Learning
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Early literacy isn’t just a school issue — it’s a community promise
This powerful op-ed applauds TCAPS for embracing the science of reading — and reminds us that the foundation for success is laid long before kindergarten. With fewer than 50%* of our third graders reading proficiently, and only about half of our children entering school ready to learn, this is exactly why our new 5-year 2030…
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Trojan/Titan Integrated Experience in Action: Where Career-Connected Learning Comes to Life
Traverse City Central High School Trojan Integrated Experience (TIE) students presenting handcrafted planters to the school board last week was a powerful reminder of why programs like TIE matter. Hands-on, career-connected learning creates opportunity for students with different strengths, interests, and pathways—and gives students who learn by doing the time, space, and tools to thrive.…
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January Newsletter
My January newsletter is out: • One year in reflection: Lots to learn, pumped to keep learning • Mental health and safety funding • A new series: Curriculum Committee Snapshot • Every Student. Every Word. Every Future: Embracing the Science of Reading story by the Traverse City Record-Eagle • National Advocacy Institute prep series with…
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Curriculum Committee Snapshot: Implementing our New Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) Curriculum
The TCAPS Curriculum Committee meets to guide and oversee teaching and learning across the district. These meetings bring together school board members, staff, and district leaders to review programs, monitor student progress, and discuss instructional strategies. The Curriculum Committee Snapshot is a new monthly series to help increase awareness and understanding of how this work…
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My 10 Biggest Takeaways from the 2025 Michigan Association of School Boards Annual Leadership Conference
My first Michigan Association of School Boards Annual Leadership Conference was fantastic — a great few days of learning, connecting, and recharging. Here are my 10 biggest takeaways: Lead with trust – Every decision we make as school board members helps shape community confidence and stability. Board self-reflection matters – Strong boards regularly assess how…
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TCAPS’ Chronic Absenteeism Rates Drop in 2024/25 – Important Work Ahead
Encouraging progress — and important work ahead. Our chronic absenteeism (students who miss more than 18 days of school/year) has dropped from 22.6% to 18.6% in just two years, even as Michigan’s statewide rate remains close to 30%. That’s real progress, thanks to the care and commitment of our educators, staff, and families. But we’re…
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A new 5-year plan for TCAPS – Excited for what we can accomplish together
Earlier this week, we unanimously approved a new 5-year Strategic Plan for TCAPS. This new plan builds on the work of our previous 3-year plan, carrying forward four focus areas and adding a new one: health, wellbeing, and school connectedness. It also aligns closely with our mission, vision, and values—including our shared commitment to inclusive education, equitable…
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My 10 takeaways from the Michigan Association of School Boards’ Summer Institute
1. Ethical Imperative – An ethical imperative is more than a guideline; it’s a moral principle that makes a course of action essential and binding — “do the right thing.” 2. Data-Informed Decisions – Using data helps ensure all students are learning, holds school boards accountable, and deepens the community’s understanding of our shared responsibility…
TY FOR TCAPS 