(Editor’s Note: The following “opening of schools” information was provided courtesy of Trenton Public Schools to make families aware of important times and dates, as well as details on how to enroll.)

     Trenton Public Schools will open for pupils on Tuesday, Sept. 6, for morning classes only. Classes for all pupils in grades kindergarten through five will begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at 11:30 a.m. Classes for students in grades six, seven and eight will begin at 8:10 a.m. and end at 11:10 a.m. Students in grades nine, ten, eleven and twelve will have classes beginning at 7:30 a.m. and ending at 10:30 a.m.

     Children enrolled in special education classes will report on Tuesday, September 6, 2016, to the same building as last year unless otherwise notified.

     Freshmen (9th grade) and all new students will report to the Trenton High School Cafeteria on Tuesday, Aug. 23  at 10:30 a.m. Returning Sophomores (10^th grade) will report to Trenton High School on Tuesday, Aug. 23, at 8:30 a.m. Returning Juniors (11th grade) will report to Trenton High School on Wednesday, Aug.24, at 8:30 a.m. and Seniors (12th grade) will report to Trenton High School on Wednesday, Aug. 24, at 10:30 a.m.

     All high school students (returning students, ninth-grade students, and new students) will attend a mandatory Blue Pride meeting presented by the High School administrators highlighting important rights and responsibilities in the student handbook that students will receive.

     High School students will also be issued their student handbooks, locker assignments and school pictures will be taken on the assigned dates and times listed above. Information packets will be mailed in early August with complete details. Please note that Emergency Cards must be turned in on picture day in order to receive your schedule and student handbook.

     Enrollment of new students for all grades will be accepted at all times at the Neil E. Van Riper Administration Building, 2603 Charlton Road, Trenton, Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Students who have earned high school credits in other schools should have transcripts sent early. Grade school and middle school students should bring report cards or promotion slips.

All new students are required to bring proof of residency, birth certificates and a Michigan Care Improvement Registry form or physical form with immunizations signed by a physician.

Kindergarten students need a completed and current Health Appraisal including eye exam. State law requires immunization against measles*, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, rubella*, mumps*, poliomyelitis, hepatitis B*, chicken pox*, and meningococcal (one dose for children ages 11-18). (*Current laboratory evidence of immunity is acceptable instead of immunization with antigen.)

All students attending the Trenton Public Schools must have immunizations up to date prior to the first day of school. An immunization waiver is accepted by the State of Michigan and can be obtained for medical or personal reasons. Personal waivers must be obtained from the Wayne County Health Department. Call 734-727-7078 for an July 25, 2016 appointment and location. Medical waivers must be obtained from a physician. All immunization waivers must be submitted to the school district prior to the start of school.

Students entering kindergarten must have immunizations up to date, a certificate

of vision testing or screening or statements of exception under Section 9311.

Your local health department offers this screening at no cost to families and children. Call 734-727-7136 for an appointment. In addition kindergarten students must have a current physical examination (performed by a physician) on file with the school district prior to the start of school.

State law prohibits a school district from admitting new entrants to school until parents provide proof that all immunizations have been given, or have a waiver on file.

Kate and Louis Lafayette say the adversity has strengthened their marriage

BY KATHY KANE

     “Everything happens for a reason, for a greater good. If you are able to gain a positive perspective from a negative situation, you can heal and move forward,” said Kate Lafayette, a professional mental health therapist in Trenton and spouse of Louis Lafayette, a science teacher at Grosse Ile Middle School.

     Last spring her husband was accused of assaulting a student in his classroom. Over a period of three years, Kate Lafayette said, the family has endured many challenges from media sensationalism, defamation, and false allegations centering on Louis’s actions.

     The first reported court case involving the Michigan State Teacher Tenure Commission and Michigan Appellate Court both rendered verdicts that supported Louis Lafayette and ordered him reinstated. The most recent allegation went to pretrial July 13 at the 33^rd District Court, where the charge was dismissed.

     Married for 24 years, the longtime Grosse Ile residents believe that, through these difficult situations, their marriage has been strengthened in many ways. Their very successful and active children, Josephine and Clayton, have had to maintain positive focus during these trying times, along with dealing with the typical experiences in the life of a high school and middle school student. Their family loves and supports each other, while remaining involved with their community, church, the Boar’s Head productions and other events on the Island.

     Lafayette has taught for 26 years both in the Detroit and Grosse Ile school districts. He coached football and was also the Grosse Ile Middle School wrestling coach for 15 years up until the first allegation.

     Mynal Lizetta, a Grosse Ile High School graduate and video blogger, said in a recent feed, “Mr. Lafayette was the best teacher I ever had. I’ve served in the Marine Corp and I’ve raised my children with respect. I was a difficult middle-schooler and not often followed the rules, but when I was in Mr. Lafayette’s class, I knew how to behave myself. He cares about your children and if your children are disrespectful, that is the parent’s fault!”

     There were an outpouring of many other responses from past and present students and parents. The Lafayettes have been flooded with calls, unwavering support, encouragement and prayers. They heard from people who shared with them how Lafayette personally enhanced their lives. People have sent cards to their home, stopped them on the streets and in stores to share their positive stories and experiences with Lafayette.

     “It has been a very humbling experience to be on the receiving end of such expressions of support,” Lafayette said.

     “My husband has a bit of a dry sense of humor and because of his stature, he can seem larger than life, when in actuality he is a gentle giant who is dedicated to his love of teaching.” said Kate Lafayette.

     The Lafayette family was grateful when the educator was offered a high school science position at the Detroit School of Arts, while he waited for the decision from the first case.

     “We were able to meet, interact and develop relationships with the amazing staff and talented students at the Detroit School of Arts,” Kate Lafayette said. “Our whole family attended school plays, concerts and activities that were so rich in culture and brought much happiness. It was another silver lining in this turbulent time for us.”

     The state education laws dictate that Lafayette must return to his previous position when reinstated.

     “I know Lou will work for a renewal in and improved communication between students, teachers, parents and administration, allowing for mutual respect and responsiveness rather than reactivity and misperceptions.” Kate Lafayette continued, “It is our hope we all can gain enlightenment and healing from these challenging times in our district. Let there be a renewed spirit of collaboration, not adversity; friendship, not fear; open communication, not gossip; and a sense of pride knowing we are all part of the same team.”

Evan Berry Senior, Football As a defensive end and tight end on the Trenton varsity football team and a forward on the varsity basketball team, Evan Berry has managed to make his presence felt as a Trojan both on and off of the field in his three years at Trenton High School. Ranking fourth in receiving yardage amongst juniors last season, Berry looks to expand on his role with the football team while continuing to be an exemplary student in the classroom.

With a 3.5 grade-point average to this point, Berry has continued a variety of interests beyond athletics that include being a member of the Math Club, German Club and the National Honor Society. As a well-rounded student-athlete in the truest sense of the term, Berry will be called upon to be a leader on the football team and to set a good example for his younger teammates. Currently undecided as to where he’ll be continuing his educational pursuits, Berry has his sights set on Concordia University and Davenport University where he hopes to major in sports and entertainment. His long-term goal is to be in a high-level position in a professional sports team’s front office or to be a sports marketer, but for now he hopes to close out his high school career on a high note. His parents, Glen and Kim, look forward to cheering him on this upcoming season. — Brian Rzeppa

Jack Hornauer (above) and Kellen Mitchell (left), both pictured with Dan Richards, were this year’s recipients of Sandy Federico scholarships, which honor outstanding student golfers. The scholarships are funded by a group of longtime friends who gather each year for a friendly tournament.

Jack Hornauer (above) and Kellen Mitchell (left), both pictured with Dan Richards, were this year’s recipients of Sandy Federico scholarships, which honor outstanding student golfers. The scholarships are funded by a group of longtime friends who gather each year for a friendly tournament.

BY DAN RICHARDS

     For the last 13 years, 32 THS alumni and friends venture north for three days of fun, storytelling and a little golf competition. We do this to remember one of Trenton High School’s greatest golfers, Sandy Federico Jr., who died in 1983. Each year, money raised from this outing goes to fund a scholarship in his name. The selection is made each year by the high school’s golf coach, Steve Burke.

     This year’s captains were Barry Tinsley and Milo Gaynier, both having graduated in 1973. What made this competition so much fun was Barry and Milo are best friends. Graduating classes of attendees range from 1959 to 1986.

     Two teams of 16 were competing for the coveted Federico Cup. This year’s winners were captained by Barry Tinsley. Team members include Mike Aslanian, Bill Cada, Don Daniel, Ken McLaughlin, Gary Galafaro, Jerry Frebes, Ron Dahlka, Dan Richards, Mike Honsowetz, Mike Gaynier, Bill Buchner, Jim Galafaro, Tom Heineman and John Pedigo.

     I am pleased to announce this year’s boys scholarship winner is 2016 Trenton High grad Jack Hornauer. Jack is a four-year letter winner on the boy’s team. Jack had a tremendous senior year earning all league honors and leading his team to the Division 2 State Championships. At the state finals he was the team medalist with the lowest two day total on the team. Jack also has won the Trenton outstanding youth of the year award and coaches award his senior year.

     Hornauer also has been nominated for the Academic All State award for his excellence in the classroom. He was an inspiration to his coach, Steve Burke, putting his teammates first and helping the younger players develop their skills and understanding of competitive golf. Jack will be attending U of M-Dearborn this fall to study engineering.

     For the first time, we have awarded a second Federico Scholarship to a deserving senior on the girls team. This year’s recipient is Kellen Mitchell.

     Kellen made her senior year one to remember. She worked hard on her game for two years and became one of the best players on the team. She played in every tournament and match and had the lowest scoring average of all five seniors on the team. Her excellent play helped her team qualify for the Division 2 State Finals for the first time in school history.

     Kellen graduated with a 3.92 grade point average and was selected to the Academic All State team as an individual. She will attend Michigan University this fall, studying history and prelaw.

     Congratulations to both of these very deserving scholarship winners! 

By Kathy Kane

“New York, New York,” this year’s Signature Event, will be a dinner/dance at the Grosse Ile Golf and Country Club. All aspects of the event will be fun and kept light along with the honoring of this year’s Wall of Fame inductees.

     The Wall of Fame honors men and women who have made significant and lasting contributions to the quality of education in Trenton and THS graduates who have distinguished themselves in their professions. This year’s inductees are Gerald Brown, Vincent “Joe” Porreca and George W. Mans.

     Brown was lauded for his time served as a school board member, where he served in many capacities including president in 1994-95. He was instrumental in many TPS initiatives, including faculty training and facility maintenance. He also was involved with the renovation of the football field. His mantra in a school board decision was, “It must be good for the kids.” He had a stellar Trenton Police Department career, serving in many capacities, as well as police chief before he retired. He also served as mayor from 2001-2011.

     Vincent Porreca served his community by running and being elected to Trenton City Council in 1977 and 1981. He also served 14 years as state representative, keeping a special eye on the needs of the City of Trenton. He is an advocate for education and public schools and both of his sons are THS graduates with careers in education. His youngest son Victor was a high school teacher and his oldest Vince is the principal of Hedke Elementary in Trenton.

     George W. Mans Jr. was nominated for his humble service in many aspects, including school board member, mayor and state representative. He is a THS graduate, 1961 captain of University of Michigan football team and graduate with a BAA and LSA in history and business.

     He coached football at Eastern Michigan University, U of M, and Michigan Tech. He served on the Trenton school board for six years, as the mayor of Trenton for six years and as state representative for six years. He also has served as chairman of the board for the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge Alliance, and many other community initiatives throughout his years as a Trenton resident.

     A disc jockey will provide music selections that call to mind the Big Apple. Doors open at 6 p.m. for a cocktail hour, followed by a family-style dinner, the Wall of Fame presentation and dancing.

Tickets are $50 apiece or $450 for a table of 10, and are available at the Board of Education offices, 2603 Charlton; City Hall, 2800 Third St.; or through the TEF website: www.trentonedf-oundation.org. The ticket price includes two cocktails. Sponsorships, which start at $125 and include dinner tickets, are also available.   

     For more information, visit the TEF website or contact Trosien at ltrosien-@hotmail.com to get involved in the planning.

Welcome to a new school year at Arthurs Middle School. It’s time to say goodbye to the summer fun and get ready for the morning run.

     My name is Nick Burke and I’ll be this year’s Arthurs Middle School Trenton Trib writer. I am fairly new to writing but I have always enjoyed it. I play hockey, football and soccer. As always, school work comes first, as will these articles. I am going to work to make articles interesting and intriguing. Any input from students and faculty members is helpful.

     In the upcoming weeks, we have some great sporting events and opportunity to show our Arthurs’ pride. There will be some amazing football games to watch as the seventh and eighth grade teams show all they have against their opponents. The seventh and eighth grade volleyball teams will try for another outstanding season just as they did last year. The Arthurs Middle School Cross Country team will be running in some great events. Hopefully, they will repeat last year’s achievements.

     Pictures you post on Instagram, Twitter, or any other social media outlets can by shared by using the hashtag #BAMSKNIGHTS. Using this hashtag will make it easier for all Trenton students and staff members to view your posts.

      If you have any special AMS events coming up or news you would like to share, please give me notice. You can reach me in the halls of Arthurs, or contact me at my email: burn12452@student.trentonschools.com.

     Student Correspondent Nick Burke is a seventh grader at Arthurs Middle School.

Kate Plassman

Senior, Golf

 One of the top 10 Downriver League golfers last season, Trenton senior Kate Plassman has been a standout not only on the course, but also as a student and as a leader. While she possesses a 4.0 grade-point average, she also supplements that by being involved in the Math Club, Spanish Club, Mock Trial, is a captain on both the golf team and Quiz Bowl, is the executive board historian for the National Honor Society and also manages to stay involved at the First Presbyterian Church of Trenton. She has showcased her talent in a number of different ways and her coach, Steve Burk, noted that she has not been reluctant in the slightest to helping out others in any way possible, stating that “Kate is an incredible student-athlete. She leads by example through hard work and determination and is very helpful to our younger players.” Along with her efforts with this year’s team, she took the next step by organizing an event to help the golf program for years to come. “We graduated six seniors and we had to get more girls for the golf team, so Kate went out on her own and set up a meeting at the middle school and was able to get some freshman to come out and play,” Burk said. She is currently weighing her options for college, but plans to major in marketing and advertising once she graduates from Trenton. Her parents, Angie and Rob, are excited to see the next step in her path.

Shinola watches are one of the premium items up for auction at the TEF Signature Event Nov. 12.

BY KATHY KANE

     “New York, New York” is on its way Downriver, thanks to the theme selected for this year’s “Signature Event,” a fundraiser for the Trenton Educational Foundation being held Saturday, Nov. 12, at the Grosse Ile Golf and Country Club.

     Organizers said that all aspects of the event will be fun and key in on everything big about the Big Apple.

     The highlight of the evening will be the induction of the three newest members to the TEF’s Wall of Fame.

     The Wall of Fame honors men and women who have made significant and lasting contributions to the quality of education in Trenton, as well as Trenton High School graduates who have distinguished themselves in their professions.

     This year’s inductees are former mayor and School Board member Gerald Brown, former state representative Vincent “Joe” Porreca, and former mayor and state representative George Mans, all of whom are being honored for their lifetime of contributions to the school district.

      A disc jockey will provide music selections that call to mind the Big Apple. Doors open at 6 p.m. for a cocktail hour, followed by a family-style dinner, the Wall of Fame presentation and dancing.

     There will be many great items up for auction and in bag raffles at the event in additional fundraising efforts for the Foundation. Items include an African Safari Wildlife Park with two VIP passes for eight. The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is offering four tickets and Grosse Ile Golf and Country Club is offering a foursome with carts.

     There are theater tickets, Henry Ford village and Museum passes, a Toledo Zoo family membership, Top Gun Shooting Range time, and a Walt Disney World one day Park Hopper pass for four, just in time for Christmas present shopping.

     Tickets are $50 apiece or $450 for a table of 10, and are available at the Board of Education offices, 2603 Charlton; City Hall, 2800 Third St.; or through the TEF website, www.trentonedfoundation.org.  The TEF is a 501(c) 3 corporation.

     The ticket price includes two cocktails. Sponsorships, which start at $125 and include dinner tickets, are also available. For more information, visit the TEF website.

The Homecoming Court gathers for a photo shortly after Izzy Olds was crowned queen during halftime of the game versus Wyandotte.

Excitement was high, and nerves were through the roof as Queen’s Judging 2017 approached. The event was held on Oct. 1 in the Trenton High School Auditorium. Thirty-one girls were a part of it, along with five escorts, and one emcee. Each of the candidates was nominated from a club. Five were nominated as class choice. During the pageant, each girl was asked an informal question and a formal question. They were judged on poise, personality and thoughtfulness of their answers.

     Around a week before the event, the girls were given a list of 14 formal questions to fill out and hand back in. They were then read over by administration, and the best ones were circled and handed back. The ones that got circled all had an equal chance of being used in the formal questioning portion of the show. This way, the girls had their questions somewhat narrowed down. Yet, the informal ones were a surprise, and answers had to be thought of on the spot. The nominees worked tirelessly the entire week beforehand to learn a dance, practice their questions, and rehearse the show.

     Art Club nominee Laine Carmona stated, “This week was very stressful, yet exciting. I cannot wait to get it over with. Public speaking is very hard.”  

     Finally, when 7 p.m. rolled around, the competition began. Girls backstage tried to keep calm and contain their excitement. The night went in order, with the dance first, then informal questioning, formal questioning, and lastly the announcing of the final five. There were also dance performances by Linda’s School of Dance. Everyone did very well. The candidates who made it to the final five were Lauryn Gibas, Izzy Olds, Isabella Wakeham, Vanessa Litchard, and Anna Howey.

      “It’s exciting to have won; I am definitely looking forward to the fun week ahead. I am also very honored to be recognized by such a unique event by THS,” said Anna.

     The Homecoming game and crowning was then scheduled for Friday, Oct. 7. Izzy Olds was crowned Homecoming Queen 2017.

     Homecoming week is jam-packed with activities at lunch and different spirit days but the one thing that everyone gets excited for is the pep rally. The energy in the room is electrifying and it really pumps everyone up for the big game.

     Student council prepares diligently all week to make sure the pep rally is better than the years prior, meeting every day during lunch and some days after school to come up with games and the schedule of events. To start off the pep rally, the cheer team does a dance routine and a few cheers to hype everyone up with chant battles between the grades. The football players then introduce themselves and go into a huddle. To keep up the enthusiasm, the marching band performed part of their half time show and some stand tunes like the Fight Song and a crowd favorite, “Hey Baby”. Next, Trenton High School’s homecoming court is introduced with their escorts. Following this are the ever-so-competitive pep rally games.

     This year the seniors took home the gold in each pep rally game; Tug-o-war, Bring Me, and Hungry Hungry Hippos. The game that gets the most people involved and on their toes is Bring Me. The Student Council Executive Board president and vice president call off a list of items for each grade to hand to their class president to race it to the middle of the gym.

     Following the games, the senior girls busted out their moves to hype up the crowd even more during their annual Senior Girls Dance. They worked so hard on it every day for two weeks until it was perfect. To end the pep rally, Trojan Pit leader Scotty Lamb gave a speech and initiated the annual school huddle. On top of this he started the loudest chant that has ever taken place inside the walls of Trenton High School.

     “This year’s pep rally was for the book and hands down the best one yet!” exclaimed Senior Megan McNeely.

     Every week people of all ages come together to watch their hometown boys of fall play football. Spirits were high after an eventful week of fun filled school activities and the students at Trenton High School could not have been more excited about the Homecoming Games on Oct. 7.

     There was a pep rally in the gym at the end of the day to pump up the football team, and of course there was some friendly competition among each grade. The students were ecstatic and they could not wait for the game that night. The Trojans started the game out strong but fell to the Bears in the end. Despite the outcome, it was a great game with a lot of cheering and rowdy fans.

     “The Homecoming game did not turn out how we wanted it,” stated senior kicker Trevor Goodman. “We played hard but Wyandotte came out and played a better game.”

     Last year the Trojans beat the Bears in their Homecoming game and this year Wyandotte was looking for revenge.

     “I wouldn’t have wanted to play any other team for my last Homecoming game,” explained senior center Ean Purcell. “It’s always an intense game and the score always tends to be close.”

     Despite the loss, the students at THS made it an exciting night and the seniors won the float contest.

     Student correspondents Jordan Vericker, Olivia Spaulding and Lauryn Gibas are seniors at Trenton High School.

Jessica Wiltse Senior, Swimming

 In yet another successful season for the Trenton High School girls swimming team, the team has been guided by a strong veteran presence led by none other than Jessica Wiltse, who propelled a Regional-qualifying freshman season into a stellar career with the Trojans. Sporting a 3.72 grade-point average through nine trimesters at Trenton, Wiltse’s impact has managed to expand beyond the water. A member of the National Honors Society, Wiltse has also played a big role in helping the figure skating team capture a State Championship last season, an accomplishment she hopes to follow up on later this year. Not to be overshadowed by her athletic achievements, Wiltse also stays involved with her membership in the Interact Club, French Club and Art Club. With her talents both academically and athletically, Wiltse has caught the eye of a variety of colleges that hope to see her eventually enroll. She has received scholarship offers to continue her athletic career, but as of now she has trimmed down the list of potential suitors to Michigan State University, Northern Michigan University and Boston University. She has not yet decided on where she’ll continue her education, but she does plan to major in forensic science wherever she ends up. With this degree, she hopes to work on cases and solve crimes. In whatever direction that she winds up pursuing her parents, Tom and Lynda, are eager to continue to support her goals.

BY JOE HOSHAW Jr.

     Supporters of Trenton Public Schools may have been on Grosse Ile last month for the Trenton Educational Foundation’s Signature Event, but they were clearly in a New York state of mind.

     That’s because the banquet room decor and the menu at the Grosse Ile Golf and Country Club that evening were fully reflective of the “New York New York” theme planned out in extensive detail by the TEF’s Signature Event Committee.

     From SoHo to Chinatown to Broadway, the Big Apple’s culture and cuisine provided the backdrop for the TEF to raise funds to help Trenton students, as well as honor three people who dedicated much of their lives to helping students in years past.

     Each year since the Signature Event was started in 2011, the TEF has recognized former students, educators and other community members by adding their plaques to the Wall of Fame inside Trenton High School near the entrance to the Board of Education office.

     This year’s inductees included Gerald Brown, George Mans and Vincent “Joe” Porreca, three community leaders who each contributed to the improvement of local education in multiple ways.

     Brown, perhaps best remembered as Trenton’s former mayor, serving from 2001 to 2011, was also a former longtime member of the Trenton School Board.

     The only former educator among the three new inductees, Mans compiled a resume that included serving the community as mayor and as its representative in the Michigan House of Representatives. Porreca also served in Lansing and state representative and a strong advocate for education and the city’s schools.

     During the course of the evening, TEF Chair Kellee Howey also recognized the most recent group of Trenton teachers to apply for and receive grants from the foundation, which served as a funding source for curriculum “extras” not provided for in traditional public funding.

     The Wall of Fame was established in conjunction with the creation of the Signature Event, which has become the TEF’s key annual fundraising activity.

     The Wall is intended to honor men and women who have made significant and lasting contributions to the quality of education in Trenton, as well as Trenton High School graduates who have distinguished themselves in their professions.

     The TEF holds other events throughout the year intended to both raise funds and its visibility in the community. It also conducts an annual fund drive.

     To date, 17 people have been included on the Wall of Fame.

     The 14 previous inductees to the Wall of Fame include Boyd Arthurs, Neil Van Riper, William C. Taylor and Richard Hedke, all of whom were honored posthumously, along with John “Jack” Doyle, Randy Wiseman, Jack Kripowicz, Larry Leapley, J.J. Putz, Lonnie Shea, Donald Kolcheff, Andy Greene, Carol Oakley and Ronald Sams.

     TEF was established in 2008 through a partnership of community leaders from various organizations.      All levels of Trenton public education are helped by the organization’s efforts. The Foundation funds six integral areas of education: cultural enrichment, scholastic enrichment, arts and education, technology and learning, continuing education and professional development.

     The TEF is a 501(c)3 non-profit. Its stated mission is to help achieve and maintain an “extra margin of excellence.” The TEF is an independent entity, not affiliated with the Trenton Board of Education.

     For more information about the TEF and for full details on grants that have been awarded, visit www.trentonedfoundation.org.  Also, see Page 12-B inside the Schools Section of this month’s Trib for an article on the TEF fall grant recipients.

   Since the first shovel was put into the ground for the construction of the current Trenton High School Building in 1951, the addition of the Neil Van Riper Building in 1961, the building of the IMC wing in 1968, and the renovations done during the bond in 2009, there has stood a white oak tree on the north side of the building.

     School officials said the existence of the tree has been acknowledged through its preservation during those building changes. The tree influenced the design of the administrative offices and the renovation to the parking lot. The tree has become the representative symbol of the Trenton Educational Foundation. This fall, as the school year started, it was noticed that there was a gap on the main trunk of the tree starting at the top of the bole and extending down to approximately 30 inches from the base. The gap was significant enough to see sunlight shining through near the top.

     The school district has had an arborist and tree companies inspect the tree. All have come to the same conclusion. The 225-year-old tree has reached the end of its expected life cycle and the condition of the tree will continue to deteriorate.

     In addition to the split in the trunk, there are a number of dead branches which indicate overall poor health. The recommendation is that the tree be removed. Removal is scheduled for early December before harsh winter can set in.

     The high school science department will try to grow saplings from acorns collected from the tree. It is hoped that one of these saplings can be planted as a replacement for the parent tree in the future.

     The district is also looking for useable wood that can be salvaged during the removal and used by the wood tech classes to create student projects. About 100 feet to the east of the white oak stands a red oak that has a similar history on the property.   Officials hope that any symbolism can be shifted in its direction.

     The Trenton Educational Foundation (TEF) is putting mice in the hands of students at Hedke and Anderson elementary schools after approving a $1,600 grant request from the technology staff.

     Longtime educators Stephen Kowalski and Michelle Sorenson submitted a proposal for size-appropriate mice for use by kindergarten, first- and second-graders to boost computer literacy skills. Using a mouse that better fits their small hands will help them strengthen motor skills necessary to maneuver the device, used to move the cursor on a computer screen.

     It was one of four grant proposals awarded by TEF for its fall grant cycle. Awards totaled $9,133.50, according to Jeanine VanAuken, chairman of the organization’s Grant Committee, and pushed the cumulative total of grants to $70,000 awarded since 2009.

     Also at Hedke and Anderson, students in the deaf/hard of hearing program will benefit from the Early Explorers reading program being introduced through a $2,499 TEF grant.

     Mary Sinz from Hedke and Melissa Behnan from Anderson submitted the proposal after receiving a sample of the reading program last year. Sinz said that particularly in special education, teachers are always looking for ways to make instruction meaningful and relative to their students’ lives.

     “We loved what we saw, and knew these books would be incredibly useful for our instruction and students because it focused on the key aspects our students specifically need – language, vocabulary and comprehension,” said Sinz.

     The Early Explorers non-fiction texts will allow her and Behnan to teach useful and meaningful vocabulary to the 41 students in the program while working on content goals, reading fluency and comprehension. Additionally, the program’s approach to language and vocabulary progression will build the reader’s confidence, increase their level of thinking and ensure comprehension of what they have read.

     At Arthurs Middle School, TEF awarded $2,500 for Google Chromebook applications to support the Google Classroom program TEF helped get off the ground several years ago, said Van Auken.

     Another $2,500 grant was approved for efforts at Trenton High School (THS) to foster school pride and unity through peer mentoring.

     The Advocates Creating Conversations that Engage and Support Students (ACCESS) program will be used by the Be The Change Team that exists to promote a safe school environment for all students.

     Stacey Marcum, Career Center Specialist at THS, said the program will directly benefit an estimated 50 students who transition into a new school setting each year. Guided by the Be The Change team, mentors, selected by an application process, will be matched with new students who share interests and shared experiences. Together they will attend activities throughout the year, providing peer support after the first week of school, encouraging the involvement in a wide range of activities.

     Those activities extend beyond orientation, lunch-buddy days and student mixers to sporting events and after-school clubs, said Marcum.

     “The year-long component of the program is also what makes it stand out from other new student programs,” she said. “The new student isn’t lost in the shuffle after the first week of school and ultimately we would like to see new friendships blossom and build a stronger school community.”           

     Funding for the grants is raised through TEF activities, such as the Signature Event held last month (see related article on Page 1-A), and Tailgate Party held each fall. TEF awards grants in the spring and fall, in an effort to support innovative ideas that cannot be supported in the school’s budget.  They have ranged from a few hundred dollars to the maximum $2,500, enhancing every department and every school in the district.

Madison Sieloff, senior at Trenton High School, signed her National Letter of Intent and the Big 10 Tender for Women’s Rowing team at Rutgers University on Nov. 9. Rutgers is a Big 10, NCAA Division 1 University located in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Women’s Rowing has been a sport at Rutgers since 1974. Rutgers is the nation’s eighth oldest university and is celebrating its 250^th anniversary this month. Madison plans to study business.

     In 2014, Madison Sieloff co-founded the Trenton High School varsity crew with friend Emily Kemp. Madison has served as a varsity coxswain and a captain since the team’s formation. Even though crew is the newest varsity sport in Trenton, the team has had great success in its first two years of competition.

     Last spring, Trenton’s Women’s Lightweight 4+ placed third at the Scholastic Rowing Association of Michigan Championship Regatta in Grand Rapids. This boat consisted of Madison Sieloff (coxswain), and rowers Alessandra Danyo, Blake Livernois, Lauren Truitt and Grace Krawczyk.

     The crew also succeeded in international competition last year. The Trenton High School Varsity crew was one of over 120 North American teams who competed at the Canadian Secondary Schools Rowing Association Regatta located in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada. Trenton’s Women placed sixth in the 63 Kg 8+ finals race. This boat consisted of Madison Sieloff (coxswain), and rowers Alessandra Danyo, Blake Livernois, Lauren Truitt, Grace Krawczyk, Sarah Cullen, Laura Stapleton, Katelyn Matusik, and Megan McNeely.

     Trenton’s crew has grown much faster than anyone expected, with more than 50 students participating in its second year of competition in spring 2016. Sieloff said she is thankful for the amazing support from her family, teammates, coaches, crew families, the Wyandotte Boat Club, everyone from Trenton Schools, and the Trenton community.

     “Everyone has been so supportive since we started crew,” Sieloff said. “We knew from the beginning that having rowing at Trenton High would be great for our community.”

     Madison thanked Head Coach Bob Olszewski, a retired Trenton High mathematics teacher and rower for more than 50 years, who came out of retirement to become the Head Coach of Trenton High School’s Varsity Crew.

     “Coach Olszewski has sacrificed so much over the last few years so that we could be successful.” Sieloff remarked. “Coach O. has not only taught us how to row, he has taught us how to be a hardworking team dedicated to be the best we can be!”

     Madison also thanked Coach Rod Lively and the other coaches for dedicating so much of their time to the student athletes.

     “Trenton’s Crew is more than a team of athletes. It is a community of families who have joined together to provide maximum opportunities for Trenton High students.” Madison said. “I am thrilled to attend Rutgers University and be a member of its Women’s Rowing team. I love rowing and could never have imagined how much it would change my life.”

     The Trenton Educational Foundation (TEF) is putting mice in the hands of students at Hedke and Anderson elementary schools after approving a $1,600 grant request from the technology staff.

     Longtime educators Stephen Kowalski and Michelle Sorenson submitted a proposal for size-appropriate mice for use by kindergarten, first- and second-graders to boost computer literacy skills. Using a mouse that better fits their small hands will help them strengthen motor skills necessary to maneuver the device, used to move the cursor on a computer screen.

     It was one of four grant proposals awarded by TEF for its fall grant cycle. Awards totaled $9,133.50, according to Jeanine VanAuken, chairman of the organization’s Grant Committee, and pushed the cumulative total of grants to $70,000 awarded since 2009.

     Also at Hedke and Anderson, students in the deaf/hard of hearing program will benefit from the Early Explorers reading program being introduced through a $2,499 TEF grant.

     Mary Sinz from Hedke and Melissa Behnan from Anderson submitted the proposal after receiving a sample of the reading program last year. Sinz said that particularly in special education, teachers are always looking for ways to make instruction meaningful and relative to their students’ lives.

     “We loved what we saw, and knew these books would be incredibly useful for our instruction and students because it focused on the key aspects our students specifically need – language, vocabulary and comprehension,” said Sinz.

     The Early Explorers non-fiction texts will allow her and Behnan to teach useful and meaningful vocabulary to the 41 students in the program while working on content goals, reading fluency and comprehension. Additionally, the program’s approach to language and vocabulary progression will build the reader’s confidence, increase their level of thinking and ensure comprehension of what they have read.

     At Arthurs Middle School, TEF awarded $2,500 for Google Chromebook applications to support the Google Classroom program TEF helped get off the ground several years ago, said Van Auken.

     Another $2,500 grant was approved for efforts at Trenton High School (THS) to foster school pride and unity through peer mentoring.

     The Advocates Creating Conversations that Engage and Support Students (ACCESS) program will be used by the Be The Change Team that exists to promote a safe school environment for all students.

     Stacey Marcum, Career Center Specialist at THS, said the program will directly benefit an estimated 50 students who transition into a new school setting each year. Guided by the Be The Change team, mentors, selected by an application process, will be matched with new students who share interests and shared experiences. Together they will attend activities throughout the year, providing peer support after the first week of school, encouraging the involvement in a wide range of activities.

     Those activities extend beyond orientation, lunch-buddy days and student mixers to sporting events and after-school clubs, said Marcum.

     “The year-long component of the program is also what makes it stand out from other new student programs,” she said. “The new student isn’t lost in the shuffle after the first week of school and ultimately we would like to see new friendships blossom and build a stronger school community.”           

     Funding for the grants is raised through TEF activities, such as the Signature Event held last month (see related article on Page 1-A), and Tailgate Party held each fall. TEF awards grants in the spring and fall, in an effort to support innovative ideas that cannot be supported in the school’s budget.  They have ranged from a few hundred dollars to the maximum $2,500, enhancing every department and every school in the district.

 Brandon Morgan

Senior, Hockey

A back-to-back All-State selection for hockey, Brandon Morgan will be expected to be a leader both on and off of the ice for the Trojans this season. With his role as a leader amongst his teammates, Morgan sets the standard for the players around him with his 3.25 grade-point average. Along with his standing in the classroom, head coach Chad Clements noted that his impact goes far beyond any goal scoring or playmaking ability, “He’s earned the respect of the other players because of his demeanor on and off of the ice. He’s a tremendous hockey player, but in the locker room he’s very serious and works extremely hard and he has an all-around good personality. He wants to be the best at everything he does and people feed off of him.” His leadership has helped guide him to two State Championships at the AAA level and he has his sights set on taking home another with the school’s hockey team this year. His commitment to excellence in the classroom and on the ice has made him a target of many colleges across the state, though he hasn’t yet chosen where he will be continuing his education. He plans to stay within the state for his undergraduate education and is eyeing Criminal Justice as a potential major. He has put thought into eventually pursuing a law degree, but has not firmly committed to that career path. In whichever direction he chooses to follow his parents, James and Sheila, are confident he can accomplish whatever he sets his sights on.

BY BRIAN RZEPPA

     For any program that is in its infancy, the goal each year is simply to improve upon the previous season’s results and eventually work into being a consistent competitor.

     That is no different for the Trenton Robotics team, formally known as the Trenton Torque-Nados. While many programs value incremental improvement, the robotics program has jumped right into the fold as one of the top teams in the state.

     Started four years ago by 1987 Trenton graduate Ed Neubecker, an engineer by trade, the program was formed after he had planned on mentoring Woodhaven High School’s team.

     “When we started there were around 250 FIRST Robotics in the state and around 1,500-2,000 worldwide. I was going to help mentor a team in Woodhaven and when I met with their coach, he informed me that there was grant money available for new teams and from there the program was created,” Neubecker said.

     With the help of grants from FIRST Robotics and the State of Michigan, the program was able to get off the ground. Following that first year however, it has been up to the team and the coaching staff to help remain viable.

     “We’ve actually grown our funding since our first year. The grants that we received in our rookie year were maxed out and have decreased since, so we’ve relied on corporate sponsors and other resources like bottle drives and car washes.”

     In addition to growing in terms of financial support, participation numbers have been on the rise while more traditional athletic programs have occasionally struggled to find their footing.

     “Our participation numbers continue to go up each year. In our first year we started with 15 students and we’re all the way to 40 students for this coming season.”

     One of the guiding factors behind this surge in participation has to be attributed to the overall success of the team. Even in their first year they managed to win an award at each competition and they have grown since then.

     “The first two years we won an award at every competition that we went to. The third year we won the Chairman’s Award, which is the most prestigious award at a single event and qualifies you to compete for a state championship.”

     A third-year program qualifying for a state championship is promising, but their success goes far beyond any singular event. The students that have participated in the program to this point have received life-changing benefits.

     “The scholarship opportunities that members of our team have received since our first year is probably around a quarter million dollars. We have students going to colleges and receiving FIRST Robotics scholarships that they may not have known existed.”

     The team has also managed to serve as a practicing ground for valuable life skills that the participants will be able to put to use in their daily lives as they enter adulthood, too.

     “In this program kids learn how to present themselves, they speak about their ideas, they hear critique about their ideas and it’s done in a fashion that teaches kids that it’s okay to not always get things right,” Neubecker said. “The experience that they’re getting are very valuable skills for when they move on and are looking for internships. From my experience, employers will pick an applicant that has experience with FIRST Robotics over someone who doesn’t almost every time.”

     In three short years, the Trenton Robotics program has managed to create a number of opportunities for each of the members of their team. As they enter their fourth season, the World Championships in St. Louis, Missouri seem to be not only attainable, but a reasonable expectation.

     To follow the Trenton Robotics program and receive updates on their progress throughout the season, visit FRC5090.com and subscribe to their newsletter.

Expert Heating & Cooling: Student Athlete of the Month-Jan. 2017

Ryan Barker

Senior, Basketball

 A four-year starter on the Trenton boy’s basketball team, Ryan Barker has hardly gone unnoticed during his career on the court. Tallying nearly 20 points per game last season, Barker was a focal point on a Trojans team that had its first winning season under head coach Jay Babyak. Not to be outdone by his work as an athlete, Barker has been a standout in the classroom as well. He currently sports a 3.77 grade-point average and has been a member of the National Honor Society since last year. For his efforts on the “student” side of “student-athlete,” Barker was awarded a fourth-year academic award which is given to students that have a 3.5 GPA or higher for nine consecutive semesters. As a captain on the basketball team last year, Barker was able to set an example for his teammates by not only winning the team’s offensive player of the year award, but also by being named first-team All-League. He is currently undecided as to where he’ll be continuing his education beyond this year, but he has a variety of options due to his excellence on the court and academically. Though he has not chosen which academic institution he will be attending, Barker has already decided that he will be studying pre-med with hopes of becoming a primary physician. His parents, Rob and Gina, are excited to see which path he eventually decides to follow.

Junior, Cross Country

 A member of the varsity cross country and track teams for each of the past three years, Lauren Mator has made her presence felt as a runner at Trenton High School. Her placement on the All-Area team during her sophomore year for cross country was topped only by her selection to the All-League grouping this past season. In addition to her talents in both of those sports, Mator was also a member of the freshman and junior varsity basketball teams during her first two years, including the honor of being named captain of the JV team. Her talents as an athlete are rivaled by her pursuits outside of the realm of sports, as her 3.5 grade-point average puts her in great company academically. A member of the National Honor Society, Mator also manages to find time to participate in activities for the Spanish Club and the Christian Outreach Club. With her senior year still lying ahead of her, Mator has not made any official decisions regarding her collegiate plans, but she does have some idea of the direction that she would like to head. She hopes to continue her athletic career wherever she may end up, and is currently considering Wayne State University as a destination. Academically, she has pondered pursuing a career in journalism but has not yet come to a concrete decision on that. Her parents, Jim and Karen, will cheer her on next year as she closes out a tremendous career with the Trojans.

What’s Up at AMS?

     Arthurs students return to school following the holiday break. The return establishes the halfway mark in our school year. To recap our year thus far, AMS consisted of lots of exciting moments, including the seventh-grade football team giving the school their first undefeated season. The seventh- and eighth-grade girls volleyball teams handed the school another uncontested season.

     Spirit week built new friendships and school pride. Students collected shoes and clothes for those in need. Additionally, the AMS students reached their goal of 5,000 cans to receive early dismissal to start our holiday.

      The remaining four months of school will be gone before we know it and summer will start. The sixth graders get to look forward to their day off of school at a movie just before the end of the year. Seventh graders will embark to the Toledo Mud Hens game, where they will spend the day watching baseball. Eighth grade students have great experiences to look forward to during the second half of the year. They travel to Washington, D.C. with their fellow classmates to visit landmarks of historical significance, as well as the annual trip to Cedar Point with teachers and classmates. 

     Don’t forget the best part of spring — spring break the first week of April! Whether it is a stay-cation or a vacation, it is something AMS students are already looking forward to.           

With all of the fun upcoming events, Arthurs students can’t forget to stay focused on their studies.

     Student correspondent Nick Burke is a seventh grader at Arthurs Middle School.