The latest in the push to deal with concerns about violence in East Lansing High School.
General News
Mayor to Hold ‘School/Public Safety Listening Session’ on Friday (Updated)
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The event is an opportunity for community members to have their say about safety concerns. Meanwhile, ELHS students are calling for the school board president to step down, and the school board has issued a statement.
General News
East Lansing Police First Heard about High School Lockdown from a Parent Who Called 911
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ELPD called the school to confirm it was, in fact, in lockdown.
General News
East Lansing High School Was Put on Lockdown This Morning
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The shelter in place lockdown that occurred around 10 a.m. ended late this morning.
Schools
East Lansing High School Teachers and Students Describe Fear and Exhaustion from Ongoing Violence
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“There was a firearm within four feet of me,” a student who rushed to help a teacher told the East Lansing Public Schools Board of Ed. “I had no clue.”
General News
After Library Director Calls Police on Wrongly-Accused Black Teen, Outrage Expressed to Board
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A long-time East Lansing resident says her son was racially profiled by the library director, and she wants the director removed from her position. What comes next is not clear.
General News
First School Board Meeting of 2023 Brings Officer Elections, Parent Concerns
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Oaths of office, election of officers, parents’ concerns about play spaces and fighting, and a hint of future district policies. ELi brings you the news.
Schools
ELPS Parent Frustrated Trying to Get Attendance and Disease Data from District
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“I’m ready to give up, which I suspect is the point,” MSU biostatistician and ELPS parent Ahnalee Brincks told ELi.
General News
As East Lansing School Board Membership Changes, Some Policies Are Also Changing
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The retiring school board president and vice president honored during Dec. 12 meeting.
General News
Multiple systems help keep ELPS safe
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OK2SAY, a state-wide reporting program, is one tool being used by the school district.
General News
Preliminary ELPS School Board Results Are in; Library Millage Passes Decisively
|
A lively scene downtown, especially at City Clerk sites, indicates high voter turnout in the 2022 Midterm Elections.
Schools
Will a Large Communications Tower Be Built at EL High School?
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Board Vice President Chris Martin says the board does not yet have enough information to approve the project.
General News
Red Cedar Elementary Comes Back to Life
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ELPS Board of Education has followed through on its promise to reopen the elementary school in the Red Cedar Neighborhood.
Elections
Teachers’ Union Endorses Four School Board Candidates – But Not All Four Running as a Slate
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The East Lansing Educational Association is backing incumbents Tera Chambers and Kath Edsall, plus newcomers Tali Faris-Hylen and Jim McEvoy.
Schools
MacDonald Middle School Closed Today Due to Reported Threat (Updated)
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“We do not have enough information to determine whether or not the threats are credible – so we’ll err on the safe side,” said Superintendent Dori Leyko.
General News
ELPS Avoid Teacher Shortages Plaguing Districts Nationwide, Still Searching for Custodians, Support Staff
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While East Lansing Public Schools has only one unfilled teacher position, custodians and support staff are still a problem.
Elections
School Board Candidates Discuss Measures They Support to Create Safe Learning Environments
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Readers asked ELi to get candidate views on what measures are needed to create a safer environment for students, teachers and staff at ELPS.
Elections
School Board Candidates Speak to Academic Curricula, Physical and Mental Health
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Five of the 10 candidates on the ballot for four ELPS Board seats respond to a key concern of parents and residents.
Elections
Five of 10 School Board Candidates Describe Their Politics
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ELi’s first question to candidates delves into their reasons for running for board and where they are on the political spectrum.
General News
Be Patient, Grab Some Candy: Homecoming Parade Brings Road Closures
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Annual event is expected to last about an hour.
Schools
Trash Piles Up and Administrators Pitch In
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ELPS is looking to end the contract with Jani-King and to take a different approach.
Schools
An Acronym for Everything: Meet ELHS’s New Principal
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Shannon Mayfield brings a diverse background to his new job as principal of East Lansing High School.
Elections
ELi Wants to Know YOUR Questions for the East Lansing School Board Candidates
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We need your help articulating questions that will help registered voters decide who to back.
Community Disparities
East Lansing Insider: Two Years of DEI Efforts and Covid at ELPS
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Emily Joan Elliott and Al Hargrave Jackson discuss Covid 19 and continuing efforts related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in East Lansing Public Schools. Give a listen!
Schools
School Board Approves Curriculum Changes, Contract With Teachers
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The School Board unanimously approved a new curriculum for teaching about HIV and AIDS, a high school-led trip to Germany, and a new contract with the teachers’ union. Al Hargrave Jackson reports.
Schools
Mark Wood of Trans-Siberian Orchestra to Perform with ELPS Students
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Mark Wood, an original member of the group Trans-Siberian Orchestra, will perform with ELHS and MMS students this Friday. Al Hargrave Jackson reports on the concert and partnership.
Schools
Two Years After Pledging to Increase DEI Efforts, Here’s Where ELPS Stands
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Following the murder of George Floyd, ELPS administrators vowed to undertake new efforts related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Where does the district stand on meeting those goals?
East Lansing Schools
Inside The Trojans Final Playoff Run Under Head Coach Rob Smith
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In the final season for the 20-year head coach — plus a highly-decorated senior class — the Trojans were chasing the ultimate prize of a state championship. Andrew Graham reports on their run at a title.
Schools
ELHS Students Respond to Anti-Abortion Protestors Outside High School
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A group of anti-abortion protesters gathered outside ELHS last week. We share ELHS student Marie Adele Grosso’s reporting on students’ responses to the group.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi: A Fence on Campus, Basketball Hoops Unlocked, and Construction On Burcham Drive [UPDATED]
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ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott brings a few pieces of news and a noteworthy PSA about construction on Burcham Drive.
Schools
School Board Approves Policy Changes About Recess, Suicide Prevention, And More
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The School Board unanimously voted to adopt five new policies on Monday as it reviews and revises its new policy manual. Al Hargrave reports on the policy changes.
East Lansing Schools
ELHS Students Recognized for Representing Ukraine at Model UN Conference
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Several ELHS students recently attended the Mid-American Model UN Conference in Kalamazoo. How did they do?
Government
How MSU Plans To Keep Tabs And Hold Accountable Those Exempted From Its Sophomores-On Rule
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As MSU prepares for requiring sophomores to live on campus this upcoming academic year, University officials consider how they might exercise greater control over the behavior of registered student organizations and associated individual students. What might this process, including collaboration with City authorities, look like?
General News
Small Number of East Lansing Residents Have Special Election Coming in May
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The election applies to the small number of East Lansing residents who live within the boundaries of the Lansing School District. Emily Joan Elliott reports on that and the bond proposal they’ll be voting on.
COVID-19
Why Did the School Board Hold a Vote on a Policy That Was Already in Place?
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Superintendent Dori Leyko announced an almost identical policy nearly two weeks ago, but the Board held an official vote due to language in the recently approved policy handbook. What did the four trustees present have to say about the policy?
General News
East Lansing Insider: Where Do We Stand As The Omicron Variant Recedes?
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Andrew is joined by Emily Joan Elliott to talk about the current stages of the pandemic, how different things are now from early 2020, and where things might be headed next. Listen in!
East Lansing Schools
Concerning Social Media Post Results in Police Presence at ELHS Today
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A letter sent to East Lansing High School families, staff, and students from the administration notified families that local law enforcement would be present at the school this morning, Feb. 25, following a concerning social media post made last evening.
east lansing police
East Lansing Insider: After Covid Pause, City of East Lansing Gets Back To Meetings
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The City of East Lansing resumed public meetings this week after pausing meetings outside of City Council during the omicron surge. On this episode of the Insider, the ELi team digs into what some of the boards and commissions have been up to as the City gets back to action.
COVID-19
School Board Discusses Removing Masks, Standardized Testing
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ELPS will continue to require masks through at least mid-April. The Board also discussed a new Black American history course, standardized testing, and more.
City Attorney
What Does the Attorney General’s Opinion On the Open Meetings Act Mean for East Lansing’s Public Bodies? [UPDATED]
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The ELPS School Board weighed the benefits and setbacks of increasing options for public comment at its Feb. 14 meeting.
General News
Andrew Wells, East Lansing High School Principal and Longtime Educator set to Retire After 33 Years
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Wells started working in the district as a lunchroom monitor and paraprofessional, serving in a multitude of roles before eventually being named the principal at ELHS. Al Hargrave reports.
General News
More Than 1,000 East Lansing BWL Customers Without Power, Including Two Elementary Schools
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Robert L. Green and Glencairn Elementary schools are without power and heat, and parents have been asked to call and release their children from school early. Andrew Graham reports on the outage.
Arts & Cultures
Local Girl Scouts at ELHS Working to Improve Community
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Each troop has its own personality and interests, but all give back to their communities in meaningful ways. Al Hargrave reports.
MSU
MSU’s Sophomores-Live-On Policy Creates New Leverage Over Greek Houses
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MSU has seriously changed the game for housing sophomores at fraternities and sororities in East Lansing. ELi’s Andrew Graham connects the dots to bring this special report.
Caring for Each Other
Sparrow Hospital Workers Get Heartfelt Surprise From Local Elementary Students
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First-graders from Robert L. Green Elementary expressed their thanks for Sparrow’s healthcare workers through handwritten cards. Sarah Spohn reports.
General News
ELPS Bus Driver on Administrative Leave Following Incident Yesterday
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A 911 call was placed yesterday concerning the behavior of a school bus driver. Here is what ELi found out from ELPS, ELPD, and Dean Transportation.
COVID-19
Outdoor Facilities Upgrades Coming to ELPS in 2022
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The athletic field and tennis courts at ELHS will undergo significant renovations this summer, and remaining bond money will be used to create outdoor learning spaces at the elementary schools. Al Hargrave provides a School Board round up.
General News
Body Believed to Be That of Brendan Santo Recovered from Red Cedar River (Updated)
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Santo has been missing since last October. A recent petition had called for damming the river to look for his body. Police have notified the family and expressed their own grief at the outcome.
Schools
Ask ELi: Covid at East Lansing High School
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ELi brings answers to a series of questions about how ELHS is handling Covid-19 after reports in early January that hundreds of students were absent.
Podcast
East Lansing Insider: Digging Into The Covid Realities At East Lansing High School
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ELi’s Andrew Graham interviews a teacher and two students from East Lansing High School about their in-the-halls experiences with Covid-19. Listen in.
Schools
EL School Board Addresses Covid Challenges With New President
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The ELPS School Board unanimously voted to make Kate Powers president in 2022, as the district faces high numbers of absenteeism at ELHS and challenges from the more transmissible Omicron variant.
General News
Girl Scout Hopes to Sweeten the Semester for ELPS Employees
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The article that had appeared at this url, about a sale of Girl Scout cookies, has been unpublished
This year, one Girl Scout in East Lansing is working to keep alive a tradition started last year by a Girl Scout Troop from Whitehills Elementary School: collecting enough donations to give a free box of Girl Scout cookies to each member of faculty and staff at East Lansing Public Schools. Last year, a troop from Whitehills collected enough donations to give 230 boxes of cookies to ELPS staff, enough to make sure everyone employed by the district went home with a box of cookies. While that troop is now working to give the same gift to nurses at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, one Girl Scout at East Lansing High School plans to make sure ELPS faculty and staff are not forgotten. Emmerson Davis, older sister of a member of the Whitehills troop, wants every member of faculty and staff at each of the eight buildings that make up ELPS to be given a box of cookies again this year.
Davis wants to ensure that not just teachers but every worker of ELPS is thanked and cheered up again this year by receiving a free box of cookies from Girl Scouts. When asked why she chose to take on this endeavor, Davis told ELi she is doing it because she believes the teachers and staff in East Lansing’s community have been through so much, and that “cookies make everything better.”
Davis’ Girl Scout troop consists of herself only.
COVID-19
East Lansing Insider: Taking Stock As The Covid-19 Pandemic Hits Year 3
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On this episode, Andrew and Chuck are joined by Emily Joan Elliott to delve into the current state of the pandemic. Give a listen!
COVID-19
As Pandemic Drags Out, ELPS Grapples with Balancing Student Emotional Wellbeing and Physical Health
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With the arrival of Omicron, how will the district balance protecting students from both Omicron and the detrimental effects of social isolation, just as students were adjusting to in-person learning?
COVID-19
With Covid Surging, Huge Absentee Rate at ELHS, and the City of East Lansing Is Taking Emergency Actions
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Hundreds of students are reported absent at East Lansing High School, while the City cancels meetings and restricts access to the public library. Meanwhile, the City Manager defends the absence of a vaccine mandate for City workers, including police officers and ELFD paramedics.
COVID-19
MSU Is Going Online Again; Return to Normal Remains Elusive in EL
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The plan calls for remote (online) education for the first three weeks of the semester. Learn more from ELi.
General News
The 10 Stories That Meant the Most to ELi Reporters in 2021
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We asked our reporters which stories that they wrote meant the most to them in 2021. They answered, passing along a varied collection of stories for this year in review.
General News
MSU to Require Covid Booster Shots While Parks & Rec Chair “Irritated” by City’s Lack of Mandate
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MSU announced today that it will require students, faculty, and staff to get a Covid booster for the upcoming semester. On Wednesday, the Parks and Rec Commission drafted a letter to the City Manager and Council, asking for the City, which has no plans for a vaccine mandate of its own, to change course on the issue.
Schools
School Board Discusses Oxford Shooting, Student Safety, Other Issues
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At its first meeting since the school shooting in Oxford, Michigan, the ELPS School Board discussed student safety and a host of other issues, including finances, a new policy handbook, and curriculum changes. Al Hargrave delivers your School Board round up.
Development
Greek Night: Planning Commission Deals With Bevy of Fraternity Matters
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East Lansing’s staff has decided to require special approval for new or newly-occupied frat and sorority houses, but “will not be applying the requirement retroactively.”
Development
East Lansing Insider: A News Grab Bag With ELi Reporter Al Hargrave
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With a number of stories worth catching up on, Andrew and Chuck are joined by Al Hargrave to discuss some of the recent news. Give it a listen!
Arts & Cultures
Pulitzer Prize-Winning ELHS Alum Speaks to ELi About Her New Book
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Before Farah Stockman became a world-traveling, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and book author, she grew up in East Lansing and graduated from East Lansing High School in 1992. How has her life in East Lansing influenced her work?
Government
Want a Job or Volunteer Opportunity? The City of East Lansing Has a Lot of Vacancies
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Tonya Williams, Neighborhood Resource Specialist with ELPD, has put the word out that crossing guards are sorely needed to help out the local public schools. But the City is also seeking lots of other workers and also volunteers.
Highlight Right
ELHS Students Held Walk Out to Honor Oxford School Shooting, Call for Gun Regulation
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ELHS students, many dressed in the blue and gold colors of Oxford High School, walked out of class and into the falling snow to take a stand against gun violence and remember the four students shot and killed by a classmate earlier this week.
Caring for Each Other
Spartan Ninja Warrior Hosting Open Gym, Fundraiser On Sunday
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As part of International Ninja Day on Sunday, daughter and mother Tristin and Nichole Martin are hoping to introduce more kids to the sport of “ninja” while also fundraising for a meaningful cause to them. Andrew Graham reports.
Highlight Right
ELHS Students Recognized by National Merit Scholarship Competition
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Every year, students enter the National Merit Scholarship (NMS) competition by taking the Preliminary SAT. This year, East Lansing High School is proud to have four Semifinalists and two Commended Students for the National Merit Scholarship among the ELHS Class of 2022.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi: What’s Behind the Land Acknowledgment of the Indigenous History of East Lansing?
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East Lansing, including Michigan State University, occupies the Lands of the Anishinaabeg, and Indigenous faculty at MSU are drawing attention to that with a Land Acknowledgement statement. The City has sometimes adapted and used the statement, too. What is the history of this Land Acknowledgment? What might it mean moving forward?
public safety
Alcohol Suspected of Contributing to MSU Student Death This Morning
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ELPD and ELFD responded to a call to a house this morning where four people were unconscious. One died at the scene, and the three others were taken to Sparrow Hospital.
Community Disparities
East Lansing Football Team Subjected to Obscenities, Racial Slurs at South Lyon, According to Parents and Players
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ELi’s Andrew Graham spoke with ELHS players, parents, and the district’s athletic director about what happened, what they felt, and where it all goes from here.
Schools
School Board Discusses Covid, Student Conduct
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ELPS continues to grapple with issues related to returning to school during a pandemic, including vaccinating students, addressing mental health stressors, and messaging good student conduct. Here’s the School Board meeting round up.
Policing
Young People in Spartan Garb Set Fires, Commit Destruction after MSU Beats UM
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Young people mostly in Spartan garb set fires in EL neighborhoods after MSU beat UM in football. Police and fire officers were well outnumbered. ELi brings you video.
General News
Mayor Gregg Implores “Don’t Be An Idiot,” as Sparrow ER Is Already Packed
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Local officials fear that big parties related to football and Halloween will add additional stress to an already strained hospital system. Alice Dreger reports.
General News
How Do Local Bars Deal with the College Town Problem of Underage Drinking?
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“In March 2020, we turned in over 4,000 confiscated IDs to the ELPD that we collected from the school year, just September to March,” said Pat Riley, the owner of Harper’s Restaurant and Brew Pub and the Responsible Hospitality Council’s president.
General News
ELHS Temporarily Sheltered In Place Today
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ELHS temporarily sheltered in place this morning due to a medical emergency. The shelter in place order has ended.
Arts & Cultures
ELPS Board, Administrators Explain and Support Decision on Halloween, Valentine’s Day
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After parent pushback and national media attention, Monday night’s School Board meeting focused on the decision to end in-school Halloween and Valentine’s Day celebrations. What did the Board and Superintendent say about the issue?
Community Disparities
Tensions Between Workers and Management Visible in East Lansing
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The controversy surrounding MSU’s request for faculty and staff to volunteer their personal time to work in dining halls is only the tip of the iceberg locally in terms of tensions between employees and management. What else is happening around town?
Sports
Trojans Annual Breast Cancer Fundraiser Volleyball Match is Building a Program Legacy
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Despite falling to Grand Ledge on Tuesday night, the East Lansing program can surely still call the evening a success. Andrew Graham reports.
Community Disparities
ELPS Grapples with Student Misconduct, Masking
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According to teachers’, administrators’, and families’ anecdotal reports, aggressive behavior among students has been on the rise. What has caused this uptick? How is it being handled?
Schools
East Lansing Insider: Superintendent Talks Pandemic, Equity in Schools
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ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott speaks with East Lansing Public Schools Superintendent Dori Leyko about the pandemic and the school district’s commitment to equity and social justice. Give a listen!
Highlight Right
ELPS Elementary Schools No Longer Celebrating Halloween, Valentine’s Day
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The Elementary Principal Team at ELPS sent a letter to families, saying that they had examined the unintended consequences of celebrating the holidays. Here’s what informed the decision.
Sports
Anna Delgado, Matthew Zeleke and the Trojan Boys Cross Country Team Shine at EL Invitational
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Delgado’s impressive win, along with a 1-2 finish by Zeleke and Page and team win for the ELHS boys cross country team marked a successful afternoon for the Trojans at their home invitational. Andrew Graham reports.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Your ELPS Questions Answered
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Are the kindergarten classrooms at Marble smaller or the class sizes bigger? What’s going on with bus routes, bond money, and Burcham Drive? We answer your questions about East Lansing Public Schools in this Ask ELi Grab Bag.
Community Disparities
Twenty Covid Cases at Glencairn, Outdoor Learning Spaces, Financial Audit All Discussed at School Board
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The relatively high Covid numbers at Glencairn Elementary dominated discussions, but the School Board trustees also discussed how to use remaining bond money, a financial audit, and more. We bring you a round up.
Community Disparities
EL Honors Civil Rights Leader Dr. Robert Green with School Renaming, Historical Marker
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On Friday, Sept. 24, the City of East Lansing and East Lansing Public Schools honored Dr. Robert L. Green, a nationally-recognized civil rights leader and one of the first Black homeowners in East Lansing.
Ask ELi to Investigate
East Lansing Insider: Ask ELi to Investigate
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Alice Dreger, Emily Joan Elliott, and Andrew Graham cover some of the most recent Ask ELi’s that they have investigated. Give a listen to learn more about flooding, drains, construction, schools, and more!
Community Disparities
As Friday’s Dedications Near, We’re Learning More about East Lansing’s History of Racial Integration
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Get details on Friday’s celebrations and find out what we’ve learned thanks to ELi readers about the history of racial integration in East Lansing.
Highlight Right
East Lansing Insider: An Interview With ELHS Aquatics Coach Madi Zink
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Have a listen as ELi’s Andrew Graham and Madi Zink talk high school aquatics, and get a quick ELi news round-up from Andrew, too!
Arts & Cultures
ELHS Band and Orchestra Night Out Returns
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Give a listen this Sunday, Sept. 19, as the ELHS Band and Orchestra make their way through East Lansing to perform door-to-door for the community.
Arts & Cultures
MSU Broad Exhibits & Events Highlight Incarceration
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The latest fall 2021 exhibitions at the Broad focus on the issue of mass incarceration in the U.S. Sarah Spohn reports on what the exhibits include, associated events, and the meaning behind the installations.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi Grab Bag: Biggby, Schools, F-18s, and a Snapping Turtle
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Was that a warplane overhead? What’s happening with the old QD on Trowbridge? We bring you the answers to that and more!
General News
Video: City of East Lansing Welcomes Back MSU Students With ‘Moonlight ExtravaGRANDza’
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The placemaking event brought droves of students to downtown East Lansing and included a mobile vaccine clinic from the Ingham County Health Department. Andrew Graham brings more.
Sports
Fall Sports Are Back: Get To Know The Trojans
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From football to girls golf, to boys and girls cross country, get to know all the teams as the fall season gets going.
DDA
MSU Students Targeted in City’s Welcome-Back Marketing
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On Monday night (Aug. 30), East Lansing’s downtown will transform into a “Moonlight ExtravaGRANDza” with music, games, and deals directed at MSU students. What’s up?
Community Disparities
Debate over Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at School Board on Eve of New School Year
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While the meeting largely focused on excitement about returning to school on the heels of the district’s unusually intensive summer offerings, a debate emerged during public comment about the district’s work related to equity and social justice. We bring you a round up of the Aug. 23 School Board meeting
Community Disparities
ELPS Hires First Director of Equity and Social Justice
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Klaudia Burton, who had previously taught science at ELHS, will take on the new position. What inspired her to apply? What does she envision for the district’s future?
Community Disparities
East Lansing Insider: ELHS Black Student Union Leaders Share Their Experiences
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Anaiis Rios-Kasoga, Laila Lloyd, and Liyu Mesay discuss their work with the Black Student Union at ELHS, how the 2016 presidential election shaped their high school years, and what ELHS could do – and in some cases, has already done – to build a more inclusive environment
COVID-19
Superintendent Details ELPS Plans for Covid-19 Mitigation and Online Learning Options
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Superintendent Dori Leyko has provided details about what the East Lansing Public Schools district is doing to try to offer online learning and to minimize the impact of Covid-19 as school restarts.
Community Disparities
Pinecrest School Will Be Renamed After Dr. Robert L. Green
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Before the unanimous vote in favor at Monday’s School Board meeting, Green’s oldest son spoke warmly of his parents and of his own experience in the East Lansing Public Schools.
Government
Transportation Commission Meets In Person to Discuss Abandoned Bikes, Community Outreach
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The East Lansing Transportation Commission met in person on Monday — marking the start of the return to regular in-person City meetings this month. How did they decide to handle abandoned bikes? What other transportation issues did they tackle?
Community Disparities
East Lansing Insider: Alex Hosey Talks Civil Rights
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ELi’s Managing Editor talks to Alex Hosey, a local civil rights activist and youth reporter for ELi. Hosey spoke about his decision to sit for the national anthem during a basketball game several years ago, his experience as a Black young man in East Lansing, and his future plans.
MSU
MSU to Require Covid-19 Vaccines for Students, Faculty, Staff
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All students, staff, and faculty must be vaccinated against Covid-19 before the start of the fall semester – a move that has effects for not only MSU but also the wider East Lansing community.
Highlight Right
ELPS Archery Shoots for the Stars
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“Kids who need a niche will find me,” Marble P.E. teacher and archery coach Casey Bain told ELi about the district’s archery program. How has the program developed and how has it weathered the challenges of the pandemic and a very different season?
General News
Debates Over Renaming Pinecrest and Covid Policies at School Board
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The ELPS Board of Education held a public hearing about changing the name of Pinecrest Elementary to honor Dr. Robert L. Green, a local civil rights leader. Others called in to voice concerns over possible Covid-19 protocols. We bring you the meeting roundup.
General News
“Thank You, Pandemic”?
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More places to relax outdoors, convenient pink parking spots, MSU disciplining problematic off-campus behavior, more people participating in government. Maybe the pandemic hasn’t been all bad?
Highlight Right
Remembering a Year of East Lansing Athletics Unlike Any Other
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The Trojans faced a tumultuous year, marked by fits and starts due to the pandemic, but it was not without major successes. ELi’s Andrew Graham takes a look back.
Development
Hear ELi’s Exit Interview with Mayor Aaron Stephens
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Aaron Stephens sits down with ELi’s Publisher Alice Dreger and reporter Jack Timothy Harrison after announcing his resignation, effective Aug. 11. Listen to the trio reflect back on his time as mayor.
Community Disparities
What ever happened following that open letter from the ELHS newspaper? And will Pinecrest be renamed?
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The staff of the ELHS newspaper called for a more inclusive and equitable district, but the town hall they called for didn’t happen. So what did? How might renaming Pinecrest Elementary honor local civil rights history?
Highlight Right
Before East Lansing Baseball Took the Diamond in 2021, They First Climbed a Hill
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When indoor practices were suspended due to Covid, the ELHS varsity baseball team lugged logs up and down a snowy hill. Andrew Graham reports on how the hard work and tenacity of the team paid off.
Arts & Cultures
Peanut Barrel, Andy Wells, Diana Tarpoff, and Maureen McCabe-Power Are This Year’s Crystal Awardees
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Joe and Jennifer Bell of The Peanut Barrel, East Lansing High School Principal Andy Wells, education-energizer Diana Tarpoff, and extraordinary friend of the East Lansing Public Library Maureen McCabe-Power have all been honored this year.
General News
ELi’s Youth Journalists Generate the News You Read – And We Can MATCH Your Support for Them If You Act TODAY!
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To put it bluntly, ELi could not deliver the quality news you rely on without the work of our youngest reporters. Help us reach our youth journalism fundraising goal today!
General News
Remembering An Expectation-Setting 2021 East Lansing Boys Lacrosse Season
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The ELHS Boys Lacrosse team went to a regional final for the first time in more than a decade. The team, which hadn’t played together since 2019 due to the pandemic, had a benchmark-setting season. Andrew Graham takes a look back.
Caring for Each Other
EL School Board Round Up: Reflecting on the Year Past and the Year Ahead
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Will Pinecrest get a new name? Will school be in-person or virtual in the fall? When will food distribution happen? Is the track open to the public? Find the answers to these questions – and more – in the School Board round up.
City Council
Slim Council Majority Votes Through New Leasing Regulation – But It’s Contingent on Lansing and Meridian Following Suit
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In an unusual and somewhat tense split vote, Aaron Stephens, Jessy Gregg, and Dana Watson voted in favor, while Lisa Babcock and Ron Bacon voted against. Why? ELi’s Andrew Graham reports.
General News
ELi Now Broadcasting on Impact Radio on Sunday Mornings
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Starting today, you can catch ELi’s weekly East Lansing Insider podcast on The Impact, 88.9 FM!
Sports
East Lansing Girls Tennis Revels in CAAC Blue Title, Beating Rival Okemos
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The Trojans beat Okemos head-to-head for the first time since their coach was playing for East Lansing. ELi’s Andrew Graham reports.
Arts & Cultures
Award-Winning MMS Teacher Aram Kabodian Publishes Poetry Collection
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Aram Kabodian, winner of the Middle School Teacher of the Year award from the Michigan Council of Teachers of English, has now published a collection of poems. ELi’s Ann Nichols reports on how this partly-autobiographical work came to be, and what it means to the author.
Sports
Regional Title Highlights a Dominant Season For the East Lansing Girls Track and Field Team
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The Trojans expected to qualify some runners for states, but were surprised when they found out they’d scored the most points at their regional. Andrew Graham reports.
Community Disparities
ELPS School Board Meets, Reviews School Year, Finances, and Plans Ahead
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Marking the one year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder, what plans does the district have to continue its work on racial equity and social justice? How might changes made during the pandemic improve future years?
Sports
East Lansing Boys Runners Race to Conference, State Meets
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Headlined by a 4×200 meter relay team that recently held the fastest time in the state, the ELHS boys track team is hurtling towards the conference meet on Wednesday and states beyond. Andrew Graham reports for ELi.
COVID-19
Protection Now Available to Area Children Aged 12-15 via Pfizer Covid Vaccine
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Vaccination of this age group helps protect people who come into contact with them, including those at much higher risk of illness and death, such as pregnant women. No appointment is necessary at some sites. Find out more from ELi.
Caring for Each Other
East Lansing Public Schools Tackles Mental Health Needs with New Interventions
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The ELPS Mental Health Advisory Committee partnered with a team at MSU to create a new website that provides mental health information and resources. It is part of a multi-pronged approach to help students.
Sports
Gracie Emerson, East Lansing Dominate Holt, 14-2, in 1st Round of CAAC Tourney
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Emerson tallied seven goals in the first half, and eight total, as the Trojans topped the Rams in girl’s lacrosse. Andrew Graham reports.
Schools
ELHS Students Urge Town Hall Over Issues of Equity and Social Justice, While Trustee Fink Questions “Silence”
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The editorial board of Portrait, East Lansing High School’s student newspaper, is calling on the leadership of East Lansing Public Schools to attend to concerns they have identified. Board Trustee Monica Fink read a statement in which she also questioned how the district leadership is managing issues of racism and equity. Here is what happened last evening.
Community Disparities
Investigation into Slavery Assignment Completed, Teacher Returns to Classroom
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Matthew Christians, the MMS teacher who had been put on non-disciplinary administrative leave, returned to the classroom today. Superintendent Dori Leyko provided families with other updates from the district’s investigation on how slavery had been taught.
Highlight Right
Staunch Defense, 2 Long Shot Goals As Trojans Tie with Okemos
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After the game, EL Head Coach Jeff Lyons wasn’t explicitly happy with the tie, but pleased to do well against a team the Trojans historically struggled against. Andrew Graham reports.
Highlight Right
Your ELi: Help Shape ELi’s Sports Coverage
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ELi plans to cover ELHS Trojans’ varsity sports, but we would like your feedback on what that might look like.
City Council
Change the Student Rental Timeline? Landlords Say No, Students Say Yes, Council Says Maybe
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East Lansing’s proposed Ordinance 1500 brought a lot more public comment than most draft laws do. ELi’s Andrew Graham explains what makes the issue heated and what the various parties think.
Community Disparities
MacDonald Teacher Put on Administrative Leave Following More Controversial Slavery Assignments Coming to Light
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The superintendent says that in addition to a thorough investigation, the district is reviewing the curriculum and keeping other promises made following the murder of George Floyd. ELi’s Emily Elliott reports.
Community Disparities
ELHS Students Eager to Get Vaccinated, Face Age Restrictions
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Some students at ELHS have already received a vaccine, and more plan on it. What is preventing some from receiving a vaccine? ELi’s Adan Tomas Quan reports.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELI: Grand River Ave. Speed Limits and Municipal Poop Digestion?
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Why won’t the City ask MDOT to lower the speeds on Grand River Ave. and Saginaw St.? Does East Lansing have an anaerobic biodigster? And why are trees being cut behind the high school?
General News
ELPS Administrators Call Assignment on Slavery a “Collective Failure”
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The assignment asked students to imagine themselves as enslaved persons. How did ELPS teachers come to this assignment? What is the district doing to address the issue?
Community Disparities
Group Seeks to Honor Civil Rights Icon with Historical Markers, Renaming of Pinecrest Elementary School
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In 1964, Dr. Robert L. Green was an East Lansing resident and MSU faculty member who made a complaint to the federal government in a case related to a house he wanted to buy in the Glencairn neighborhood. Green was also a national leader in civil rights. Now, a local group is seeking to honor his legacy of local and national leadership.
Sports
Trojan Swimming and Diving Team Reflects on 2nd-Place CAAC Blue Finish
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The season looked different than previous ones due to the pandemic. How did the team make it to their second place finish? What did it mean to them?
COVID-19
ELPS Considers Lifting Pause on Sports, as Area Sees Covid Situation Worsen
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Our area is a national Covid-19 hotspot. How are schools and local government responding? How is the vaccine rollout going?
Schools
Despite Senior Guard Duo Starring, East Lansing Loses State Quarterfinal, 66-56, to Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern
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With a few players absent from the team for Tuesday’s game, the Trojans leaned on senior guard Marcus Wourman and David Wilkerson. Andrew Graham reports how their combined 43 points weren’t enough for EL to win.
Highlight Right
Trojans Fall Short in State Quarterfinal, Losing 56-42 to Hudsonville
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Despite getting bombarded from 3 and struggling with officiating, East Lansing only trailed by four with minutes to play. Andrew Graham reports on how the season ended.
Sports
On To States: Trojans Win Regional Outdueling Coldwater, 63-57
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With a trip to the state quarterfinals on the line, the Trojans and Cardinals locked in for 32 minutes of back-and-forth, up-and-down, desperate basketball. How did the Trojans pull off the win? ELi’s Andrew Graham brings this report.
Sports
States Bound: Annelise Lebeda Shines As Trojans Dominate Kalamazoo Central, 62-38
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Thanks to 20 points from the senior on a night where East Lansing was banged up, the Trojans are headed to states. Andrew Graham reports.
Development
MSU’s Decision to Have Sophomores Live-On Is Part of New Program to Reach Across Grand River Ave.
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We asked MSU Vice President Vennie Gore about whether MSU’s decision is driven by finances, how on- and off-campus students might benefit, and what to expect in terms of enrollment post-Covid.
Sports
True to Form, Marcus Wourman Leads East Lansing Past Holt, 65-56, to Regional Final
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“Everyone else is trying to strive and get to that same level,” Trojan head coach Ray Mitchell said of Wourman. “It just sets the tone for the whole program.” What burdens was the senior guard carrying?
Sports
Brevin Jackson Displays Scoring Knack as Trojans Win District Title, Top Waverly, 59-54
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Jackson’s offensive display propelled the Trojans to a regional game that will take place onTuesday evening at Grand Ledge High School. Andrew Graham reports on the Trojans boys district championship.
Sports
Trojans Win 6th-Straight District Title, 55-36 Against Haslett, As Baker Stars Off Bench
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The Trojans girls basketball team has now won six-straight district titles, going all the way back through 2016. Where will they go from here?
Sports
Junior Wrestler Emilio Cabrera Returns to Regionals for His Shot at Redemption
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Cabrera made it to state finals his freshman year, but a loss at regionals his sophomore year prevented a return. How has Cabrera planned for his hopeful return this year? How did the pandemic change the process?
Sports
Trojans Escape DeWitt in Overtime, 59-52, Head to District Finals
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After the game, Trojans Head Coach Ray Mitchell said he “expected it to be a dogfight.” Andrew Graham reports how the Trojans came out as the top dog on Thursday.
Sports
‘Best Defender’ Corkie Jones Stands Out As Trojans Advance to District Finals, Beat DeWitt 50-28
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In a basketball game where the score resembled that of a football game for most of the night, the best unit on the court was East Lansing’s defense. What happened at the game, and how can you see more great photos?
General News
Town Hall and Vigil at MSU to Respond to Anti-Asian Acts
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Anti-Asian violence has been on the rise in some of the nation’s largest cities, but Asian and Asian-American students at MSU reported an uptick in anti-Asian sentiment in February 2020, associated with the spread of Covid-19. A town hall and vigil on Thursday will provide space for discussion and support.
Sports
Trojans Advance to District Semis, Survive St. Johns, 66-55
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With the win, the Trojans are now slated to play DeWitt on Thursday at 5 p.m. at Waverly High School. But first, Andrew Graham takes you through Tuesday’s win.
COVID-19
News from ELPS: Covid Management, Return-to-Schools, and Marble Construction
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How is the district identifying and handling the few positive Covid cases that have emerged? How many students will return after Spring Break? How’s the new Marble looking? We bring the answers.
COVID-19
ELHS Model UN Club Takes Home Multiple Awards
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The event was held online, but that did not stop a group of ELHS students from doing their best. How did the event go? What awards did they take home?
Sports
Marcus Wourman and Brevin Jackson Lead Trojans To 57-48 Comeback Win Over Okemos
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ELi reporter Andrew Graham and photographer Gary Caldwell take you to yesterday’s exciting game. We also give you a link to all of Gary’s photos from the event.
COVID-19
Retrospective: A Year of Covid in East Lansing
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Covid-19 has been present in East Lansing for over a year. How has it changed our community? Where does our community stand now in terms of the virus?
Sports
No. 2 Trojans Begin Their Championship March with 65-50 Win Against Holt
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“We have enough things in place where we’re prepared to compete any style of game,” Coach Rob Smith tells ELi. Read all about the Trojans’ latest win.
COVID-19
MSU Is Working to Make On-Campus Housing More Attractive
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After announcing that second-year students will be required to live on-campus, MSU is upgrading its infrastructure and making other changes. What will this entail?
COVID-19
Humans and Pets Needed to Train Medical Students, Both Online and In-Person
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Medical students must continue to learn the best ways to interact with patients – both online and in-person – during the pandemic. Are you interested in signing up to be a standardized patient to help them?
Sports
Trojans Throttle Waverly on Senior Night, 92-22, Behind 50 Combined Points from Seniors
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The Trojans celebrated their three seniors at halftime. The young women who were the glue that held their team together, cheered from the sidelines in the second half after scoring a combined 50 points in the first half.
Sports
Defense, Payton Baker Spark No. 2 Trojans in 49-30 Win Over Haslett
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East Lansing trailed for the first time all season, falling behind Haslett 8-4 at the end of the first quarter. ELi’s Andrew Graham reports on how the Trojans came back.
Schools
Girls’ Hoops Recap: Staunch Defense Propels No. 2 Trojans Over Okemos, 62-21
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ELHS remains undefeated after an impressive victory. Strong defense led to turnovers, paving the way for running up the score.
General News
As ELPS Approaches a Return to School, What Are People Thinking About It?
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The plan for bringing students back changed in January. Some look forward to the return, particularly as students feel the effects of isolation. But some families feel frustrated with communication and fear increased community spread. Emily Joan Elliott takes a look at what various stakeholders have to say.
COVID-19
ELPS Gears Up for Return to In-Person Learning, Discusses Racial Equity Training
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Some ELPS students will return to in-person learning on Mar. 1. The Board provides some details on safety protocols, and Curriculum Director Glenn Mitcham reviewed the district’s professional development focused on social and racial justice.
bicycles
Proceed with Caution as Young Pedestrians and Bicyclists Make Their Way to School
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Aislinn Callahan-Brandt tells ELi the problem is twofold: drivers aren’t used to seeing kids, and kids aren’t used to walking or biking to school. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Arts & Cultures
ELHS Newspaper, Portrait, Now Available Online
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The decision came in the midst of remote learning. Some miss the in-person newsroom, but the team continues to deliver news and opinion pieces to their community. ELi’s Anaiis Rios-Kasoga reports.
COVID-19
ELPS Return to In-Person Learning Pushed Back; Now Mar. 1 for All Students
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Elementary school children were set to return on Feb. 22 and middle and high school students on Mar. 1. Vaccine distribution delays due to snow have reset the start date to Mar. 1 for all students returning to school.
Policing
ELPD Investigates Bomb Threat Directed at St. Thomas Aquinas School
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The building was searched by K9s from ELPD, the Michigan State University Police Department, and the Michigan State Police Department. A bomb was not found, Andrew Graham reports.
COVID-19
School Board President Terah Chambers Discusses Return to In-Person Learning, Racial Equity
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Chambers sat down with our Managing Editor. She shared why she is passionate about school policy and how she approaches her position serving on the School Board.
COVID-19
School Board Holds Short Meeting; Plans Continue for Return to In-Person Learning
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After several marathon meetings in a row, the School Board held a short meeting, discussing some details of the upcoming return to in-person learning, building construction, and recognition of some achievements in the district.
Caring for Each Other
“Since this year has been crummy, let’s give them something sweet and yummy!”
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A Girl Scout troop from Whitehills Elementary is asking the community for help to give ELPS teachers and staff cookies.
COVID-19
Seeing Rapid Positivity Increase, MSU Orders Students to Stay in Their Dorm Rooms
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Starting at midnight, on-campus MSU students will be required to stay in their dorm rooms with few exceptions for at least two weeks. What’s the context for the new decision?
Highlight Right
ELHS Diver Gwen Petrie Reflects on Her Path to a 10th-Place Finish at States
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The ELHS sophomore placed 10th at the State Finals for diving. Andrew Graham reports on her uncertain path toward this achievement.
COVID-19
East Lansing School Board Certifies Return to In-Person Learning in 6 to 1 Vote
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The new plan has several key differences from the one improved in December. Emily Joan Elliott reports on the changes, the safety measures being put in place, and various input provided by the public and the Board during the meeting.
East Lansing Public Library
Rundown of Meetings from This Past Week
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The City and school district held several important meetings this week. The ELi team brings you the updates.
Schools
Students Respond to MSU Requiring Sophomores to Live on Campus
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MSU sophomores will be required to live on campus beginning with the class entering as freshmen in Fall 2021. Some students, including some in student government, have concerns about how fast this is being implemented. Jack Timothy Harrison reports for ELi.
Policing
Your ELi: It’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in East Lansing
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The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commission of Mid-Michigan will host an event on television this evening. This morning, ELi reflects on covering news related to racial equity and justice.
Schools
Chambers Elected School Board President, as Return-to-School Plans Still in Flux
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The ELPS School Board addressed concerns about return to in-person learning and celebrated having the most diverse Board to date. Terah Chambers was elected President, the first Black woman to hold the position.
General News
Pandemic Leads SBS and Collegeville, Normally Competitors, to Collaborate
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The two locally-owned bookstores will be collaborating to offer MSU students course materials this semester. Collegeville’s Tom Muth explains why.
General News
What Will Be the Big East Lansing Stories of 2021?
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Our staff compiles the top stories we expect to cover in 2021. But we can never know all that will happen — like, a pandemic — and that’s why we need your financial support.
Arts & Cultures
The Top Ten East Lansing Stories of 2020
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What were the biggest stories in East Lansing for 2020? ELi’s Publisher and Managing Editor bring you the top 10 list.
Your ELi
The Ten Stories That Meant the Most to Your ELi Reporters in 2020
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From ELHS closing due to Covid-19, to volunteers sewing masks to donate, to the Harbor Bay dealings, our reporters highlight stories they enjoyed bringing you in 2020. At this page, you can click on “play” buttons to hear individual recordings of the articles read by their own reporters!
Development
Catch Up on What’s Going On With the Latest ‘East Lansing Insider’
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Andrew Graham and Emily Joan Elliott are joined by ELi reporter Heather Brothers to discuss the work of the Study Committee on an Independent Police Oversight Commission.
COVID-19
School Board Majority Approves Some In-Person Learning This Winter; Teachers’ Union President Resigns Following Controversy
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The School Board voted 5-2 to approve a plan that will permit elementary school kids to return in February and middle and high school students in March. But space may be limited. Emily Joan Elliott explains.
Arts & Cultures
School Board to Vote on Reopening Plan, and Council on Corporate Tax Exemptions
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Along with School Board and City Council, there are meetings of Planning Commission, Arts Commission, Downtown Development Authority and Police Study Committee. Andrew Graham unpacks it.
Center City District
Episode 8 and A Special Edition of The ‘East Lansing Insider’ Are Now Live
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The team at ELi brings you the regular weekly pod and a special edition from Alice Dreger and Emily Joan Elliott on the refinancing of the Center City District bonds. Listen on.
General News
Great News: Now You Can Help Local Restaurants and ELPS at the Same Time
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Want to support local families and local businesses at the same time? ELPS is putting out a call for donations of food and gift cards to local businesses to help some district families over winter break.
COVID-19
ELPS Parents See Remote Learning as Hard, Have Various Hopes for January
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The clear consensus is that remote learning is difficult, and 60 percent of families would like to return in January if it is safe to do so. Several parents share their hopes for both virtual and in-person learning come January.
General News
MSU Says Student Housing Policy Change Will Mean 2,000 More Living On Campus
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MSU Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education and Dean of Undergraduate Studies Mark Largent tells ELi that the move will help students “persist” in college and not drop out. Andrew Graham brings an update.
Development
MSU Will Require Sophomores to Live On-Campus Starting in 2022
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The move, motivated by academic and financial concerns, is likely to have a major impact on the economy of East Lansing.
COVID-19
MSU Students Searching for Off-Campus Work After Furloughs
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In October, Residential and Hospitality Services at MSU furloughed student employees, who then looked across Grand River Ave. for employment. Jack Timothy Harrison reports for ELi.
Caring for Each Other
ELPS Provides Hundreds of Families With Extra Food For the Holidays
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ELPS families provided more than 500 bags of food to some students’ families for Thanksgiving. They hope to do so again for Christmas with the community’s help.
Homepage Featured
School Board Pushes Back Possible Reopening, and Fires Same Contractor as Last Year
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The ELPS School Board met on Monday night for a relatively short meeting where it took action on return to in-person learning and construction at Whitehills and Pinecrest.
COVID-19
Trojans Coach Bill Feraco Discusses Team’s Stand Against Racism, Covid-19 Delays
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Speaking to ELi on Wednesday, the head coach hoped that the new Covid restrictions work and his team can get back on the field in December. Andrew Graham reports.
Schools
School Board Looks at Cases Per Million, Test Positivity Percentages for Reopening
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ELPS continues to consider reopening in January and looks to what metrics to consider. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Development
Many Big Issues Coming Before East Lansing’s Elected and Appointed Officials
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A stacked City Council agenda, another meeting of the Police Oversight Study Committee, School Board, and more. Alice Dreger reports.
Highlight Right
East Lansing Ranks 21st in Ranking of Top 25 School Districts in Michigan
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School rankings don’t determine goals for development and improvement at ELPS, but they highlight and provide opportunity to celebrate the district’s strengths.
Highlight Right
Walton, Guerrero Lyons, and Fink Win School Board Seats
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Debbie Walton, Elizabeth Guerrero Lyons, and Monica Fink will replace Erin Graham, Hillary Henderson, and Nichole Martin on East Lansing’s Board of Education.
COVID-19
ELPS Board Approves Plan, Students Could Return In-Person in January
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The East Lansing School Board approved the proposed plan that allows for students to return to in-person learning as early as January, but the return is not a guarantee. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott explains.
COVID-19
Mixed Bag for MSU Game Day as Several Students Face Fines, Restorative Justice Program
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What did game day look like in East Lansing look like on Saturday? And what will happen to students who violated public health orders? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott and Heather Brothers report.
General News
A Brief News Update and Looking Ahead at Next Week
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ELi is following the happenings on game day and getting you prepped for the next week of meetings in ELPS and City of East Lansing government. Andrew Graham brings you up to speed.
COVID-19
ELPS Board Votes Next Week on Keeping Classes Remote Until January
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ELPS Superintendent Dori Leyko and Director of Curriculum Glen Mitcham presented a plan for students to return to in-person learning in January. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott provides the details ahead of the Board’s vote next week.
Government
School Board Cancelled Due to Supreme Court Ruling – Is City Council Next?
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How come the School Board meeting was cancelled, but the City Manger held an East Lansing government meeting last night? ELi’s Alice Dreger explains what’s been happening.
Development
Big Week of Meetings Coming for East Lansing
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ELi’s Alice Dreger gives you a fast rundown of what’s coming in public meetings in East Lansing this week. Check it out.
Highlight Left
Some Parents Withdrawing Students from ELPS, Saying Online Education Not Working
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ELPS will continue online for October, but the Board would like to see a plan for returning to in-person instruction as parents explain why they have removed their students from the district’s schools.
Sports
ELHS Football Players and Coaches Are Ready for Football, And Its New Challenges
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Players and coaches have been hoping for the chance to play since the season was canceled in August. Now they’ve got their shot.
Elections
View ELi’s Interviews with the Candidates for East Lansing School Board
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Dr. Jane Turner and ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott interviewed the 8 school board candidates. Watch the interviews here.
Schools
Dual Enrollment at MSU Becoming More Affordable for ELHS Students
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ELPS School Board Vice President Terah Chambers, who is also an MSU professor, has been working to lower costs for dual enrollment.
COVID-19
UPDATE: 39 Houses Now Under Mandatory Quarantine, As Some Criticism of Approaches Continues
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ELi brings you the list of houses now quarantined. We also explain what some critics have to say about the local approaches being used.
General News
What Happened at School Board This Week?
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The Board heard more from the Superintendent about when kids will return to school and got an update on the free-meals program. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Schools
Ingham ISD Rejects Hawk Nest Homeowners’ Request to Join ELPS District
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Neighborhood members came to the public hearing to explain why they wanted to have the boundaries changes. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
COVID-19
All Local MSU Students Told to Self-Quarantine Now
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Says the Health Department: “more stringent and mandatory restrictions will be imposed if students do not comply and break the transmission cycle.” ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Schools
Hawk Nest Homeowners Petition to Join East Lansing Public Schools District
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A public hearing on the matter will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 15. ELi brings you details on that.
COVID-19
Deaths Among Senior Citizens to Follow if College Parties Continue, Says Linda Vail
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Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail is now plainly calling on students to stop partying, warning that “Sicker, older people will get it and die.” ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
COVID-19
COVID Cases Surge in MSU Student Population
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The data made available so far show just how dramatic the spike is. The recent surge of cases appear to be tied to multiple parties in the area. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
COVID-19
Pandemic-Related Changes to Local Town-Gown Relationship a “Really Big Deal”
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With the MSU student population pushed off campus and into town, new approaches to public health messaging, academic support, and discipline are emerging. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Schools
The ELHS Band Keeps Marching On
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How does the show go on during a pandemic for the ELHS Trojan Marching Band? ELi Summer Youth Journalism Program graduate Adan Quan brings us the story.
Arts & Cultures
Last Day to Register for Broad Art Lab Embroidery Workshop
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Sign up to have all the virtual workshop materials delivered to your door from the MSU Broad Art Lab.
Elections
ELi Asks the 8 School Board Candidates Why They’re Running
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Why are these eight people running? What issues do they see as urgent? We asked to bring you the answers.
COVID-19
Undergrads Flood Into Off-Campus Housing, Planning to Stay
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The total number of undergrads living off-campus could even be higher than normal because of tens of thousands of students displaced from the dorms moving into off-campus housing.
COVID-19
School Board Uncertain What MSU Online Instruction Will Mean for ELPS
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What happens at ELPS is tied to what happens at MSU. But what’s happening with MSU undergrads remains uncertain.
Schools
Meet the New Red Cedar Principal, One of Many Recent ELPS Hires
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Rinard Pugh has been named the new Principal for ELPS’ Red Cedar Elementary School. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott spoke with him about his background and vision.
Elections
ELPS School Board Will Have At Least Two New Members After Elections
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Who are the eight people running for three open seats on East Lansing’s School Board? Emily Joan Elliott reports for ELi.
COVID-19
Mayor and U President Say Partnership Is Key to Quelling Problematic Parties
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The dorms are closing to protect health. What about what’s happening in off-campus, party-prone housing?
COVID-19
And It’s Off: MSU Goes Remote for Fall Undergraduate Classes
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MSU announced late Tuesday afternoon that it is suspending in-person learning for undergraduate courses for the fall semester. The impact on East Lansing will be significant.
COVID-19
Frustration Brewing Over Maskless People on Both Sides of Grand River
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Mask enforcement in East Lansing is turning out to be tricky. Emily Joan Elliott brings the details.
COVID-19
Health Department Limits Outdoor Parties to 25 People in Student-Heavy Areas of East Lansing
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Outdoor parties will be limited to 25 people under a new County Health rule applied to part of East Lansing. How will this work in practice?
COVID-19
Superintendent and School Board Members Respond to Push for Detailed Reopening Plan
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School Board Member Chris Martin is looking at other districts’ plans and thinks that ELPS is too far behind. ELi asked the rest of the School Board and the Superintendent to respond.
Government
Mandatory Mask Area in Downtown Made Official
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Wear a mask in the Downtown Development Authority district or face a polite ambassador. Persist in not wearing a mask and face a $25 fine from the police.
COVID-19
ELPS School Board Approves Remote Instruction Plan. One Member Voted No.
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“I don’t see plan for bringing students back, just a plan to make a plan later,” said School Board member Chris Martin. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports from the meeting.
COVID-19
Health Officer: Confusion Surrounding Executive Orders Contributed to Harper’s Outbreak
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Confusion over complex and rapidly-changing Executive Orders from Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s office contributed to the Covid-19 outbreak at Harper’s. What else has been learned?
Schools
ELHS Student Body President Encourages Her Peers to Seize the Moment
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“We live in a system and a culture that encourages us to only think about ourselves,” Bacon said in her speech. “Fight that powerful urge.”
Schools
At Socially Distanced Ceremony, Andrel Anthony Jr. Commits to Michigan
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Yesterday saw a moment of joy and celebration at East Lansing’s high school football stadium, with Andrel Anthony Jr.’s family there to share the big moment.
COVID-19
Parents and Experts Bring Many Suggestions about ELPS Draft Plan
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During public comment and the board’s discussion, the stress of the situation was often palpable. Emily Joan Elliott reports for ELi.
COVID-19
“Personal Responsibility” Seen as Key to MSU Students Keeping East Lansing Safe
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Expect to see signage around town encouraging students to be personally responsible in order to “stay safe to stay open.” ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
Schools
ELPS Will Start Year With No In-Person Classes; Board Meets Tonight
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Superintendent Dori Leyko will offically tell the East Lansing Public Schools Board tonight that classes need to start remotely for the next school year. ELi brings the details.
COVID-19
Absent Obvious Solutions, Elected Officials, MSU Leaders, and Bar Owners Seek a “Unified Front”
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Many restaurants and bars downtown will now refuse service to anyone not wearing a mask. What else is happening to prepare for fall?
COVID-19
Looking at Harper’s Cluster Outbreak, MSU Teaching Assistants Question Reopening Campus
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As the Harper’s cluster count hits 85 (with no hospitalizations), graduate Teaching Assistants are questioning the wisdom of on-campus teaching this fall. Emily Joan Elliott reports for ELi.
Schools
Protest from ELPD to MSU Focuses on Racism, Militarized Policing
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“The March Against Fear” started at East Lansing’s City Hall and Police Department and ended at the MSU President’s house. Andrew Graham reports, with photos from Gary Caldwell.
Schools
School Board Considers Preservation of “East Lansing Values,” Reviews Superintendent
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What happened at School Board this week? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott brings you the story.
COVID-19
County Health Officials Now Identify 14 Coronavirus Cases Tied to Harper’s
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As Harper’s closes for cleaning, ELi hears from the owners about what they say the City has done wrong. What’s going to happen here come fall?
Ask ELi to Investigate
How Will MSU Students’ Return Affect East Lansing?
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Readers are asking what we can expect when MSU starts in-person classes back up in the fall. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports what we know so far.
Development
East Lansing Development Updates (Spoiler Alert: The Abbot Opens Late August)
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News on The Abbot, The Graduate, affordable housing, Coleman Road, the new elementary schools, MSUFCU’s downtown project, and marijuana sales locations. We also tell you where in East Lansing the state’s wetland protection agency plans a new office building that would disturb a wetland.
Government
Big Issues at East Lansing Meetings This Week
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Here come requests to sell recreational marijuana, the superintendent’s (closed door) review, teacher and police retirements, and so much more. ELi keeps you informed before the decisions are made.
Policing
Calls for Demilitarizing Local Police Grow, as Protest Planned for Next Wednesday
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This week, a majority of Council okayed new vests in spite of concerns they might appear too militaristic. What was the reasoning, and why are ELPD officers firing guns when they do?
Schools
School Security, Racial Equity, Pregnant Teens – All on the School Board Docket
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The Policy Committee of the Board discussed several major changes under consideration. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott attended the meeting and reports back.
Schools
Survey Says: ELPS Parents Want Improvement if Fall Involves Remote Learning
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ELi brings you the results of the school district’s survey of elementary, middle, and high school parents. What did they report back about the stay-at-home learning experience?
Schools
ELPS Leaders Cut Police Presence from Schools, Make Stronger Commitment to Equity
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The district’s seventeen employed administrators, almost all of them white, are committing to changes. How did School Board members react?
Highlight Left
Does East Lansing’s School Board Get a Passing Grade on Transparency?
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ELi’s staff has been spending a lot of energy trying to find out when and where the East Lansing School Board and its committees are meeting.
Schools
Stats Show Lack of Diversity in ELPS Faculty Ranks
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About 56% of ELPS students are white, while about 96% of the teachers are white. Students, parents, and School Board members talked to ELi about why this matters.
Government
Ask ELi: What’s the Jurisdiction of MSU Police?
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A reader asked: What’s the jurisdiction of ELPD versus MSUPD?
COVID-19
ELPS Superintendent Suggests It’s Too Soon for Fall Plans, While Some Are Anxious To Get Going
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Three members of East Lansing’s School Board pushed for movement on a fall plan at a meeting with the Superintendent last week. What’s happening now?
Sports
Leading by Supporting, Kelsey Mongoven Is ELi’s Trojan of the Week
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“We tried to create an environment that worked for everyone,” Kelsey Mongoven explains. A junior at MSU, Mongoven has taken on the responsibility of head coach for the Trojans’ varsity gymnastics team.
Highlight Right
MacDonald Middle School Hero Mr. Watson Retires After 47 Years of Service
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Vincent Watson has been a true hero through his 47 years of service in East Lansing Public Schools, positively influencing the lives of thousands of children and young adults.
COVID-19
Mayor Ruth Beier Sees Big Benefits and Big Risks to MSU’s Decision
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“It’s going to be scarier for the city than I think it is for campus,” Beier said about MSU’s decision to reopen in the fall.
Schools
MSU Will Bring Students Back in September
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The reopening of MSU has major implications for East Lansing in terms of the economy, public health, business survival, housing, neighborhood cultures, policing, and more.
Sports
Ed Outslay, Trojan of the Week, Remains in the Hearts of Those Who Knew Him
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This week, ELi’s Mark Meyer brings a remembrance of baseball coach Ed Outslay, who passed away a year ago doing what he loved.
Schools
East Lansing School Board Trustee Wants Planning for Fall to Start Now
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Chris Martin wants open conversations about what to do with regard to the start of the next school year. The entire School Board will talk about the superintendent’s evaluation on Tuesday.
Arts & Cultures
Greatly Expanded Outdoor Dining and Free Parking Aimed at Luring People to Downtown East Lansing
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As long as the state presents no barriers and the weather cooperates, the culture of drinking and dining in East Lansing will change for at least a few months.
COVID-19
MSU Considers Furloughs and Big Pay Cuts in Response to Falling Revenue
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The impact of the pandemic on MSU is shaping the individual and collective lives of the greater East Lansing community.
Schools
ELPS Considers New Policy Handbook with $7,000 Price Tag, Talks Recess and Pregnant Students
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The Policy Committee of the East Lansing School Board met on Friday to consider recommendations to the full Board about the districts’ policies.
Highlight Right
Trojan of the Week Andrel Anthony Jr. Has Risen to the Head of His Class
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Plenty of big-time college football coaches are eager to add Trojan of the Week Andrel Anthony Jr. to their lineups.
COVID-19
ELPS Faces Uncertain Fall with Funding Cuts and Questions of Remote Learning
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A lot of worrisome news from Monday’s East Lansing School Board meeting.
Schools
ELPS School Board Steps into National Political Debate on Firearms
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The ELPS School Board unanimously passed a resolution not on the agenda, encouraging the banning of weapons at the Michigan State Capitol.
Schools
Construction Resumes on ELPS Schools, with Demolition of Marble School Imminent
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We bring news on construction at all six elementary schools, including what we know so far about the finances.
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Epitome of a Team Player, Zoe Morse is Our Trojan of the Week
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Former Trojan Zoe Morse has elevated her soccer-playing career to the professional level. Mark Meyer speaks with her as she prepares to join the Chicago Red Stars.
Government
Three Important East Lansing Meetings Next Week
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We tell you what we know so far about what will be discussed at City Council, School Board, and the DDA.
Schools
School Board President Questions ELPS No-Grade Pandemic Policy
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Erin Graham thinks ELPS students may be left at a serious disadvantage under the district’s policy. The administration believes equity is at stake.
Development
What’s Happening with That Thing in East Lansing?
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What’s happening with Newman Lofts, police oversight, big downtown construction, and more? ELi brings you up to speed.
Sports
Life in the Fast Lane: Trojan of the Week Andrew Lane Knows No Other Way
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Andrew Lane trains as hard as he competes (if that’s possible). He also leaves a large footprint as one of the top distance runners in ELHS history.
Schools
East Lansing Public Schools Now Facing Millions in Cuts
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It’s a good thing the East Lansing Public Schools district has saved millions of dollars to prepare for economic declines.
Government
Four East Lansing Meetings You Might Want to Know About
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ELi brings you information about agendas and tells you how you can attend.
Schools
Short Meeting at East Lansing School Board, But Lots of Action
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Schools of choice numbers, graduation cancelled, ELHS ranking, elementary school construction delays, and much more in our School Board report.
Government
East Lansing School Board and City Council Will Both Meet This Week
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ELi is working to help you figure out when important local government meetings are happening.
Sports
ELi’s Trojan of the Week, Nikki Norris, Has Devoted Her Career to Athletics
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Nikki Norris believes lessons learned on the field can bring a lifetime of value. She’s lived that ideal in her career.
Arts & Cultures
Bar and Restaurant Owners Group Helps School District Solve Lunch Debt
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When the Responsible Hospitality Council learned of the ELPS need, its members quickly took action.
Arts & Cultures
East Lansing Library Teen Programming Continues in Online Format
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East Lansing Library Teen Services Specialist Beth Scanlon is not letting the pandemic get in the way of her work supporting area youth.
COVID-19
Emails Show Some School Board Members Asked About Earlier Actions
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Internal emails give a glimpse into what led up to the Continuity of Learning plan that begins Week 1 today for East Lansing Public Schools.
COVID-19
Will the New Whitehills and Pinecrest Schools Be Ready By Fall?
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With work halted under the governor’s orders, it’s unclear what East Lansing’s elementary schools’ populations will be facing next year.
COVID-19
ELPS Expects to Share Curricular Plan Soon, as Free Meals Start Again
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Superintendent Dori Leyko gave more details last night on the district’s plan to restart teaching, and announced free meal distribution would start again.
COVID-19
East Lansing Income Tax Revenue Getting Squashed by MSU’s Campus Closure
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Every month MSU employees work from home means significant lost revenue for the City of East Lansing’s new income tax.
COVID-19
With ELPS Still Not Providing Organized Education, School Board Will Meet
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Haslett Public Schools have geared back up. But East Lansing’s still haven’t. The School Board meets tonight.
Highlight Right
ELi’s Trojan of the Week: Senior Standout Aaliyah Nye
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In the first of a new series celebrating Trojan athletes, ELi’s Mark Meyer features the skills and record of senior Aaliyah Nye.
COVID-19
Kids Won’t Get Food from East Lansing Schools This Week, as District Wrangles Challenges
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Health concerns for those working on meal distribution are significant, and the number of people being fed through the system suddenly doubled.
COVID-19
When Will MSU Students Return? Who Knows.
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When will life in East Lansing return to normal? And what’s happening to faculty and international students?
COVID-19
Trojan Coaching Staff Laments Shutdown of Seasons, Expresses Concern for Student Athletes
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When word of the season cancellations became known, athletic director Nikki Norris was thankful to be able to immediately connect with her staff. ELi’s Mark Meyer files this report.
General News
What Whitmer’s Education Order Means for ELPS Families: TBD
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Under a new executive order, school buildings will remain closed for the rest of this school year. But what about the education of East Lansing Public Schools’ kids? Emily Joan Elliott reports.
COVID-19
East Lansing High Students Taking Varied Paths During School Closure
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ELi reporter and ELHS student Alex Hosey reports on what East Lansing High students have been experiencing in the last few weeks. What have been our teens’ activities and concerns?
Arts & Cultures
ELHS Black Student Union Promotes Fellowship
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ELi’s Anaiis Rios-Kasoga reports on what the Black Student Union at East Lansing High School has been doing to promote self-love, insight, and community.
COVID-19
Team Effort Serving Vulnerable Populations in East Lansing
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A group called “EL Neighbors and Communities Help Each Other” has been working to serve the needs of vulnerable populations during the pandemic.
General News
Like to Write and Need Money for College? Here’s a Chance to Earn $2,500
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Lansing Area Fedral Credit Union (LAFCU) will award two high school seniors $2,500 each for their essays on the impact that technology has on their lives. ELi’s Noa Kuszai provides the details.
COVID-19
Local Citizens Unite to 3D Print Face Masks – And You Can Help
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A tech-savvy team is running a 3-D printing operation out of East Lansing High School to supply emergency face masks. Marie Adele Grosso reports for ELi on how you can help.
General News
International Students Face Struggles, Including Possible Challenges from Homeland Security
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What’s it like being an international student at MSU during the rapid changes caused by the pandemic? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott spoke with Ramya Swayamprakash and Liao Zhang to find out.
General News
How Are Two of Our Most Dogged Reporters Handling the Crush of East Lansing News?
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What’s it like reporting during a pandemic? ELi reporter Emily Joan Elliott and photographer Gary Caldwell share their experiences.
COVID-19
Updated Info on Emergency Meals for Kids and Senior Citizens
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The East Lansing schools-based system for emergency food distribution is changing starting now, and meals will be available for seniors on Wednesday.
COVID-19
MSU Epidemiologist Speaks Frankly about COVID-19 Dangers
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Why do death rates tell us more than test results can? What will save lives as the virus spreads? ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott brings you the latest important information from MSU epidemiologist Nigel Paneth.
COVID-19
The Mayor of East Lansing Is Angry
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East Lansing Mayor Ruth Beier is angry that the federal, state, and county governments did not act much sooner on COVID-19. ELi spoke with her just after the Governor’s stay-at-home order.
COVID-19
East Lansing Public School Families – Including Governor’s – Facing Confusion, Frustration
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Gov. Gretchen Whitmer isn’t the only East Lansing Public Schools parent who wishes kids could keep learning for credit during the public health emergency. What’s going on?
Shifting to Distanced Life at MSU Has Not Been Simple
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The shift to online learning happened with little warning at MSU. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott brings this inside look at the rapid and monumental change at East Lansing’s core institution.
COVID-19
MSU Community Hit with Two More COVID-19 Cases
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MSU has confirmed two more cases of COVID-19 in the university community. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott brings the latest numbers.
Sports
One Week Later: Trojan Sports Family Regroups, Waits Patiently for Games to Return
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When will the high school athletic seasons — winter and spring — resume, and in what format? ELi’s Mark Meyer files this report.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi: Will the Coronavirus Change the Census Count in East Lansing? UPDATED
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The Census Bureau is saying students who normally attend school here should be counted as living here for the census. But will they be?
COVID-19
MSU Epidemiologist Urges More Awareness: ‘This is an under-reaction.’
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An MSU epidemiologist and resident of East Lansing tells ELi he has never seen such a public health threat in his life. And he’s worked in public health for over 40 years. Read why Dr. Nigel Paneth is alarmed.
COVID-19
Mayor Beier Declares State of Emergency in East Lansing: UPDATED WITH NEW INFO
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Mayor Ruth Beier has declared a state of emergency in East Lansing. We tell you in practical terms what that means.
COVID-19
Everything is up in the air’: ELHS Students React to School Closure
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ELHS students were caught off guard with all the uncertainties facing them as Michigan schools were closed. Amalia Medina brings ELi the story.
General News
MSU President Pushes Students to Stop Partying in Crowds and Go Home
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MSU is taking further action to try to get its undergraduate population in particular to stop hanging out in large groups that might spread the coronavirus. ELi’s Emily Joan Elliott reports.
COVID-19
ELPS Emergency Plan for Feeding Kids Announced
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The East Lansing Public Schools administration has announced plans for feeding children during the public health emergency now ongoing. Here are the details.
COVID-19
MHSAA Announces Suspension of Postseason Events
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UPDATE (4:30 p.m. Thursday 3/24/20): Tonight’s MHSAA girls basketball regional championship game between East Lansing and Holt has been postponed indefinitely, as has Friday’s boys district championship game between East Lansing and Grand Ledge. The boys state swimming and diving finals, as well as the girls gymnastics finals, and state hockey finals, have also been suspended.
COVID-19
ELPS Superintendent Says “Situation Is Fluid and Quickly Changing”
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East Lansing Public Schools’ superintendent told district families this afternoon, “We are in the process of making plans for if/when we are directed to close.” ELi’s Alice Dreger reports.
Ask ELi to Investigate
Ask ELi: Why Is Construction at Donley and Glencairn Still Not Finished?
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Superintendent Dori Leyko explains the latest delay in the completion of building projects at both Donley and Glencairn elementary schools.