Gather With Purpose: Ending the Year with Intention and Impact
As we embark on the final stretch of the school year, there is a familiar weight that hangs in the air. Exhaustion sets in. Morale can dip. The “finish line” feels so close, yet somehow still far away. In these moments, the meetings we hold with staff matter more than ever — not as a box to check, but as a real opportunity to connect, to honor and to inspire. As a…
Exciting Opportunity for Path to Leadership Completers
We are thrilled to announce an expanded opportunity for Path to Leadership completers to earn advanced degrees through partnerships with Western Michigan University and Central Michigan University. Both institutions recognize the high quality of the PTL program and offer an accelerated pathway to earning a Master of Arts, Educational Specialist or Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership. Through agreements with WMU and CMU, PTL completers can apply 15 credits from their program toward…
Beyond the Memo: Building Genuine Transparency in Schools
School leaders often pride themselves on being transparent. They hold staff meetings, send newsletters, promote their school via social media and share key updates on district initiatives. But here’s the hard truth: Just because we share information doesn’t mean we’re being transparent. Imagine this: A principal announces a major schedule change at a faculty meeting. Teachers nod but later grumble in private conversations, asking why they weren’t consulted. Others feel blindsided, wondering…
From Stuffing a Bus to Feeding a City: Kalamazoo Central’s Journey to Stomping Out Hunger
In 2014, when I began my journey at Kalamazoo Central High School, it was evident that this historic institution was deeply rooted in tradition and committed to community service. Daily announcements invited students to participate in various clubs, sports, and volunteer initiatives. However, despite the many opportunities, participation in community events was often underwhelming. Events like Relay for Life carnivals, MLK Day of Service, and Stuff the Bus struggled to engage students…
Esports 101 Webinars: Everything You Need to Know to Launch a Game-Changing Program
Did you know? Nearly half (46%) of high school esports participants have never previously taken part in school extracurriculars. Esports programs are transforming school culture across the state. According to a survey conducted by our host platform, PlayVs, students involved in esports programs experience: 90% boost in socialization 85% increase in communication skills 83% growth in leadership And a 60% improvement in grades and attendance It’s clear: esports is a game changer–opening doors for…
Are We Truly Advancing, or Just Being Led in Circles?
As school leaders, we are in the business of progress. We work tirelessly to move our schools forward, improve student outcomes, and equip young people with the tools they need to succeed. But as we chase the next initiative, the next data point, or the next reform, we must ask ourselves: Are we truly advancing, or just running in circles? I grew up in two competing worlds. I spent extended time with…
Quick Tips | May 2025
In less than two months, the school year will be a wrap – and there's a lot happening between now and the last day. Prepare for celebrations, recognitions and big moments with advice from your Board of Directors. Michael Mulligan, Principal, Dickinson-Iron ISD Take time to enjoy the awards nights and end of year concerts. It is an excellent way to remind yourself of why it is great to be a principal. Assemble…
Clearing the Air: Why School Leaders Must Lead the Fight Against Youth Vaping and Tobacco Use
The numbers are rising, the products are changing, and the stakes for student health and school culture have never been higher. Vaping and tobacco use among youth have become one of the most pressing public health challenges facing schools today. What was once a conversation about cigarettes has transformed into a complex web of e-cigarettes, flavored nicotine pouches, heated tobacco, and marijuana-laced vape devices—all of which are easily concealed and widely misunderstood.…
Student Voices Take the Mic in Anti-Vaping PSA Contest
With the goal to empower students to educate their peers, raise awareness and shift harmful social norms that normalize vaping, the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Michigan Association of Broadcasters, was proud to sponsor this year’s statewide Public Service Announcement Contest — an initiative designed to elevate student voices in the fight against vaping and tobacco use. Unlike…
Getting the Right “IDEA” About Child Find
To fulfill its child find requirement, a district must refer for evaluation those students who—because of their disabilities—need, or are believed to be in need of, special education or related services. An evaluation is required before the initial provision of services under the IDEA and Section 504 and before any subsequent significant change in an eligible student’s placement. Notably, child find places an affirmative duty on school officials and teachers to identify…