary - Lisa Glatz
Treasurer - JaneAnn Benson

Due to graduating seniors and term expirations, there will be only one incumbent, Lisa Glatz, returning as a PTSA officer. We are urging all our City parents and families to continue their long-standing and impressive history of volunteering and hard work for the many committees, programs and events of City High/Middle PTSA.

I would also like to personally thank outgoing officers Kate McCrindle, Susan Brown and Nick Duesbery for all the hard work and dedication to advancing the quality of life and education at City High/Middle School! Well Done!!

The transfer of leadership will occur at the close of our May meeting, scheduled for the 26th, 6:30 pm at the City H/M Media Center.

Andy Bowman, President City H/M PTSA


March 02, 2009

ATTENTION CITY PARENTS - PTSA AUCTION IS LESS THAN 2 WEEKS AWAY!!

Doors open at 5:00 for the silent auction--live auction begins at 6:00.

Here are just a few of the great items available.

Saugatuck Weekend - A two night stay at the House of Seven Gables on 'The Hill'. Beautiful historic home on a hill above the quaint town of Saugatuck. Built in 1868, the home has been beautifully updated. Full bath on first floor. Living room, study, and screened porch. Four bedrooms and full bath on the second floor. Quiet, peaceful location with enough space for your family and friends. Sleeps 12. Easy walk to historic downtown Saugatuck. Can be used Labor Day through Memorial Day. (Hot tub not available January - April). Donated by Jane Stuber, aunt of City's Elliot Zinderman. Value: $600

HAG Capisco Office Chair - HAG is a high end Scandinavian furniture maker. izzydesign in Spring Lake distributes HAG furniture in the U.S. Ride in comfort and style in The Saddle Chair! HAG Capisco began with the dynamic seating posture of the horse rider. No one sits as actively as a rider in the saddle. HAG Capisco has recreated this ideal seating position for active work. You can feel the dynamics when you sit down. Variation is key to ergonomics, which is at the heart of HAG Capisco. Start at a low-seated position with this saddle inspired chair, then adjust it to a half-standing height to refresh a body weary of sitting! HAG Capisco was awarded "the classic award for design excellence" by the Norwegian Design Council in 2001. Donated by izzydesign and its CEO, Chuck Saylor.
Value: $1,000

Pace Car Ride Package - Three tickets to a race and a ride around the track in the Berlin Raceway Official Pace Car. Must be 14 years of age or older.

Come join the fun - bid often and bid high - it's all for our kids!


February 27, 2009

Confessions Of A Card Reload Junkie

by Dave Burgess

It all started with a simple cup of coffee.
Every morning on my way to work, I pull into the Starbucks drive throug h and order the same thing: a Grande brewed black coffee. That will be a buck eighty-six, please pull ahead to the window
.
I like to think I'm like most scrip users. I try to do as much of my regular shopping as possible with scrip. But sometimes, I haven't planned ahead like I should, and I would still buy that Starbucks Grande brewed black whether I had my Starbucks scrip or not.
But now, I never run out of Starbucks scrip, because I'm a reload junkie. Once I tried reloading my Starbucks card, I became hooked, and I bet you will too.
Like many scrip users, I just didn't think reloading a gift card was worth the effort. I mean, ShopWithScrip.com makes ordering easy. Why bother going to the fuss of registering a card when I can just buy a new one?
Here's why:

It's convenient. Before, I thought it was a hassle to register a Starbucks gift card. Wrong. It takes seconds. And ShopWithScrip.com lets me register and name more than one card, so I can reload my card, my wife's card, or both. And once it's registered, I can reload it again and again without re-typing the card number.
Did I say it's convenient? I keep the Starbucks card in my car cup holder. I know I can always get my morning Starbucks fix whether I have cash on me or not. And since I'm often running late, I appreciate not making
unnecessary ATM stops.

It's easy for my scrip coordinator. ShopWithScrip.com takes my order, collects my money (because I use PrestoPay), and reports the sale to my scrip coordinator. So she helps my son's school raise money without lifting a finger. She likes that.

I never miss out on a scrip rebate. Before, I would buy my Grande brewed black every morning whether I had scrip or not. Now, I always have scrip because I reload $50 on my Starbucks card every couple of weeks. I just keep an eye on the remaining gift card balance, which is posted on every Starbucks receipt. When it gets below $10, I reload another $50, and every single Starbucks purchase helps my son's school.

It's earth friendly. I''m not exactly a tree hugger, but reloading cards really makes sense. Starbucks doesn't have to make me another gift card. I don't have to throw another perfectly good card into a landfill. And FedEx will burn a little less jet fuel for each gift card they don't have to deliver to my scrip program.

It's healthy and good for you . Well, this may be stretching it a bit, but now that I'm doing Weight Watchers, I'm hooked on Starbucks hot oatmeal with dried fruit (3 points). I get one most mornings with my trusty reloadable Starbucks card.

My reload obsession doesn't stop at Starbucks. My daughter is going to grad school in another town 200 miles away, and she knows she can always get her prescriptions filled at CVS, or her gas tank filled at Mobil, because Dad keeps those cards reloaded.

So being a reload junkie isn't a bad thing, it's a good thing. And ShopWithScrip card reloads keep me going. Isn't it time you gave it a try?

Tell your families about ShopWithScrip.com and reloading gift cards with our free promotional tools at glscrip.com
(login required).


February 21, 2009

SAVE THE DATE....AND DON'T BE LATE!!!

City Nights...City Lights...City Auction March 14, 2009.

Our PTSA's biggest annual fundraising event!
Proceeds go toward materials and programs for our City students.

Ask you families and 'auction loving' friends if they can help with a donation AND invite them to a fun filled evening.........silent auction, live auction, entertainment, refreshments, carnival games and more!

Donations can be sent with your student and dropped in the school office. Provide the donor name and phone number. We want to recognize everyone in our auction program. Donations are tax deductible.

If you've never been to an auction and have questions we'll tell you how it works -
it's easy and fun! Questions about the auction or donating? Call Julie at 453-9324

Doors open at 5:00 p.m. $5 for adults and $3 for students.



February 13, 2009

Auction Donation 'TIP OF THE WEEK'

Donation Auction Tip of the Week

City Nights...City Lights...City Auction...March 14, 2009

What is your talent or passion?

You have great talents that could bring others pleasure and help raise money for our PTSA.

Are you a talented baker? How about donating a 'Pie -A-Month' certificate!

Are you great cook? Donate lessons to teach someone else to make baklava, egg rolls or sushi or whatever your specialty.

Are you fluent in Italian, French or another language? How about lessons or tutoring?

Do you play an instrument? Could you sing at a wedding? Give dance lessons?

Wonderful talents can be shared and put out to bid! Let us know and we'll create a gift certificate to start the bidding. Contact ekerr@steelcase.com

And don't feel badly if you don't think you have a talent to donate. Just be sure to come and see who has donated and bid like there's no tomorrow!


City Nights...City Lights...City Auction March 14, 2009

Next time you are out to eat
Or at the parlor beautifying your feet
Or filling up at the local gas station
Please ask for a gift certificate donation!

This is City's biggest "fun"raiser and we need your support!
The auction proceeds help to purchase materials and fund programs for our City students.

Tickets are available at the door
$5 adults/ $3 students....
Refreshments included!

Check out the ONLINE CATALOG for updates on donations, make your list and be ready to bid!
Ask you families and ‘auction loving’ friends if they can help with a donation AND invite them to the auction.

Donations can be sent with your student and dropped in the school office. Provide the donor name and phone number. We want to recognize everyone in our auction program. Donations are tax deductible.

If you have never been to an auction and have questions we'll tell you how it works -
it's easy and fun!! Questions about the auction or donating? Call Julie at 453-9324.


February 05, 2009

City Nights....City Lights...City Auction March 14, 2009

Calling all parents to help support the PTSA's annual fundraiser....to make this the biggest and best event ever - we need your help!!

You've never worked on an auction? You're not sure how you can help? You don't have much time...no problem!
It's easy.....anywhere and everywhere you go is a donor opportunity.

First print a few of the donation letters http://www.cityptsa.com/PDFS/Business_Donor_Form_2008-09.pdf and keep them handy.

Then when you frequent local businesses, just ask if they'd be able to donate - a gift card or a product or service and give them a copy of the letter as a receipt.

Drop the donation at the school office.

Then the really fun part....
Invite your friends and family to come to the auction and join the bidding action at the silent auction tables and the live auction, enjoy the carnival games, tasty refreshments and entertainment.

Everything is set, all we need is you!


January 29, 2009

Got Milk (Money)?

The Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year Contest is going on now through March 6th. High school students in good standing who participates in a high school sport or club sport can enter. Winners receive a $7,500 scholarship for college.
http://www.sammy.bodybymilk.com/index.php


American Academy of Dermatology's Shade Structure Program awards grants of $8,000 to purchase permanent shade structures to protect from UV rays in outdoor areas where children are present. Applications are due in March. Applications must be sponsored by an Academy member dermatologist. http://www.aad.org/public/sun/grants.html


Heinz Ketchup Creativity Contest 2008-2009
Deadline: February 28, 2009
Heinz invites schools nationwide to help students make an impact in the world of art by participating in the 2009 Heinz Ketchup Creativity Contest. This artistic and educational program allows students to put their love of ketchup and creativity to the test for a chance to have their art printed on nearly 19.5 million Heinz ketchup packets. The winners also will receive $1,000, and schools will receive a $1,000 award for art supplies, $1,000 worth of ketchup, and the winner*s art framed for display.
http://www.ketchupcreativity.com/about.aspx


December 17, 2008

PTSA Payment and Deposit Vouchers now available!

Check out the "Fundraising" section of this website. On the right-hand side you will see General PTSA Forms, and beneath that, you should find Reimbursement Voucher and Deposit Voucher listings. Just click either of those and fill out the form as directed. If you need to know what part of the PTSA budget your item is related to, click the Current PTSA Budget listed there as well. Be sure to include receipts, invoices, etc., as directed by the forms. This will take the burden of chasing down this information from our Treasurer and ensure a faster turn around for reimbursements. If you have further questions on the forms or PTSA financial information, please contact our treasurer, Nick Duesbery, at cityptsatreasurer@mac.com. Thanks for making PTSA work for everyone!


December 04, 2008

NHS/JNHS DUES ARE DUE

National Honor Society and Junior National Honor Society dues of $5 are due by December 1, 2008. Please place your dues in an envelope, label it with your grade and name and place it in the wooden National Honor Society box by the community service boxes.


November 29, 2008

Family Fare Cash For Class

The Family Fare Cash for Class is this week -- 11/30/2008-12/5/2008.

City High/Middle will receive 2.5% of all purchases at Family Fare November 30 to December 5. Just make your purchases and tell the cashier (or enter on keypad) Our school code is: 87993 So stock up this week and send 2.5% of your purchases City's way!

Thanks! The Fundraising Committee


November 19, 2008

1st Trimester Exam Schedule

Exam Schedule:
Friday, November 21st
Exams 1, 2, 3
Dismissal time 11:05

Monday, November 24th
Exams 4, 5
Dismissal time 9:50

Tuesday, November 25
Full day of school

The GRPS busses will transport the students according to these dismissal times.


November 07, 2008

GREENbacks Potential---GO FOR IT!!!

INSPIRE your middle and high school students to be leaders in the Green Schools movement--and your school could win a state-of-the-art computer lab!

The "Green Light Contest" essay competition, sponsored by PC Mall Gov, in partnership with HP, InFocus and T.H.E. Journal, is seeking entries from students in two categories: grades 5 - 8 and 9 - 12.

In essays of 1,000 words or less students are asked to describe how they and their teachers can utilize technology to protect the environment, with the grand-prize-winning composition being awarded a 30-seat "green" computer lab for the author's school. Two additional first place winners (one from each grade-level category) will each receive a "green" laptop. Winning essays will be published in T.H.E. Journal and winners will be recognized at FETC, January 21 - 24, in Orlando, FL.

***APPLICATION DEADLINE is December 1, 2008. Winners will be announced at FETC, January 21 - 24, 2009, and notified by mail no later than January 31, 2009.

***Complete essay and submission criteria are available online here.


October 31, 2008

City High Debate Skunks Competition

On Wednesday, October 29th, City High's Policy Debate team won all four rounds at the first Metro League Debate tournament of the Debate season. It was held at 4:P.M.until 7:30 at Forest Hills Central and involved schools from Kent and Ionia County. We are debating next Wednesday at the same venue!!l

Congratulations to the City High Debate team and their coach JoeAnne Peterson. Keep up the winning season!


October 17, 2008

Family Fare Cash for Class This Week! Oct. 19-25

City High/Middle will receive 2.5% of all purchases at Family Fare October 19-25. Just make your purchases and tell the cashier (or enter on keypad) Our school code is: 87993 So stock up this week and send 2.5% of your purchases City's way!

Thanks! The Fundraising Committee


SCRIP BLIPS! Check 'em out....

Cabela's 3% Bonus
Cabela's® and Great Lakes Scrip Center are pleased to offer a 3% bonus contribution from Saturday October 25, 2008 through Friday, November 28, 2008. That means Cabela's gift cards will have a 14% contribution instead of the normal 11% contribution during that time period only.

L.L.Bean 2% Bonus Offer Begins October 25
Great Lakes Scrip Center and L.L.Bean are pleased to offer our customers a special 2% bonus offer on L.L.Bean gift card purchases from Saturday, October 25, 2008 through Friday, December 12, 2008. That means our customers can purchase L.L.Bean $25 and $100 gift cards with a 17% contribution instead of the normal 15% contribution.

REI Joins GLSC Retailer List
REI gift cards are now available in $25 denominations with an 8% contribution. The REI card can be redeemed for merchandise at any REI store, REI.com, REI-OUTLET.com, or on REI catalog purchases.
At REI, they love to get outside and play, and know first-hand the importance of quality outdoor gear. They stand behind all of their products with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and they design their own line of award-winning REI brand gear and clothing.


Grant Writing 101 (How to Get Free Money!)

Learn more about grant writing and how to put together a solid proposal by registering for a Grant Writing 101 workshop on Saturday, November 15th at Kent Intermediate School District on the East Beltline & Knapp.
This informative workshop will run from 9 a.m. to 12 noon and is a great beginners session for teachers, parent volunteers, high school students, or anyone else who wants to learn the basics of grant writing. To register or get more information, e-mail Angela Morris at angelamorris@kentisd.org


October 13, 2008

National Honor Society and Junior National Honor Society Dues

National Honor Society and Junior National Honor Society dues of $5 are due by December 1, 2008. Please place your dues in an envelope, label it with your grade and name and place it in the wooden National Honor Society box by the community service boxes. Dues are a requirement of being a member of the NHS/JNHS. Any questions please contact Mr. Lewandoski or Mrs. Potyraj.


October 09, 2008

Reminder Parents

As you know, City High/Middle is promoted as being a rigorous academic program for gifted and highly motivated students. Our goal is to produce honest, innovative and caring graduates that will be leaders in their respective fields for future generations.
In order to reach such lofty objectives we must be in the everyday business of stretching our students. We not only want to expand their knowledge and skill base, we must develop their ability to think critically and to organize their thoughts into logical sequences that can be communicated clearly in both verbal and written form. With each succeeding year we want our students to be able to handle a little more responsibility. This growth, while incremental, is sometimes uncomfortable for students. Nonetheless, we want each student to be striving for the next level of maturity and competence whether they are an incoming 7th grader or a soon-to-be graduate.

Continue reading "Reminder Parents" »


Slip-cover and Beanbags needed

The WORKZONE, the afterschool study program, is in need of gently used beanbags and a sofa slip-cover in good condition. Contact: Jo Anne Miller@819-3942


October 07, 2008

IMPORTANT NOTICE: IF YOU MISSED THE PULSE

Greetings, all. If you didn't receive your Pegasus Pulse email roundup this week or last, it is because some servers (eg. comcast) have implemented new anti-spam measures that arbitrarily and completely block some types of mass/branded email under certain conditions. Given this trend, while we will continue to send an abbreviated Pulse roundup each week, will will reduce the number of linkbacks and instead give people a short list of headlines this week with a link back to THIS MESSAGE center. We've taken other measures in an effort to ensure the emailer will be received, but please note that ALL THE CONTENT OF THE PULSE is right here in this message center.

To make sure you haven't missed any important announcements, we've lifted the 7-day cap and instead will show 31 days in the scroll window, with the most recent posts at the top. Please note that upcoming events may have been posted much earlier. Other month's messages can be viewed by selecting the Monthly Archive links in the right column.
So scroll down to see what you've missed!


September 29, 2008

Dicks Sporting Goods' SCRIP INCENTIVE

From now until mid December, if you order $50 worth of Dicks Sporting Goods SCRIP, you will get 3 bonus coupons good for additional savings on apparel & athletic footwear. If you are already planning on purchasing sporting goods items for team sports, weekend fun, or holiday gifts...consider supporting City programs and saving money! Download a SCRIP form HERE.
Thanks from the Fundraising Committee


STUDENTS - GET UP TO $500 FOR YOUR GROUP, CLUB, PROJECT

Grand Rapids Community Foundation will give out thousands of dollars to GRPS high schools this winter.

Will one of the checks be for you?

A simple 2 page application could get you $500 for Band, Orchestra, Drama, Forensics, Debate, the Senior All-Night Party, Environmental Club, or the project or club of your choice! You complete a 2 page application, get Mr. Hovenkamp's signature on the back of the app, mail it in, and you can get a grant. Sound too good to be true?
City student Christina Le got money last year for her application. Click HERE for an application.
If you get stuck, please e-mail Marissa Gonzalez at marissa.gonzalez@sbcglobal.net or call Marissa at 534-3190 before 9 PM.

Thanks and good luck from the Fundraising Committee


SUPPORT BAND & ORCHESTRA - FUNDRAISER WITH 100% PROFIT!

Band & Orchestra students,parents and familty members...please help fund our fabulous instrumental music program! We are selling Younkers Community Day coupon books & the best part is we get to keep 100% of the profit! Coupon books are just $5, and contain a coupon for $10 off your purchase of $10 or more on Saturday, November 15, 2008. Younkers stores will have extended shopping hours, Bonus Buy sale items, and super sale items throughout the store. Coupon books also contain 8 bonus coupons for 20% off in select departments throughout the store. Even if you only use the $10 coupon, you already save more than you spent, and you help Band & Orchestra! Want to help City even more? Order Younkers gift cards through our SCRIP Program to give an additional donation to our school! Go to Everyone who sells 5 or more Younkers Coupon Books will be put into a drawing to win a $25 Speedway gift card. Download a SCRIP form HERE Everyone who sells 5 or more Younkers Coupon Books will be put into a drawing to win a $25 Speedway gift card. Contact Marissa Gonzalez at marissa.gonzalez@sbcglobal.net or 534-3190 to buy coupon books, or sign out several to sell to friends & neighbors!

Thanks much from the Fundrasiing Committee


September 12, 2008

$500. for FIshwrap?

Obama quips about wrapping old fish in newspaper....but at City, we recycle it in our PaperGator and collect a cool $500.+ since we had the bin installed in the back of the school by the bus pickup.

Almost all types of papers are acceptable-NO CARDBOARD PLEASE!

Bring all of your papers, shredded or unshredded, to help support City programs and be economicologically correct!

Thanks!

The Fundraising Committee


Sweatshirts @ City Fall Welcome Potluck Thursday 9/18

You don't need 'em today...or even next week...but you will!
Those great , warm City hoodie sweatshirts will be on sale Thrusday at the Fall Potluck. Embroidered with the City High/Middle Logo, we have a limited number of mediums and larges on hand for instant gratification. OR,we will take orders for delivery in October. Either way, you can have you name placed on the back for $5. extra. Our vendor says he will do the customization in 1 large batch only, so pick up or order yours Thursday. They are $25 for s/m/l and $30 for XL.

The Fundraising Committee


Drama & Forensics Fundraising Underway!

Drama/Forensics includes following 3 programs: Policy Debate,
Legislative Debate and Forensics
. We need your help in raising money
to support these great programs. The total cost for all three
programs for the 2007-'08 school year was $9000. That is why we need
to start fund raising now.

The three fundraisers we have for this year are:

1. The SCRIP program. This is a *very easy* program in which to
participate- sign up on-line today! You buy gift cards that you then
use at gas stations, restaurants, grocery stores, etc. Parents buy
these gift cards and designate "Drama/Forensics" on their order form.
You spend the same amount of money you would normally spend, but the
Drama/Forensics program gets 2% - 20% of the purchase price in its
coffers.

2. World's Finest Chocolate. We have permission to sell World's
Finest Chocolate Bars during High School lunch for the 1st Trimester.
Our goal is to have two students selling at every school lunch.
Please, encourage your student to sign up to help sell these great candy bars?
Parents you can sell candy bars at your workplace. You buy the box for
$50.00 up front and keep the money you get from selling the candy bars.

3. Entertainment '09 book. We need volunteer students and parents to
sell these books for $20.00 each. You can also sell to friends and relatives
in other states by email and they will get books for their area. We will be
selling from September 15 to 29.

If you have the time to help with fundraising, please call Diann Hay
616-454-0768 after 6:00 pm or email gdjshay@sbcglobal.net. The more
people that volunteer, the less each of us has to do. You can devote
just a small portion of your time, if that is all you have, and we
would still very much appreciate it. Thank you!

Drama & Forensiics Fundraising Committee


September 06, 2008

Fundraising @ City--We need your help

Welcome to new and returning City students and parents from the Fundraising committee co-chairs, Wayne Glatz and Marissa Gonzalez. We have several fundraising programs that we hope you will participate in to help fund numerous clubs, teacher 'wish lists' and other needs over the next year. Our biggest event is the City Lights, City Nights Auction held in March. Chaired by Rose DeBie-Bowman, it raises the bulk of the PTSA budget and offers many volunteer opportunities. Other fundraisiers include the Scrip program,(purchases can be designated to the general PTSA fund, CBOP and Drama/Forensics), our PaperGator recycling bin (located BEHIND the school near the bus pickup) Boxtops for Education, Campbells soup labels, sweatshirt sales and numerous other clothing, flower and snack sales throughout the year.

Rising costs and decreased resources make it more important than ever that you support your school in any way you can. Our committee is always looking for new volunteers and new ideas to help support City. Contact Wayne at wayneaglatz@comcast.net or Marissa at marissa.gonzalez@sbcglobal.net.

Have a great year at City!

The Fundraising Committee


May 08, 2008

ipods taken

Two parents would like to let other parents know that their student's ipods were stolen during gym class at school. Please students, be aware that theft can happen anywhere and to keep your things in your possession. Don't carry extra money to school, only take what you need.


May 02, 2008

Got Gas? Use Your Tax Incentive Check To Help City

Whatever your plans for your tax incentive money are...you can help City High Middle by purchasing scrip and having a percentage return to City PTSA.

Whether it's a night out, some new clothes, a weekend getaway, or gas for the car...there is a wide variety of merchants who particpate in the scrip program......rebating money to City AT NO COST TO YOU!!! Check out http://glscrip.com or download the following form for ordering.
We also have scrip on hand. See Teri Foley for details

Now that's a great way to make those dollars go further.

Support CBOB, Drama/Forensics or the PTSA General Fund by using ths form http://www.cityptsa.com/PDFS/ScripForm.pdf

Thanks...from the City PTSA Fundraising Committee.


March 24, 2008

Spring Cleaning & PaperGator

Now that the weather has got you in the mood to go out and wash all your windows, don't forget to clean out all those piles of papers in the garage and basement.

On your next trip to City, take a small detour and drop them in the PaperGator bin at the back of the school. It's a little out of your way, but you will get to see part of the school you probably never have. (An adventure!) They will be recycled into all sorts of useful products and City gets cash to boot.

So... think Economico-logically and feed the 'Gator.

Thanks!
CityPTSA


March 20, 2008

WHY ARE THEY CHANGING CITY HIGH/MIDDLE??


From Ted Bonarski, PTSA Vice-President 2007-08

Declining enrollment in the GRPS district has been a problem for years. The only helpful response to this fact is to improve the education GRPS delivers to our kids, and to get the word out about the improvements so that our reputation reverses and begins to ATTRACT new families!

But why change City? Since its inception in 1974, the City program has sought to go "beyond the school walls" to provide a broader experience for "highly motivated and academically talented" students. The humanities curriculum that our teachers created and delivered has attracted families for many years. But change in the world is accelerating, and change in our city is also accelerating: the medical complex being built on Michigan St. hill will attract many bright new people to our area. Where will they send their kids to school?

Continue reading "WHY ARE THEY CHANGING CITY HIGH/MIDDLE??" »


March 19, 2008

Get the news out!!!

Do you have some news or information you would like students and staff to know about? Mr. Tindall, City's Broadcast journalism teacher, would like to get your news! His students are eager to get news out to the rest of the school. When you walk into City and see the TV playing just outside the main office door, it has the latest news on it, continually looping. His class also publishes City High Times, the Student newspaper. If you have some news or information for School TV and/or the newspaper please email Mr. Tindall at tindallj@grps.k12.mi.us Help everyone be "in the know"!


Lost

Found a black North Face jacket it is in the office


March 08, 2008

City Nights..City Lights..City Auction March 15, 2008 @ 6pm

SAVE THE DATE AND DON'T BE LATE!

You won't want to miss CityPTSA's biggest annual fundraising event!
Invite your family and friends to join you for a fun filled evening....silent auction, live auction, entertainment, refreshments, carnival games and more!

City is the place to be March 15. Come enjoy an evening with friends and support your school.
The ONLINE CATALOG provides a current listing of items to be available at the City High/Middle Auction. Printed catalogs will also be availabe at the registration table at the Auction. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. $5 for adults and $2 for students (take some extra cash for coffee, desserts and games).

Your CityPTSA Auction Committee.


February 29, 2008

City Nights...City Lights...City Auction 2 WEEKS AWAY!

Auction Tip of the Week--Home Parties

Have you had a party recently? Do you know someone who has their own business? Check and see if they would like make a donation to the auction. It will help City High/Middle students and promote their business too!
Print the donation letter as a receipt and drop all donations at the school office.
http://www.cityptsa.com/PDFS/AuctionDonationLetter2008.pdf

Sign up early for the dinner/auction at the City High/Middle Homecoming Dinner and Game!
This year's event will be held in the gym so it will be even bigger than last year. And check out the slides of some of this year's donated items during the Homecoming Dinner in the Multipurpose room.

Remember, the Silent Auction begins at 6pm, Live Auction at 7pm March 15
Only $5 for adults and $2 for students

Auction Tip: Plan your winning auction strategy early!
The EARLY RELEASE CATALOG provides a current listing of items to be available at the City High/Middle Auction..


See you there!

Your CityPTSA Auction Team


February 13, 2008

City Nights...City Lights...City Auction Tip of the Week

And the wheels on the car go round and round.

It's true! Spring IS only a little over a month away and that means getting our cars back in shape.
Car wash, oil change, new wiper blades, rotate the tires...next time you're having your car serviced ask for a gift certificate, product or service for our PTSA Auction. Remember, ANY time you make a purchase from a local business, it is an opportunity to pitch them for a donation to the auction and to help support City High//Middle.

We want to make this the biggest auction CIty has had and it takes everyone's help....whether serving on a committee, helping with gathering and distributing the donated items, or most importantly, coming March 15 with friends and family and enjoying the evening as we support our great school. You might even pick up a good deal on something really useful!

If you are out seeking donations, please print the donation letter http://www.cityptsa.com/PDFS/AuctionDonationLetter2008.pdf as a receipt and send in or drop all donations at the school office.

Thanks for helping make this event a BIG success!
Your CityPTSA Auction Committee


December 10, 2007

The bin is in! PaperGator Recycling Program @ City

The PTSA is beginning a paper recycling program called PaperGator to raise funds for City and keep newspapers, catalogs, magazines, junk mail, office paper and phone books out of the landfill. This paper is collected in a special green dumpster that is placed in back of the school and picked up weekly, shredded, and processed into a wide variety of products. The more paper we recycle, the more money City makes! This is a great start toward the Economicology program. If you or anyopne you know is currently using curbside recycling for paper, please consider using the PaperGator bin for these items as it wil directly benefit our school.


November 27, 2007

NHS Reminder

All National and Junior National Honor Society members need to turn in their $5.00 dues to the wooden NHS box by the office, next to the community service boxes, by the end of first semester. Please put the dues in an envelope with your name and grade on it.

You must also maintain a 3.0 GPA, complete the required 10 hours of community service for City AND be on a NHS committee or serve three extra hours of community service to maintain membership.

Questions? Contact Mrs. Potyraj or Mr. Lewandoski


NHS Reminder

All National and Junior National Honor Society members need to turn in their $5.00 dues to the wooden NHS box by the office, next to the community service boxes, by the end of first semester. Please put the dues in an envelope with your name and grade on it.

You must also maintain a 3.0 GPA, complete the required 10 hours of community service for City AND be on a NHS committee or serve three extra hours of community service to maintain membership.

Questions? Contact Mrs. Potyraj or Mr. Lewandoski


November 09, 2007

Time to update our PTSA bylaws

It is time for PTSA to update our bylaws. The bylaws are the basic rules from which we operate. They consist of 16 pages provided to us by our State PTA office in Lansing. Every three years, each PTA unit must review and approve or make changes to their bylaws. In order for our students to participate in the Reflections Art Program (Yes, there is still time to create--students have until Dec 21 to complete their artwork.), we must have up to date bylaws. If you would like to participate in this process please email me by November 15th so we all can set a date to meet. This would be a great way to see learn the basics of our PTSA! DeniseBpip@aol.com or call me 281-0751


November 05, 2007

Michigan Virtual University Grades

At the nine week marking period, your grade for your Michigan Virtual High School course will be an I (which we are considering to mean In Progress). This grade will be in place until the final grade at the end of first semester. The I will then be changed to the final grade that you have earned in your course.

If you have any questions please let me know.

ralstond@grps.k12.mi.us


October 31, 2007

Job Ideas/Rules

Anyone 16 & 17 - any job not declared hazardous (mining, logging, meatpacking, roofing, etc; Working with saws, explosives or most power-driven machines, working with radioactive materials)
Anyone 14 & 15 - can do office work, grocery stores, retail stores, restaurants, movie theaters
Anyone 13 & Younger - Babysit, delivers newspapers, work as an actor or performer

If you are under 16 - no more than 3 hours a day/18 hours in a school week; no more than 8 hours a day/40 hours in a non-school week. All work must be performed between 7am-7pm, except from June 1 to Labor Day when evening hours are extended to 9pm


October 26, 2007

Fundraising Event Set - Volunteers Needed 11/3

For those of you able to help with the City PTSA/Younkers Fundraiser, Younkers Community Day November 10....
It's official... we're scheduled to cover 1 area in the store (minimum of 2 people) from 10a-12p, and 2 areas in the store (minimum of 4 people) from 4p-6p Saturday November 3 to presell books.
The $5. coupon books are 100% profit for City and contain great discounts, including $10, off any $10. or more item. I have spoken to other parents who have done this and it was a big success.
As an extra incentive, EVERY VOLUNTEER RECEiVES 2 FREE BOOKS!
Contact either Marissa Gonzalez (marissa.gonzalez@sbcglobal.net) or Wayne Glatz (wayneaglatz@comcast.net) for more details.


August 24, 2007

Seniors (and parents)--Class of '08

Remember that your items for the yearbook are due the week of September 17-21. Please email all senior pictures, wills, quotes and attachments to Mrs. Miske at miskea@grps.k12.mi.us and title the email with your name and "senior pictures, quotes, and will". If you would like more information about size of the picture, font size, etc., please contact student Hannah Ahlem, editor in chief @453-7233 or refer to the sheet sent to you back in June.


May 15, 2007

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions?

Q What is Advanced Placement?

A The Program
The Advanced Placement Program® is a cooperative educational endeavor between secondary schools and colleges and universities. Since its inception in 1955, the Program has provided motivated high school students with the opportunity to take college-level courses in a high school setting. Students who participate in the Program not only gain college-level skills, but in many cases they also earn college credit while they are still in high school. AP courses are taught by dedicated and enthusiastic high school teachers who follow course guidelines developed and published by the College Board.

The Program's success is rooted in the collaborative efforts of motivated students, dedicated teachers, and committed schools. By participating in the Program, secondary schools make the commitment to organize and support at least one class that is equivalent to a first-year college course.

There are currently more than 110,000 teachers leading AP courses in high schools worldwide. AP teachers are some of the world's finest. The Program is strengthened by their participation in professional development workshops and Summer Institutes and in the annual AP Reading where thousands of AP teachers and college faculty gather at college sites across the United States to score the AP Exams using rigorous guidelines.

AP Program Facts

• The AP Program offers 35 courses in 20 subject areas.
• Nearly 60 percent of U.S. high schools participate in the AP Program.
• In 2005, 2.1 million AP Exams were administered worldwide.
o More than 60,000 teachers worldwide attended AP workshops and institutes for professional development last year.
o Over 90 percent of the nation's colleges and universities have an AP policy granting incoming students credit, placement, or both, for qualifying AP Exam grades.
Are Advanced Placement exams required?
• No, they are strongly encouraged. Exams are required if a student wants to earn college credit.

Is there a GPA advantage for Advanced Placement classes?
• No, none of our classes have weighted grades. The benefits include the opportunity to take an AP exam as well as the class is noted as an AP one on the students transcript.

Q What is Dual Enrollment?

A In 1996 the Michigan State Legislature passed the Postsecondary Enrollment Options Act or "Dual Enrollment bill." The bill modifies and expands on current provisions of the State School Aid Act providing for the participation of eligible high school students in dual enrollment or postsecondary enrollment options. The bill also requires that the board of a school district or public school academy ensure that each student in eighth grade or higher be given information about college level equivalent or Advanced Placement courses; and permit students in tenth grade to take the MEAP High School Test to qualify to take postsecondary courses. The classes that students are eligible for must not be offered by the high school or academy and must lead towards accreditation, certification and/or trade licensing.


Q What are the qualifying scores for Dual Enrollment?

A PLAN Assessment

Content Area Minimum Passing Score
Mathematics 18
Reading 17
Science 19
English 21

PSAT Assessment

PSAT Test Section Content Minimum Passing Scores
Critical Reading Reading 44
Writing Skills Writing 49
Math Mathematics 45

Q What is the process?

Q What does exhaust our curriculum?
A A student must have taken all of the courses in a subject area or it is a course we do not offer with the exception physical education, religious classes, and philosophy.

Q Dual Enrollment versus Advance Placement
A AP courses are college level courses taught by high school facuilty that have a positive impact on a student transcript. If a student takes the AP Exam and receives a qualifying score for the individual college or university they will earn college credit.

Dual Enrollment (DE) is a college course taught by college hired staff. A student must follow the state and local district requirements to apply to take a course. It is designated as DE on the course transcript. It is up to the students chosen college/university as to whether they will accept the transfer credit.

Q Testing Schedule

A PLAN As a "pre-ACT" test, PLAN is a powerful predictor of success on the ACT. At the same time, many schools recognize the importance of PLAN testing for all students, as it focuses attention on both career preparation and improving academic achievement.
PLAN is administered in the fall of the sophomore year.
ACT
The ACT® test assesses high school students' general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work.
• The multiple-choice tests cover four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science.
• The Writing Test, which is optional, measures skill in planning and writing a short essay.

MME (replaces the MEAP as the state endorsed test.) ACT plus writing, Work Keys, and state created

Internships

Q How many are required for City Graduation requirements? When
A 2 are required during junior and senior year. Students can schedule their internship during 7th hour for 1 semester or 8th hour all year.

Q Why only 2?
A We want to make sure there is room for the new graduation requirements, and electives that students traditionally have requested.

Q Education Development Plan?
A An Education Development Plan (EDP) documents an ongoing process in which a learner identifies both career goals and a plan of action to achieve them. The purpose of the EDP is to provide every student with a periodically updated and ongoing record of career planning that will guide in taking effective steps to enter a career of choice. Each student develops a first EDP in middle school, stating an initial career goal and desired work and educational experiences. School counselors verify that EDPs reflect an individual career decision-making process based on career exploration, career assessment information, school performance, and expressed interests. School counselors also facilitate selection and enrollment into general courses and into specialized education and training related to the career pathway of choice indicated in the EDP.

Michigan Virtual High School?
Q Why should my child take an online course through MVHS?
A He or she could catch up on missed credit, take a subject not offered in-seat (including Advanced Placement® courses), improve his/her technology skills, solve a scheduling conflict, try a different method of learning or supplement his/her learning activities if he/she is being home-schooled or is temporarily home-bound.
Q Can I enroll my child in MVHS courses?
A Yes, but only as a home-schooler. If you want your student to take MVHS courses through his or her local school, the appropriate person at the school (guidance counselor or the school’s registrar, most likely) must register and enroll a student in an MVHS course. MVHS students must be age 20 or younger.

Q Will my son take the course on his own time or school time?
A Many schools have students “go to” their online course during a regular school period, maybe in a computer lab or media center. In other cases, he may be accessing his course outside of regular school hours, especially if he is making up credit or has a scheduling conflict. Even if he has time during the school day to work on his virtual course, he’ll probably still need to access the course outside of regular school hours for homework, just as he does for most of his in-seat courses.



May 09, 2007

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions?

Q What is Advanced Placement?

A The Program
Advanced Placement Program® is a cooperative educational endeavor between secondary schools and colleges and universities. Since its inception in 1955, the Program has provided motivated high school students with the opportunity to take college-level courses in a high school setting. Students who participate in the Program not only gain college-level skills, but in many cases they also earn college credit while they are still in high school. AP courses are taught by dedicated and enthusiastic high school teachers who follow course guidelines developed and published by the College Board.

The Program's success is rooted in the collaborative efforts of motivated students, dedicated teachers, and committed schools. By participating in the Program, secondary schools make the commitment to organize and support at least one class that is equivalent to a first-year college course.

There are currently more than 110,000 teachers leading AP courses in high schools worldwide. AP teachers are some of the worlds finest. The Program is strengthened by their participation in professional development workshops and Summer Institutes and in the annual AP Reading where thousands of AP teachers and college faculty gather at college sites across the United States to score the AP Exams using rigorous guidelines.

AP Program Facts

• The AP Program offers 35 courses in 20 subject areas.
• Nearly 60 percent of U.S. high schools participate in the AP Program.
• In 2005, 2.1 million AP Exams were administered worldwide.
o More than 60,000 teachers worldwide attended AP workshops and institutes for professional development last year.
o Over 90 percent of the nation's colleges and universities have an AP policy granting incoming students credit, placement, or both, for qualifying AP Exam grades.
Are Advanced Placement exams required?
● 12TH Grade students are required to take the AP English, AP Government, and AP Macro Economics.

Is there a GPA advantage for Advanced Placement classes?
• No, none of our classes have weighted grades. However, there are other benefits to taking AP courses including the opportunity to take an AP exam for potential college credit. In addition, when reviewing high school transcripts, colleges look to see that students continually challenge themselves throughout high school. AP courses are recognized as such.


Q What is Dual Enrollment?

A Dual Enrollment provides an opportunity for eligible 11th and 12th grade students to receive college credit while in high school. There are guidelines for eligibility that must be met prior to signing up for a Dual Enrollment class. Students The classes that students are eligible for must not be offered by a GRPS high school. The student must have taken the PLAN in 10th grade (for 11th grade dual enrollment) and the MME in 11th grade (for 12th grade dual enrollment) and received a specific score in the content area in which he/she wishes to dual enroll. (PE, theology, religion, hobby classes is not eligible as dual enrollment. In addition the class

Q What are the qualifying scores for Dual Enrollment?

A PLAN Assessment – all 10th grade GRPS students take the PLAN

Content Area Minimum Passing Score
Mathematics 18
Reading 17
Science 19
English 21

PSAT Assessment – for out of district or new incoming students

PSAT Test Section Content Minimum Passing Scores
Critical Reading Reading 44
Writing Skills Writing 49
Math Mathematics 45

MME SCORE?

Q What is the process?
A See the high school counselor. Courses must be approved before registration.

Q What does exhaust our curriculum?
A A student must have taken all of the courses in a subject area offered by GRPS. If the course is an elective credit, the student must have exhausted the GRPS elective offerings. The following courses are not eligible for dual enrollment: physical education, religious classes, and any hobby course. The dual enrollment course must be consistent with the student’s EDP.

Q Dual Enrollment versus Advance Placement
A AP courses are college level courses taught by high school faculty
that has a positive impact on a student transcript. If a student takes the AP Exam and receives a qualifying score for the individual college or university they will earn college credit. AP courses are included in the students GPA.

Dual Enrollment (DE) is a college course taught by college staff either at the college location or at the high school location. A student must follow the state and local district eligibility requirements to apply to take a course. DE courses are included on the transcript and are calculated into the student’s GPA. It is up to the students chosen college/university as to whether they will accept the DE course as college credit..

Q Testing Schedule

A PLAN As a "pre-ACT" test, PLAN is a powerful predictor of success on the ACT. GRPS students are required to take the PLAN in the fall 10th grade. The PLAN test, in addition to preparing students for the ACT component of the MME, focuses attention on both career preparation and improving academic achievement.
.
ACT
The ACT® test assesses high school students' general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work.
• The multiple-choice tests cover four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science.
• The Writing Test, which is optional, measures skill in planning and writing a short essay.

MME
This is a state required test (replacing the MEAP at the high school level.) It includes the ACT, which can be used for college applications, plus additional subtests writing, social studies from the Work Keys test. Beginning in 2007-08, students can earn elective credit by taking and demonstrating proficiency on the MME.

Students can earn a Michigan Merit Aware of $4,000 by taking and demonstrating proficiency on the MME.

Internships

Q How many are required for City Graduation requirements? When
A Two different internships are required; one each during junior and senior year. 11th and 12th grade students can schedule their internship during 7th hour for 1 semester or 8th hour all year.
?????HOW ARE YOU WORKING OUT 7TH HOUR? THIS WILL HAVE THE STUDENTS MISSING TIME.

Q Why only two internships?
A It is important that students take the necessary classes to prepare themselves for college. In addition, Colleges expect to see that a student has challenged himself/herself with core academic classes all four years of high school.

Q Education Development Plan?
A An Education Development Plan (EDP) documents an ongoing process in which a learner identifies both career goals and a plan of action to achieve them. The purpose of the EDP is to provide every student with a periodically updated and ongoing record of career planning that will guide in taking effective steps to enter a career of choice. Each student develops a first EDP in middle school, stating an initial career goal and desired work and educational experiences. School counselors verify that EDPs reflect an individual career decision-making process based on career exploration, career assessment information, school performance, and expressed interests. School counselors also facilitate selection and enrollment into general courses and into specialized education and training related to the career pathway of choice indicated in the EDP.

Michigan Virtual High School?
Q Why should my child take an online course through MVHS?
A He or she could catch up on missed credit, take a subject not offered (including Advanced Placement® courses), improve his/her technology skills, solve a scheduling conflict, try a different method of learning or supplement his/her learning activities if he/she is being home-schooled or is temporarily home-bound.
Q Can I enroll my child in MVHS courses?
A Yes, but only as a home-schooled student. To take the MVHS through your school, which is often at no cost to the parent, the counseling staff (guidance counselor or the school’s registrar) must register and enroll a student in an MVHS course. MVHS students must be age 20 or younger. In order for the school to pay for the course, the course must meet State Aid eligibility guidelines.

Q Will my son take the course on his own time or school time?
A can vary. However, most students are successful when it is planned as part of their school day and students take their online course during a regular school period in a computer lab or media center with a certified, mentor teacher available to help. In other cases, he may be accessing his course outside of regular school hours. This needs to be worked out with the counseling staff. MVHS courses are rigorous courses with high expectation. Students must be prepared to work in a focused, self-disciplined manner that often requires additional time outside of regular school hours for homework, just as he does for most of his in-seat courses.



January 12, 2007

PTSA meeting Tuesday Night 6:30 p.m.

Our next PTSA meeting is Tuesday evening, January 16th. A local pizza shop will be baking pizza and serving us around 6:15 p.m.

Continue reading "PTSA meeting Tuesday Night 6:30 p.m." »


November 09, 2006

Welcome!

HOW TO USE CITY PTSA'S MESSAGE CENTER
Welcome to City PTSA's message center. Here you can read and post "comments" as messages to inform and be informed about special events, opportunities, resources and more. First, read on to get familiar with the system.

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