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Chief
Connection
Utica High School
March 2015
http://uhs.uticak12.org
Inside
Principal’s Message
Counseling
Career Facilitator
College Connection
News @ U
Senior News
2
5
10
11
17
22
Calendar of Events
Student Council
Social Worker
Athletic Director
Band Boosters
Dates to Remember
22
24
25
26
27
31
See “About the Cover”
on page 19
From the Principal’s Desk
Dear Utica High School families,
The spring assessment push is
already in full swing. This past
week we took the ACT and the
WorkKeys assessments, two of
three parts to the yearly Michigan Merit Exam (MME) that all Juniors are responsible for taking. These covered the
“college readiness” portion of the MME. The
third and final part will begin in April with the
first offering of the Michigan Student Test for
Educational Progress (M-step). This test has
gone through a number of iterations since we
started learning about it this year.
Copy and paste this link into Chrome: https://
wbte.drcedirect.com/MI/portals/mi/ott1
This sample document contains three parts, all
of which are worth examining:
Spring 2015 Preview: a sample test with
ELA and Math which gives students and
parents the opportunity to try the questions, experiment with multiple answers
and the tools in the testing protocol, and
get a chance to see what taking the exam
will look and feel like.
Sample Item Sets: This will give students
Grade Level questions for ELA and
Math and gives instructions as they will
have them during the testing experience.
Calculator Practice: This gives students
the opportunity to see and use both the
Scientific and Basic calculators that will
be available to them during the M-step
as well as the Graphing Tool.
If you had an older student, you would remember that there was a third day of testing occurred
on Thursday after the ACT and WorkKeys,
which was the Michigan Education Assessment
Program (MEAP) portion of the MME. This
assessed students English Language Arts
(ELA), Math and Science skills. This year, that
third day now moves to April with the M-step, a
multi-day, multifaceted assessment. A more
complete schedule of this test will be in our
April newsletter.
We encourage students to examine the sample
questions, to get a feel for the assessment. The
teachers will be sharing some of our findings in
their classes so as to assure our students are going into this new assessment with every opportunity to do exceedingly well at it! Change is
Starting in the week of April 13th, all Juniors
will be assessed in ELA, Mathematics, science never easy, but being prepared for it helps! I am
and social studies. This entire testing protocol confident that our teachers have and will continwill be online. Utilizing our ECC, Media Cen- ue to prepare students for this new state assesster, and a few of our computer labs, we will be ment, and know that regardless of the changes
testing roughly 180 students at time. The social that come, our Chieftains will continue to exceed our expectations.
studies and science exams will be very similar
to the MME students have taken for the past few
years, but online. The ELA and math portions Sincerely,
will be significantly different in types of questions and will also be online. Utica Community
Schools will be doing the Computer Test and
Tom Lietz
has chosen not to take the Performance Task
Principal
eliminating the second week of testing, except
for make-up testing.
The state of Michigan has released a preview
site for the M-STEP. The “Early Preview” link
can be found below and must be opened in
Google Chrome. If you wish to visit the site,
and do not have Google Chrome you can download it for free here: http://www.google.com/
chrome/
2
Utica High’s
ID #63510
3
ELECTRONIC
COMMUNICATION DEVICES
UTICA HIGH SCHOOL
SOUNDING BOARD
MEETINGS
Please be advised that students
are NOT allowed to use electronic
All parents are welcome to attend our monthly
communication devices (ECD’s) in
Sounding Board meetings to receive information
the classrooms and lunchrooms
regarding student activities and educational
during the school day unless
programs offered at UHS. These meetings are held
invited to do so by their teacher.
on the second Monday of each month. Please mark
your calendar and join us! The meetings are
The school is not responsible for any ECD’s that
approximately one hour. We welcome new
are lost or stolen. We are asking that students
members! M eetings are at
not bring ECD’s to school.
9:30 a.m. unless otherwise indicated.
Any ECD’s that are used or are in sight during
the school day will be confiscated and may be
picked up after school from the appropriate
associate principal.
For the 2014-2015 school year the meeting dates
are as follows:
March 9th
April 13th
May 11th, 11:30 a.m. Luncheon
June 8th
If any ECD is confiscated, your student will be
assigned a Saturday School.
ATTENDANCE
PHONE NUMBERS
Early Dismissal: 586-797-2471
Late Arrival: 586-797-2472
All-Day Absences: 586-797-2473
Please spell your child’s first and last name, grade, your
contact information and the reason for the absence.
If your student attends a shared time class at another
high school you must call that school also. Please include
your child’s teacher and the hour they attend.
Utica Administration
Tom Lietz, principal
Peter Paulon, associate principal
A—K
Jeremy Kranzo, associate principal
L—Z
“It is the mission of Utica High School to promote a sharing of
responsibilities by the home, school, student and community in
the learning process. This collaboration will enable students to
master critical thinking and problem-solving skills.”
Chief Connection is the official newsletter of Utica High
School. It is published monthly by the principal.
4
Chief Connection
Counseling
A-G Dr. Krolczyk
Check our web page for updates on counseling information. www.uticahigh.org
Utica High School counseling department phone: 586-797-2290
Counseling Admin. Assistant Mrs. Wiegand phone: 586-797-2360
Phone: 586-797-2361 Email: virginia.krolczyk@uticak12.org
H-Pag (AVID) Dr. Perry Phone: 586-797-2369 Email: lawrence.perry@uticak12.org
Pah-Z Mrs. Carabelli Phone: 586-797-2364 Email: annemarie.carabelli@uticak12.org
Counselor Appointments
Students wishing to make an appointment to see their counselor should complete a “Request for Appointment” form,
which can be found in the counseling office. Forms are processed on a daily basis and each counselor will contact the
student when time is available. If a parent would like to see a counselor, please call the counseling office or email the
counselor to request an appointment.
SCHEDULING/2015-2016
load for next year. All students should be reminded
that their chosen high school program should be designed not only for high school graduation purposes,
but more important to prepare themselves for their future.
Scheduling for the 2015-16 school year will begin the
first week of March for the 9th graders with their curriculum night being Wednesday, March 18th. Counselors will visit Eppler - March 1, Jeannette - March 6
TESTING INFORMATION
and Shelby - March 10, to talk to the students then
meet with students individually for pick up at each junACT – Students should be awar e that the ACT test
ior high.
is required for acceptance into a 4-year institution. It
Scheduling for the junior and sophomore classes will should be noted that all juniors will be taking the ACT
be during the week of March 16-27. Each student will test on March 3, 2015 and Workkeys on March 4, 2015
as part of the state and district requirements. There is
receive scheduling material and their transcript from
th
th
no fee for this March test. Students wishing to take the
their social studies 11 or 10 grade class. Students
who don’t have a social studies class can come to the next ACT test on June 13, 2015 will need to register on
their own at www.actstudent.org .
counseling office to get their materials. Counselors
will present to all juniors and sophomores in the auditorium on March 18 and 19th during their social studies SAT – Students wishing to take the SAT test should be
class and those who don’t have a class will have a pass aware that the next SAT test date is scheduled for May
2, 2015 with the deadline for registering is April 17th.
to attend at a time good for them. Students should
Students wishing to take the test must register at
bring the material home to discuss it with parents.
Completed schedules must be turned in to their social www.collegeboard.com. SAT has developed a website
studies teacher by March 24, 2015. The students will to go to for information about the new SAT test next
year, in place of the ACT, http://collegeboard.org/
then come down as a class to the Counseling/Career
Center to input their schedule into the computer. Coun- michigan.
selor will have the opportunity to meet and change
schedules with students after their initial choices are
Additional ACT/SAT Test-Prep Information- Stuput into the computer. Students who wish to talk to
dents should also be aware that ACT and SAT testtheir counselor about their choices should fill out a re- prep workshops are available at other various locaquest form in the counseling office. It is important that tions. Please see the forms here in the newsletter. Test
all students take time to prepare a challenging class
-prep software and test-prep materials are available
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Chief Connection
Counseling News
Continued
Check our web page for updates on counseling information. www.uticahigh.org
Utica High School counseling department phone: 586-797-2290
Counseling Admin. Assistant Mrs. Wiegand phone: 586-797-2360
COLLEGE/FINANCIAL AID
INFORMATION
through ACT/SAT. For more information visit their
websites at www.actstudent.org and/or
www.collegeboard.com. Free test prep can also be
found at our new Family Connections through Naviance. All Students received training with this program with Mrs. Wynn, our Career Facilitator, during
the month of February.
Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress
(M-STEP) formerly known as MME (Michigan
Merit Exam) -The M-STEP Summative Assessment
test is mandatory and will be given to all juniors in
the spring. The M-STEP is comprised of several
tests. The first part includes: ACT– plus writing on
Tuesday, March 3rd, and Work-Keys – Applied
Mathematics, Reading for Information and Locating
Information on Wednesday, March 4th. The MSTEP Summative Assessment Components are: in
English Language Arts (ELA), Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. The ELA and Mathematics
tests are comprised of Smarter Balanced content plus
Michigan developed field test items that will include
a Computer Adaptive Test (CAT), a classroom activity, and a performance task. The Science and Social
Studies tests are comprised of Michigan-developed
online, fixed-form, multiple-choice based items.
Scholarships and Financial Aid -Seniors interested
in scholarships are strongly encouraged to visit the
UCS district web site at www.uticak12.org and look
under “Scholarships” or on the Utica website under
“Weekly Notes” at www.uticahigh.org or come and
see us in the counseling office. Students, please
check this often!!
FAFSA (Fr ee Application for Feder al & State
Aid) forms are available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
Parents can access this site through our Counseling
Website link, “Financial Aid”. Parents should be reminded that FAFSA forms should be submitted as
soon as possible.
Note: Par ents and students can also find key steps
in the scholarship and financial aid process at our
Counseling website link, “Counseling Notes”.
Career Expo - Utica Community Schools has scheduled “Career Expo” on Thursday, March 19, 2015 at
Eisenhower High School at 7 p.m. Career Expo will
provide students and parents the opportunity to meet
more than 100 career representatives. The career
representatives will provide information regarding
educational requirements, working conditions, job
duties and tasks, expected earnings and job outlook
AP Testing - All AP Exams will take place Monday, for occupations.
May 4-8 and continue on Monday, May 11- 15.
Signing up for the AP Exams will take place on-line College Fair - Henry Ford II High School will be
hosting a “College Fair” on Wednesday, April 26,
beginning Monday, February 27 at 5:00 a.m. until
2015 from 6:30 - 8pm. It will provide students and
Sunday, March 13 at 11:00 p.m. Students ar e to
parents the opportunity to meet more than 60 college
register at: www.TotalRegistration.net/AP/233630.
and post-secondary educational representatives to
The exam fee this year is $92.00 per exam. Late reg- discuss admitting policies, suggested high school
istration with a $10.00 late fee will take place March course choices, financial aid/scholarships, program
14-March 22 also on-line. Exams cannot be ordered offerings and tuition costs.
after the late registration date! Pre-gridding of the
NCAA Guidelines for Athletes - There are academAP answer documents will take place in April.
ic guidelines that must be followed in order to qualiPlease contact your student’s AP teacher or Dr.
fy to participate in sports at the post- secondary level.
Krolczyk in the counseling office with any questions Potential college student athletes must comply with
or concerns.
NCAA Requirements. It is advised that you see your
coach, counselor or visit ncaa.org for information
and procedures to follow.
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Chief Connection
Counseling News
Continued
Check our web page for updates on counseling information. www.uticahigh.org
Utica High School counseling department phone: 586-797-2290
Counseling Admin. Assistant Mrs. Wiegand phone: 586-797-2360
Seniors Planning To Attend MCC In The Fall
2015 Seniors who have applied to MCC for the fall of
2015 should be reminded to take the placement test at
Macomb. For information on dates, times and location, you are advised to visit MCC’s website at
www.macomb.edu .
Tutoring- Parents should be reminded that the National Honor Society has organized a ‘Tutoring Program’ made up of 11th and 12th grade Honor students
at Utica High. This service is available to all students
at Utica High. We have also sent a list of student tutors to our Junior High and Elementary Feeder
Schools. Parents and students interested in getting
this service should call or see their counselor.
Utica High’s Counseling Website - The Counseling
Department once again, strongly encourages parents
and students to visit our Counseling Website at
www.uticahigh.org. The site includes testing information, career and college searches, college bound
student checklists, vocational/technical program information, college application process, financial aid/
scholarship process, scholarship searches, interest
tests, monthly updated counseling notes, counselor’s
e-mail addresses and much more.
2014—2015 ACT Test Dates
Test Date
Registration Deadline
(Late Fee Required)
April 18, 2015
March 13, 2015
March 14—27, 2015
June 13, 2015
May 8, 2015
May 9—22, 2015
WELCOME TO FAMILY CONNECTION!
Utica Community Schools is pleased to introduce Family Connection linked with Naviance™– a comprehensive website that your child can use to make plans about colleges and careers.
Family Connection allows your child to:
 Research colleges
 Research and apply for scholarships
 Research careers
 Prepare for the ACT test
 Set academic and career goals for the future
 Build a resume
Tenth and eleventh grade students will receive their login and password information in the month of January. Please discuss this exciting new opportunity with your child. Look for additional information regarding this district initiative.
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Chief Connection
Counseling News
Continued
Check our web page for updates on counseling information. www.uticahigh.org
Utica High School counseling department phone: 586-797-2290
The Common Application
Enter your Common App ID.
1. Check that the information is correct.
2. Click Save & Continue or Save & Add Another for additional destinations.
3. Pay the amount stated.
4. Your transcript will be sent directly to the Common App Online system where it will be matched to
your school forms by your counselor, and submitted on your behalf.
Go to the Common App help topic for full instructions on requesting transcripts to be sent to the Common App.
Myself
1. Select your preferred delivery method:
Electronic Delivery - your email address will populate, but you can change it by clicking edit
this email address.
 Paper Transcript - your address will populate, but you can change it by clicking edit this address. You can select Send via Overnight Delivery.
2. Click Save & Continue or Add Additional Destinations to send your transcript to multiple destinations.
3. Pay any applicable fees.
Other Destinations
Use this option if you need to send your transcript to an individual, employer, military address, etc.
Fill in the Destination Information section. Fields with a * (asterisk) are mandatory.
1. Select the Delivery Method:
 Electronic Delivery (Enter an email address)
 Paper Transcript. If you select Paper Transcript, select where you would like your transcript
sent to. You can also select Send via Overnight Delivery.
2. Click Save & Continue or Save & Add Another to send your transcript to multiple destinations.
3. Confirm your order and pay any applicable fees.
Here's what happens next
Your school will receive your transcript request. They will need to approve the request and upload your transcript (if it's available electronically), and then we will deliver your transcript to your destination. Or your school will
prepare it themselves if it's not available electronically. You can track your order online.
SENIORS! NEED A MID-YEAR REPORT FOR YOUR COLLEGE??
Visit http://www.parchment.com/ to
request your transcript. Be sure to request
Next Marking Period Report.
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Parents: You are invited to a special evening meeting on March 11
to learn how to keep your child safe on the Internet
Utica Community Schools remains committed to ensuring our students are able
to effectively and safely use technology throughout their lives.
To support these efforts, the district is hosting a special event for parents called
Leaving a Positive Digital Footprint: Teaching Children Safe and Effective
Ways to Use Technology on Wednesday March 11 at 6:30 p.m. at Henry Ford II
High School, 11911 Clinton River Road, Sterling Heights 48313.
UCS works with students throughout the K-12 curriculum to create the understanding that the information they share through digital media can be accessed by
a broader audience.
Just as our children leave foot imprints in the sand, they also leave an impression
when they interact on their digital devices. Impressions in a digital world can stay
with them long into their future – a concept called digital foot-printing.
All students need to be aware that what they write in a post is open to a wide audience and inappropriate use can have a long-term impact. Employers and college
admissions officers are using social media with greater frequency to review applicants.
This workshop will give parents information to support what our students are
learning at school about digital citizenship. Scheduled speakers are UCS chief of
staff Dr. Robert Martin (topic: revised district technology policy), UCS director
of elementary programs Catherine Einhaus (topic: teaching digital citizenship and
responsibility), UCS executive director of information technology John Graham
(topic: Internet security) and attorney Kevin Sutton (topic: digital footprint of social media).
We teach our children the importance of being safe in their neighborhoods;
please join us to ensure our children are just as safe in the virtual world.
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Chief Connection
Notes from the
CAREER FACILITATOR...Patrice Wynn
15 Tips About Writing An Effective SAT/ACT Essay
Posted by Suniti Mathur on Mon, Nov 10, 2014
With the ACT coming up later this month for our juniors, I thought I would share the following post with our students and parents; A list of 15 points to keep in mind while
attempting the Essay section on the SAT/ACT.
1. Begin your introduction with short, firm sentences.
2. State your 'stance' or thesis firmly and clearly.
3. In the introduction, mention the 2-3 supports you will use in
the essay to support your thoughts.
4. Make good transitions or 'links' to open each paragraph.
5. Tackle 1 support at a time in each paragraph.
6. Build your thoughts up with each sentence. Each sentence
should add on to your thoughts. Do not repeat, put forth new
information.
7. At the end of each paragraph, write a 'mini' conclusion to
connect to the topic and why your support proves your point
of view.
8. Link well onto the second support.
9. Keep focus on the issue. Don’t go off topic.
10. Take a quick look at the assignment as a reminder to stay on topic, and to ensure you
are answering what the prompt is asking you.
11. Take a few phrases and vocabulary words from the prompt, but don’t reproduce verbatim!
12. Don’t make 'politically incorrect’ statements.
13. Write a powerful conclusion. Keep it simple but make firm assertions.
14. Keep an eye on time.
15. Use good and clear hand-writing!
Taken from: http://blog.testrocker.com/wwwtestrockercom/blog/15-tips-about-writing-aneffective-sat/act-essay on November 21, 2014
10
Chief Connection
College Connection
everything you need to know to prepare for life after high school
COLLEGE VISITATIONS, INFORMATION & FINANCIAL ASSISTANT
U of M Dearborn
Go Blue Fridays
Join U of M Dearborn for campus tours, a
special presentation and lunch. This is a great
opportunity to find out about degree programs, scholarships, financial aid, and the admission process.
Program: 10:00 a.m.—12:00 p.m.
Dates available January through July 2015
Visit: umd.umich.edu/visit
College of Engineering and Computer Sciences is hosting the tenth annual “Engineering and Computer Science Experience” on Saturday, March 21, 2015 from 8:30
a.m.—3:00 p.m.. Check out the poster outside of the Career Center for details or contact kathrynt@umich.edu
Northern Michigan
University
Is hosting a WILDCAT WEEKEND Saturday, March 21, 2014. Go see why 9,400
students have made NMU their college
choice. While on campus you will have the chance to tour
campus, interact with faculty and staff, chat with an admissions counselor, and experience beautiful Marquette. Go to
www.nmu.edu/weekend or call 1-800-682-9797. Find out if
you qualify for one of the most prestigious scholarships (high
school senior with 24+ on ACT and 3.5) Check it out at
nmu.edu/
Dual Enrollment with the
University of Michigan in
Your own Backyard!
Discover Macomb is a one
day event for future MCC students happening Saturday,
March 7, 2015 from 10 am – 1 pm in K Building on the
SOUTH campus. Learn about academic programs, the Michigan Transfer Agreement, Early Admission and Financial Aid.
To register, go to www.macomb.edu/discovermacomb or call
586-498-4008
Saginaw Valley State University Attend the Cardinal College Day
Open House on March 31 from 10 am – 2
pm. Get a comprehensive tour, lunch and attend the student services fair to see all that is available to you. Register at svsu.edu.
Oakland University
Explore Your Options at Oakland University
 Business Day
Saturday, March 7, 9:00 –12:00
 Human Health Day
Saturday, April 18, 9:00—12:00
For more information: www.oakland.edu/futurestudents or
call (248) 370‐360 or email: visit@oakland.edu
Visit CCS and choose your own method of exploring what
UCS is proud to have partnered with the college has to offer you. Take a campus tour, meet with faculty one-on-one, visit with your admissions counselor, attend a
University of Michigan to offer college
financial aid session to learn how affordable CCS can be and
level courses as dual enrollment opportunity for our stumore. Choose one or attend all!!
dents. Classes will be held at Magahay Elementary School.
Saturday, March 28th, 9:00 a.m.—2:00 p.m.
See your Counselor for more information on this opportuniThursday, May 28th, 3:00 p.m.—8:00 p.m.
ty available for the 2015-2016 school year!
To receive event information, agenda times, a campus map
11
and directions, or to RSVP, go to
www.collegeforcreativestudies.edu/info, call (313) 6647427 or email senright@collegeforcreativestudies.edu
Future SPECS Howard
Students
Specs Howard School of Media Arts
will be awarding three full scholarships
and nine partial scholarships to high
school seniors in 2015. To enter to participate you
must attend one of three testing dates and select your
program of choice: Radio, Video and Film, Graphic
Design, or Digital Media Arts. For more information and
to register by phone, call 866-61-SPECS.
Visit Aquinas during
AQ Days!!
Aquinas welcomes all
prospective students interested in Aquinas College to
join them for AQ Days. Go and discover what Aquinas
is all about! Get the scoop on everything from
scholarships to study abroad. Meet with faculty in your
career interest, tour their beautiful 107-acre campus, eat
lunch with potential classmates and learn about various
aspects of college life!
Register at http://www.aquinas.edu/undergraduate/
campus_day.html
Friday, March 20, 2015 Fine Arts AQ Day
Friday. April 17th, 2015 AQ Day
It’s Never too Early to Think About
Summer Opportunities!!
Michigan Tech
Summer Youth Programs are available for students completing grades 6-11. The programs are built around handson activities, field trips, and team projects. Programs are
available in Engineering, Science & Technology, Computers and Business, Humanities & Social Sciences. To learn
more, go to www.wyp.mtu.edu or call 906-487-2219.
Phillips Exeter Academy Summer
School
July 5—August 8, 2015
Each year, Phillips Exeter Academy welcomes to campus some 700 students for five weeks of academic
study, athletics, and exploration that carry participants
far beyond the classrooms and the playing fields. For
more information, visit www.exeter.edu/summer
Washington University in St. Louis
Experience Washington University the summer after
your sophomore year! High School Summer Scholars
Program (5 weeks, credit)
 Enroll in 2 college courses for credit, transferable
to most accredited universities.
 Develop academic skills through specialized seminars to give you a head start toward your college
career.
 Live in residence hall and enjoy social and cultural
opportunities with other scholars from around the
world.
High School Summer Institutes (3 weeks, noncredit)
 Explore an area of interest under the guidance of
Lawrence
Washington University instructors
Technological
 Live on campus and gain valuable academic experiUniversity
ence.
Exploration Day at Lawrence Technological University:
 Choose from one of three institutes:
Friday, March 20, 2015, 8:00 a.m.—2:00 p.m.
1. Writing Institute
Join Lawrence Tech for a day of exploring dynamic
2. Pre-Medical Institute
career and education options. Selecting a major and
3. Photojournalism
ultimately a career can be hard. Let Lawrence Tech
For
more information and application materials, visit:
help make this decision a little easier, by allowing you
Summerexperiences.wustl.edu
the opportunity to experience their state-of-the-art labs,
studios and facilities first hand. This event is for high
school sophomores, juniors and seniors interested in
participating in three interactive, hands-on sessions spe- Fashion Institute of design and
Merchandising
cially designed to expose them to the rich variety of
Is hosting their 3-days of Fashion this summer. Handprograms at Lawrence Tech. Be inspired and chalon workshops include Fashion Draping, Learning
lenged by Lawrence Tech professors! Register at
Fashion Sketching, Drawing Shoe designs and discovhttp://www.ltu.edu/futurestudents/
ering the art of trend spotting. Space is limited. Stuexploration_day.asp
dents are responsible for airfare and hotel accommodations. Learn more by texting FIDMSummer to
57682.
12
Summer Opportunities Continued
Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Programs
Carnegie Mellon Summer Pre-College Programs
June 27—August 8, 2015
Advanced Placement/Early Admission
Fine Arts: Architecture/Art Design/Drama/Music
National High School Game Academy
www.cmu.edu/enrollment/pre-college
http://admission.enrollment.cmu.edu/pages/precollege
Lawrence Technological University
Summer Camps
LTU offers stimulating academic camps for students
interested in engineering, technology, design, and
science. Professors will introduce you to the latest
innovations in modern labs and studios on Lawrence
Tech’s 102-acre campus in Southfield. Current Lawrence Tech students will be on hand to assist campers. Register before February 2, 2015 and save $100!
Come to a Blue and White Day, scheduled throughout the year, and save another $50 per camp
(www.ltu.edu/blueandwhitedays) ! Camp fills up
quickly! Questions? Contact Lisa Kujawa : lkujawa@ltu.edu
Pratt Institute
Pratt Institute also has a Pre-College Summer Program. Immerse yourself in Art, Design, Architecture, Creative Writing or Cultural Studies. Scholarships are available, with a March 14 deadline. To
learn more, go to www.preco@pratt.edu.
George Washington University
Offers students an extraordinary opportunity for an
enriching academic summer experience. Courses
range from 6-week online classes to opportunities
in the Arts, Economics, Law & Government, Writing & Communications and Medicine, and more.
To learn more or to register, check out
www.precollege.gwu.edu .
College for Creative Studies
Has their new Summer Precollege information out
for students ages 13-19. Classes include animation,
life drawing, fashion and more. Information is available in the Career Center.
UCS 2015
COLLEGE FAIR
Duke University
More than 50 colleges will be in
attendance at the UCS’
Sophomores and juniors, consider spending your
summer at The Duke Summer College for High School
Students! With a dynamic curriculum designed for
your passions and talents, you learn from the highlytrained, highly-intriguing faculty of Duke University
and earn college credit. Register on the Duke University website.
Annual College Fair
Thursday, April 16, 2015
6:30—8:00 p.m.
Henry Ford High School
Denison University
Do you consider yourself a writer? You may want
to check out the Reynolds Young Writers Workshop. This week-long residential summer program
in creative writing accepts 36 energetic, talented
students from a variety of backgrounds. The eightday program costs $1,300, but financial support is
available for those who need it. Application deadline is March 2. For more info, check out the poster
outside of the Career Center or call 740-587-6207.
National College Fairs
Metro Detroit National College Fair is taking place
Monday, March 30th from 6:00 p.m.—8:00 p.m.
The event is held at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi. Workshops are available for Essay
Writing, Financial Aid, NCAA eligibility as well as
ACT and SAT. To register for the event, go to
www.nacacnet.org/ncfstudent or check out the
posters outside of Utica High’s Career Center.
13
14
15
School Age Child Care Program
SACC is available at every UCS Elementary Building
In School Age Child Care we strive to provide the best care for your child in a safe, friendly and comfortable
environment.
We offer multiple opportunities for children to participate in activities that are
developmentally appropriate and allow for social, physical, and intellectual stimulation. It is our goal to
consistently grow in all areas to provide your child with positive experience before and after school.


School Age Child Care registration packets can be downloaded at www.communityeducation.com or are
available from your SACC Director. Packets must be completed and returned to the SACC Director.
Registration Fee: $40 child or $55 per family (non-refundable). To register for SACC, please call the School Age
Child Care Office (586) 797-6980. Cash or checks must be brought to: Community Education Center @ Walsh,
SACC Office, 38901 Dodge Park Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48312 (Payment will not be accepted at individual site)

SACC IS A PREPAY PROGRAM. The cost of SACC is $4.00 per hour, there is a minimum charge of one
hour per morning and/or afternoon session.
.
S AC C
chool
ge
hild
are -
Spring Break
Spring Break – April 6 – April 10, 2015
SACC will be available from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday at the
Community Education Center @ Walsh, 38901 Dodge Park Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48312
Special activities will be held during winter and spring breaks
COST: $150 for the week, per child
Regardless of days and hours used. Fee must be paid at time of registration.
Program is for students who are currently registered in the UCS SACC Program.
(Fee includes 2 snacks per day; please provide a sack lunch with drink for your child)
Summer CAMP (School Age Child Care)
Summer Camp is designed to meet the needs of working parents by offering planned and supervised Day Camp experiences
by a qualified staff. The program is available to any current UCS elementary school student. Out of District families are
welcome. Child care will be available Monday – Friday, 7:00 am until 6:00 pm. Each child will be provided two snacks per
day. Day Camp experiences will include, on-site speakers/presentations, sports, crafts, and science, gym and playground
activities. Weekly Field Trips are planned (additional fees required). Fees are based on half-day / full-day rates.
For Information on School Age Child Care program please call: (586) 797-6980
16
NEWS @ U * NEWS @ U * NEWS AT U * NEWS AT U * NEWS @ U * NEWS @ U
Chief Connection
March Madness at the Chief Connection
40% off all winter apparel
20% off all spring apparel and tee-shirts
20% off all promotional items
Stop in and shop from 7:20 a.m. till 2:00 p.m.!
New Annie's frozen yogurt in Chocolate, Vanilla or twist during all
lunches.
Phone: 797-2411
Dana Boice—Director, School Store.
17
NEWS @ U * NEWS @ U * NEWS AT U * NEWS AT U * NEWS @ U * NEWS @ U
Chief Connection
National Honor Society News
The National Honor Society’s next meeting is scheduled for April 14, 2015
at 6:45 a.m. in the ECC room. Our next Executive Board meeting is scheduled for
March 25th at 6:45 a.m. in room 234.
All seniors need to have completed their 25 service hours by March 27th in
order for their names to be engraved on their medallion. Seniors are also
encouraged to check with Ms. Kammann to see that all requirements have been
completed.
NHS members are encouraged to check in room 234 as well as at
www.uticanhs.weebly.com for updated service hour and tutoring opportunities.
This website has all the necessary forms for members.
Military Moms of Michigan
This is an organization that supports the military overseas who
have ties to Michigan. We are collecting soup labels and coupons for
them.
We are collecting labels from the Campbell’s corporation. All
labels will be sent to the Veterans’ Administration Hospital for
Children in Grand Rapids. The hospital can turn these labels in for
cash to purchase equipment and educational games and toys for the
hospital.
The coupons, both current and expired, are distributed to
military bases around the world where they can be used in the base
stores. The manufacturers will honor them for up to six months after
the expiration date.
MMOMs are looking for donations of all types to mail to the
Marines overseas. Please visit the website: www.jocokyroots.com/
OCFriends.htm to see what the military personnel have requested.
Please continue to
collect items for
Ronald McDonald House:
Coupons, soup labels and donations can be
delivered to room 234.
Remember that Utica
High School recycles!
There is a paper dumpster
located just outside the
front office!
18
NEWS @ U * NEWS @ U * NEWS AT U * NEWS AT U * NEWS @ U * NEWS @ U
Chief Connection
About the Cover
Utica girls take home the MAC White Division Championship!!!!!!
Once Utica's girls basketball team got through the non-league part of the season the squad became a group of clutch
performers.
"We didn't win anything close in the non-league," coach Tom McDonald said after the Chieftains fought off an Eisenhower comeback Friday to beat the second-place Eagles 48-38 and clinch the Macomb Area Conference White Division
championship with an 11-1 record.
"We had some opportunities to win close games but didn't get it done. Once the league season started every time we
were in a pressure situation, we made pretty good decisions and got good shots and made shots. It's a testament to the
kids."
That poise was apparent in the fourth quarter Friday. Utica had taken a 35-26 lead with a 15-0 run late in the third quarter and early in the fourth, capped by a 3-point basket by Cierra vonZittwitz. Eisenhower battled back and cut the lead to
35-34 on two free throws by Amy Salter with 3:26 left in the game.
VonZittwitz answered with a basket, then fed Jordan Bianchi in the corner for a 3-pointer. Lyndsey Lavelle followed with
a pair of free throws and the Chieftains' lead was back to eight points with less than a minute to go.
"It's about being mentally tough," said Eagles coach Mike Satawa. "They're playing with a lot of confidence now. They've
won 11 of 12 games and they've been in battles with us twice, Sterling Heights, Stevenson. I think their mental toughness is what got them through tonight. They made shots and we didn't. When we were ahead we were fine, but when
we got behind we got frazzled and got out of what we normally do."
Utica won the first meeting 40-33, outscoring Eisenhower 27-11 in the two middle quarters.
"We played a much better first half in the first game (against Eisenhower)," McDonald said. "I don't know if it was nerves
or what but we were a little slow in the first half. I thought they outworked us but we corrected that and I thought we got
after it in the second (half).
"Our thing has been to make people uncomfortable offensively with pressure defense. We did a much better job with
that in the second half."
Satawa saw similarities between the two meetings.
"It's the same thing that happened last time. We didn't play four complete quarters," Satawa said. "We held the halftime
lead (19-15). We played well in the first half. It should have been a 19-11 lead because we gave them four free points
because we didn't box out."
McDonald knew he had a good team coming into the season. He just didn't know how good the Chieftains would turn
out to be.
"I knew the division was going to have a lot of good teams and I thought we would be one of them, but did I think 11-1?
Probably not," McDonald said. "But I saw how hard they worked and how they came together and played for one another. To get to that point where you're playing for somebody that's more important than yourself, special things can happen."
VonZittwitz led Utica with 12 points. Lavelle scored 10, including six free throws in the final 58 seconds.
TaAuna Pearson scored nine points to lead Eisenhower. Nicole Meyer had eight points and 10 rebounds.
By Chuck Klonke
@MIPrepZoneMD
19
Chief Connection
NEWS @ U * NEWS @ U * NEWS AT U * NEWS AT U * NEWS @ U * NEWS @ U
U READ TO SUCCEED NIGHT: Thurs, MARCH 26 2015, 7pm, UHS Cafeteria
Safe with Me by Amy Navatny (Jill Bologna): The screech of tires brought Hannah Scott’s world to a devastating end. After
she signs the papers to donate her daughter’s organs, Hannah stumbles into the life of the Bell family, whose daughter,
Maddie, survived only because Hannah’s daughter had died. Mesmerized by this fragile connection, she becomes friends with
Olivia Bell. Once on the verge of leaving her wealthy but abusive husband, Olivia now finds herself bound to him because of the
transplant that saved their daughter’s life. Meanwhile, Maddie, with failing health, escapes into the one place where she can be
anyone she wants: the Internet. But when she is finally healthy enough to return to school, the real world proves to be just as
complicated.
The Traveler's Gift by Andy Andrews (Dr. D): The Traveler's Gift effectively combines self-help with fiction while passing on
instructions for positive thinking for overcoming life's obstacles. It will challenge you to reach your fullest potential with the
story of David Ponder. Only a few months ago, he was a successful executive--now he's a desperate man. But a divine
adventure is about to unfold. Join David Ponder on an incredible journey that will help you discover the Seven Decisions for
Success.
Delerium--by Lauren Oliver (Mark Moehlig): Ninety-five days, and then I'll be safe. I wonder whether the procedure will hurt. I
want to get it over with. It's hard not to be afraid while I'm still uncured. Still, I worry. They say that in the old days, love drove
people to madness. The deadliest of all deadly things: It kills you both when you have it and when you don't.
Etched in Sand—Regina Calcaterra: Calcaterra's emotionally powerful memoir reveals how she endured a series of
abandonment, abuse, foster homes and intermittent homelessness in the shadow of the Hamptons, and how she rose above
her past while fighting to keep her brother and three sisters together.
Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult (Yvonne Swanson): Jenna Metcalf has never stopped thinking about her mother, Alice, who
mysteriously disappeared in the wake of a tragic accident at the gorilla sanctuary where she worked. Desperate to find the
truth, Jenna enlists two unlikely allies in her quest. The first is Serenity Jones, a psychic who doubtsher gifts. The second is Virgil
Stanhope, a jaded private detective who originally investigated Alice’s case. As the three work together to uncover what
happened to Alice, they realize that in asking hard questions, they’ll have to face even harder answers.
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline: Like most of humanity, Wade Watts escapes by spending his waking hours in the OASIS, a
sprawling virtual utopia. Wade dreams of being the one to discover the ultimate lottery ticket that lies concealed within this
world. Somewhere inside this giant networked playground, OASIS creator James Halliday has hidden a series of puzzles that will
yield fortune and power to whoever can unlock them.
One Lavendar Ribbon by Heather Burch: Reeling from a bitter divorce, Adrienne Carter throws herself into the restoration of
an old Victorian house where she discovers a box of letters from a WWII paratrooper to a young woman who lived in the house
more than a half-century earlier. The old letters arouse in Adrienne a curiosity that leads her to track down the writer. William
“Pops” Bryant is now an old man living in a nearby town with his handsome, overprotective grandson, Will. As Adrienne begins
to unravel the secrets of the letters, she finds herself not yet willing to give up entirely on love.
Orr: My Story by Bobby Orr (Jim Konnie): From 1966 through the mid-70s, hockey great Bobby Orr could do things that others
simply couldn’t, and while teammates and opponents alike scrambled to keep up, at times they could do little more than stop
and watch. But all of the trophies, records, and press clippings leave unsaid as much about the man as they reveal. They tell us
what Orr did, but don’t tell us what inspired him, who taught him, or what he learned along the way. They don’t tell us what it
was like when the agent he regarded as his brother betrayed him and left him in financial ruin, at the same time his battered
knee left him unable to play the game he himself had redefined only a few seasons earlier. Orr himself has never put all this
into words, until now.
The Things They Carried by Tim Obrien (Tony Smith): The Things They Carried depicts the men of Alpha Company: Jimmy Cross,
Henry Dobbins, Rat Kiley, Mitchell Sanders, Norman Bowker, Kiowa, and of course, the character Tim O'Brien who has survived
his tour in Vietnam to become a father and writer at the age of forty-three. They battle the enemy (or maybe more the idea of
the enemy), and occasionally each other. In their relationships we see their isolation and loneliness, their rage and fear. They
miss their families, their girlfriends and buddies; they miss the lives they left back home. Yet they find sympathy and kindness
for strangers, and love for each other, because in Vietnam they are the only family they have. The way they tell stories about
others, we hear them telling stories about themselves.
20
Chief Connection
NEWS @ U * NEWS @ U * NEWS AT U * NEWS AT U * NEWS @ U * NEWS @ U
UCS school lunch rooms are serving up important menu changes as a result of new federal regulations.
The changes will create healthier menu items for our students by requiring larger portions of fruits and vegetables. In addition, our
lunches will feature more whole grains, along with lower sodium content.
The new federal law also mandates that every school district adjust its meal prices to ensure the overall rate is comparable with
federal reimbursement rates. As a result, the new requirements mandate an increase in lunch prices for all Utica Community Schools.
Student lunch prices for the 2014 - 2015 school year will be $ 2.50 for elementary, $2.75 for junior high and $ 2.80 for high
school. Breakfast served at Utica High School from 6:50am to 7:15am will remain at $1.40.
Food Service staff members are ready to continue their partnership with parents to make sure our students are well-nourished and
ready to learn.
Start the day right – come join us for breakfast!
A nutritious breakfast is available for students when they arrive at school each morning. The cost is $1.40, milk included. For
students with an approved free or reduced price application on file, the price is 30 cents or free. A variety of food choices are
offered. Milk alone is .45 cents. We look forward to serving our students the most important meal of the day!
DEPOSITING LUNCH MONEY INTO
YOUR CHILD'S ACCOUNT:
Parents can go to
www.sendmoneytoschool.com to pre-pay
for their student's lunch meals, and never
worry about lost money again! Click on
"create a new account." The district offers
special discounts if you pay in advance.
FREE AND REDUCED LUNCH
APPLICATIONS:
Parents who think they might qualify for
Free and Reduced Lunch can go to the
main office or, for your convenience, can
go to www.lunchapp.com and fill out the
application online. Notification of benefits
is faster using the online service.
If you have already signed up on
www.lunchdeposit.com, your username
and password will not change. Visit the
district website at www.uticak12.org, or
contact the Food Service Department at
586-797-1185 for questions.
Please keep in mind that if your student
qualifies for free and reduced lunch, he or
she will also qualify for reduced costs on
specific national exams.
Parking at Utica High School
Please keep a watchful eye for students crossing the streets and making
their way into the building from the student parking lots. Also, use
caution as students use the cross-walk on Shelby Road.
Please DO NOT park on Shelby Road, either before or after school. The
Shelby Township Police will issue tickets to those parked on Shelby Road.
Also, unless you have a permit from the State of Michigan licensing
bureau, DO NOT park in spots reserved for the physically challenged.
They are monitored daily by the Shelby Township police.
Remember, the speed limit in all parking lots is 10 mph. Feel free to wait
for your student at the end of the school day in the Wiley Elementary
parking lot.
Parents:
For access to your student’s grades, absences,
etc., please don’t forget to pick up your student’s
Power School log-on.
See Ms. Killius in the counseling office, and have your ID
available in order to receive it.
Reporting an absence?
Please call the Attendance Office
Early Dismissal: 586-797-2471
Late Arrival: 586-797-2472
All Day: 586.797.2473
Attention Parents: New e-mail system to keep parents informed!
We are pleased to announce a new e-mail system that will allow us to regularly send important school
notices and newsletters from the Board Office directly to you.
To register for these updates, please log on to your PowerSchool account and sign up under the “E-Mail
Notifications” tab. Our goal is to have 100 percent of our parents enrolled in this system so that we can keep
you better informed and reduce the use of paper in our school. Your help with this effort is greatly appreciated!
21
CHIEFTAIN SENIOR NEWS
March 16, 2015
March 31, 2015
April 1, 2015
April 2, 2015
April 3, 2015
April 6 - April 10, 2015
April 13, 2015
April 16, 2015
May 7, 2015
May 22 - May 25, 2015
June 4, 2015
June 5, 2015
June 6, 2015
7:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
1:15 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
6:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
Sign Up Senior Speech Contest - Main Office
Parent - Senior MANDATORY Meeting
Parent - Senior MANDATORY Meeting
Deadline Senior Speech Contest
No School - Good Friday
No School - Spring Break
Classes Resume
Senior Speech Contest
Senior Honor's Night (invitation only) - Auditorium
No School - Memorial Day Weekend
Senior Prom - Palazzo Grande
Baccalaureate
Graduation Ceremony—Palace of Auburn Hills
CHIEFTAIN UNDERCLASS NEWS
February 27 - March 13, 2015
March 3, 2015
March 4, 2015
March 9, 2015
March 10, 2015
March 19, 2015
March 27, 2015
April 3, 2015
April 6 - April 10, 2015
April 13, 2015
April 13, 2015
April 24, 2015
May 4 – May 15, 2015
May 11, 2015
May 22 - May 25, 2015
May 26, 2015
May 29, 2015
June 2, 2015
June 8, 2015
June 10, 2015
June 11, 2015
June 12, 2015
AP Testing Sign Up On-Line
ACT Testing—Juniors Only
Work Keys—Juniors Only
Sounding Board Meeting—Main Office
ACT Testing
Career Expo—Eisenhower High School
College Day
No School—Good Friday
No School—Spring Break
Sounding Board Meeting—Main Office
Classes Resume
College Day
AP Testing
Sounding Board Meeting—Luncheon
No School—Memorial Day Weekend
Classes Resume
College Day
Department Recognition Awards Breakfast
Sounding Board Meeting—Main Office
Exams 1st & 2nd Hour, Early Dismissal
Exams 3rd & 4th Hour, Early Dismissal
Exams 5th & 6th Hour, Early Dismissal—Last Day
9:30 a.m.
7:00 p.m.
9:30 a.m.
11:30 a.m.
7:45 a.m.
9:30 a.m.
10:22 a.m.
10:22 a.m.
10:22 a.m.
22
CHIEFTAIN SENIOR NEWS
2015 Senior All Night Party
The Class of 2015 Senior All-Night Party will be held on
Saturday, June 6th, 2015.
WE NEED PARENT VOLUNTEERS!!! Please consider helping to
make our Seniors’ Party successful! Any help is greatly
appreciated! Check out our contact information below or show up
at a meeting.
“Proud Home of a 2015 Utica High School Graduate” Yard Signs are now
available! Price is $20.00 each. Yard signs will be available for purchase
throughout the school year, at Parent-Teacher Conferences and at the
Senior Mandatory meeting or by contacting Andrea Ireland @ 586-9333419 or Misses1223@yahoo.com.
Planning meetings will be held@ Utica High School in Room 155 @ 7 o’clock pm on the
following dates:
Tuesday, March 3rd
Monday, March 30th (NEW DATE)
Monday, April 13th
Tuesday, May 5th
Wednesday, May 20th
Monday, June 1st
The 2015 Senior All Night Party Facebook Page: UHS Class of 2015 Senior All Night Party
Email: uhssanp@gmail.com
It’s not too late to get your tickets! Tickets are available for $70.00 per student through
April 15, 2015. Permission slips are available through our Facebook Page, at the
school office, or by contacting Sandy Beattie @ ladygray11@att.net or 586-322-2371.
23
Chief Connection
Notes from Student Council...Kimberly Hodsdon
He’s a Lady 2015
It’s All for U! These Janet Jackson lyrics rang in the ears of a sold out
crowd, as they watched ten amazing Chieftains strut their stuff for a local charity. Zack Arafait, Jose Arizmendi- Gomez, Gjergj Camaj, Dylan
Demo, Jake Dymond, Jacob Feeman, Ethan Fromm, Gino Lombardo,
Zachary Yono, and Will Young magically transformed into ladies, with
the help of their experienced coaches, and displayed their talents to raise
money for families in Macomb County. This
year’s proceeds went to the Macomb Charitable Foundation, an organization that helps families living at or below poverty level in Macomb County by providing financial assistance
for items such as food, clothing, personal care
items, rent/utility assistance, vehicle repair, educational assistance and when available personal and spiritual
mentoring. The contestants, coaches, and Student Council
members worked endless hours to prepare for this event, resulting1st
in over
$1000 going
Place
to charity. Teachers Kelly Bronski, Mike Cubitt, Melissa Kevonian,
Ms.a Grieco
and John See judged the event and crowned Gino Lombardo as “He’s
Lady 2015,” Will Young first runner up and Zachary Yono as second
runner up. Teacher Mark Moehlig hosted the event, adding his special
energy and enthusiasm. So many other Chieftans supported the event,
making it a memorable night.
3rd Place
Mr. Machak
32
Chief Connection
From your School Social Worker ….. Mary Ellen Bross
School social workers interact with parents and other staff to put all the pieces together
to make a student’s educational experience the best it can be. They participate as members of each school’s total educational team. School social workers also play a central
role in creating partnerships between home, school, and community to ensure students’
academic success. They are uniquely trained at the master’s degree level to provide
specialized services that include helping with:
Grades
Behavior
Learning
Interpersonal Relationships
Homework
Family Transitions
Family Relationships
Substance Abuse
Suicide Prevention
Bullying
Referrals to Community Agencies
1st Place
Ms. Grieco
3rd Place
Mr. Machak
In the area of special education, school social workers participate as a member of the
multidisciplinary evaluation team to identify the social and emotional needs of students. They work with parents and teachers to implement plans to facilitate academic
success and are involved in the process of assessing the need for behavioral interventions and developing behavior plans for dealing with problematic behavior in school.
School social workers often provide direct services to students on an individual or
group basis to assist with their academic and behavioral success in school. Feel free to
contact me at 586-797-2200 (Utica) or 586-797-1600 (Ford II) for more information or
assistance.
Mary Ellen Bross, LMSW, ACSW
School Social Worker-Utica/FORD II
25
Chief Connection
FROM THE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR...Jim Vigus
Athletic Boosters website: www.uhsathleticboosters.net
Utica High Athletic Booster Club Meetings:
Monday, March 2nd, 7:00 p.m., ECC Room.
Monday, April 13th, 7:00 p.m., ECC Room
Athletic Booster Club Fund Raisers:
April 17, 2015 Euchre Tournament @ St. Lawrence Knights of Columbus. Doors open at 6:15 p.m.
Physicals:
Wednesday, May 28th in the main gym, 6:00 p.m. Cost is $20.00
March Home Athletic Events:
Girls’ Varsity Soccer:
3-25 Cousino, 6:30 p.m.
Girls’ JV Soccer:
3-25 Cousino, 5:00 p.m.
Girls’ Freshmen Soccer:
3-26 Romeo, 4:30 p.m.
Boys’ Varsity Baseball:
3-26 New Haven, 4:30 p.m.
Girls’ Varsity Softball:
3-31 Stony Creek (DH), 4:00 p.m.
All spring sport tryouts start Monday, March 9th.
Should you have any questions regarding athletics, please contact Jim Vigus at james.vigus@uticak12.org
Displaying Good Sportsmanship
The Athletic Association has set rules as to how players are to behave during a competition. There are also rules and guidelines outlined as to
how spectators should conduct themselves. Of course, spectators are present to motivate and cheer the team to victory. However, spectators/
fans are not allowed to make taunting or offensive statements directed towards the players, game officials or the opponent’s spectators. Utica
High School has consistently received praise and accolades from local, state and national organizations for displaying good sportsmanship
(representatives from many athletic organizations attend our games). It is important that we stay focused on “cheering our team to victory”
during a competition. In recent reports regarding sportsmanship at UHS, officials have called our students “classy kids,” and made the following comments: “UHS athletes compete at a high level,” and “Coaches, players and fans are all a class act.” Our expectation is that you continue the tradition of displaying good sportsmanship at athletic events.
26
Chief Connection
Sharps
Band Notes
Flats :
BAND AND ORCHESTRA BOOSTER NEWS ~ Where involvement is the key.
Karen Haithcock – UHS Band & Orchestra Publicity Officer
The Symphonic Band and The Wind Ensemble played in a pre-festival concert at UHS on February 11. Both groups
sounded very good. There were two judges who shared feedback after each group played. The judges gave the students
a lot of excellent tips and pointers to improve their performance as they prepare for festival in March. Unfortunately,
after a long day I was so tired, all I really heard was “Blah blah blah MORE BONGO blah blah blah” and this is reason
#432 why my career with the Boston Pops never materialized.
DID SOMEONE SAY
BONGO?
Hey that’s me.
GOOD DAY SUNSHINE
As the days grow longer, the band is selling Utica High School sunglasses for $10. These
sunglasses do not say band on them. They say Utica Chieftains so everyone can enjoy
them. Looking good! You can order these sunglasses and more through the band’s web
site store (now accepting PayPal) at https://sites.google.com/site/uticabands/store.
CLUSTER CONCERT
The Cluster Concert originally scheduled for January 29 has been postponed due to a conflict with the UCS Academic
Blitz. The new date for the Cluster Concert is Wednesday, March 4. Call time for band members is 6:00 pm. The concert runs from 7 to 7:30 pm. This concert is called “cluster” because it brings all the feeder school young musicians together to play along with the UHS Marching Band. It is quite the spirited event. It takes place in the gymnasium. Also, as a side note, this event is the last time the senior members of the band will wear their UHS Marching Band uniform
<sniff sniff>.
MSBOA DISTRICT BAND FESTIVAL
Utica High School will be participating in the Michigan School Band & Orchestra Association’s Band Festival on
Thursday, March 12th. MSBOA Festival for UHS will be at Dakota High School. For festival, three pieces are performed for adjudication. Evaluations are shared by three performance judges and one sight-reading judge. Please support your UHS Instrumental Program and join me in wishing these bands well in this year’s festival.
Symphonic Band will be performing at 5:00 pm. Call time is 2:30 pm.
Wind Ensemble performs at 7:35 pm. Call time at 4:30 pm.
Solo & Ensemble
Congratulations to all of the students who participated in the MSBOA solo & ensemble at Rochester High School on
January 31. Everyone did a great job! Utica can be proud of how well they were represented.
Each student (solo) or group of students (ensembles) were evaluated by a judge and rated on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being the highest rating possible. Students who earned a rating of 1 (“Superior”) qualify for State Solo & Ensemble to be
held on March 21 at Chippewa Valley High School.
Jose Arizmendi ~ Bb Clarinet Solo
Juliet Gryn ~ Piccolo Solo
Gracie Medlin & Lauren Hill ~ Flute Duet
Justine Ezell ~ Oboe Solo
Spencer Haithcock ~ Trumpet Solo
27
Chief Connection
UHS Band Boosters Cont.
Melissa Machusko ~ Flute Solo
Ashley Kerr ~ Flute Solo & Piccolo Solo
Ashley Kerr & Melissa Machusko ~ Flute Duet
Ian Briggs ~ Snare Percussion Solo
Evan Danielson & Ashlie Hawe ~ Marimba Duet
Natalia Kowalczyk ~ Flute Solo
Charlene Dukes ~ Bb Clarinet Solo
Ryan Herc ~ Bb Clarinet Solo
Trevor Macks ~ Bb Clarinet Solo
In addition to their performance selection (at least two minutes long), soloists at the state level are also required to play
five scales and perform a sight reading. This whole process takes a lot of dedication and MANY hours of practice involved. The Band Boosters are extremely proud of all the students who participated in Solo & Ensemble and we are
impressed by all the hard work they put in to it. Way to go Chieftains!
MARCH RESTAURANT FUNDRAISER
Back by popular demand! Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt. March 18-20. Flyer will be on web site.
BAND BOOSTERS
NEXT BAND BOOSTER MEETING: Tuesday, March 17 at 7 pm in the Band Room
LET’S GO KROGERING
Register your Kroger Plus Card and every time you shop and swipe your Kroger Plus Card at purchase the Band Boosters earn a rebate! It is easy to create an account and enroll via Kroger’s secure website at https://www.kroger.com/
communityrewards. Scroll down to find MICHIGAN. If you are a new member, click ‘enroll’. If you are a returning
member, select re-enroll. There are step-by-step enrollment instructions on the Kroger website. Our organization is
listed under “Utica High School Band and Orchestra Boosters” and our organization number is 82739.
Note: YOU MUST UPDATE YOUR KROGER ACCOUNT ONCE A YEAR (April). That means even if you have
previously enrolled to support the band you will need to re-enroll in April. The re-enrollment process is required by
Kroger because that is how they keep their data base up to date with current information.
UPCOMING EVENTS
March 7:
Bowling for the Band 3 – 5 pm (registration at 2:30) at Shelby Lanes
March 12:
MSBOA District XVI High School Band Festival at Dakota High School
March 17:
Band Booster Meeting at 7pm in the Band Room
March 18-20:
Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt Fundraiser
March 21:
MSBOA State Solo & Ensemble (optional)
March 27:
Laser Tag
April 20 or 27:
Mandatory Band Meeting TBD
End of April/Beginning of May: Dates are being finalized for Drumline Clinic and try-outs TBA
May 7 - 9:
Diegels Greenhouse Flower Sale
May 13:
Spring Band Concert at Utica High School
June 6:
Commencement at the Palace of Auburn Hills (10th & 11th graders to perform)
August 2 – 7:`
Band Camp at Central Michigan University
In addition to this newsletter, other ways to stay connected with band happenings include:
Website: www.uticabands.org
Facebook: Utica High School Band
Twitter: Follow @UticaBands
Remind 101: https://www.remind.com/join/boost-band
http://tiny.cc/uhsbandremindboost
Email: uticabands.org@gmail.com
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Chief Connection
UHS Band Boosters Cont.
BOWLING FOR THE BAND
Enjoy an afternoon of fun with family and friends while supporting the band on Saturday, March 7th.
Saturday, March 7, 2015
Check in begins at 2:30 p.m.
Bowling begins at 3:00 p.m.
Shelby Lanes – 50721 Van Dyke
Ticket cost is $20.00 per person
Includes 2 games of bowling, shoes, pizza and pop
Sign up as teams of 6
Lane sponsorships are available with a $100.00 donation
Basket Raffles for prizes and 50/50 will be available
Mystery and Lucky Lane will be collected at check in.
Any questions, please contact Kathy Groves
Kcg64@yahoo.com or (810)625-0883
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Chief Connection
UHS Band Boosters Cont.
UHS Band Boosters
present
UTICA HIGH SCHOOL AFGHANS
“The Perfect Gift for the Holidays, Birthdays & Graduation”
For additional information, or to submit an order by mail (with payment), please contact:
Robert or Jackie Gambrell
UHS Band Boosters
11459 North Woods Dr.
Shelby Twp. MI 48317
(586) 803-3806
r_gambrell@att.net
COST OF AFGHAN - $40
(Approximate size is 48" x 66")
The afghan can be personalized by embroidery of your first name and year of graduation - $5
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ORDER FORM
YES! I wish to order a UHS afghan. Enclosed is payment
of $40 per afghan. Please make checks payable to:
UHS Band Boosters.
Name_______________________________________
Phone#_____________________________________
E-Mail address_______________________________
PERSONALIZATION: If personalization is desired, please
list first name and year of graduation. Personalization is
an additional $5 per afghan.
Name_______________________________________
Graduation Year______________________________
TOTAL $ Enclosed____________________________
Delivery time: 2-4 weeks. You will be contacted when
your afghan is ready. For more information, please contact
Robert or Jackie Gambrell
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Utica Community Schools
11303 Greendale
Sterling Hts., MI 48312
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
Utica High School
47255 Shelby Road
Utica, MI 48317
Main Office:
586-797-2200
Attendance Office:
All Day
586-797-2473
Late Arrival
586-797-2472
Early Dismissal
586-797-2471
Counseling Office: 586-797-2290
Fax Number:
586-797-2201
Non-Profit Organization
US Postage Paid
Sterling Heights, MI
Permit No. 24
Mr. Tom Lietz, Principal,
Email: Tom.Lietz@uticak12.or g
Utica High Home Page:
http://uhs.uticak12.org
UCS District website:
www.uticak12.org
DATES TO REMEMBER
March 9
March 16-April 2
March 18
March 19
March 27
March 31 or April 1
Sounding Board Meeting—Main Office, 9:30 a.m.
Sign Up Senior Speech Contest—Main Office
Curriculum Night for 2015-2016 10th Graders, 7:00 p.m.
Career Expo—Eisenhower High School, 7:00 p.m.
College Day
Parent-Senior MANDATORY Meeting 7:00 p.m.
April 2
April 3
April 6—April 10
April 13
April 13
April 16
April 16
April 24
Last Day to Sign Up Senior Speech Contest—Main Office
No School
Spring Break
Classes Resume
Sounding Board Meeting—Main Office, 9:30 a.m.
Senior Speech Contest—Main Office, 1:15 p.m.
College Fair—Henry Ford II, 6:30 p.m.
College Day
Nondiscrimination in Education
In compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age
Discrimination Act of 1975, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Elliot-Larsen Civil Rights Act and the Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act, it
is the policy of Utica Community Schools that no person shall, on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, disability, height, weight, or
marital status be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination during any instructional opportunities, programs, services, job
placement assistance, employment or in policies governing student conduct and attendance. Any person suspecting a discriminatory practice should contact the Executive
Director of Human Resources at Utica Community Schools, 11303 Greendale, Sterling Heights, MI 48312 or call (586) 797-1000.
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