QUICK TIPS | Senior Activities & Commencement 2026
Senior activities such as prom, awards night, and commencement are yearly reminders of why we all get into the business of education. If not executed correctly, they can also quickly become a scene from one of our worst administrative nightmares! Below, you will find an assortment of “quick tips” and “think abouts” from a pair of MASSP veteran administrators, to help guide you through some of the most significant activities your building…
Stay Ahead with the Michigan AI Statewide Workgroup
Artificial intelligence continues to move quickly, and school leaders are being asked more and more often to guide conversations, set expectations, and support staff and families as new tools emerge. One easy way to stay informed is by connecting with the Michigan AI Statewide Workgroup and subscribing to their monthly resource newsletter. The workgroup, supported by Michigan Virtual and partners across the state, curates practical tools and guidance for educators, families, and…
QUICK TIPS February 2026 | Midwinter Momentum: Planning Ahead While Re-Energizing Your School Community
February is a pivotal month to lead with intention and momentum. As planning for next year ramps up, energize students and families with opportunities to engage and showcase your school programs. Celebrate CTE Month by giving 9th–10th graders a firsthand look through field trip experiences or “Day in the Life” videos. With midwinter dips common, double down on attendance outreach, creative spirit boosters, and a visible, supportive presence that re-energizes students, staff,…
Perfect Match for Inclusion: One Mentorship Sparked a Cross-School Celebration of Belonging
From a wide-open, carpeted gymnasium with a huge screen where dozens of students raced, cheered and played together – to a heated pool with every safety feature needed to ensure security for all involved, students from Highland Pines and Schall Elementary Schools engaged with their cross-school partners while their teachers observed and facilitated. This Inclusion Celebration was the vision of Stephanie VanPetten, Highland Pines School Assistant Principal and her staff. There to…
Principal Pulse Check | What is one small win your school community has celebrated this semester?
Check out responses from your peers: Our building recognizes positive student behaviors with Way to Go! cards. This year, we added Way to Go! cards for staff as well. It has been great for our school community to have an easy avenue to recognize our staff! – Jeff Dykhouse, East Grand Rapids Middle School With the recent publication of the School Index Report, we were able celebrate an increase in our grad…
QUICK TIPS January 2026 | New Year, Great Opportunities
January provides a strategic opportunity for principals to reflect on the first semester, realign priorities, and establish a focused and positive tone for the remainder of the school year. This is the time to review data, reaffirm routines, connect with staff through midyear check-ins, support seniors in finishing strong, and prepare for upcoming assessments. By taking these steps, school leaders create a purposeful and supportive environment that promotes success for both students…
Leadership Is Seasonal Too (And Winter Comes With Permission Slips)
Leadership doesn’t look the same all year long. There are seasons that demand urgency, constant decision-making, and the ability to hold a hundred things at once. And then there are seasons that invite us to slow down, reflect, and restore our energy. The holiday break falls squarely into that second category. As administrators across Michigan, you spend most of the year pouring into students, staff, families, and communities. You lead through complexity,…
REGIONAL CONNECT CONFERENCES — REGISTRATION FILLING FAST!
As January approaches, seats are filling quickly for this year’s Regional Connect Conferences. These events jumpstart the student leadership season with meaningful, student-driven programming that strengthens school climate and culture. The momentum continues at the statewide 2026 Student Leadership Conference, Mission: Possible, in February where students from across Michigan gather to elevate their voices and expand their leadership capacity. Why Your Students and Advisors Should Attend? 1. Student Voice Strengthens School ClimateWhen…
QUICK TIPS DECEMBER | It’s the Season to Celebrate
From celebrations to reflection, December is a great time to take time for yourself and for others. Remembering why you do this in the middle of a whirlwind of a month can keep you (and your staff) centered during this busy month. It’s almost time to start planning for next year, but remember to enjoy this season with your students and staff! Jessica Garber, Escanaba Jr./Sr. High School Make time to celebrate the…
Bring the Hour of AI to Your Classroom this December
Artificial intelligence is transforming how we live, learn, and work, yet most students have never explored how it really works or how it impacts their lives. This December during Computer Science Education Week (Dec 8–14), join educators across Michigan for the Hour of AI, a free hands-on experience designed to demystify AI and inspire curiosity about the future of technology. Join over 60 teachers already committed to host an event in Michigan! …