Spring Testing for 9th, 10th, and 11th graders begins on Wednesday, April 9th. GLBEC classes will not be in session on testing days, and students will be dismissed for the remainder of the day once testing is complete.

A verification letter has been emailed to all 9th-11th grade students. This letter can be shared with college professors to excuse absences due to mandatory testing.

Participation in Spring Testing is required for all 9th-11th-grade students, as mandated by the Michigan Department of Education. If you have any questions, please reach out.

Mr. Woods, Program Director

As we dive into the second semester of GLBEC Science Methods, students will find that the focus isn’t necessarily on brand-new concepts but rather on deepening their understanding of the foundations laid in the fall. Many of the rules and ideas introduced before December will now be explored through a new lens—one that reveals not just what happens in the natural world, but why it happens.

Now that spring break is behind us, students will conclude Unit 5 and shift their focus to Unit 6: Origins and Organic Chemistry. This unit takes us on an incredible journey through the birth of atoms, the formation of complex molecules, and, ultimately, the emergence of life itself.

A highlight of Unit 6 is an immersive science-art project, where students will trace the origins of the universe from the Big Bang, spanning 15 billion years of cosmic evolution that led to the complexity of life on Earth. This portion of the unit is inspired by the Big History Project, which connects science, history, and philosophy into one expansive narrative.

Want to explore these ideas further? https://bhp-public.oerproject.com/

Mr. Conklin, Science Teacher

In our recent lessons, students have been delving into the concept of character agency across various forms of media. By analyzing how characters’ actions are shaped by both internal and external factors, students are gaining insight into the complexities of decision-making. This exploration helps them not only understand characters in literature, film, and television but also to reflect on the factors influencing their own choices. To demonstrate their learning, students delivered thoughtful presentations comparing two different pieces of media, focusing on how each character's actions reveal their sense of agency. This project encouraged critical thinking and sparked rich discussions about human behavior, motivations, and the power of personal choice.

We have now shifted our focus to podcasting, where students are honing their argumentative writing skills while learning about a modern form of communication. In this unit, students are introduced to the key components of podcast creation, from developing a strong argument to conducting effective interviews and mastering technical aspects of recording. This hands-on experience not only enhances their writing abilities but also builds their confidence in using multimedia platforms to express ideas. As part of their work, students will learn how to identify credible sources and why media literacy is essential in today’s information age. The ability to evaluate sources critically is a vital skill that will serve them well in both their academic and personal lives.

Ms. Kojak, English Literature and Writing Teacher

STEM@SVSU is happy to announce that registration is now open for SMEKplus Summer Camps!

SMEKplus Junior (ages 7 – 10): July 8 - 10, 2025

SMEKplus Senior (ages 11 – 14): July 22 - 24, 2025

 The Science and Mathematics Extravaganza for Kids (SMEKplus) summer camps involve area students, ages 7 - 14, in engaging, age-appropriate science, technology, engineering and mathematics enrichment activities. SMEK has been offered here at SVSU for over 25 years. Past activities include building a trebuchet, engineering bubble wands, studying organisms from our very own wetlands, LEGO robotics, constructing a mini golf course and more!

 Students participating in this 3-day camp will experience hands-on, project-based lessons taught by area certified teachers and assisted by SVSU undergraduates aspiring to become teachers, as well as enjoy lunch in the Marketplace at Doan. Registration deadline is June 7, 2025, but seats are limited for each camp, so register early!

 Early Bird Registration through March 31, 2025, save $5! Regular prices of $150 resume April 1, 2025. There are limited scholarships available to assist with the cost of attending SMEKplus Camps. If you would like to apply for a scholarship, email STEM@svsu.edu for additional information and the scholarship application. To be considered for a scholarship, applicants must either be from a traditionally underrepresented group in STEM and/or of low socioeconomic status (qualifies for free/reduced lunch) Scholarship applications are due by May 16, 2025.

 If you are an SVSU Employee or registering more than one child, please email STEM@svsu.edu to receive a discount code.

We look forward to seeing your student at SMEKplus camp this summer!

Register here for the 2025 SMEKplus Camp

While Spring Break may still bring chilly weather, it also marks a crucial point in the semester—especially in math classes. This is the time when the most significant content is covered, and students must push forward with focus and determination. We’ve discussed what to expect in a college math class, including the increased workload, the need for independent study, and the importance of strong time management skills. The second half of the semester is about refining these skills and preparing for future academic challenges. Please encourage your student to stay committed to their progress and continue developing these habits.

In our GLBEC classes, I strive to model aspects of college math while still offering support and opportunities for improvement. We have revisited key topics and reassessed learning, but I remind students that college professors may not provide the same flexibility. Using all available resources and mastering material the first time is essential.

Looking ahead, we will begin working with SAT-style questions to prepare for spring testing. For those seeking additional preparation, many excellent resources are available in print and online. Please feel free to reach out with any questions!

Mr. Christensen, Math Teacher

The YMCA is hiring summer camp counselors! If you enjoy working with kids, leading arts & crafts, games, and outdoor activities in the sun, this could be the perfect opportunity for you. Check out the attached flyer for more details and apply today!

• March 18th: GLBEC Informational Session at Delta College Room S056 at 6pm.

• April 9th: PSAT10 at Delta College from 7:45am-11:00am

• April 9th: SAT for 11th Graders Only at Delta College from 12:00am-3:30pm

• April 10th: PSAT9 at Delta College 7:45am-11:00am.

• April 10th: ACT WorkKeys at Delta College from 12:00pm-3:00pm

• April 25th: M-Step at Delta College from 7:45am-10:30am

Rodney Woods, Program Director- rwoods1@sisd.cc

Sharmee Gloss, Career Navigator- sgloss@sisd.cc

Therese Kojak, English Literature and Writing- tkojak@sisd.cc

Joel Christensen, Math- jchriste@sisd.cc

Roscoe Conklin, Science- conklinr@sisd.cc