Fourth Grade Bracket Busters
Vikings Face Off in March Multiplication Madness
Today the stage was set for an intense round of March Multiplication Madness, where the cafeteria transformed into a high-stakes arena of mental math agility. One by one, our 4th grade contestants stepped up to the challenge, demonstrating the focus and determination. The excitement in the cafeteria was peak as classmates and teachers rooted for every competitor with eager anticipation. In a lightning-style flash card showdown, students navigated intense classroom brackets to secure their spot in the Sweet 16 and Final 4 rounds. While the ultimate goal was the top spot, the motivation was at an all-time high as winners competed for a complimentary lunch from a local Lakewood eatery, provided by their teachers. Students turned their math nerves into Viking energy and proved they had retained their multiplication facts, arriving fully prepared thanks to the dedicated instruction and support of their teachers. We are proud and grateful of our 4th grade team of teachers for finding innovative ways to engage our students. Well done Vikings!









High School Accounting Students Crowned Crimson Division Champions-Ferris State University
For the second year in a row the Accounting class has won the Crimson Division Championship by over 10 million points. This year we had two teams competing. One team was from my Accounting 1 class and the other was from the Accounting 2 Class. The Crimson Division Consisted of 27 teams from around the state and the two teams Placed 1st and 10th. The Challenge has 4 divisions total and our Lakewood team was also the number 1 non ISD or career center team in the state. They ended up 6th overall. The winning team won $250 for the classroom and a Pizza recognition with representatives from Ferris and Multiple insurance companies. Please join us in congratulating our Championship team, The Boblets: Eva Stowell, Aubre Zinn, and Liz Markwart. Thank you Mr. Markwart, for your expert mentorship and instruction. Cheer them on and drop a comment of support! We are Viking PROUD!!

The induction into the High School Circle of Excellence was a proud moment for our district, as the Board of Education formally honored a group of extraordinary students. This esteemed group of students was formally recognized for their achievements in academics, service, leadership, and contributions to the community. This induction is a testament to their hard work, unwavering perseverance, and constant eye on the future. With their sights set on success, these leaders continue to set the bar high and define what it means to be a Viking. We are grateful to their families and K-12 teachers whose support and guidance have paved the way, it’s through your partnership that Lakewood students can reach their full potential. We extend our congratulations to our inductees: Kylie Vance, Emma Tidd, Tinley Koorndyk, Rory Rife, Kaiden Smith, Greyson Anderson, and Matti Aldrich. Not pictured is Ajay Casey. Join in our virtual Viking applause and share your congratulatory messages for these incredible students!







Lakewood High School Academic Breakfast, 2026
Viking pride was on full display in the high school cafeteria as we celebrated the outstanding achievements of our students at the 2026 Academic Breakfast. To recognize the exceptional academic performance of our students, the high school hosted an academic breakfast for all first-semester honor roll recipients. The tradition provides an opportunity to celebrate student accomplishments and inspire continued academic success. We honor the hard work and dedication of students who earned a 3.0 GPA or higher. Teachers Nancy VanHuis and Phil Savage; Chelsea Keith, School Counselor; Lauren Christensen, Director of Instruction, and Adam McArthur, Board of Education Member served up a nutritional meal to kick-start our students’ day. Each student received a certificate of recognition to applaud their impressive efforts and to affirm that hard work pays off. They’re determined to tackle second semester with the same Viking vigor! Special thanks to our team of counselors, Chelsea Keith and Allison Wellman for supporting students in their academic and personal growth. This annual tradition could not be possible without the dedication of our Lakewood High School culinary crew who prepared a nutritional breakfast. Our high school team of Principal Williams, Ms. Sage, Mrs. Duits, and Mrs. Ackerson managed all the details, certificates, and behind the scenes efforts to pull off the event. A grateful thanks to local businesses who donated items for the breakfast: Architectural Metals Inc., Carbon Green BioEnergy, Lake Odessa Dental, Michigan Farm House Pizza, Musgrove Grain, New Walkers Pharmacy, Robin Chase Insurance Agency. WAY TO GO VIKINGS!










Why This Classroom is Loud for All the Right Reasons
There is a kind of magic in a 'noisy' classroom when that noise is the synchronized sound of first graders cracking the phonetic code one syllable at a time. We followed the sound to a room full of eager students, huddled around, pencils moving, and Mrs. Spitzley navigating her class through the twists and turns of compound words. Mrs. Spitzley, a seasoned instructional expert, led the room through a rhythmic call-and-response that left her students completely locked into the lesson. During their visual drills, she paused to check: "How many sounds?" she asked of her young learners. When she quizzed, "When do we use -ed?", the students shouted back in perfect sync, "At the end of a word!" The energy peaked as she flashed the digraphs; at the sight of PH, the room filled with a collective "FFFFF," followed by a synchronized, "SHHHHH" for SH. When an experienced educator like Mrs. Spitzley masterfully guides early learners through the architecture of phonetics, she isn't just teaching sounds; she is handing them the key to a lifetime of literacy. By the end of this first-grade lesson, her class was so phonetically fired up that they looked ready to take on the entire dictionary, one 'ph-ph-phenomenal' sound at a time. LET’S GO VIKINGS.










High School Students Trade Ceiling Masterpieces for Program Support
Art is looking up at our high school—literally! Today, our talented first-semester students presented three original ceiling tile masterpieces to Lakewood's Board of Education member, Mr. Adam McArthur. In exchange for these one-of-a-kind works of art, Mr. McArthur made a donation that will help fuel our students' artistic journeys for the rest of the year. We are excited and proud of this cool collaboration between our art instructor, Mr. Miller and Board of Education Trustee, Mr. McArthur. “The students enjoyed this project so much, they asked if they can do it again,” said Miller. He was happy to note that students will have future opportunities to transform ceiling tiles into permanent canvases. We are so proud of our students, LET’S GO VIKINGS!



Annual Black Light Assembly Lights Up LHS
The energy at Lakewood High reached an all-time high today during the student council led Black Light Assembly, a glow-in-the-dark tradition that turns school spirit into a vibrant competition. The gym filled with neon, was the perfect backdrop for students from every grade level to face off in a series of hilarious and high-stakes games, including the balloon relay, pool noodle and cup challenges, the messy "donut on a string" race, and the crowd-favorite "wig snatch." Through the neon glow, we felt Winterfest Royalty and Viking pride as our athletic teams were brought to center court, receiving a well-deserved acknowledgment from their peers for their hard work and dedication. We love Lakewood traditions that create lasting memories and build a strong sense of community. Well done LHS student council, what a great way to boost school spirit. Special thanks to Nick Chase and our maintenance team to help make the event glow.







Mr. Walsh’s 5th Grade Band Students Learn the Ukulele
Mr. Wash’s 5th graders have traded their traditional classroom supplies for four strings and the exciting challenge of learning the ukulele. The sounds of “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” drew us right in to hear more. There was magic in the air when his class strummed in unison, it was giving tropical energy on a cold winter day. Mr. Walsh’s relaxed vibe strikes a chord for his students to feel comfortable with music exploration. In this environment, our young musicians feel free to discover, practice, and learn a whole world of songs and it’s clear they are building a genuine confidence that will allow them to step on the stage without fear. Mastering the ukulele helps students find the perfect finger placement, strumming patterns, rhythm, and fun. We appreciate Mr. Walsh for his calm leadership that is teaching Lakewood musicians that they don’t have to be perfect to be powerful, which prepares them to perform with a sense of Viking pride.








When conditions are uncertain, the decision-making process begins very early. By the 5:00 a.m. hour, our team is already out assessing road conditions across the district, reviewing the most current forecasts, and communicating directly with other superintendents and transportation leaders.
Weather predictions are not always exact, and conditions can differ significantly from one area of the district to another. Our focus remains the same each time: making the safest possible choice for our students and staff. Thank you for your continued patience, flexibility, and support as we work through Michigan winter weather together.
Go Vikings!

9th Grader Honored for Exceptional Artistry
We’re celebrating the incredible talent of one of our 9th grade students, Sora Her, whose artwork was recently selected by Mr. Williams, for the Principal’s Choice Award. Her art instructor, Mr. Miller, wholeheartedly agrees, noting that her talent is truly exceptional. The featured piece, titled "Angel 777," was created using drawing pencils and intricate shading techniques, the piece reflects both precision and passion. "I have always loved art," Sora shared. "Art is a great way to express yourself." We are incredibly proud to showcase her work and celebrate the creative voice she brings to our high school community. Way to go Sora! Sora’s work is a testament to the dedication of Mr. Miller, high school art instructor and professional artist in his own right, whose passion inspires his students to reach new creative heights. The Lakewood Public Schools is committed to the arts, visual and performing, and committed to opportunities to help grow the arts programs. GO VIKINGS!



To make themselves accessible across the district, they visit the elementary and middle school, and can be easily identified at the high school by their iconic dinosaur backpacks. Ambassador Emma noted that the group's "superpower" is their diversity; because they come from different backgrounds, they can form unique connections with a wide range of students. "It's my honor to work with these ambassadors," said Jamie Hickey, High School Social Worker. "They want to be here, and they are passionate about their work to serve others."
By being vulnerable and sharing their own journeys, these advocates are working hard to reduce the stigma around mental health and model the message that "it's okay to not be okay." Looking ahead, the group is already planning creative events and themed days for Mental Health Awareness Month in May, featuring fun positivity pins and awareness activities.
How You Can Help: The ambassadors are currently seeking funds from local businesses or community members to help make their May awareness plans a reality. If you can help, please contact Jamie Hickey, jamiehickey@lakewoodps.org. We are inspired and proud of our Mental Health Ambassadors for transforming the culture of care within our district through empathy and outreach. GO VIKINGS!






![Lakewood Middle School Students of the Month [November & December]](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/lakewood_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/22803209/large_613141667_1316261943861073_5513220330579438392_n.jpg)
![Lakewood Middle School Students of the Month [November & December]](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/lakewood_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/22803207/large_613544068_1316262033861064_5115921885520456958_n.jpg)
![Lakewood Middle School Students of the Month [November & December]](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/lakewood_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/22803197/large_613404402_1316262140527720_126123271829589205_n.jpg)
![Lakewood Middle School Students of the Month [November & December]](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/lakewood_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/22803194/large_612624793_1316262027194398_3157771609415568105_n.jpg)
![Lakewood Middle School Students of the Month [November & December]](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/lakewood_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/22803201/large_612877618_1316261947194406_7324175026080348612_n.jpg)
![Lakewood Middle School Students of the Month [November & December]](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/lakewood_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/22803204/large_612991989_1316262133861054_3357961875163991264_n.jpg)
![Lakewood Middle School Students of the Month [November & December]](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/lakewood_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/22803211/large_613109777_1316262070527727_6254742580404143776_n.jpg)
![Lakewood Middle School Students of the Month [November & December]](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/lakewood_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/22803210/large_613036129_1316261950527739_4297527553771773239_n.jpg)
![Lakewood Middle School Students of the Month [November & December]](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/lakewood_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/22803203/large_613784631_1316262180527716_2260772020731577056_n.jpg)
![Lakewood Middle School Students of the Month [November & December]](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/lakewood_public_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/22803208/large_613215342_1316261953861072_652221860602289272_n.jpg)
Ms. Doran’s high school students dedicated time to community service by helping fill the annual Christmas Baskets at Living Gospel Church. We are so proud of our students who embodied the spirit of giving through this work. Ms. Doran understands that serving others profoundly impacts young people by building empathy, responsibility, and a deep sense of community. We are grateful for her work to connect our students with experiences that are vital to their development as compassionate and engaged citizens. While working hard to prepare the baskets for families, students enjoyed a well-deserved break and some delicious lunch generously provided by Penny's Pizza in Lake Odessa. We extend our sincere gratitude to Penny and Jim for their wonderful support of our students and the community effort. THIS IS LAKEWOOD!




Mr. King’s middle school Green School class gained valuable career exposure by visiting the AIS Training Center in Lansing. Students received immersive instruction focused on heavy equipment operation, repair, and essential safety protocols, giving them practical, real-world skills and an insightful look into the mechanics and engineering fields. This powerful, high-impact learning experience moved our students beyond classroom understanding to tangible, career-ready skills. We think our students developed a deep appreciation for the precision and safety required in these technical skills. It is crucial that we inspire and equip students to enter the skilled trades industry, which offers high-demand, high-value careers. We extend our sincere thanks to our dedicated community partners at the AIS Training Center for generously providing a space where our young people build a better understanding of the heavy equipment industry through these tailored training programs.






















Our festive school bus stole the show this year, taking 1st place with an impressive 264 votes in the community Christmas parade! We want to give a huge shout-out to our incredible transportation team for their hard work in decking the bus out with dazzling holiday lights and decor, and for spreading extra cheer by passing out candy to all the smiling faces along the route. We are so proud of our drivers and the entire transportation team for serving our students and community. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to support us and joined in the holiday spirit!










