Engadine Consolidated Schools
by Stu Hobbs Superintendent

Let me begin by acknowledging our school community for support of the district's sinking fund millage November 6. Funds appropriated through this millage will go to a variety of needed building improvements, with the intent to make our buildings more energy efficient. These improvements will also have a positive impact on the overall learning environment. Funds derived from the first year of the millage will primarily focus on replacing and renovating our room heating systems and windows. In a number of classrooms, the heating system and windows have not been updated since the late 1960s. I would be remiss if I did not also acknowledge the support received from civic organizations and the Hiawatha Club in passing this crucial millage.

As a school, we are committed to the ongoing process of improving student learning. We continue to place considerable effort and resources to meet or exceed state and federal expectations. We want our kids to be the best and brightest. Last year's MEAP/MME scores showed our students' strengths and weakness, and we have doubled our efforts to remediate. All school staff will participate in an in-service training next month on instructional best practices, teachers have met to discuss a new written language curriculum, and all staff continue to participate in EUPISD-sponsored curriculum teams.

The fall sports season has come to an end, with our varsity volleyball team winning districts, but losing to Lake Linden in the regionals. The girls had a fantastic season. Special recognition goes out to the coaches and team members, especially the seniors for their incredible commitment to success.

Winter sports will begin in late November/early December.

We sent a Lego-Robotics team to Marquette last week to compete against other regional teams and performed exceptionally well. We placed first in robot design, scored in the top 10 overall, and will compete in the finals in Flint December 15. Go Eagles!

Important dates:

December 4: Elementary winter concert (6:30 p.m. in main gymnasium)

December 10 and 11: Santa's Gift World

December 11: Secondary winter concert (7 p.m. in main gymnasium)

December 12: Staff in-service (no school)

December 14: Senior luncheon (noon in the Home Economics room)

On November 9, we had a Veterans Day ceremony that involved all students grades. The sixth grade, junior high, and senior high bands put on a great performance. Two secondary students read their veterans appreciation speeches, the kindergarten class lead in the national anthem, and the elementary students sang "God Bless America." The veterans and VFW Auxiliary were very appreciative, and it was noted a few people left the ceremony with tears in their eyes. Our message was "thank you" to our veterans for ensuring our future.

Our Parent Connect program is up and running. This Internetbased program allows parents to access their students' assignments and grades. If your password is not working, please contact Mrs. McArthur.

A note to parents: Students are not allowed to remain after school unless they are involved in afterschool detention, tutoring, in the library, or involved in sports practice or games. This rule is a result of too many students being unsupervised. It's basically a coverage and liability issue, and I need parental support.

Again, thank you to all of you who supported the millage - it's what's best for our kids! Happy holidays!