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Our Libraries Are More Than Libraries: Creating Connection in a Device-Heavy World
At last week’s school board meeting, we discussed changes to our student cell phone and wireless communication device policy. Part of the reason for the update is a new Michigan requirement that limits students’ use of wireless communication devices during instructional time. The state law establishes a baseline for districts, including specific exceptions for things…
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Expanding Pathways Beyond the Classroom
Congratulations to Northwest Education Services’ Career Tech for being recognized by the Michigan Department of Education through its “Spotlighting Effective Strategies” initiative. This recognition highlights Career Tech’s work creating meaningful pathways from high school to postsecondary education, additional training, industry credentials, and high-demand careers through rigorous academics and real-world experience. As a school board member,…
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August Newsletter
August’s newsletter is out – have a great rest of the summer, everyone! • 2026 elementary school math/literacy outcomes • 2026 secondary school math/literacy outcomes • Looking beyond the classroom: Lessons from the Kids Count report • Community partnerships: Creating the conditions for student success • More than buildings: Investing in student success • How…
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Keeping Our Promise: Reporting on the Outcomes We’ve Chosen to Prioritize
One of the promises we made as a Board was to be transparent about the outcomes we’ve chosen to prioritize—and to report our progress along the way. At last week’s Curriculum Committee meeting, we reviewed several of our secondary strategic plan goals, including literacy and math outcomes for 8th graders (PSAT) and 11th graders (SAT).…
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Learning to Lead: Why School Board Governance Requires Continuous Learning
One thing I’ve come to appreciate during my short time on the school board is that effective governance is something you have to learn. Serving on a school board isn’t just about showing up for meetings. It’s about understanding school finance, student achievement, board governance, legal responsibilities, strategic planning, and the role a board plays…
