Class of 2025 Senior Spotlight- Haylie Lorraine Ingersoll
Haylie Lorraine Ingersoll, daughter of Kelli Seaney and Steven Ingersoll, is a vibrant member of the class of 2025. In her free time, Haylie loves riding bikes, going for walks, painting, taking pictures, hanging out with friends, traveling, listening to music, and simply living life to the fullest.
Haylie’s favorite high school memory took place during the Washington, D.C. trip. At the last minute, she chose to explore the Botanic Garden instead of the art museum. There, she experienced an incredible variety of biomes, including a desert and a rainforest—all in one afternoon! Though the humidity left her hair fuzzy, Haylie cherishes the fun and spontaneity of that day.
At ECS, Haylie participates in Graphics, creating T-shirts, banners, and signs. The class operates like a small business, allowing students to use their creativity and imagination while bringing in revenue to upgrade their program. It’s no surprise that Graphics is her favorite subject—she enjoys being treated like an adult and having the freedom to think creatively.
Haylie is most proud to be graduating high school with the unwavering support of so many people. Looking ahead, she plans to join the Navy, but if that path doesn’t work out, she will head straight into the workforce.
Haylie’s favorite quote:
“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
—Franklin D. Roosevelt
Class of 2025 Senior Spotlight- Ella Grace VanderArk
Ella Grace VanderArk, daughter of Kim and Brad VanderArk, is an artful member of the class of 2025. Her hobbies include painting, writing, watching The Simpsons, and collecting small objects—pursuits that spark her imagination and fuel her artistic endeavors.
One of Ella’s favorite high school memories is driving to a SAFE meeting in Kyley’s barely-running car with five other friends, then meeting at the Belvedere afterward to all drive back together. She cherishes the laughter and excitement of that spontaneous adventure. At ECS, Ella has participated in SAFE and Quiz Bowl, activities that have expanded her horizons both socially and academically.
Ella’s favorite subject is English, largely because the books she’s read in class have been eye-opening and impactful. Among her proudest achievements is the body of artwork she has created over the years, a testament to her creativity and dedication to self-expression.
After graduation, Ella plans to attend Central Michigan University to pursue a degree in Secondary Education, focusing on either Social Studies or English. Additionally, she intends to obtain her cosmetology license during the summer, giving her another avenue to practice and hone her craft.
Ella’s favorite quote:
“This is the first time in my life where my life has been good enough for me to be afraid of dying.”
—Conan Gray
Class of 2025 Senior Spotlight - Maxx Seese
Maxx Seese, son of Jennifer and Matt Seese, is a determined member of the class of 2025. When not in class, Maxx can often be found fishing, a pastime that allows him to enjoy the outdoors and clear his mind.
Though Maxx doesn’t single out one specific favorite memory from high school, he values the moments and lessons he’s gathered over the years. He has proudly represented ECS on the baseball team. Maxx’s favorite subject is History, even if he doesn’t have a particular reason—he simply finds the stories of the past intriguing. One of his proudest achievements is defeating his younger brother in a Fortnite 1v1, a win that’s become something of a family legend.
After graduation, Maxx plans to go into construction, a field that will allow him to build on his practical skills and passion for hands-on work.
Maxx’s favorite quote:
“Put your phone down and start droning.”
—Sir Nicholas “Jynzxi” Stewart
Reminder! Thursday, March 13 and Friday, March 14 are 1/2 days with dismissal at 11am. No lunch will be served.
Parent/Teacher Conferences are from 4-7pm on Thursday, March 13, and from noon-3pm on Friday, March 14. Elementary conferences are scheduled in advance and take place in individual teacher's classrooms and Middle/High conferences (grades 6-12) are not pre-scheduled and take place in the Middle/High School Cafeteria and Library.
Please check the lost-and-found when you come to conferences! Thank you!
Jaquenji Rotche Gibson, daughter of Stephanie Ann Gibson and Eric Erving, is a creative member of the class of 2025. When she’s not in class, Jaquenji loves sewing, crocheting, practicing art, coding, styling hair, playing games, exploring true crime stories, spending time with friends, and training her pets.
Reflecting on her time at ECS, Jaquenji’s favorite memory is the Washington D.C. trip, which marked her first time flying out of state. She fondly recalls the freedom that came with traveling, as well as the chance to learn more about her classmates and teachers in a completely different environment. Jaquenji hopes that future classes will also have the opportunity to embark on that meaningful experience.
A dedicated student, Jaquenji participates in Graphics, a class that has evolved significantly this year. She appreciates how the new equipment and advanced projects push her to grow creatively. Among her proudest achievements is maintaining a spot on the Honor Roll and seeing her hard work in Graphics brought to life through custom shirts, stickers, and cups for classmates and staff. Witnessing others enjoy her creations is a source of pride and motivation.
Looking ahead, Jaquenji plans to attend college, though she’s still weighing her options. Wherever she decides to go, she’s excited to continue expanding her skills and creativity.
Jaquenji’s favorite quote:
“Nothing to fear but fear itself.”
—Franklin D. Roosevelt
Class of 2025 Senior Spotlight - Troy Allen Richards
Troy Allen Richards, son of Daryl and Denise Richards, is an adventurous member of the class of 2025. When he isn’t at school, Troy enjoys cooking, gaming, and watching YouTube.
Troy’s favorite memory from high school is attending Prom. He has proudly represented ECS on the football team. Troy’s favorite class is Agriscience, reflecting his appreciation for hands-on learning and real-world applications. Among his proudest personal achievements is buying a car, a milestone that showcases his drive and independence.
After graduation, Troy plans to work all summer, then enroll at Northwestern Michigan College (NMC).
Troy’s favorite quote:
“Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value.”
—Albert Einstein
Class of 2025 Senior Spotlight - Calista Joy Hoeksema
Calista Joy Hoeksema, daughter of Ryan and Kris Hoeksema, is the salutatorian of the class of 2025. In her free time, Calista enjoys playing softball, practicing the trombone, volunteering at summer camp, reading, and painting.
Calista’s favorite memory from high school is hitting a home run at the softball district game during her sophomore year. Throughout high school, she has contributed to a variety of teams and organizations: Volleyball, Softball, Quiz Bowl, Model UN, Band, NHS (serving as President), YAC (including the leadership committee), Big/Little Buddies Program, SAFE, and Class Committee (as Treasurer).
Calista’s favorite subject at ECS is English because she loves the creativity inherent in reading and writing, and it allows her to learn while expressing herself. One of her proudest achievements is being accepted into the Lions of Michigan All-State Band, which took her all the way to Melbourne, Australia, where she had the honor of performing in the Parade of Nations.
After graduation, Calista plans to attend Saginaw Valley State University to pursue a degree in teaching, with the goal of becoming an English teacher.
Calista’s favorite quote:
“God can’t give us peace and happiness apart from Himself because there is no such thing.”
—C.S. Lewis
Girls Basketball Districts vs Atlanta @ Gaylord St. Mary - 7:00pm
Go Lancers!
purchase your tickets at GoFan - https://gofan.co/app/school/MI10322
Our Ellsworth Lancers need your support as they battle Bellaire in the Basketball District Finals! Let’s pack the stands and cheer them on to victory!
Boys Basketball District Finals
vs. Bellaire @ Bellaire
7:00 PM
Get your tickets now at https://gofan.co/app/school/MI10322 and show your Lancer pride! Go Lancers!
Boys Basketball Districts vs Gaylord St. Mary @ Bellaire - 7:00pm
Go Lancers!
purchase your tickets at GoFan - https://gofan.co/app/school/MI10322
It's a busy, short week at ECS! Boys Basketball at home on Feb. 20 (Senior Night) and Band Festival! Here are the details for Band Festival: https://5il.co/383ad
Reminder! No school Feb. 14-18 for Mid-Winter Break! School will resume on Wednesday, Feb. 19! Have a great weekend!
Basketball games for Thursday, Jan. 23, have been cancelled. We will provide any rescheduling details as soon as they are available.
Reminder: Friday, Jan. 24 is a half day with dismissal at 11am. No lunch will be served and there will be no Club Lancer. Middle/High School students will have an A Day with morning classes.
The Tacos & Tubing family night has been rescheduled! New date is Wed., Jan. 29! Please use the new google form to sign up for the rescheduled event-- thank you! https://forms.gle/AfnRkesY93gRTVXv5
Reminder! Tomorrow is a 1/2 day with dismissal at 11am. Middle/High school students have exams and end of semester testing. Elementary students will celebrate with a Pajama day! There will be no Club Lancer and no lunch will be served. This begins our Christmas break! See you again on January 6th!
Tonight's boys basketball game vs Buckley has been rescheduled to next Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 5:30pm.
Reminder! There is no school Nov. 27-29. School will resume on Monday, Dec. 2. Have a great Thanksgiving break!
Thanksgiving break is next week: Nov. 27-29!
Save the date for several events in December:
Middle/High School Band Concert- Dec. 10
ECS Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony- Dec. 16
Elementary Christmas Program - Dec. 18
Middle/High School Exams- Dec. 18-20
1/2 Day- Dec. 20
School Resumes January 6.
Our next Family Night is on Nov. 19! Use the link to sign up, we hope to see you there!
https://forms.gle/cpLobgGG1AYLY4Et5
