Tips for Testifying in Court
Tip #1: Be there or be square. Bring a copy of the subpoena with you to the courthouse (or have a copy readily available for virtual proceedings). The subpoena contains valuable information about the date, time, and location of the hearing, as well as the case name and number, and sometimes the name of the judge or hearing officer. This will assist you in seeking directions to the correct courtroom. Allow ample…
Responding to a Subpoena
Contact Legal Counsel First, before talking with the person who sent the subpoena, the school administration should contact the school’s legal counsel to review the subpoena and discuss the district’s obligations to respond. Don’t Contact the Requesting Attorney Subpoena cover letters often ask the recipient to contact the requesting attorney to discuss the subpoena. Don’t! – At least not until you’ve consulted with the district’s legal counsel. Disclosing student record information to…
Stay Ahead in Uncertain Times: A Must-Attend Webinar Series for Michigan School Leaders
In today's rapidly evolving political landscape, school administrators are confronted with unprecedented challenges. With the current debates shaping national policies and Michigan's own legal expectations continually being refined, ensuring that your school policies are both compliant and forward-thinking is essential. This week’s L2L Legal Webinar: Hit Me With Your Best Shot PT 2 is a start to that conversation. At MASSP we know that principals and school leaders need a comprehensive look…
This Week in Politics in 5 Sentences (or Fewer)
Almost all the education news was in the House this week, with both the House Appropriations Subcommittee on School Aid and MDE and the House Committee on Education and Workforce holding hearings; the former heard a presentation on charter school and cyber charter school funding, while the latter took testimony on and passed the next set of legislation in a broad House Republican education package (HB 4147-HB 4159 and HJR E) that…
The Homework Piece: Coping Skills Benefit from Practice
One person makes a difference! School mental health professional, Katie, helps students navigate anxiety and strengthen coping skills through practice strategies; by taking small steps, they achieve big progress. Can facing fears really be this simple? Katie’s Story Katie’s been a school mental health professional for about three years. She uses TRAILS programming with students to help them develop skills to reduce their symptoms of anxiety and depression. She says that, “a…
Navigating Political Conversations with Middle School Students
In today’s fast-paced digital world, political issues are more visible than ever, reaching students through social media, news outlets, and conversations at home. Middle schoolers, naturally curious and eager to form their own opinions, are engaging with these topics earlier than in past generations. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity for educators. Rather than shying away from political discussions, schools can use them as a chance to foster critical thinking,…
In Case You Missed It: 27h (Mentoring Coaching) Funds Are Available
District and school leaders emphasize the importance of mentor programs for new staff, highlighting their role in supporting successful onboarding and transition into the educational field. However, they have also expressed a need for additional resources to help establish, manage, and sustain these programs effectively. Section 27h of the State School Aid Act represents a significant investment in our education system—providing up to $10 million annually over five years, with a total…
Implementing Threat Reporting & Response Systems Under HB 5549
By Tom Lietz, MASSP Associate Director for Training and Development, and Bob Kefgen, MASSP Associate Director for Government Relations. Michigan’s new Behavior Threat Assessment and Management Team (BTAM Team) requirements, established under HB 5549 (Public Act 272 of 2024), go beyond simply forming a team—they require clear systems for identifying, reporting, and responding to potential threats. In our previous article, we defined the statutory requirements of HB 5549 and suggested some first steps districts…
April Holidays & Recognition Days 2025
Arab American Heritage MonthArab American Heritage Month is a celebration held in April each year to recognize and honor the contributions and achievements of Arab Americans to the United States. This month-long observance aims to raise awareness and promote a deeper understanding of Arab American culture, history and heritage. The celebration of Arab American Heritage Month involves a wide range of activities and events. These can include cultural festivals, art exhibitions, music…
March Holidays & Recognition Days 2025
National Women’s History Month, MarchWomen’s History Month is an annual observance dedicated to celebrating the contributions and achievements of women throughout history. It is celebrated each March and is a time to reflect on the significant roles women have played in shaping society, culture, politics and various fields of work. It is celebrated in many countries around the world, including the United States, the UK, Australia and Canada. In the United States,…