Chirp Sheet
Singing the praises of our DCS students and staff 9-15/23
December 20, 2023
Nine students honored as A+B=C recipients
Nine special students were recognized and celebrated Tuesday, December 12, as winners of the A+B=C award.
The purpose of the A+B=C award is to recognize "good kids" who choose to do the right thing time after time. The program was started in 1999 by the Davison Kiwanis Club and 474 students have been selected as ABC recipients. Sadly, due to a decline in membership, the Kiwanis Club is unable to continue to support the program, however; the district has decided to continue the tradition.
The ABC award stands for:
“A” - a positive ATTITUDE and mindset in the way he or she handles life’s everyday situations.
“B” - BASIC values of honesty, respect for persons and property, truthfulness, sensitivity to others, hard work and unselfishness.
“C” - CHARACTER that exemplifies his or her moral and ethical strength.
The ABC award is presented twice a year - once in the winter and again in the spring. Up to three students each from Hahn Intermediate, Davison Middle School, Davison High School and Davison Alternative Education are selected among nominations submitted by teachers and school staff.
This December winners included:
Khloe Kapit
5th grade
Khloe was nominated by Teacher Mrs. Elizabeth Householder, who wrote: "Khloe does a great job at always having an uplifting attitude. You will find a smile on her face any time of the day. She has a bright smile so bright that everyone around her also begins to smile. At recess, a student from our class was visibly upset and she walked over to him and asked him if everyone was okay and what she could do to help. Others in the class have asked if she could go on a walk with them to talk and unwind from recess or an incident that has happened and every time students come back feeling better."
Ayden Newsome
5th Grade
Ayden was nominated by Hahn Intermediate Teacher Mr. Bob Konzman who wrote: "Ayden is a student who I can always count on to be honest. He shows integrity every day, sees the good in others, and is a good friend to his peers. He exhibits many of the character traits that are part of the Positivity Project."
Peyton Porter
Fifth Grade
Peyton was nominated by two staff members from Siple Elementary; teacher Mrs. Kelly Fritz and Paraprofessional Mrs. Shiela Colley. Mrs. Fritz said that she could always count on Peyton to do the right thing when no one was looking. Peyton consistently demonstrated remarkable integrity and an unwavering commitment to doing what is right, even when there were no accolades or recognition involved. His moral compass guided him to make ethical choices and set a positive example for his peers. Peyton’s actions exemplify the highest standards of character, making him an exemplary role model for the entire school.
Lauren Brandon
8th Grade
Lauren was nominated by Davison Middle School teacher Mrs. Jenifer Green, who says: "Lauren has the type of smile that lights up a room. She wears it every single day. Her attitude sparkles about everything - people, school, the future. Lauren is in our peer to peer link program. This program requires students to choose a peer-to-peer class as one of their electives. Once they are assigned this class I then assign them to go to class with a student with special needs. The peer-to-peer program’s goal is acceptance and friendship. Lauren goes above and beyond as a link. She portrays herself as a friend to everybody, and it is with sincerity."
Alexis Russell
8th Grade
Alexis was nominated by teacher Mrs. Kari Konkle-Szaro, who says: "Alexis comes to school every morning with a smile on her face. She will pop in just to say hi, to share a story, or to show me something funny. Alexis comes in for homeroom help for math several times a week, not because she is struggling, but because she is interested in deepening her understanding of the concepts we are learning."
Samuel Snyder
8th Grade
Sam was nominated by teacher Mrs. Tiffany Hopper, who writes: "Sam is willing to work with any student and students get excited to sit next to him. He consistently participates in class. He uses manners when addressing students and staff and he always looks people in the eye when speaking. Sam is a very respectful student. The way Sam converses with and acknowledges others sets him apart from his peers. He is a sincere young man who acts on his morals through his words and actions. I am lucky to have Samuel in class and look forward to receiving his daily greetings."
Joey Davis
12th Grade
Joey was nominated by the school social worker Mrs. Emily Judd, who says that Joey is the happiest student she has ever met. He tackles every challenge with a smile, he is helpful and kind and is always looking for ways to help ...Joey is helpful, respectful, kind to other students and does the right thing. He works hard and pushes through the hard things. He is a wonderful student and he makes me happy every time I see him in the halls or in my office. Just have a conversation with Joey and you too will smile and your day will be better just from having talked to him.
Lauren Grove
11th grade
Lauren was nominated by Thomson Elementary teacher Mrs. Julie VanEvery. Lauren is a Teacher Cadet in Mrs. VanEvery’s class every day from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Mrs. VanEvery says Lauren is a great example of how you would want Davison High School students to represent our school district while out in public ... She is hard working, kind, mature, and a natural when it comes to taking care of the students in the classroom. In fact, Mrs. VanEvery sometimes forgets that she is only a junior. She is a natural born teacher! She helps some students by working with them one on one and giving them a little more individual time that they need in order to be successful. She even volunteers to help other teachers complete projects at Thomson as well.
Noah Reed
10th Grade
Noah was nominated by Davison High School teacher and Key Club sponsor Mrs. Mary Ann Stedry, who says: "Noah has a cheerful outlook on life. He is generous with his time and is always the first one to step up and lend a helping hand. One quality that sets Noah apart from others is that he has a positive mindset. Noah’s overall attitude is to focus on the good in everything. For example, Noah demonstrates a positive mindset when he volunteers to help others. For any event that Key Club schedules, Noah is one of the first ones to sign up to help. He is helpful and kind to others. He always asks what he can do to ensure that the event will be a success. Noah is caring and compassionate and always puts the needs of others above his own."
Nissan officials visit Auto Tech students
Officials from Nissan of North America and Grand Blanc Nissan visited Davison High School Auto Technology students last week to talk about job opportunities and show off the manufacturer's new electric crossover SUV, the Ariya.
Auto Technology Teacher Andrew Michalik said Nissan reached out to him to about doing a small presentation and talk with students who might be interested in coming to work with them after graduation.
DHS students compete at HOSA Future Health Professionals Regionals
A total of 25 health sciences students from Davison High School have qualified to move onto
2024 MI HOSA Future Health Professionals State Leadership Conference in April 2024.
Last week, students competed in the regional competition at Saginaw Valley State University. Here is how the students placed:
Human Grand Development:
Rachel Lashley, 1st place
Medical Math:
Quinn McCrocklin, 1st place
Nutrition:
Lillian Kish, 1st place
Sadie Lamb, 4th place
Pathophysiology:
Lilly Beath, 6th place
Clinical Nursing:
Elena Ash, 3rd place
Jacob Peterson, 5th place
Clinical Specialty:
Olivia Gartrell, 4th place
Bryauna Strauel, 6th place
Dental Science:
Megan Matte, 6th place
Alaina Sutermeister, 7th place
Medical Assisting:
Grace Barron, 1st place
Morgan Domby, 4th place
Pharmacy Science:
Gabriella O’Toole, 4th place
Veterinary Science:
Sydney Hall, 1st place
Ally Lumsden, 2nd place
Nia Smith, 5th place
Caitlyn Powell, 7th place
Emergency Medical Technician:
Jack Riley/Breeann Powell, 2nd place
Grace Roberts/Sara Meikle, 3rd place
Health Education:
Miley Siple/Cheyanne Alexander, 6th place
Central CAP students put new twist on old fables in 2nd Annual Reader's Theater performance
The plots were familiar but the stories performed at the second annual Reader's Theater held at Central Elementary last week had some entertaining and surprising twists and turns on some classic tales.
The stories, performed by third graders in Mr. Rob Schleicher's CAP (Challenging Academic Potential) class, included "The Boy Who Cried Amphibian," "The Ugly Duckling and his Whole Ugly Family," "Chicken Little Has a Complete Meltdown," "The Tortoise and the Hare - A World Wrestling Match You Won't Believe" and "Old McDonald Had a Farm and An Unbelievably Smelly Problem."
Some students dressed for the part and all of them did a great job adding tone, emphasis and expression to make their roles come alive for the audience, which filled the cafeteria.
Be sure to check out our Facebook page for more photos from this event.
Hill 4th grader wins city holiday card design contest
Congratulations to Hill Elementary student Kenzi Calvin, named as the winner of the Holiday Card Design competition held by the Davison City Police Department.
Chief Donny Harris, joined by Det. Sgt. Bill Skellenger, Office Manager Katie Eich and School Resource Officer Bryan Illig, made a surprise visit to Mrs. Kristine White's fourth grade classroom last week to make the announcement and present Kenzi with a card and gifts. Chief Harris also provided a pizza party for the entire class to celebrate Kenzi's honor.
DCS well represented at Merry Tuba Christmas
Davison had the largest showing for any public school district with participants in the 50th Annual MERRY TUBA CHRISTMAS held on December 16 at The Flint Farmers Market.
Among the seven representing DCS was sixth grader Elijah Shanafelt, one of FOUR generations of his family members performing in the event!
In all, 75 tuba and euphonium players attended the event this year with one member traveling from Harbor Springs!
A Merry Tuba Christmas is an annual event. Any and all tuba and euphonium players are welcome to attend. All performers participate in a 1.5 hour rehearsal at The University of Michigan - Flint and then head over to the performance venue.
Davison musicians who participated in the event included:
Elijah Shanafelt - 6th Grade
William Wright - 7th Grade
Annabelle Morrison - 7th Grade
Gage McCann - 10th Grade
Chance Champie - 12th Grade
Graden Reis - DHS Band Alumni
Mr. Brad Davis - Davion Middle School Band Director
Quiz Bowl teams conclude season, Davison I team shares Division Champ title
The Davison High School Quiz Bowl teams wrapped up the season last week in Linden at league tournament.
The Davison I Team earned the title of Division 2 Champs, tying with Linden for first place. Both schools have a 11-1 record.
The Davison 2 Team finished a respectable third with a 9-3 record and the JV team ended with an overall second place with its 8-4 record.
In League Tournament action, Davison I finished in third place, Davison 2 secured fourth place and the JV team ended in seventh place.
The Quiz Bowl teams are sponsored by Davison High School Teacher Mrs. Mary Ann Stedry.
Thomson students send snowflakes and message
Thomson Elementary students in Mrs. Andrea Bell's classroom made beautiful snowflakes made from recycled lunch bags that are now hanging proudly at the Cardinal Center administration offices.
The snowflakes were accompanied by a card that read:
Advice form a Snowflake
Keep your cool
Appreciate small wonders
Celebrate your uniqueness
It's OK to be a little flaky
Pictured below are Cardinal Center Secretaries Anne McDonald, Robin Ricica and Patty Galea.
Gates students participate in 2nd annual Gingerbread House decorating contest
For the second year in a row, Gates Elementary students and staff have made great use of the leftover boxes from the PTO popcorn fundraiser by turning them into gingerbread houses.
Once the houses are complete, students, staff and, this year, Central Office staff, had the opportunity to vote on their favorite creations. Below are the winners.
2023 The Super's Choice Winner
2023 Most Unique Winner
2023 Most Traditional Winner
2023 People's Choice Winner
2023 Principal's Choice Winner
2023 Central Office Winner
DHS, DAE names Students of the Month for December
Congratulations to the following students selected as Students of the Month at Davison High School and Davison Alternative Education.
9th - Faith Pomerantz
Nominated by: Miss Lauren Jones
Faith embodies exceptional qualities both as a person and a student. Her consistently courteous and respectful demeanor toward others creates a positive atmosphere at Davison High School. Faith's diligent work ethic is evident, and she remains attentive when engaged in conversations. Not only is she kind and generous with her time, but she also readily extends help to anyone in need, gracefully tackling any challenge that comes her way. As her teacher, I appreciate Faith's dependability and her offers to assist with various tasks. With her outstanding qualities and mature demeanor, I am pleased to nominate Faith as the Student of the Month for December.
10th - Mallory Torok
Nominated by: Mr. Mike Sullivan
Super helpful, positive attitude every day. Gets along with everyone and treats everyone great. Good role model and takes pride in her work. Great student but even better person.
11th - Robert Straight
Nominated by: Mrs. Kateri Blake and Mr. Brett Coron
Mrs. Blake wrote: "When I think about Robert, my heart smiles. He absolutely loves learning new math material and he voices this sentiment during class in the midst of taking notes on something new. His tone is thoughtful when asking for clarification and always tells me thank you after he's understood my explanation. Robert's math skills have grown by leaps and bounds over the last two years through his curiosity, determination, and perseverance. Attention future employers...this is your guy!!! :) Mr. Coron wrote that "Robert Straight is one of the most dependable students that I've ever had. I rarely have to give Robert direction in our Career Development class. He takes initiative opening the coffee cart, filling the water reservoirs, and completing orders as soon as he enters the classroom. Not only is Robert a hard worker, but he is also very polite and a positive influence on his classmates. Robert is always the first student to greet me or other classmates at the start of 5th hour. I've also witnessed Robert say hello to random students in the hallway and ask them how their day is going. When we do group work, Robert is always encouraging his groupmates to contribute and is always willing to extend a helping hand when someone is struggling. Robert exhibits Cardinal virtues every day."
12th - Chloe Thompson
Nominated by: Mrs. Jessica Stengel
Chloe is an excellent all around student! She is a phenomenal representation of someone who follows the Cardinal Code. I have been honored to be her ASL teacher for the past 2 years. She is quick to assist her peers and myself and is always willing to jump in hands-first in class. Chloe is an overall joy to have and is a wonderful student!
DAE - Jermaine Burt
Nominated by: Mrs. Shawn Lewis
Jermaine just started at DAE this fall and he has already made a significant improvement in his academic progress. Jermaine is very cooperative and completes all the art projects that I present in a timely manner and quality work. He often asks what else he can do or how he can help. He is polite and attentive when I am teaching. It is evident that he is a good friend, but he knows when he needs to be focused and not be distracted by his peers as well.
DHS Alum is featured guest artist at Holiday Pops
Davison Alum Ally (Allyson) Jackson (DHS Class of 2014) was the featured guest artist and sang with the Flint Symphony Orchestra this past weekend for the annual Holiday Pops concert at the Whiting Auditorium.
The concert will be rebroadcast by ABC12 at 5 p.m. Christmas Eve.
Also spotted in the Flint Institute of Music's symphony and choir were Davison Middle School Teacher John Marttila, playing violin, and choral singers Amy Lesko, DTV Lead Technician, and her daughter, Emma Parker, DHS Class of 2021.
DHS Key Club collects items for Humane Society animals
The Davison High School Key Club collected six boxes of treats, pet food and toys, one bag of blankets and $50 in cash donations for the Genesee County Humane Society during its Santa Paws drive. Great job students!!
Happy Holidays
From all of us at Davison Community Schools, we wish all of our students and families a wonderful and joyous holiday break. Below, Superintendent Matt Lobban continues the tradition of reading 'Twas the Night Before Christmas to preschoolers at the Cardinal's Nest.