GV charter school ranks No. 1 in state in new report

A Grand Valley State University-authorized charter school was named the best in state by the Mackinac Center for Public Policy’s Michigan Context and Performance Report Card. The report analyses high school performance based on a “four-year average of state standardized tests” with adjustments made based on poverty levels.

Michigan Mathematics and Science Academy Middle/High in Warren, Michigan was ranked No. 1, earning the highest score in the report’s history with a CAP score of 143.32. The next highest CAP score was 141.29, a jump from the 131.87 that the third place school earned.

Black River Public School and Grand River Preparatory High School, two other GVSU-authorized charter schools, ranked within the 90th percentile with “A” grades.

Student senate passes resolution improving campus printing

During their general assembly Jan. 24, student senators passed a resolution showing their support for a new printer to be installed in Au Sable Hall. The support will help obtain funding for the project, which will require a new printer. 

The resolution cited that more than 70 percent of students need to walk over five minutes to find a printer, which often makes printing between classes difficult. Senators cited average walks being upward of 10 minutes depending on class location, which allows little time for printing if a station is not accessible. 

For students with disabilities, the process becomes even more grueling, especially due to the far distance from printers that buildings like Lake Ontario Hall are. 

The cost of the project will be nearly $14,000, which includes a $10,500 printer, an ID scanner, electricity and network connection. Should the funding be allocated appropriately, the new printer could be installed by next year.

Michigan State Police encourage caution with falling temperatures, snowfall

Michigan State Police warned the public of sub-zero temperatures and significant snowfall throughout the Lower Peninsula. Winter Storm Jayden, which is working its way through the Midwest, is bringing with it up to 18 inches of snow and freezing temperatures to West Michigan. 

Considering the harsh weather, state police not only urged those outside to wear warm clothing, but be prepared for emergencies when commuting.

When driving, state police advised citizens have “emergency preparedness kits” in their vehicle, which may include jumper cables, extra warm clothing and a cell phone charger. Stranded drivers should not leave their vehicle if possible while waiting for help.

For those without a car, state police urge commuters to limit their time outside, as temperatures can cause rapid frostbite and hypothermia. Numbness may be indicative of frostbite, while fumbling hands, memory loss and drowsiness are warning signs of hypothermia. In both cases, students are advised to get inside immediately, or seek medical help as needed.