The Linchpin Relationship: Superintendent and Secondary Principal
Heidie Ciesielski is the MASSP Associate Director of Accreditation and Certification (also a Previous Superintendent and Secondary School Leader) The success of any school district hinges on countless factors, from dedicated teachers to supportive communities. However, a particularly crucial, yet often understated, element is the dynamic relationship between the Superintendent and their secondary principals. This unique partnership, built on mutual respect and clear communication, can be the cornerstone of a thriving middle…
Making Learning Personal
August is Personalized Learning Month, a great time to reflect on how we're tailoring education to meet the unique needs of every student. This approach embraces student voice, provides unbiased support, and focuses on mastery rather than seat time. By offering all kinds of opportunities and experiences, personalized learning ensures that learners can reach their full potential. Personalized Learning in 2025-2026 While no two schools will have the same approach to personalized…
Leadership in Motion | From Plays to Practice: Making Culture Stick
Opening Reflection The first weeks of school feel like game day. The hallways are buzzing, classrooms are full, and all the preseason planning is finally in motion. But here’s the truth: The real test of leadership isn’t what you launch in August, but what is still alive in October, January and beyond. The Detroit Lions learned the same lesson last season. Their transformation didn’t happen because of one great draft class or…
Annual Certification Reminder: What Principals Need to Know in 2025
The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) has released its annual Certification Reminder and Requirements memo to districts, ISDs and PSAs. While this communication is directed at superintendents and HR staff, principals play a direct role in preventing certification lapses that can disrupt classrooms and carry costly consequences. Key Takeaways from the 2025 MDE Memo Certificates Expire on June 30 — All teaching certificates (except the one-year temporary credential) expire on June 30,…
Michigan School Meals: What’s Certain, What’s Not for 2025-26
Whether Michigan students will continue receiving free breakfast and lunch all school year will depend on decisions yet to be made in Lansing. The Michigan School Meals program is fully funded through September 30, 2025. After that date, the future of the program depends on whether the Legislature passes a FY 2026 state school aid budget that includes continued funding. While the uncertainty is frustrating for schools and families alike, districts still…
Leadership in Motion | Built to Last: Embedding Culture That Survives the Scoreboard
Opening Reflection As the Lions’ incredible season came to a close, I couldn’t help but see the parallels between their transformation and the work we’re doing in schools. The Lions are still becoming, not yet where they want to be, but far from where they started. Their playoff loss was disappointing. But their season? It was a masterclass in transformation. Over four years, they didn’t just shift their record. They reshaped their…
MHSEL: Fall is Coming Fast – Are You Ready to Level Up?
The Michigan High School Esports League is powering into its sixth year stronger than ever for the Fall 2025 season. This fall, we are continuing to: expand on opportunities for ALL students to play, and connect with partners to support your school in building its strongest esports team yet. Get ready to facilitate strong bonds, boost team synergy, and guide your players to success—on and off the screen. The action starts now—don’t…
QUICK TIPS | Administrative Assistant 2025
Have you calibrated with your administrative assistant for the start of the new school year? Please check out the Quick Tips your Board of Directors prepared to help the start of the year be smooth and easy in your office. Edmund Boell IV, Principal, Carrollton High School Create a “Day At-a-Glance” – Ask your assistant to print or share a daily agenda with meeting notes, room numbers and who’s attending. Maintain a…
QUICK TIPS | 90-Day Plan 2025
Whether you're stepping into the principal’s office for the first time or returning with years of experience under your belt, the start of a school year brings a flurry of tasks, expectations, and relationships to manage. Valerie Boggan, Principal, Kalamazoo Central High School Take intentional walks through your building with a variety of people—custodians, counselors, teachers, even students. As you walk, ask questions that stir vision: "What happens in this space?" "Does…
QUICK TIPS | First Day of School 2025
The first day of school sets the tone for the school year. Students opening lockers, finding someone to sit with in the lunch room, new teachers and students, etc. Overcommunicating these items before and throughout the first day will help students, staff, and parents feel comfortable and prepared. Jason Messenger, Principal, Portage West Middle School For middle school students, the first day—and especially their locker—is a huge deal. To ease nerves and…