A HUGE THANK YOU to Volunteer Band Nurse Sandy Hayes, who is stepping away after an incredible 38 years with the Lakeshore High School Band program.
Sandy was recognized at last night’s Board of Education meeting, where a huge crowd gathered to show their appreciation for the years of care, dedication, and support she has given to countless students, families, and staff.
Thank you, Sandy, for the time, compassion, and heart you have invested in the band program for nearly four decades. Your impact will be felt for generations to come!
Sandy was recognized at last night’s Board of Education meeting, where a huge crowd gathered to show their appreciation for the years of care, dedication, and support she has given to countless students, families, and staff.
Thank you, Sandy, for the time, compassion, and heart you have invested in the band program for nearly four decades. Your impact will be felt for generations to come!
The Move More (at Work) Challenge has come to a close, and we are proud of the commitment of our staff and the small steps they took to stay healthy and active!
Congratulations to our Week #3 winners of the Move More (at Work) Challenge:
• Casey King (LMS)
• Sarah Blazic (LHS)
• Kim Wojahn (LHS)
• Samantha Clark (Stewart)
• Melissa Lapekas (Stewart)
Great job to everyone who participated and kept moving throughout the challenge!
Congratulations to our Week #3 winners of the Move More (at Work) Challenge:
• Casey King (LMS)
• Sarah Blazic (LHS)
• Kim Wojahn (LHS)
• Samantha Clark (Stewart)
• Melissa Lapekas (Stewart)
Great job to everyone who participated and kept moving throughout the challenge!
Today we celebrate individuals whose dedication and hard work make a difference every single day. Congratulations to our Best of the Best honorees!
Curtis Partee – Behavior Support Specialist
Renee White – LPS Transportation Dispatcher
Angie Anderson – Roosevelt Paraprofessional
Andrea Gibson – Bus Driver
Your commitment, care, and impact do not go unnoticed. Thank you for all that you do to support our students and community
Curtis Partee – Behavior Support Specialist
Renee White – LPS Transportation Dispatcher
Angie Anderson – Roosevelt Paraprofessional
Andrea Gibson – Bus Driver
Your commitment, care, and impact do not go unnoticed. Thank you for all that you do to support our students and community
Happy School Lunch Hero Day!
After celebrating our amazing Food Service team during National Nutrition Month, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on Pam Greiffendorf, our Food Service Director at Lakeshore Public Schools!
For over 30 years, Pam has helped lead one of the busiest “restaurants” in town—serving around 2,500 meals every day to our students.
Her favorite part of the job is simple but powerful: knowing every child has had the chance to eat.
We are so grateful for Pam’s dedication, leadership, and the care she brings to our students and community each day.
Be sure to check out photos of Pam and some of her incredible Food Service teammates throughout the past 30 years—you won’t want to miss the memories!
Thank you, Pam, for being a true School Lunch Hero!
After celebrating our amazing Food Service team during National Nutrition Month, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on Pam Greiffendorf, our Food Service Director at Lakeshore Public Schools!
For over 30 years, Pam has helped lead one of the busiest “restaurants” in town—serving around 2,500 meals every day to our students.
Her favorite part of the job is simple but powerful: knowing every child has had the chance to eat.
We are so grateful for Pam’s dedication, leadership, and the care she brings to our students and community each day.
Be sure to check out photos of Pam and some of her incredible Food Service teammates throughout the past 30 years—you won’t want to miss the memories!
Thank you, Pam, for being a true School Lunch Hero!
Who would have guessed?
In honor of School Principal Day on May 1, we’re taking a walk down memory lane… back to when our incredible Lakeshore Public Schools principals were just youngsters themselves!
From playground dreamers to school leaders, these five familiar faces have grown into the inspiring principals who guide our students, support our staff, and lead our buildings with heart every single day.
• Ben McIntyre – Hollywood Elementary School
• Rachel Kyncl – Roosevelt Elementary
• Jerry Holtgren – LHS
• Carole Fetke – Stewart Elementary
• Allison Arend – LMS
Did they imagine they’d one day be shaping the future of LPS? Maybe… maybe not. But we sure are glad they did!
Join us in celebrating these amazing leaders!
Week #2 Update – Move More (at Work) Challenge
Our staff kept the momentum going by focusing on strength and stability exercises—great work!
Congratulations to our Week #2 winners:
• Cheryl Tomaszewski (Roosevelt)
• Chris Cochran (LHS)
• Jillian Crocket-Hussey (Stewart)
• Jo Schau (LMS)
• Heather Boyle (Roosevelt)
Our staff kept the momentum going by focusing on strength and stability exercises—great work!
Congratulations to our Week #2 winners:
• Cheryl Tomaszewski (Roosevelt)
• Chris Cochran (LHS)
• Jillian Crocket-Hussey (Stewart)
• Jo Schau (LMS)
• Heather Boyle (Roosevelt)
Congrats to our Week # 1 winners of the Move More (at Work) Challenge!
Shoutout to:
Bill Howell (LMS)
Meadow Carr (Stewart)
Juanita Lopez (District)
Christy Erickson (Roosevelt)
Lisa Callahan (Hollywood)
This awesome challenge is sponsored by the RAV Program and LEF—thank you for supporting staff wellness and keeping us moving!
Shoutout to:
Bill Howell (LMS)
Meadow Carr (Stewart)
Juanita Lopez (District)
Christy Erickson (Roosevelt)
Lisa Callahan (Hollywood)
This awesome challenge is sponsored by the RAV Program and LEF—thank you for supporting staff wellness and keeping us moving!
Happy Administrative Professionals Day!
Today we celebrate the incredible people who keep Lakeshore Public Schools running smoothly every single day. From organizing, problem-solving, supporting staff and students, and keeping everything on track—you are truly the heartbeat of our operations.
Meet (and celebrate) the amazing team behind the scenes who make a difference in countless ways. Your dedication, positivity, and hard work do not go unnoticed, and we are so grateful for everything you do!
Please join us in thanking our outstanding administrative professionals for all they contribute to our schools and community!
Today we celebrate the incredible people who keep Lakeshore Public Schools running smoothly every single day. From organizing, problem-solving, supporting staff and students, and keeping everything on track—you are truly the heartbeat of our operations.
Meet (and celebrate) the amazing team behind the scenes who make a difference in countless ways. Your dedication, positivity, and hard work do not go unnoticed, and we are so grateful for everything you do!
Please join us in thanking our outstanding administrative professionals for all they contribute to our schools and community!
Looking Inside Lakeshore Schools — Episode #30 is LIVE!
This episode features Athletic Director Greg Younger, who recaps the winter sports season and gives us a preview of what’s ahead this spring.
Listen now: https://webca.st/276858
This episode features Athletic Director Greg Younger, who recaps the winter sports season and gives us a preview of what’s ahead this spring.
Listen now: https://webca.st/276858
Episode #29 is LIVE!
Join us as Stewart Elementary Principal Carole Fetke dives into Literacy Intervention Time (LIT) and PTO programs, plus shares all the details about the April 22nd Young 5’s & Kindergarten Event!
Don’t miss out – tune in here https://webca.st/276392
Happy National Assistant Principals Week! Lakeshore Public Schools is proud to celebrate two incredible leaders who make a difference in our students’ lives every day—Mike Vota and Tim Keathley!
As part of the celebration, each shared a fun throwback photo of themselves from the grade levels they now supervise—reminding us they were once in their students’ shoes, too!
At the high school, Mike Vota is passionate about guiding students through every stage of their journey. He encourages them to “master the showing up rule,” embrace challenges, and find strength in teamwork and creativity. For Mike, the most rewarding part of his role is watching students grow from unsure freshmen into confident seniors—and seeing the lasting impact they carry beyond graduation.
At Lakeshore Middle School, Tim Keathley brings energy and heart to everything he does. He is dedicated to building meaningful connections and helping students feel supported as they navigate these important years. Tim encourages students to take risks, learn from mistakes, and stay true to themselves, all while fostering a safe and respectful environment.
Join us in thanking Mike and Tim for their leadership, dedication, and commitment to helping our students grow into confident, capable individuals!
As part of the celebration, each shared a fun throwback photo of themselves from the grade levels they now supervise—reminding us they were once in their students’ shoes, too!
At the high school, Mike Vota is passionate about guiding students through every stage of their journey. He encourages them to “master the showing up rule,” embrace challenges, and find strength in teamwork and creativity. For Mike, the most rewarding part of his role is watching students grow from unsure freshmen into confident seniors—and seeing the lasting impact they carry beyond graduation.
At Lakeshore Middle School, Tim Keathley brings energy and heart to everything he does. He is dedicated to building meaningful connections and helping students feel supported as they navigate these important years. Tim encourages students to take risks, learn from mistakes, and stay true to themselves, all while fostering a safe and respectful environment.
Join us in thanking Mike and Tim for their leadership, dedication, and commitment to helping our students grow into confident, capable individuals!
The Best of the Best! Today, we celebrate our incredible team members who consistently go above and beyond and eserve recognition for the impact they make. Congratulations to those being honored for being true examples of excellence!
Hailey Butler - Hollywood Teacher
Tonya Jahnke - LHS Teacher
Kristina Stolk - Roosevelt Paraprofessional
Maria Ingram - Stewart Speech/Language Pathologist
Hailey Butler - Hollywood Teacher
Tonya Jahnke - LHS Teacher
Kristina Stolk - Roosevelt Paraprofessional
Maria Ingram - Stewart Speech/Language Pathologist
Congratulations to Greg Younger on being named Region 5 Athletic Director of the Year by the Michigan High School Athletic Association! Greg was recognized last week in Traverse City for this well-deserved honor. His dedication and leadership continue to make a positive impact on our student-athletes, school, and community. Please join us in congratulating Greg on this great achievement!
Lakeshore Public Schools Named a Top 5 United Way Campaign! Each year, United Way of Southwest Michigan and Honor Credit Union recognize the top five school campaigns supporting United Way—and we’re proud to share that Lakeshore Public Schools is among this year’s Top 5!
As part of the recognition, a random donor from each top campaign is selected to receive a $200 Honor Visa Gift Card.
Congratulations to LPS Social Worker Paula Hazzard-Reed, who was selected as the Lakeshore winner! Thank you to everyone at Lakeshore who supports United Way and helps strengthen our community!
This National Music in Our Schools Month, we honor the band programs that bring students together to create something greater than themselves. At Lakeshore Public Schools, secondary band instructors Chris Grapis, Christina Bauman, and Matt Pagel guide students on musical journeys that build teamwork and personal growth.
Chris Grapis remembers the encouragement of mentor Cindy Huff, who helped him persevere and believe in his potential. Now he loves seeing students experience those same “lightbulb” moments when concepts finally click.
Christina Bauman treasures performing with students at concerts, watching their hard work come together on stage and seeing the pride on their faces after a successful performance.
Matt Pagel values long-term relationships with students, from fifth grade through high school, and one of his favorite memories was celebrating a strong performance with seniors after MCBA prelims—recognizing their dedication and impact on the program.
Band teaches discipline, collaboration, and lifelong appreciation for music. If you’re considering joining, give it a try—music is a journey worth taking.
Chris Grapis remembers the encouragement of mentor Cindy Huff, who helped him persevere and believe in his potential. Now he loves seeing students experience those same “lightbulb” moments when concepts finally click.
Christina Bauman treasures performing with students at concerts, watching their hard work come together on stage and seeing the pride on their faces after a successful performance.
Matt Pagel values long-term relationships with students, from fifth grade through high school, and one of his favorite memories was celebrating a strong performance with seniors after MCBA prelims—recognizing their dedication and impact on the program.
Band teaches discipline, collaboration, and lifelong appreciation for music. If you’re considering joining, give it a try—music is a journey worth taking.
Happy National Music in Our Schools Month to choir at Lakeshore Middle School and Lakeshore High School! LMS choir teacher Alyson Grumbine treasures final performances and the moments when students’ skills “click,” knowing each performance is unique. High school choir teacher David Gailey values the tradition of “Night of Silence,” where alumni return to sing with current students and reconnect across generations.
Our accompanists help bring music to life. Esther Kraus grew up surrounded by music and was inspired as a child watching a video of Joni Mitchell perform “Big Yellow Taxi,” realizing how music can express emotions words often cannot. Kellie Meyer discovered her love of piano at age eight and cherishes moments when students experience the “aha” feeling of mastering a new concept—memories shaped by her lifelong involvement with the Lakeshore music community.
Choir builds community, creativity, and lifelong memories. This month, we celebrate the teachers, accompanists, and students who make music possible!
Happy National Music in Our Schools Month to the elementary music programs that spark a lifelong love of learning! At Roosevelt Elementary School, music teacher Julie Reid cherishes moments when students refine their skills and discover the joy of making music together. One of her most memorable experiences was watching third graders perform a spoken choral piece based on a Robert Frost poem—an emotional performance that showed how music can create deep personal connections.
At Stewart Elementary School, music teacher Amanda Murbach loves witnessing students’ excitement when they experience music for the first time. A favorite memory was bringing her bass guitar to class so students could explore the instrument—even though it was taller than some of them! Their curiosity and enthusiasm reminded her of the magic of music education.
And at Hollywood Elementary School, music teacher Mikaela McLoughlin treasures the moments when musical concepts “click” and students light up with pride. She remembers the joy of performing at Carnegie Hall, an experience that reinforced the powerful connections music can create.
Elementary music sets the foundation for creativity and expression. Let’s celebrate the teachers and students who begin the journey!
At Stewart Elementary School, music teacher Amanda Murbach loves witnessing students’ excitement when they experience music for the first time. A favorite memory was bringing her bass guitar to class so students could explore the instrument—even though it was taller than some of them! Their curiosity and enthusiasm reminded her of the magic of music education.
And at Hollywood Elementary School, music teacher Mikaela McLoughlin treasures the moments when musical concepts “click” and students light up with pride. She remembers the joy of performing at Carnegie Hall, an experience that reinforced the powerful connections music can create.
Elementary music sets the foundation for creativity and expression. Let’s celebrate the teachers and students who begin the journey!
Finally, we’re celebrating our amazing food service team at Lakeshore High School for National School Nutrition Month!
A colorful and nutritious hidden gem, according to Pam Moore, is sweet red or colored peppers. They might look spicy, but they’re sweet, snappy, and perfect when cleaned and cut for easy eating—a vibrant addition to the lunch menu.
For breakfast power fuel, Stacey Hengy loves a Dave’s Killer Everything Bagel topped with egg whites and tomato when she has time. She also swears by adding Everything Bagel seasoning to scrambled eggs—calling it a total game changer for flavor.
Another hidden gem comes from Debbie Murphy. Her breakfast favorite is the yogurt parfait with strawberries and granola, and for lunch she recommends hummus with naan and fresh veggies—“so good” and satisfying.
Debbie also encourages trying Key West Mixed Vegetables as a vegetable challenge. Enjoy them with butter or soy sauce over rice, or as a meatless option on their own. They’re a simple way to add variety and nutrition to the menu.
For quick energy, Debbie relies on her breakfast and lunch favorites as power fuels, and she notes that Uncrustable PBJ sandwiches are a convenient grab-and-go snack when you need something fast. Her go-to flavor hack? Everything Bagel seasoning. It works on vegetables, meats, garlic bread—just about anything savory—and adds bold flavor with ease. Debbie’s philosophy on balance says it all: you can enjoy a treat, just keep portion sizes realistic and moderate.
Thank you for helping us celebrate the dedicated food service teams at Lakeshore Public Schools who work tirelessly to nourish our students and strengthen our community—one meal at a time.
A colorful and nutritious hidden gem, according to Pam Moore, is sweet red or colored peppers. They might look spicy, but they’re sweet, snappy, and perfect when cleaned and cut for easy eating—a vibrant addition to the lunch menu.
For breakfast power fuel, Stacey Hengy loves a Dave’s Killer Everything Bagel topped with egg whites and tomato when she has time. She also swears by adding Everything Bagel seasoning to scrambled eggs—calling it a total game changer for flavor.
Another hidden gem comes from Debbie Murphy. Her breakfast favorite is the yogurt parfait with strawberries and granola, and for lunch she recommends hummus with naan and fresh veggies—“so good” and satisfying.
Debbie also encourages trying Key West Mixed Vegetables as a vegetable challenge. Enjoy them with butter or soy sauce over rice, or as a meatless option on their own. They’re a simple way to add variety and nutrition to the menu.
For quick energy, Debbie relies on her breakfast and lunch favorites as power fuels, and she notes that Uncrustable PBJ sandwiches are a convenient grab-and-go snack when you need something fast. Her go-to flavor hack? Everything Bagel seasoning. It works on vegetables, meats, garlic bread—just about anything savory—and adds bold flavor with ease. Debbie’s philosophy on balance says it all: you can enjoy a treat, just keep portion sizes realistic and moderate.
Thank you for helping us celebrate the dedicated food service teams at Lakeshore Public Schools who work tirelessly to nourish our students and strengthen our community—one meal at a time.
We’re moving into the secondary realm and celebrating the fun, spirited team at Lakeshore Middle School for National School Nutrition Month!
For Teresa Wozniak, roasting vegetables is the secret to unlocking their natural sweetness. The caramelization brings out rich flavor, creating a tender inside and slightly crispy outside—just remember not to overcrowd the pan so the veggies roast instead of steam. Her go-to flavor hacks? Garlic for savory dishes (minced, roasted, or sautéed—the possibilities are endless and good for you, too) and cinnamon for a sweet twist that tastes amazing and makes the kitchen smell wonderful.
For Kristi Kelly, vegetables become irresistible when roasted with garlic, a touch of butter, and seasoning until the edges caramelize. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese finishes the dish—because cheese really does make everything better. Kristi believes in balance: cooking at home more often, enjoying vegetables as a regular side, and cutting back on fast food. But she also emphasizes moderation—treats are part of a healthy lifestyle.
Flavor inspiration comes from Nicole Schmidtman, who loves using Dan-O’s Cheesoning seasoning to add bold, cheesy flavor without extra salt. It’s her secret for making healthy dishes taste rich and satisfying.
For Kristine Wright, yogurt parfaits are a hidden gem at the middle school—crushed strawberries and granola make them a delicious and nutritious favorite. When seasoning, she reaches for garlic powder and pepper to enhance flavor in simple, everyday dishes.
And don’t miss the Keywest Veggies—Jamie White says this veggie medley of carrots, red peppers, squash, and green beans is a delicious hidden gem. For breakfast, she fuels up with overnight oats or oatmeal topped with fresh fruit (blueberries are her favorite) to stay energized throughout the day. When cooking at home, Jamie relies on garlic and Johnny’s Seasoning to add flavor to almost anything. It’s a family favorite and a simple way to make meals tasty and satisfying.
Join us in celebrating the dedicated food service teams at Lakeshore Middle School who help nourish our students and create a positive environment for learning and growth—one meal at a time.
For Teresa Wozniak, roasting vegetables is the secret to unlocking their natural sweetness. The caramelization brings out rich flavor, creating a tender inside and slightly crispy outside—just remember not to overcrowd the pan so the veggies roast instead of steam. Her go-to flavor hacks? Garlic for savory dishes (minced, roasted, or sautéed—the possibilities are endless and good for you, too) and cinnamon for a sweet twist that tastes amazing and makes the kitchen smell wonderful.
For Kristi Kelly, vegetables become irresistible when roasted with garlic, a touch of butter, and seasoning until the edges caramelize. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese finishes the dish—because cheese really does make everything better. Kristi believes in balance: cooking at home more often, enjoying vegetables as a regular side, and cutting back on fast food. But she also emphasizes moderation—treats are part of a healthy lifestyle.
Flavor inspiration comes from Nicole Schmidtman, who loves using Dan-O’s Cheesoning seasoning to add bold, cheesy flavor without extra salt. It’s her secret for making healthy dishes taste rich and satisfying.
For Kristine Wright, yogurt parfaits are a hidden gem at the middle school—crushed strawberries and granola make them a delicious and nutritious favorite. When seasoning, she reaches for garlic powder and pepper to enhance flavor in simple, everyday dishes.
And don’t miss the Keywest Veggies—Jamie White says this veggie medley of carrots, red peppers, squash, and green beans is a delicious hidden gem. For breakfast, she fuels up with overnight oats or oatmeal topped with fresh fruit (blueberries are her favorite) to stay energized throughout the day. When cooking at home, Jamie relies on garlic and Johnny’s Seasoning to add flavor to almost anything. It’s a family favorite and a simple way to make meals tasty and satisfying.
Join us in celebrating the dedicated food service teams at Lakeshore Middle School who help nourish our students and create a positive environment for learning and growth—one meal at a time.
Wrapping up our elementary school celebration for National School Nutrition Month at Stewart Elementary School with our incredible food service team!
For Dawn Harmon, the hidden gem on the menu is the hummus basket—served on Tuesdays and Thursdays with a scoop of hummus, naan bread, and fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and sometimes bell peppers. It’s a delicious and healthy vegetarian option, and she encourages students to give it a try because they might just discover something they love.
Another favorite hidden gem comes from Ana Montanher: the ham and cheese pretzel bun. She describes it as absolutely delicious and a great option more people should experience. When it comes to vegetables, Ana recommends carrots as a versatile favorite. They can be enjoyed raw or cooked in different shapes—sticks or slices—and taste even better when seasoned with olive oil, salt, and spices to bring out their natural flavor.
To stay energized during a busy shift, Ana reaches for cheese sticks—a simple and satisfying snack. She also loves using fresh basil to elevate dishes with bold, delicious flavor. And her perspective on balance says it all: enjoy a fruit first and then savor something sweet. It’s about making choices that feel good and work for you.
Join us in celebrating our elementary school food service teams this month. They help nourish our students and build a community where healthy choices and caring service make a difference—one meal at a time.
For Dawn Harmon, the hidden gem on the menu is the hummus basket—served on Tuesdays and Thursdays with a scoop of hummus, naan bread, and fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and sometimes bell peppers. It’s a delicious and healthy vegetarian option, and she encourages students to give it a try because they might just discover something they love.
Another favorite hidden gem comes from Ana Montanher: the ham and cheese pretzel bun. She describes it as absolutely delicious and a great option more people should experience. When it comes to vegetables, Ana recommends carrots as a versatile favorite. They can be enjoyed raw or cooked in different shapes—sticks or slices—and taste even better when seasoned with olive oil, salt, and spices to bring out their natural flavor.
To stay energized during a busy shift, Ana reaches for cheese sticks—a simple and satisfying snack. She also loves using fresh basil to elevate dishes with bold, delicious flavor. And her perspective on balance says it all: enjoy a fruit first and then savor something sweet. It’s about making choices that feel good and work for you.
Join us in celebrating our elementary school food service teams this month. They help nourish our students and build a community where healthy choices and caring service make a difference—one meal at a time.
