Bear

Facts
February 2010
Volume / Issue Proudly Serving The Buckley Communit y
305 South First Street
Buckley, Mich. 49620

National Recognition
B
uckley Community Schools
found out great news in early
January. U.S. News & World
Report identified the school district
as one of the best in the nation.
The award came as a result of and put students’ needs first. He
Buckley’s students achieving “better also cited that BCS offers Extended
than expected” on standardised Learning Time both during and after
tests. How did they do “better than school, which allows students to
expected?” complete incomplete assignments.
Buckley’s student population Buckley staff members are
includes 51% who currently reviewing
are considered current MEAP
economically data and planning
disadvantaged—and “While the award adjustments in
a high percentage was certainly curriculum and
of our economically unexpected, the instruction.
Battle on the court
disadvantaged fact that our “We’re
Both the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams played host to opponents
students students are excited about the on Friday, February 5. The girls battled the Kingsley Lady Stags and
performed well performing well is honor, but we’re the boys battled the Benzie Huskies in Homecoming 2010 action.
on the Michigan not unexpected.” looking forward
Educational to continuing to
Assessment improve.”
Program (MEAP) or Buckley was
Michigan Merit Exam (MME). the only school in either Wexford
“While the award was certainly or Grand Traverse counties to earn
unexpected,” said Principal Todd an award from U.S. News & World
Kulawiak, “the fact that our Report.
students are performing well is not Please watch Bear Facts for more
unexpected.” information about achievement
Kulawiak said the staff is caring levels.

In This Edition
Buckley’s U.S. News Award.............. 1
2020 Vision on horizon..................... 2
Elementary teachers learning........... 2
Board members honored.................. 2
Teachers are Learners too
21st Century Learning...................... 3 Teachers participated in professional development on January 27. The elementary staff worked
News from the schools..................... 3 on AIMSweb. The high school staff worked on student intervention services.
Homecoming 2010........................... 4
Christmas play successful................ 4
Music grant...................................... 4 BearFacts Nonprofit Organization
U.S. Postage Paid
Buckley Community Schools
Contact information......................... 4
305 South First Street PO Box 38
Buckley, Michigan 49620
Buckley, Michigan 49620 Permit #3

Box Holder
BUCKLE Y MI 49620
2 Buckley Community Schools / The Bear Facts

2020 Vision on Elementary teachers

learning AIMSweb
the horizon The elementary teaching staff
is participating in continual,
Board to hear presentation in February sustained professional
development, learning AIMSweb.
Superintendent Rick Heitmeyer will prepare the Board of
AIMSweb is a benchmark
Education for upcoming developments with a preview of
2020 Vision, the new strategic planning model for Buckley and progress monitoring system
Community Schools. based on direct, frequent and
continuous student assessment.
“Anytime you create a strategic plan, you must involve everyone the plan involves. By
The results are reported to
the time you’ve completed a planning process, you hope that all decisions relate back to
students, parents, teachers and administrators via a web-based
the mission and vision created during the process,” said Heitmeyer.
data management and reporting system to determine response
If a plan is created by the board and administration and no one else is included in the
to intervention.
process, the plan will not succeed, he added.
AIMSweb works with English Language Arts and
“Basically, if we decide on a vision, we want to relate all district decisions back to
mathematics and provides teachers with ongoing data to allow
the vision,” he said. “If only the board and administration created them, they will not
teachers to adjust their teaching to help students learn “on the
succeed.”
fly.”
Heitmeyer said he hopes to include teaching and support staff members, community
Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District (TBA–ISD)
members, parents, students, and others in developing 2020 Vision.
personnel are providing the professional development.
The main areas of the plan will include
developing a mission and vision that everyone can
The focus has to be on relate to and embrace.
student needs. Students
are our customers,
Heitmeyer says that many schools develop a
wordy mission and vision that only makes sense to
Board members honored
so we have to have
programming that meets set forth.
a few people and the school cannot live by the ideas at January meeting
their needs. “We want a mission and vision that makes The Buckley Community Schools Board of Education members
sense to our school, to our community,” he said. are Dave Buck, Lew Chalker, Kellé Tyson, Hollianne
“Decisions have to relate back to our ideals.” McHugh, Ken Gibler, Matt Breithaupt, and Matt
Basically, a mission statement states the fundamental reason a school exists. Vision, Simon.
on the other hand, focuses on what is possible. At the monthly meeting in January, they received certificates
“Mission is what you do,” Heitmeyer said. “Vision is ‘What do we dream of and thank yous for participating in their leadership positions.
becoming?’” Individual school board members face complex and demanding
Heitmeyer said he plans to present an outline of the plan to the Board of Education challenges. They are alternately described as having the most
at its regular meeting on Tuesday, February 23. After board members see the important volunteer jobs in the country and facing the toughest
presentation, the district will begin planning the process and contacting individuals challenge in elected American government. Yet school board
who may be interested in taking part in the process. members are just ordinary
“My hope is that we would not bore anyone. We’re going to focus on the future of citizens with extraordinary
Buckley Community Schools because dedication to our nation’s
it’s important. We don’t want to public schools.
waste anyone’s time so we will have Their job is to establish a
focused agendas and outcomes so vision for the education program, design a structure to achieve
we can move through the process that vision, ensure schools are accountable to the community and
without interruptions and stalls,” the strongly advocate continuous improvement in student learning.
new superintendent said. Yet local trustees sometimes tackle an often thankless job devoid
In the end, the district hopes of any glory. Too often we are quick to criticize school board
to have a mission and vision that members without really knowing all the details that went into a
everyone can identify with, as well as given decision. Now is the time to thank them!
strategic components and goals that Although they wear many hats in the workday world, school
“make sense.” board members put on a collective hat when they get down to the
The district will call the process business of leading their school districts. Board members must
2020 Vision. The idea behind the pull together as a team toward a common goal—helping students
name of the process is that we’re achieve. Though they may individually disagree on certain issues,
already 10 years into a new century their role as a board is to consistently strive toward that goal.
and decade — and it’s gone fast. In recognition of the dedicated service, January was School
So, ultimately, where do we want to Board Recognition Month. This is a time to show appreciation
be in three, five, or 10 years. What do and to better understand how local trustees work together to
we believe? provide a better future for our children. Please join with others
from throughout our district to salute the men and women who
provide governance of public schools.

Safety reminder
For the safety of your children, please check in at the office when
you come in to school. Please do not go directly to a classroom.
It is also important to remember to call the office to report
absences. You can reach the office at (231) 269–3325.
One–act play coming
Buckley Community School Drama Presents And Then There
Was One, a one-act comedy mystery by Michael Druce. The
dinner theater experience will be held Wednesday, March 24,
2010, featuring a potluck dinner donation from 5:30–6:45 p.m.,
with the play at 7 p.m.
Third grade students
learning about history
For the last month in science, the third grade
students have been working on animal research
projects. Each student researched an animal,
collected information and wrote a rough and
final draft. Students also learned peer editing
skills. Then, each student created dioramas of their animal and
its habitat. The students were very creative with their projects.
Watch for pictures of the dioramas on our school website, http://
www.buckleyschools.com. You can check them out soon!
These students also participated in interesting activities and
crafts for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Groundhog Day, and
Presidents’ Week.
For Black History Month, students will learn about some
important African Americans and their impact on American
history. The students also learned about
important events and people who were part
of the Civil Rights movement.
The third grade has tied reading, social
studies, and the events of the month
Diorama. together to make learning meaningful for the
students.
Fourth graders learning
about economics
Joan Mackey’s fourth grade students have been
studying life science. Students planted beans
and were surprised how fast they grew. The class
has taken care of each plant, including watering,
measuring, and recording its growth. Next, they will study animal
life and write research papers on animals.
In social studies, students have been studying Michigan
economics. Gina Weber, branch manager from Honor State
Bank, talked to the class about how banks use money and how
checking and savings accounts work.
The Bear Facts / Buckley Community Schools 3
What does it mean to be a
21st Century learner?
School has many components in place to move
forward into the new Century
W
hen people think about learning in the 21st Century, the first thing that
comes to their mind is technology. And when they think of technology, they
think of computers.
Twenty–first Century learning is a buzz word, but learning in today’s world is about
more than computers and technology. The computers and technology available to
teachers and students is incredible and provides many opportunities. It’s important
to remember that the technology available—the
computers, projectors, etc.—are tools to help
“It’s an exciting time to
education happen.,
Twenty–first Century learning is about more
be an educator and a
student.”
than computers. In fact, the core subjects of
English, math, social studies, and science are still
the basis of education. Plus, elective classes like physical education, health, foreign
language, fine arts, and other classes are important to the development of students.
A 21st Century education focuses on core subjects, innovation skills, life and career
skills, and information, media, and technology skills. Students in the 21st Century are
well–rounded. Moreover, they have opportunities that students in the past didn’t so
readily appreciate like the career center, dual enrollment, and online learning.
Principal Todd Kulawiak says that students enjoy an unprecedented amount of
education available to them. One organization that supports learning in the 21st Century is
“It’s an exciting time to be the Partnership for 21st Century Skills.
an educator and a student.”
Changes in English
Language Arts curriculum
44By Maria Turner, English Teacher
Buckley Junior High students join students across the state
of Michigan in a common learning experience for English
Language Arts.
The Macomb Intermediate School District recently
unveiled its new state aligned curriculum for sixth–eighth
grades and I was one of the representatives from our area to
participate in this process.
The Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District
highly recommends this curriculum. Michigan has rigorous
curriculum standards, and they are continuously updated.
These new curriculum units include the latest updates and
meet the state requirements for the Grade Level Content
Expectations (GLCEs) at each grade level. S.E. Hinton’s The Outsiders
Each grade level will also have a focus, just as the high is a recommended book for
eighth graders.
school classes have to focus their study. This enables
students to find common themes and compare materials that have been studied
throughout the year with a general focus topic and specific focus questions. It is no
longer enough to read just for understanding. Students have to be able to process at a
much higher level in order to be successful in our changing world. We need creative,
critical thinkers more than ever to tackle the problems of the 21st Century. That is why
so many of the tasks in today’s classroom emphasize not only communication skills, but
also collaborations skills.
Each grade has anchor texts that will be core texts for the students to read. In
addition to these books, there are also related videos, Internet activities, fiction and
non-fiction readings; viewing, speaking, and listening activities; and grammar, writing,
and research activities. The latest technology is included with these learning units. The
suggested anchor texts and dispositions (big ideas) have been carefully selected.
Music teacher Homecoming week
seeks grant events fun for all
Music teacher Laura Steed has applied for the Muzak Heart & Soul 44By Erica Utter, Student Council President
lost by even less—
Foundations Music Matters Grant. Steed submitted the application The Student Council’s President’s playing an incredibly
on Friday, February 5, and hopes to hear soon whether the district Committee worked since September close game against
will benefit. to plan Homecoming. The committee Benzie. At halftime
The Muzak Heart & Soul Foundation’s mission is to redefine and had everything ordered, shipped and of the guys’ game,
support music education. Through music education, a child can picked up weeks ahead of time; plus, they the Homecoming
better achieve his/her full potential and stimulate personal and planned out the assemblies, brought ideas King and Queen
educational growth. for spirit week to our meetings, and had were announced, Jeff
Steed hopes to acquire a number of band instruments through the Student Council vote on them. Dreves and Caley
the grant, as well as upgrading some other supplies and materials. So, a lot of planning went into a week Blanchard. Everything went without a
The focus of the grant is to increase the number of students who that seemed to fly by. Each day had a hitch, all of the reps walked out at the
participate in choir and band, as well as different theme - College Day, Fake right time and the music played smoothly.
improve the number of students who attend Injury Day, Farmer Day, Twin On Saturday, the day of the dance,
performances. Steed said she hopes to raise Day, and Blue and Gold Day. everyone on Student Council (and
the level of appreciation for the fine arts in The school had assemblies Monday several volunteers) showed up
Buckley. and Friday—and the classes at 9 a.m. to set up tables, chairs,
“There are student, school, and community participated to earn points. Classes pillars, and even a fake garden to
components to the application,” according to could also get points by dressing set the atmosphere. People were
Steed. “In the application, we addressed all of up for the spirit days, and these also blowing up balloons, painting
the areas. We hope to raise awareness for the points were awarded based on the background, setting up the
The Jr./Sr. High band
performed the Winter
fine arts through the grant. It’s important for percentages. At the end of the week, after refreshment tables, bathroom baskets,
Concert on Feb. 9. our community.” the class banners (instead of floats) were and centerpieces. We were at the school
judged, the Junior Class was announced for a total of six hours setting up … and
as the winner of the Homecoming 2010 nobody complained.
Spirit Cup. The dance itself was amazing.
Published by BCS Friday night’s big game was packed. Everything from the garden to the picture
Board of Education Our student section area was surreal. All of our hard work
Superintendent: Rick Heitmeyer
Membership 2009–10 was overflowing, and had finally paid off and we were able to
The Bear Facts is published six
President—Dave Buck
times during the school year from
much of our school relax and have fun. I cannot express how
Vice–President—Lew Chalker August–May. If you have any came out to cheer thankful I am to everyone who helped
Secretary—Hollianne McHugh suggestions, or questions, please
Treasurer—Kellé Tyson contact the office at (231) 269-3325 on the Bears. The out—including the elementary students
between the hours of 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Trustee—Ken Gibler girls played first, who helped make signs for the game, the
Trustee—Matt Breithaupt
All content
losing to Kingsley, teachers, and to the students, without
Trustee—Matt Simon copyright © MMIX by BCS but barely. The guys whom we never could’ve gotten this far.

Christmas comedy by Buckley

Buckley Community Schools
305 South First Street
Buckley, Michigan 49620
T (231) 269–3325 / F (231) 269–3833
www.buckleyschools.com students successful in December
School Office Buckley Community School’s drama class performed
Marty Duhatschek’s I Hate Christmas: A Christmas
Rick Heitmeyer, Superintendent Comedy in Three Acts on December 16, 2009.
rheitmeyer@buckleyschools.com
Director Maria Turner said, “While the drama class
Todd Kulawiak, Principal only has 11 students, they are all hard working with
tkulawiak@buckleyschools.com several different duties to perform to make the play The play was fun for the
students in December.
Pat Kuhn, Business Manager work.” She added that she appreciated that her husband
pkuhn@buckleyschools.com Gil Turner and some building trade program students created the staging platforms.
Moreover, the performance was in front of the largest audience to watch a play at
Athletics Buckley, Turner said. “Thank you for your continued support,” she said.
Cast list: Dingo Glitter–Nate Gustafson; Rolly Ringer and costume designer—
Réne LaFreniere, Athletic Director Felicia Wall; Frankie Fine and sound—Erica Utter; Jenny and costume
rlafreniere@buckleyschools.com
designer—Shelby Durga; Tia and stage manager—Amanda Salenski; Rose
and lighting—Dallas Jayska; Emily and hair/make–up—Angie Calley; Miss
Food Service
Pincer and hair/make–up—Mariah Guernsey; Sara and stage manager—
Phil Fairchild, Director Keshia Miller; Birdy and house manager—April Gibler; student director—Mari
pfairchild@kinglsey.k12.mi.us Courtade.