Wellbeing
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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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School Meals for All TCAPS Kids: Funding Still Uncertain
Some Michigan districts* have already ended free school meals for the 2025–26 school year. I’m proud that we will continue to offer them for every student—at least until September 30**. But the clock is ticking. The Legislature still hasn’t passed a state budget. That means funding for universal free meals could disappear. Please: 1) urge…
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Our Next Five Years: Focus, Equity, and Opportunity for All
We had a great discussion last night on our new 5-year strategic plan. This strong draft builds on our previous 3-year plan (4 of the 5 focus areas carry over from 2022–25) and is well aligned with our mission, vision, and values—including our commitment to inclusive education, equitable access, and success for all. It reflects…
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Making LEAP Work for All Kids: What Should Expanded After-School and Summer Learning Look Like?
If we’re expanding our PK–12 after-school and summer learning and enrichment opportunities—the why behind the proposed East Middle multi-use fieldhouse—what should that actually look like? Our after-school and summer program, LEAP, has a clear vision: “To provide students with increased opportunities for engagement beyond the school day through educational and recreational activities to improve learning,…
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5 New Strategic Plan Goals for TCAPS
Save the date: The next strategic plan meeting will be on August 11th – and another one will be on August 25th. And you can subscribe to have school board meeting agendas and packets emailed to you once they’re published HERE. *Story by Kathryn in the June 16th Record-Eagle Cute photo of Mrs. Helman and some…
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Happy, Healthy, Ready-to-Learn in Traverse City—Safe Routes to Student Success
Building schools for happy, healthy, ready-to-learn kids—not car line and parking convenience—isn’t just about walking or biking or exercise. It’s a proven way to support the goals just outlined in our new strategic plan: • Student Achievement • Health and Safety • Student Behavior • Student and Staff Wellbeing As we invest millions this summer…
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Wait Until 8th Gaining Momentum in Traverse City
Hilary Gessner, an Eastern Elementary mom, is helping to raise awareness about a new Wait Until 8th initiative in Traverse City. Currently, there are 45 local families who have taken the pledge, contributing to a growing nationwide movement with over 90,000 pledges. Parents everywhere are increasingly concerned about the impact of smartphones, social media, and…
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TCAPS Mentorship Spotlight: Foster Grandparents
The Foster Grandparent Program, part of Senior Volunteer Programs of Northwest Michigan and AmeriCorps Seniors, connects senior citizens like Cindy with schools to share their time, talents, and wisdom with our kids. These mentors dedicate 10+ hours a week to support students with reading, writing, spelling, and sight words. Beyond academics, they also create meaningful…