This March, we’re proud to celebrate National School Nutrition Month and shine a spotlight on the amazing food service teams at Lakeshore Public Schools. These dedicated professionals do more than prepare meals—they help nourish our students, build community, and create spaces where kids can thrive every day. Follow along as we introduce you to the teams behind the meals and share some of their favorite tips and insights, from creative flavor ideas and healthy eating inspiration to energy boosters and student-loved menu favorites.
We’re kicking off our celebration at Hollywood Elementary as part of National School Nutrition Month at Lakeshore Public Schools. For Barb Harris, a warm bowl of oatmeal with fresh blueberries and a cup of coffee is the perfect way to start the morning. It’s simple and comforting—fuel that helps her take care of our Hollywood Superstars and support their day. She also loves sharing a hidden gem with students: hummus with naan and fresh veggies. It’s a tasty introduction to healthy options, and when students discover they enjoy it, that’s a win she celebrates.
For Stephanie Wells, Brussels sprouts are a favorite. Her secret is simple: slice them in half, coat with avocado oil, sprinkle salt and pepper, and finish with Parmesan before roasting for about 45 minutes. The result is golden and crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—so delicious it just might change your mind about Brussels sprouts.
Her go-to seasoning? Fresh garlic. She uses it in nearly everything, adding bold flavor that proves healthy meals can be both nutritious and exciting.
And a flavor hack from Lora Spencer: buttered bread crumbs add fantastic texture and taste to vegetable dishes—simple, tasty, and kid-approved!
We’re kicking off our celebration at Hollywood Elementary as part of National School Nutrition Month at Lakeshore Public Schools. For Barb Harris, a warm bowl of oatmeal with fresh blueberries and a cup of coffee is the perfect way to start the morning. It’s simple and comforting—fuel that helps her take care of our Hollywood Superstars and support their day. She also loves sharing a hidden gem with students: hummus with naan and fresh veggies. It’s a tasty introduction to healthy options, and when students discover they enjoy it, that’s a win she celebrates.
For Stephanie Wells, Brussels sprouts are a favorite. Her secret is simple: slice them in half, coat with avocado oil, sprinkle salt and pepper, and finish with Parmesan before roasting for about 45 minutes. The result is golden and crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—so delicious it just might change your mind about Brussels sprouts.
Her go-to seasoning? Fresh garlic. She uses it in nearly everything, adding bold flavor that proves healthy meals can be both nutritious and exciting.
And a flavor hack from Lora Spencer: buttered bread crumbs add fantastic texture and taste to vegetable dishes—simple, tasty, and kid-approved!
As February comes to a close, we want to take a moment to celebrate Love the Bus Month and shine a spotlight on our amazing transportation team. These transportation heroes do so much more than drive— they keep our students safe through weather, traffic, and every mile in between, all while being the first friendly face students see in the morning and the last one they see at the end of the day.
Driving takes dedication, patience, and care. It’s about protecting precious cargo and creating a positive start and finish to the school day. To all of our drivers: thank you for going the extra mile—literally—for our students and community. Your commitment does not go unnoticed, and we are so grateful for everything you do!
Driving takes dedication, patience, and care. It’s about protecting precious cargo and creating a positive start and finish to the school day. To all of our drivers: thank you for going the extra mile—literally—for our students and community. Your commitment does not go unnoticed, and we are so grateful for everything you do!
Ever notice the little spark someone brings to the day—the thoughtful gestures, the extra effort, the way they lift everyone around them? That spark is alive and well at Lakeshore Public Schools thanks to the incredible people who make our schools such great places to work and learn. Please join us in congratulating the following team members who are being recognized for making a positive difference each day:
Lisa Callahan – Hollywood Teacher
Janelle Ayers – Stewart Teacher
Brandi Sauder – Roosevelt Food Service
Shannon Hagerty – Roosevelt Food Service
Thank you for your dedication and for everything you do for our students and staff. We appreciate you!
Lisa Callahan – Hollywood Teacher
Janelle Ayers – Stewart Teacher
Brandi Sauder – Roosevelt Food Service
Shannon Hagerty – Roosevelt Food Service
Thank you for your dedication and for everything you do for our students and staff. We appreciate you!
Come and join the Berrien County Dancers on Saturday, February 28 for their Annual Dance Marathon Fundraiser Event! Classes are offered every hour on the hour from 9am-3pm. $5 per class or $15 for the day. The event is open to all ages, and no prior dance experience needed. Register at Door #40 prior to class. You can view the class schedule at berriencountydancers.com.
Superintendent Greg Eding was recently featured on the Brighter Together podcast! In the episode, he talks about what it really takes to crisis-proof schools and build a strong, supportive school culture. Mr. Eding shares the importance of transparency, strong community connections, and always keeping student well-being at the center of the work. It’s a great conversation about leadership, trust, and supporting students and families. Take a listen and hear how Lakeshore Public Schools is working brighter together! Listen Here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0I6nmmaY1YDqEdExRVN830?si=sobjJLxvQ5el6MnZ_llOHg
The latest episode of Looking Inside Lakeshore Schools is available NOW! We’re excited to welcome Rachel Wade, School Board President, as our special guest. She shares insights, updates, and important information about what’s happening across the district. Tune in here: https://webca.st/275153
Lakeshore Choirs Shine at Districts! Members of Lakeshore High School’s Chorale, along with other choir students, recently competed at the Michigan School Vocal Music Association District Solo & Ensemble Competition held at Southwestern Michigan College — and they made us proud.
Ensemble Results:
Chorale – Division 1, Excellent
Men of Chorale & Lancer Chorus – Division 1, Excellent
Women of Chorale – Perfect Score, Division 1, Excellent
Individual & Duet Honors:
Lillian Clark (Solo) – Perfect Score, Division 1
Morgan Meeth & Nick Gates (Duet) – Perfect Score, Division 1
Ian Sokol (Solo) – Perfect Score, Division 1
Caroline Howenstine (Solo) – Perfect Score, Division 1
Brooklynn Pethe (Solo) – Perfect Score, Division 1
Pemberly Ryan & Silvia Serna (Duet) – Division 2
Harper Janeway (Solo) – Division 2
We are so proud of the dedication and talent shown by all of our students. Lakeshore's Teams, Duets, and Soloists who received a Division 1, Excellent will compete at the State Solo and Ensemble at Allendale High School in April.
Go Lancers!
Ensemble Results:
Chorale – Division 1, Excellent
Men of Chorale & Lancer Chorus – Division 1, Excellent
Women of Chorale – Perfect Score, Division 1, Excellent
Individual & Duet Honors:
Lillian Clark (Solo) – Perfect Score, Division 1
Morgan Meeth & Nick Gates (Duet) – Perfect Score, Division 1
Ian Sokol (Solo) – Perfect Score, Division 1
Caroline Howenstine (Solo) – Perfect Score, Division 1
Brooklynn Pethe (Solo) – Perfect Score, Division 1
Pemberly Ryan & Silvia Serna (Duet) – Division 2
Harper Janeway (Solo) – Division 2
We are so proud of the dedication and talent shown by all of our students. Lakeshore's Teams, Duets, and Soloists who received a Division 1, Excellent will compete at the State Solo and Ensemble at Allendale High School in April.
Go Lancers!
Today we’re celebrating School Resource Officer Day! We’d love for you to help us thank Officer Derek Boone for all he does at Lakeshore Public Schools.
Officer Boone is such a positive presence in our buildings. He takes the time to get to know our students, builds real relationships, and is always there when someone needs help or just a friendly face in the hallway. He plays a big part in making our schools feel safe and welcoming every day.
Thank you, Officer Boone, for being there for our students and staff. We’re so grateful for you and all you do!
Congratulations to Greg Younger on being named the Michigan Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (MIAAA) Region 5 Athletic Director of the Year!
This well-deserved honor recognizes Greg’s exceptional leadership, dedication to student-athletes, and longstanding service to interscholastic athletics.
Since 2010, Greg has served as Athletic Director for Lakeshore Public Schools, overseeing both middle school and high school programs with integrity, organization, and a strong commitment to providing opportunities for athletes at every level of competition.
Throughout his career, Greg has hosted more than 100 MHSAA tournament games, served on multiple MHSAA committees, and received the MIAAA 20-Year Dedicated Service Award. He remains active in both the MIAAA and the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA).
Beyond athletics, Greg has generously given his time to the community by coaching youth softball, serving on church and camp boards, and supporting local school foundations.
His recognition as Region 5 Athletic Director of the Year highlights a career built on steady leadership, service, and a commitment to creating positive experiences for generations of student-athletes.
Please join us in congratulating Greg on this outstanding achievement!
This well-deserved honor recognizes Greg’s exceptional leadership, dedication to student-athletes, and longstanding service to interscholastic athletics.
Since 2010, Greg has served as Athletic Director for Lakeshore Public Schools, overseeing both middle school and high school programs with integrity, organization, and a strong commitment to providing opportunities for athletes at every level of competition.
Throughout his career, Greg has hosted more than 100 MHSAA tournament games, served on multiple MHSAA committees, and received the MIAAA 20-Year Dedicated Service Award. He remains active in both the MIAAA and the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA).
Beyond athletics, Greg has generously given his time to the community by coaching youth softball, serving on church and camp boards, and supporting local school foundations.
His recognition as Region 5 Athletic Director of the Year highlights a career built on steady leadership, service, and a commitment to creating positive experiences for generations of student-athletes.
Please join us in congratulating Greg on this outstanding achievement!
As we wrap up National School Counselor Week, we’re proud to recognize Mr. Clark, school counselor at Lakeshore High School! Mr. Clark plays an important role in helping students explore career options and plan for life after high school. He uses tools like Xello and O*NET to help students discover their interests and connect their passions to real-world career paths, while always valuing student voice.
Through close collaboration with families, teachers, and community members, Mr. Clark ensures students have the guidance and resources they need to succeed. Thank you, Mr. Clark, for helping students feel confident, prepared, and excited about their futures
Through close collaboration with families, teachers, and community members, Mr. Clark ensures students have the guidance and resources they need to succeed. Thank you, Mr. Clark, for helping students feel confident, prepared, and excited about their futures
Today we’re celebrating Cathy Bingaman, school counselor at Roosevelt Elementary School, and the incredible impact she has on our students every day. Cathy supports students as they explore their strengths, build confidence, and begin thinking about their futures through fun, hands-on career activities and conversations.
She also leads social-emotional learning at every level—teaching whole-class lessons, working with small groups, and providing individual support to help students build emotional regulation, social skills, and coping strategies.
Most importantly, Cathy creates a safe, welcoming space where students can talk, play, and learn tools that make school (and life) feel a little easier. We’re so grateful for all she does for our school community!
She also leads social-emotional learning at every level—teaching whole-class lessons, working with small groups, and providing individual support to help students build emotional regulation, social skills, and coping strategies.
Most importantly, Cathy creates a safe, welcoming space where students can talk, play, and learn tools that make school (and life) feel a little easier. We’re so grateful for all she does for our school community!
It's National School Counselor Week! We’re excited to celebrate Mrs. Elkins, LHS school counselor, and the meaningful work she does to support our students. She works closely with students throughout high school to help them set goals and plan for their futures, starting as early as ninth grade with career exploration through Xello. Each year, she partners with students to plan classes while discussing college and career goals that grow and change over time.
Supporting students’ mental health is also a key part of her role. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Mrs. Elkins provides guidance at school, connects families with community resources, and collaborates with teachers to help students stay engaged and successful.
By using tools like Xello and College Board, along with mindfulness and therapeutic strategies, Mrs. Elkins helps students prepare for the future while thriving today!
Supporting students’ mental health is also a key part of her role. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Mrs. Elkins provides guidance at school, connects families with community resources, and collaborates with teachers to help students stay engaged and successful.
By using tools like Xello and College Board, along with mindfulness and therapeutic strategies, Mrs. Elkins helps students prepare for the future while thriving today!
It's National School Counselor Week! We’re excited to recognize Mrs. Galloway, Stewart’s school counselor, and the positive impact she has on our students each day. She loves seeing how counseling programs make a real difference, including Check-In/Check-Out, which helps students stay motivated to show PRIDE behaviors while building strong relationships with a staff mentor. The program also gives students a chance to share their successes with families, strengthening the home-school connection.
Mrs. Galloway also leads Love Club during lunch, where students build social-emotional skills like communication, problem-solving, and managing feelings through games and small-group activities. It’s a fun, welcoming space where students grow in confidence and connection.
Looking ahead, she’s excited for the Belonging in Berrien Ambassadors Project launching next school year, offering families opportunities to connect through workshops, conversations, and book studies focused on whole-child wellness. We’re thankful for the partnerships with Corewell Health and Berrien RESA that help make this work possible.
Thank you, Mrs. Galloway, for your dedication and care for our students and families!
Mrs. Galloway also leads Love Club during lunch, where students build social-emotional skills like communication, problem-solving, and managing feelings through games and small-group activities. It’s a fun, welcoming space where students grow in confidence and connection.
Looking ahead, she’s excited for the Belonging in Berrien Ambassadors Project launching next school year, offering families opportunities to connect through workshops, conversations, and book studies focused on whole-child wellness. We’re thankful for the partnerships with Corewell Health and Berrien RESA that help make this work possible.
Thank you, Mrs. Galloway, for your dedication and care for our students and families!
It's National School Counselor Week! We’re proud to recognize Mrs. Kaiser, LHS school counselor, and the impact she has on our students every day. She meets with every student at least once a year—and often more—to talk about career paths, future plans, and opportunities they may not have known existed. In group settings, students explore careers and interests using Xello while learning about CTE programs, college options, and other pathways that help shape their next steps. Mrs. Kaiser creates a welcoming, low-pressure counseling environment where students don’t always have to talk—sometimes they just need a quiet space or someone to listen. Her favorite moments are when a student lights up and says, “This is for me!” Through connection, curiosity, and care, Mrs. Kaiser helps students move forward—one open door at a time. Thank you!
Shining Stars of LPS! A huge shout-out to these incredible staff members who go above and beyond for our students every single day:
Doug Haygood – LHS Teacher
Josh Dunlop – LHS Teacher
Melissa Harris – Roosevelt Teacher
Liz Gregorich – Roosevelt Teacher
Thank you for your passion, dedication, and all the ways you make a difference. We’re so lucky to have you as part of the LPS family!
Doug Haygood – LHS Teacher
Josh Dunlop – LHS Teacher
Melissa Harris – Roosevelt Teacher
Liz Gregorich – Roosevelt Teacher
Thank you for your passion, dedication, and all the ways you make a difference. We’re so lucky to have you as part of the LPS family!
It's National School Counselor Week! We’re thrilled to celebrate Mrs. Weaver, LMS school counselor, and all the ways she supports our students! She believes the best way to help students succeed is through teamwork—schools, families, and the community working together.
One of her favorite events is Career Day, where local professionals and CTE programs show students how classroom learning connects to real-world careers. This year, 13 CTE programs from across Berrien County are joining in!
Inside school, Mrs. Weaver’s lunch groups give students a chance to hang out, connect with peers, and even win prizes. This past semester alone, she ran 74 lunch groups and connected with 465 students!
She also meets individually with eighth graders to reflect on middle school and plan for high school and beyond—helping them link their interests to future goals.
For Mrs. Weaver, the best moments are running into former students and seeing the lasting impact of her support.
Thank you, Mrs. Weaver, for everything you do to help students thrive!
One of her favorite events is Career Day, where local professionals and CTE programs show students how classroom learning connects to real-world careers. This year, 13 CTE programs from across Berrien County are joining in!
Inside school, Mrs. Weaver’s lunch groups give students a chance to hang out, connect with peers, and even win prizes. This past semester alone, she ran 74 lunch groups and connected with 465 students!
She also meets individually with eighth graders to reflect on middle school and plan for high school and beyond—helping them link their interests to future goals.
For Mrs. Weaver, the best moments are running into former students and seeing the lasting impact of her support.
Thank you, Mrs. Weaver, for everything you do to help students thrive!
It’s National School Counselor Week! At Lakeshore Public Schools, we are so lucky to have amazing counselors supporting our students every day. This week, we’ll be highlighting each of our seven incredible counselors across the district—one per day!
We’re proud to celebrate Mrs. Olson, Hollywood’s school counselor, for the incredible support she provides to our students, families, and staff. She works closely with teachers, families, and community partners—including the Ambassador’s Group at Berrien RESA—to create a strong sense of belonging for all students.
Mrs. Olson also supports the whole child through initiatives like the Little Free Pantry, the return of the walking program to promote physical and mental wellness, and engaging programs like Slumberkins and PBIS Starbucks, which help students build social-emotional skills and positive connections.
Thank you, Mrs. Olson, for your dedication, compassion, and the many ways you help our students grow and succeed—both in and out of the classroom!
We’re proud to celebrate Mrs. Olson, Hollywood’s school counselor, for the incredible support she provides to our students, families, and staff. She works closely with teachers, families, and community partners—including the Ambassador’s Group at Berrien RESA—to create a strong sense of belonging for all students.
Mrs. Olson also supports the whole child through initiatives like the Little Free Pantry, the return of the walking program to promote physical and mental wellness, and engaging programs like Slumberkins and PBIS Starbucks, which help students build social-emotional skills and positive connections.
Thank you, Mrs. Olson, for your dedication, compassion, and the many ways you help our students grow and succeed—both in and out of the classroom!
Come and join the Berrien County Dancers on Saturday, January 24 for their Annual Dance Marathon Fundraiser Event. Classes are offered every hour on the hour from 9am-3pm, $5 per class or $15 for the day. The event is open to all ages 6 & up, no prior dance experience needed, register at the door prior to class.
Celebrating Our Best of the Best Winners!
Every day, these exceptional staff members go above and beyond to support our students, and today we’re proud to recognize them:
⭐ Jen Hartwell – LHS Paraprofessional
⭐ Kim Godush – Roosevelt Behavior Support Specialist
⭐ Annette Smith – Roosevelt Paraprofessional
⭐ Julie Samuel – LHS Teacher
Thank you for your dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment. Your efforts truly make a difference, and we are so grateful to have you as part of the LPS family!
Every day, these exceptional staff members go above and beyond to support our students, and today we’re proud to recognize them:
⭐ Jen Hartwell – LHS Paraprofessional
⭐ Kim Godush – Roosevelt Behavior Support Specialist
⭐ Annette Smith – Roosevelt Paraprofessional
⭐ Julie Samuel – LHS Teacher
Thank you for your dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment. Your efforts truly make a difference, and we are so grateful to have you as part of the LPS family!
Lakeshore Board of Education Trustee, Mr. Allan brings positivity and enthusiasm wherever he goes and is a familiar, welcome presence at sporting events. His encouragement and timely compliments mean a great deal and are always appreciated.
Lakeshore Board of Education Trustee, Mr. Scaletta is frequently seen at the high school serving in many roles through the school board, Rotary Club, and the Lakeshore Excellence Foundation. His dedication to Lakeshore has not gone unnoticed. Drawing from his experience as an educator, he consistently offers wisdom, guidance, and strong support for educators and leadership while promoting what makes Lakeshore special.
Lakeshore Board of Education Trustee, Mrs. Bigley made an immediate impact on the board by taking time to get to know the high school, its points of pride, and what makes it special. Her curiosity, warmth, educational experience, and listening ear add tremendous value to the district and help her support our work each day.
