TY FOR TCAPS

“The most effective schools don’t treat equity as a buzzword. They build intentional systems of support. They use data to respond to student needs, they expand access to early learning and enrichment, and they view families as essential partners.”

Excellent op-ed by Mike Radke in the Record-Eagle about our opportunity to help level the playing field for our kids with the new strategic plan.

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July 14, 2025 

Title: Let’s Give Every TCAPS Student a Fair Shot

Record Eagle Op-Ed

Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) is at a pivotal moment. The Board of Education is considering an important update to its strategic plan: elevating educational opportunity as a guiding value alongside academic achievement. This is more than a policy change — it’s a bold, public commitment that every student in our district deserves a fair shot at success, regardless of their background or the circumstances they were born into.

In a community like Traverse City, where we value high-quality schools and strong civic engagement, this shift sends a powerful message. It affirms what many families, educators, and students already know: academic success doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Students only achieve academic success when they have access to the supports and conditions that make learning possible.

Our children come to school with different experiences and unequal opportunities. Some walk into classrooms from stable homes with full bellies, consistent routines, and access to books, technology, and after-school activities. Others arrive hungry, anxious, tired, or distracted by challenges no young person should face alone — food insecurity, housing instability, trauma, or social isolation.

A child can’t focus on reading comprehension or algebra when they’re worried about where they’ll sleep that night, whether their parent will come home safely, or whether anyone will be there to help with homework. For these students, academic achievement remains out of reach unless we first meet their human needs.

The truth is that learning doesn’t begin and end with academics. It’s shaped by relationships, trust, safety, and a child’s sense of belonging. Teachers in TCAPS understand this deeply. They don’t just deliver instruction — they build connections, model compassion, and help students navigate life’s challenges. They show up for students in ways that go far beyond the curriculum.

That’s why the inclusion of educational opportunity in the TCAPS strategic plan matters. It says clearly: we see all of our students. And we’re committed to making sure each of them — not just the highest achievers — has what they need to succeed.

In my work with hundreds of public, private, and charter schools across Michigan, I’ve seen firsthand what happens when opportunity is taken seriously. The most effective schools don’t treat equity as a buzzword. They build intentional systems of support. They use data to respond to student needs, they expand access to early learning and enrichment, and they view families as essential partners.

Superintendent Dr. John VanWagoner has emphasized the importance of providing targeted support, especially for students living in poverty. That’s a crucial step. But poverty isn’t the only barrier to opportunity. Students may also face trauma, disabilities, language differences, or a lack of exposure to the kinds of learning experiences that build curiosity and confidence. Equity means understanding these differences and responding with empathy and action — not judgment or blame.

To its credit, TCAPS already has a strong foundation. From early childhood programs to International Baccalaureate offerings and college credit options at the high school level, we’re doing many things right. But there is room — and need — to go further.

Expanding the Student Support Network, increasing access to school counselors and mental health resources, providing more academic tutoring, and reducing barriers to preschool and advanced coursework are all vital next steps. Strengthening partnerships with local nonprofits, faith communities, and youth programs can also extend the district’s reach and impact.

But make no mistake: this work requires community support. Schools can’t do it alone. We must treat student success as a shared responsibility — one that belongs to families, educators, elected officials, service providers, and neighbors alike.

As Traverse City residents, we have a unique opportunity to come together and support this strategic shift. Educational equity isn’t just a “nice idea” — it’s the foundation of a healthy, inclusive, and thriving community. When we commit to opportunity for all students, we create a stronger future for all of us.

It truly does take a village to raise a child. Let’s make sure our village — from Old Mission to Interlochen, from Long Lake to East Bay — raises every TCAPS student together.

Michael Radke PhD.