Last Days at ASA

The 8th grade class at ASA graduated this past Monday. Prior to graduation, they spent time reminiscing about their years at All Saints Academy. Here are a few of the comments and memories our most recent graduates will take with them as they move on to high school and beyond.

Preschool and kindergarten had been most remembered by learning the alphabet and kindergarten outdoor day at the Upper Campus. Most students remembered making s’mores and going down to St. Jude Lake. 

The most notable memory from first grade was how Mrs. Schneider won teacher of the year and how they got to be on the news! The students also remember that first grade was the year for addition and subtraction, skills they recognize they will use for the rest of their lives.

Second and third grade are most remembered by First Communion and the field trip to Lansing to visit the Capitol Building. On that trip they recalled learning about the three branches of government and how our Michigan government worked.

The end of third grade and fourth grade memories are mainly related to COVID-19. But by 5th grade, they remembered a return to “normalcy” by going to the farm. The recent graduates still talk about farm days and the different things they learned - from caring for animals to exploring a different side of God’s creation they might not have been able to experience outside of school.

The middle school years are mostly remembered by the different retreats and field trips they participated in. They took trips to Camp Roger, downtown Grand Rapids, Camp Manitou-lin, St. Isidor and St. Alphonsus, as well as the traditional field trips All Saints Academy students take every year. These field trips allowed students to grow in their faith, teamwork abilities, and grow closer to each other and God.

Here are some of what the 8th graders wrote about during their time at ASA:

“I remember all the fun things we did, like mileage club, and retreats. Eat, pray, run and field day were my favorite, and I remember learning new things, while having fun, and growing in faith. And especially doing it with our kind teachers, and Mr. Debri and Mr. Gietzen, who helped me on my ASA journey.”

“ASA has proven to be a great school. Since I transferred here in 5th grade I have made many memories and it has definitely been welcoming. I remember in 5th grade when Mrs. Zimilis would let us play mum ball in between class periods. She has always been joyful and happy and never fails to disappoint. In 6th grade when we went on our retreat I learned a lot about Mrs. Laframboise too. She is always a great person to talk to inside and outside of school. She provides strong advice and is very reliable. Mr. Kress was also a good teacher. He was always engaging and confident. He helped many of us improve in math and theology. Mrs. Beckwith has also been a great teacher. She always makes us laugh and smile. She not only helps me and my peers but also boosts our confidence. She is a very inspiring person and I love her way of teaching. And last but not least Mrs. Sweet; she has been a phenomenal teacher. Even though her assignments can be exhausting, I will miss them. 

“I have had a very good time here at ASA and can't believe that we are graduating. As I go into high school and learn new things, I will remember how they taught me how to move forward in my faith and education. I love catholic education and learning more about my faith and can't wait to learn more with the opportunities that ASA has provided. From service hours in school to applying these things in the real world. I will always have ASA in my hopes and prayers and will never forget how welcoming this school and the people are. I am very happy that ASA has been a part of my life and I'm glad to tell people that I came to this school.” 

– Ella 

“When we first met in preschool, we were all super scared and nervous. We didn’t know each other and didn’t know who to be friends with. Now, we all are very good friends and always will be. When we were in third grade, we went to Lansing and the museum. That was one of the few field trips that we will always remember because we were all together and spent the whole time together. Also, the same year, Covid happened, and we were all separated. It was the first time that we weren't together longer than summer break. It was kind of sad because we were all friends and we couldn’t see each other. When we were in 5th grade, we went to farm days and it was so much fun. It was a 3 day field trip and we all had a blast. We had farm days for a week in three of the seasons. The three seasons were Fall, Winter, and Spring. They taught us how to help and have fun with animals.”

While their time at ASA comes to a close, the memories our recent graduates have created — and the bond they've shared — will always be a part of our story, and theirs. Here's to new beginnings, lasting friendships, and the bright future that awaits each of them.

Second Grade Museum Trip

Last Friday morning, our second grade class set off on an exciting adventure to the Grand Rapids Public Museum! The day was filled with discovery, learning, and wide-eyed wonder as we explored the Grand Rapids Then and Now exhibit with the help of a knowledgeable museum guide.

As we walked through the exhibit, students saw how life in Grand Rapids has changed over time—from the first inventions of cars and brick streets to thinking about our modern-day cars and buildings. The guide helped us imagine what it was like to live in the city during the Victorian Era. Students especially loved seeing old-fashioned toys, clothes, and tools from the past!

One of the highlights was getting to hear from a volunteer who really was a pharmacist, and seeing how he used to make medicine by hand and hear his stories. Our second graders asked thoughtful questions and were excited to recognize places they’ve seen before—only much, much older!

This field trip helped bring history to life in a fun and interactive way. It sparked great conversations about how things change over time and what stays the same. We’re so proud of how curious and respectful our students were during the tour.

Thank you to the Grand Rapids Public Museum for such a wonderful experience. What a great adventure into the past!

Preschool Learns About Community Helpers

Community Helpers are everywhere!  In Preschool 4 & 5 we spent our year inviting some specific helpers to share knowledge about their role in making our lives safer and more enriched. We are so thankful for the teamwork it takes to make our community a better place–including the teamwork of visiting young school children in order to help them grow! 

This past September preschoolers were treated to a school bus ride around our neighborhood. For many  it was their first experience on a big yellow bus–and the excitement and joy was palpable! Our bus driver was the MVP of the day! October allowed for a preschool walk to Fire Station No. 9 where we were given a tour of not only the station but of an engine as well. The firefighters even stopped traffic for us to cross Plainfield Ave. safely. It was a treat! February brought Dr. Frey, who spoke about dental health as well as Mr. Grady who shared his expertise on the many responsibilities of postal workers. March brought Nurse Synhorst and Dr. Synhorst to teach us about caring for our bodies and April brought Dr. Annie who spoke about caring for our pets. Speaking of pets, Farmer Jennie shared with us all it takes to be a farmer–even bringing in a couple of her chicken friends!  In April we also dove into the science of music with Mark Sala. and this month Brett Hurley was here teaching us about tools and building. We are blessed to have so many wonderful community helpers willing to share their time and talents with ASA preschool and in the Grand Rapids community.  Thank you to them, and to our many unsung hero community helpers right here at All Saints Academy! 

New Band Director Brings Experience, Knowledge, and Enthusiasm to the ASA Band Program and MSBOA Festival

This year, Mr. Mike Michewicz joined the staff at the All Saints Academy Upper Campus as the Band Director for Grades 5-8 and Music Teacher for Grades 3 & 4. Mike has been a musician and teacher for over 27 years. His educational background includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education and a Master’s Degree in Performance (with an emphasis in conducting) from Central Michigan University.  He has also enjoyed a career as a professional musician throughout his life.  With a passion for music and a dedication to student success, we have already begun to see his impact within our band program.

In February, 7th and 8th grade band students participated in MSBOA Band Festival at East Grand Rapids High School auditorium.  These festivals give students the opportunity to perform what is learned in the classroom in front of a panel of judges that critique and provide feedback on set standards of performance. Students performed Royal March, Contradance, and Modal Song and Dance. After performing their pieces on the stage, students were led to a room for a sight-reading.  The students were given a piece of music they had never practiced before, given five minutes to review the piece, and then performed the piece together. Students could sing, tap along, or use fingering on their instruments, and listen to instructions from Mr. Michewicz to prepare, but no instruments could be played at this time. After performing, the band received praise and constructive feedback from the adjudicator. The band earned a 2 or “excellent” rating, and all students will receive a medal for their performance.

All band students in Grades 5-8 are currently rehearsing for their performance of the National Anthem at our ASA Night at the Whitecaps on May 9 at 6:35 p.m.  For information and tickets, please see the link here. Our band will finish the year with the Spring Band Concert at St. Jude Church on Thursday, May 15, at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome!

Lower Campus Natural Playground Update

 At the Lower Campus, the second graders have been working on a major project since the Fall.  We have an area on the playground that was cleared to make a natural playground for the preschool thru second graders to use for years to come. All Saints Academy received a grant to use the funds towards the natural playground area.  

There were some guidelines for them to keep in mind as they were creating their plans:

1. It needs to be safe.

2. The equipment has to be something for all ages.

3. Also it needs to be firm to the ground.

Once the groups researched different pieces of equipment that met this criteria they set out to survey the preschoolers, kindergarteners, and first graders a list of four items they liked the best.  After that we compiled the survey results and then they had to include the top survey item in their plan.   The students created a budget for the cost of the project, graph of their survey results, and a descriptive picture of the equipment they thought would be the best fit for all the students at the Lower Campus.  We practiced our presentations for weeks.  The groups all had the opportunity  to present their natural playground pitch to a panel of adults (which included a school board member, principals, childhood director, and business manager).  

The second graders exceeded all of our expectations and more!  They fully embraced this project.  

ASA's Circle of Friends

 Our ASA Circle of Friends!

The "Circle of Friends" inclusion program, first developed in Canada, was created to promote the inclusion of individuals with disabilities and other difficulties in mainstream settings by fostering peer support and healthy friendships. The aim of the program is to create and reinforce positive social experiences, promote healthy friendships, and support the social and emotional development of individuals. 

After noticing a need for better social skills among some of our students, upper campus inclusion coordinator, Nicole Patterson, started investigating this program in the summer of 2024. She attended webinars and training to learn how the program could help meet the needs of students at ASA.  

What is Circle of Friends at ASA?

Circle of Friends is an initiative that fosters inclusivity and friendship among all students, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds. It creates a supportive network for students who might otherwise feel isolated. We chose the sixth grade to pilot this new initiative, but we hope to expand it to other classes next year. We also have made it our own by integrating the principles of Theology of the Body and Catholic Social Teaching. A key difference in our program is that we don’t identify a “focus child”. The goal is to help everyone feel valued and included.

Program Highlights

Religion Class Lessons: Once a week in religion class, Social Skill lessons are taught through the lens of our Catholic Faith.

Peer Mentor Lunchtime Meetups: Each week, students who volunteered to be peer mentors gather to share meals, stories, and laughter. We also brainstorm ways to solve class social problems and help support those feeling isolated. 

Inclusive Activities: As our program grows, we are looking forward to holding inclusive activities where students can practice social skills and form friendship bonds. 

Research: Research suggests that the Circle of Friends intervention can lead to increased acceptance and reduced isolation, improved social skills, and a greater sense of belonging.

First Grade Adventures at Blandford Nature Center!

In February, our first graders took a fun-filled trip to Blandford Nature Center to explore how animals survive Michigan winters. It was the perfect snowy day for a winter adventure! Fresh snow covered the ground, setting the scene as students discovered how animals adapt to the cold.

“ My favorite part was the game where we tried to get the balls.”  ~ Silas

Activity 1: Students played a simulation game where they pretended to be bears preparing for winter. They discussed the types of food bears gather and experienced the challenge of competition—learning that all the "bears" were after the same limited resources to survive the cold months.

  “I liked seeing all the animals” ~ Zoё    

“I enjoyed seeing the animals hibernate” ~ Maeve

Activity 2: Students went on a snowy exploration and walked on a trail. They became animal detectives, searching for tracks and other clues that animals had been nearby.

“ I got to see the animal’s fur!”  ~ Lindsey    

“ I liked how we pretended to get food.” ~ Cameron

Activity 3: Students examined animal skulls and the hide up close. By studying their teeth and fur, they worked together to identify whether Michigan animals are carnivores, herbivores, or omnivores.

“ I liked touching the box turtles a lot! “ ~ JJ  

 

“ I liked when the owls stared at me” ~ Parker 

Activity 4: Students had the chance to meet several rescued animals now safely cared for at the center. Each animal had its own unique story, and the students loved hearing about their journeys—plus, they even got to pet a turtle!

“ I liked everything! It was one of the best field trips ever! ” ~ Lucas  

This hands-on experience was the perfect way to wrap up our Life Science lessons this trimester. When reflecting on their favorite moments, students couldn’t stop talking about meeting the live animals and playing the survival game. With sparkling snow underfoot, curious minds at work, and smiles all around, our Blandford adventure was truly an unforgettable experience!