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Clarity, Commitment, and Care: What’s at Stake in Michigan’s School Safety Funding
Kathryn wrote today’s Traverse City Record-Eagle story, “TCAPS to join lawsuit against state.” At the heart of this issue, and not mentioned in the article, is the Oxford tragedy (read the final report) — and the larger epidemic of school shootings and gun violence that continue to affect communities across the country. I’m hopeful this…
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The Catalyst For Opportunity
“Literacy is such an important focus for TCAPS because, in the broadest sense, literacy is the catalyst for opportunity.” I love this quote by Blair Elementary Principal Kirk Ranney in our new Traverse City Area Public Schools video. Because reading opens doors — to curiosity, confidence, and lifelong learning. That’s why we’re investing deeply in…
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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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Equity vs Equality – And Why it Matters
Sometimes you’ll hear public officials — including school board members — talk about equity. But what they’re really describing is equality. Thanks to the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation for helping explain the difference — and why it matters for our region. Because when we invest in equity, we create communities where every one of…
TY FOR TCAPS 