At the Coloma Community Schools Board of Education meeting held Monday, May 11, 2026, Board President Heidi Ishmael read a resolution of appreciation for district volunteers and thanked those who played a vital role in fall and winter sports programs. Honorees presented with gifts from the board were Mike Cade, Jeff Fox, Jenn Ickes, Kurt Koenigshof, Dave Kreitner, Walt Kroschel, Steve Neubecker, Rebecca Roberts, Greg Starnes, Tom Swihart, and Dave Vollrath.

End of year activities are in full swing at Coloma Elementary

 Principal Kelly Jo Severin shared several elementary school activities. Students enjoyed a visit from Miss Coloma and her court, who read to them.

 Girls from the elementary and intermediate schools participated in the “Girls on the Run” 5K event on May 8. For their service project, the girls collected donations for a local animal shelter.

 Other happenings included the PTO donating $1,500 for the Summer Literacy Pop-Up program. Third graders visit the Intermediate School. Field Days for K-2 and grades 3-5 take place, and Little Learners’ graduation will be May 29.

Intermediate students involved in meaningful extra activities

 Principal Winnie Staffen reported that CIS students have many end-of-year activities planned. There is a special STEM event, “Cracking the Case with STEM,” in May. There will be a final band concert.

 The students play in an end-of-year kickball tournament for 5th graders and cornhole tournament for 4th graders. Fourth graders travel to the Field Museum and fifth graders attend a “Growlers” game.

Jr. High Student Council made Teacher Appreciation Week

memorable

 Principal Wendy Tremblay shared several positive Junior High happenings. Student Council provided a full breakfast for teachers on May 4 and organized personal remembrances for each teacher throughout the week. Seventh graders will go to Airway Lanes, and incoming 6th grade parent night is scheduled for May.

 Shannon Chaput, school counselor, has been part of the Ambassador program with the “Belonging in Berrien” initiative. The program focuses on increasing belonging in the building and district, with some ideas to be implemented next school year.

High school end-of-year

experiences and achievements

 High School Principal Craig Fisher reported a busy end-of-year schedule. The Coloma High School prom, “Royal Masquerade,” was a success. Top Ten graduating seniors were honored at a continental breakfast, and Decision Day celebrated seniors’ future plans.

 Senior Awards Night took place and the Marching Band participated in the Blossom Parade. Students put on the theatrical production of “Madhouse.” The final spring choir and band concerts are in May. On May 22, graduating seniors participated in breakfast, rehearsal, a walk to other district schools, a downtown parade, and graduation in the high school gym.

Maintenance/custodial updates

 Superintendent Dave Ehlers reported that the maintenance department is making a list of summer projects. The aging boilers will be inspected in June.

Superintendent’s report

 Ehlers reported that the district has received 73% of state funds as of the current date. He also discussed administrator contract renewals, the fall implementation of Final Forms to integrate enrolled student information, and the operating millage on August 4, 2026.

 He said the recent bus safety inspection of CCS’s fleet was positive, and maintenance through the Van Buren Intermediate School District has produced good results this year. A Student Advisory Committee will be ready by the start of the 2026-2027 school year.

Board action

 The board unanimously approved a resolution calling for a special election on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, for the district’s operating millage renewal proposal; a resolution supporting the proposed Berrien RESA general fund operating budget for 2026-2027; paying architectural fees from the sinking fund to TowerPinkster in the amount of $758.52; and paying Verkada $23,807 for security cameras from the sinking fund account.