A2 Schools Podcast: Recent Episodes
Ann Arbor Public Schools
The A2 Schools Podcast provides updates and information about the Ann Arbor Public Schools with interviews with Superintendent Dr. Jeanice Swift, highlights from Board of Education meetings, and more. Learn more about the Ann Arbor Public Schools at: http://www.a2schools.org
Superintendent Update - March 13, 2024 - Board of Education
- Introduction, Sports Update
- School Social Work Week
- Women's History Month
- Reading Month
- Youth Art Month
- World Down Syndrome Day
- AAPS and Rotary Fight Hunger
- NAAPID@Night Event
Bonus Episode - Selection of Candidates for Superintendent - March 6, 2024 - Board of Education
Bonus Episode - Fall 2023 Benchmark Assessment Results - February 28, 2024 - Board of Education
Bonus Episode - School Board Recognition Month Observance - Board of Education - January 31, 2024
Bonus Episode - Capital Programs 2023 Annual Report - Board of Education - December 20, 2023
Bonus Episode - Student Enrollment Fall 2023 Annual Report - Board of Education - December 13, 2023
Bonus Episode - Superintendent Update - Board of Education - December 6, 2023
- Introduction
- Pioneer High Vocalists Perform at MSVMA
- Huron High Spanish Teacher Daniel Verdugo Wins Award
- After Care at Dicken Elementary in January 2024
- Ann Arbor PTO Thrift Shop Anniversary
- Rec&Ed Winter Break Camps
- Rec&Ed Youth and Adult Classes
- AAPS Winter Giving Program
Bonus Episode - 2022-23 Annual Financial Audit Report - Board of Education - November 15, 2023
Bonus Episode - Culture & Climate Annual Report 2023 - Board of Education - November 15, 2023
Bonus Episode - Strategic Equity Plan Update Fall 2023 - Board of Education - November 15, 2023
Bonus Episode - Annual Report: Student Achievement - 2023 SAT Report - October 25, 2023 - Board of Education
Bonus Episode - Superintendent Update - Board of Education - October 18, 2023
- Introduction
- Principal's Month
- Exceptional Teacher Ashley Vasiloff
- Planetarium Update
- EMU Paraeducator Teacher Certification Program
- District Spotlights
- AAPS Food and Nutrition Services
- Human Resources Update
- Partnership, Volunteer and Community Resources
- Community Rec & Ed
- Information Technology
- Capital Program and Physical Properties
- Communication in the AAPS
- A Moment of Fall Joy
Bonus Episode - Capital Program (Bond & Sinking Fund) Update - Board of Education - September 27, 2023
Bonus Episode - Review FY 2022-23 Audit Timeline - Board of Education - September 13, 2023
Bonus Episode - Introduction of Incoming Fall 2023 Principals and School Leaders - August 23, 2023
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Rec & Ed End-of-Year Update - June 21, 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Board of Washtenaw Elementary Science Olympiad (WESO) - 20 Years of Service - June 21, 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Environmental Sustainability Update - June 21, 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Spring 2023 NWEA Assessment Annual Report - June 21, 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Superintendent Update - June 21, 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - My Future Fund - June 14, 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Proposed 2023-24 General Fund Budget - June 14, 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Proposed 2022-23 General Fund Budget Amendment - June 14, 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Superintendent Update - June 14, 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - 2022 Graduation Annual Report - May 24 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - AAPS Partners and Community Scholarships 2022-23 - May 24, 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Superintendent Update - May 24, 2023 - Board of Education
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Introduction/Upcoming Graduation Ceremonies
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Congratulations AAPS WIHI Graduates!
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Wrapping up Asian American Heritage Month in the AAPS: AAPS Asian American Author Events
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Youth Theatre Event at the Ann Arbor YMCA
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Burns Park Literacy Coach Kyunghee Chen
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Theater Accolades for Pioneer Students
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Picnic Pops 2023
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STEAM/Project Lead the Way Expo
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Congratulations to Clague Science Olympiad Team
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Lawton 3rd grade student selected as a finalist for Google Doodle
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Tappan Bike Club
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Pioneer teachers raised money to help send PHS senior to Special Olympics Games
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Community High Teacher Awarded a National Endowment for the Humanities Fellowship
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Environmental Sustainability Advisory Group Convenes
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Listen & Learn Ann Arbor: A Community Conversation
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Communication from the AAPS
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Preview of FY24 School Aid Budget Proposals - May 17, 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Superintendent Update - May 17, 2023 - Board of Education
In this week's podcast, Andrew Cluley talks with Superintendent Jeanice Swift.
We talk about what's going on across the Ann Arbor Public Schools in the last few weeks of the 2023-24 school year. This includes a few more stops on the Listen and Learn Tour and the last week to participate in the ThoughtExchange, upcoming music events including Picnic Pops, the AAPS STEAM and CTE Expo, graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2023, and the end of the school year.
In AAPS good news we celebrate a pair of Skyline students receiving recognition from C-SPAN for their video on how the state of Michigan has addressed gerrymandering.
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Superintendent Update - May 8, 2023 - Board of Education
- Introduction, National Jewish Heritage Month
- National Teacher Appreciation Week
- National School Nurse Day
- National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day
- Local History Mini-conference
- AAPS Homebuilding Program Banquet
- Listen & Learn Tour 2023
- A2Schools Podcast & Communication from the AAPS
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Fred Klein, Ann Arbor Education Association President.
We celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week with a discussion about why teachers like Fred Klein chose the profession, the importance of teachers making a connection with students, and what has to happen to ensure more young people choose to be students.
In AAPS good news we celebrate the Ann Arbor students competing in the Academic Games national tournament and AAPS being named a Project Lead the Way Distinguished District.
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Middle School Instructional Support - May 3, 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Academic Learning and Recovery Support - May 3, 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Superintendent Update - May 3, 2023 - Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Student Wellbeing: Social-Emotional and Mental Health Supports - May 3, 2023 - Board of Education
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Victoria Davis, Director of Dining Services.
With National School Lunch Heroes Day on Friday, May 5th, we highlight the work that takes place in dining services. This includes efforts to make all students feel welcome with food they recognize and learn about food they may not have tried before, using local fresh food when possible, providing safe food for students with allergies, and including student choice on the menu. We also discuss the impacts of the decision to end the national program that was providing all students with free meals.
In AAPS good news we celebrate the Clague Science Olympiad team qualifying for the national tournament, and a Pioneer student will represent Team USA in the Special Olympics World Games in Germany.
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Superintendent Update - Board of Education - April 26. 2023
In this week’s podcast, Andrew Cluley talks with Executive Director Student and School Health and Community Division, Jenna Bacolor and Executive Director Teaching and Learning Kevin Karr.
We discuss camps and other activities available from Rec & Ed this summer and Summer Learning Opportunities. Families can find out more about the Rec & Ed Camps and register at aarecedonline.com and registration for summer youth leagues is available here. Additional information on Summer Learning Opportunities is available here.
In AAPS good news we celebrate the Huron High School Science Bowl team competing in the 2023 National Science Bowl in Washington D.C.
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Environmental Education Update - Board of Education - April 19, 2023
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Annual Environmental Sustainability Update - Board of Education - April 19, 2023
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Pioneer Solar Club - Board of Education - April 19, 2023
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Superintendent Update - Board of Education - April 19, 2023
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode - Freeman Youth Council - Board of Education - April 19, 2023
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Emile Lauzzana, Executive Director Environmental Sustainability.
With Earth Day coming up this weekend, we discuss the latest on the Ann Arbor Public Schools environmental efforts. This includes a discussion of the Greenhouse Gas Inventory the district has recently completed and what it will mean for the district going forward. We also talk about some of the work student environmental groups have done this school year.
In AAPS good news we celebrate National Volunteer Week, thank you for all of the wonderful volunteers that make a difference for students across the AAPS.
A2Schools Podcast Bonus Episode
Preview of Summer 2023: Academic and Enrichment Programming
April 12, 2023
A2Schools Podcast Bonus Episode
Arab American Heritage Month, Superintendent Update
April 12, 2023
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Bernerd Rice, Assistant Superintendent Capital Programs and Physical Properties and Jason Bing, Director of Capitol Programs.
We discuss the latest on the Ann Arbor Public Schools capital programs, including some of the big projects planned for buildings this summer. We also discuss routine maintenance efforts, and emergency work, such as getting buildings open quickly after the recent power outages. You can learn more about the capital projects funded through the voter approved Bonds and Sinking Fund here.
In AAPS good news we celebrate the Skyline Ethics Bowl team winning a national championship.
In this week's podcast, Andrew Cluley talks with Kristen Smith, the Elementary ELA Curriculum Coordinator and Scarlett Middle School librarian Deb Schreck.
We discuss March is Reading Month activities across the Ann Arbor Public Schools, some tips for parents of kids not yet reading, efforts to develop reading skills in elementary school, and then ways AAPS promotes a love of reading in students as they grow older.
In AAPS good news we celebrate the success and recognition students and coaches received at the Michigan League of Academic Games state tournament. We also remind listeners that they can vote for Burns Park custodian Abdul Akeely in the Cintas National Custodian of the Year competition every day through April 14th.
In this week's podcast, Andrew Cluley talks with art teachers Peggy Leonard from Lakewood and Windy Alseri from Bach as well as Sandra Andrade from Main Street Ann Arbor.
We discuss Youth Art Month, where the Main Street area of downtown Ann Arbor turns into an art gallery with work from AAPS students on display in various stores and restaurants. We highlight some of the events planned for the Art Walk scheduled from 1 to 3 PM on Saturday, March 18th. We also discuss the importance of all students getting the opportunity to participate in art classes.
In AAPS good news we celebrate Pioneer's boys Swim and Dive team winning their third straight Division 1 State Championship, and the Pioneer Synchronized Swimming team also winning a state championship last weekend.
A2Schools Podcast | Bonus Episode | In Recognition of Officer Doug's Many Years of Service at Safety Town - March 8, 2023
A2Schools Podcast
Bonus Episode
Preview of the Governor's Executive Budget Proposal - March 8, 2023
In this week's podcast, Andrew Cluley talks with Superintendent Jeanice Swift.
We talk about the community conversation AAPS is about to kickoff as part of the development of our new strategic equity plan. In addition to large events and online participation, we will be meeting with small groups in an effort to ensure we hear from everyone in the community.
In AAPS good news we celebrate the homebuilding program sending seven students to the state finals in the Skills USA Carpentry competition.
In this week's podcast, Andrew Cluley talks with Tom Pachera Director of Career Technical Education and Project Lead the Way for AAPS and Huron CTE teachers Allison Andres and Melissa Gordon.
February was CTE month so we talk about the CTE offerings available in AAPS, how the field of CTE has changed over the years and what students get from taking CTE classes.
In AAPS good news we celebrate Huron's Science Bowl Team winning the Michigan Regional and qualifying for the National Science Bowl sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy.
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Skyline teachers Kathy Mackercher and Tonya Whitehorn, and Eberwhite teacher Stephanie Burnstein.
We discuss a pair of Black History Month events they are leading in the AAPS. At Skyline African-American humanities students will share their annual Black History Presentation, "Be the Dream" on March 2nd. At Eberwhite, a Periodic Table of Black History serves as a way to amplify the voices of African Americans from the past and present.
We also discuss the importance of teaching black history in February and all year long.
In AAPS good news we celebrate FutureStars 2023 and the Pioneer A Cappella Choir performing in a concert celebrating the music of Stacey Gibbs.
A2Schools Podcast Bonus Episode
Michigan Update: Consensus Revenue Estimating Conference & 2023-24 Budget Timeline
Board of Education
February 8, 2023
A2Schools Podcast Bonus Episode
State of the Schools 2022-23 Annual Report
Board of Education - February 8, 2023
A2Schools Podcast Bonus Episode
Superintendent Update to the Board of Education
February 8, 2023
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Director of Strategic Partnerships and Community Engagement Nancy Shore.
We discuss the scholarships that AAPS has available for seniors graduating in the class of 2023 and some of the other scholarship opportunities for students in other grades. For graduating seniors most of the scholarship applications are due by March 17th.
We also discuss the Community Resources page on the a2schools.org website which offers links to a wide variety of free and low cost resources available in the community.
In AAPS good news we celebrate Bryant's special education team winning statewide recognition.
The big question we discuss this week is the consequences for making school threats after Huron and schools across Michigan were victims of fake calls of school safety concerns.
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with A2 STEAM 7th and 8th grade science teacher Jennie Allan. Her 7th grade students recently made meals to donate to a homeless shelter in the area when they were doing a lesson on chemical reactions. Allan shares this project is an example of Project Based Learning that is a hallmark of A2 STEAM.
In AAPS good news we share that Skyline volleyball player Harper Murray was named the 2022-23 Gatorade National Volleyball Player of the Year.
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk retired Community High School teacher Cindy Haidu-Banks and current Community students Navi Fields and Nick Idzikowski about the year long celebration of the school's 100th anniversary and the effort to recognize the black community that was the heart of Jones School.
We talk about some of the public events that took place this fall at Community, the research into the community's history, and efforts to ensure this legacy is remembered, including placing a marker on the school grounds.
You can find out more about the 100th Anniversary of Jones School and donate to the marker campaign here. The Communicator has also coverage of the year long celebration.
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Assistant Superintendent Teaching and Learning Dawn Linden and Executive Director Elementary Education Matt Hilton about important information for families interested in pre-school, young fives, and kindergarten for the 2023-24 school year.
Enrollment will soon open for families interested in joining the Ann Arbor Public Schools for our youngest learners. For additional information in enrolling in pre-school click here and look for updates coming soon. For families with children eligible for young fives and kindergarten the next step is attending an open house at your neighborhood school, or any of the other AAPS schools you might be considering to meet the principal, teachers, and learn more about the school. The list of all the school open houses planned in February is available here.
In AAPS good news we share that the Pioneer A Cappella Choir, the Pioneer Symphony Orchestra and the Clague 8th Grade Orchestra are performing at
A2Schools Podcast - Bonus Episode
School Board Recognition Month Observance from the January 11, 2023 Board of Education Meeting
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk about what students, staff, and families can expect in 2023 as we celebrate the new year and the return from Winter Break.
Topics include, new school board trustees, upcoming work on the district's strategic equity plan, next steps for the environmental framework, and construction work coming this summer and beyond.
In AAPS good news we share that Executive Director Student and School Safety Liz Margolis was recognized for her work by the Ann Arbor Fire Department over Winter Break.
We also discuss the temporary mask requirement for students, staff, and visitors in AAPS schools through January 20th.
A2Schools Podcast Bonus Episode
Capital Program Annual Report
December 21, 2022
Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast Bonus Episode
NWEA Fall 2022 Achievement Report and Review Recovery Plan
December 21, 2022
Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast Bonus Episode
AAPS Equity Plan Update and Next Steps
December 21, 2022
Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast Bonus Episode
AAPS Annual Staffing Report
December 21, 2022
Board of Education
A2Schools Podcast | Bonus Episode | Special Commentary to Honor Trustees Johnson, Kelly and Lazarus | December 14, 2022
A2Schools Podcast | Bonus Episode - Environmental Sustainability Framework: Review Community Feedback, Updates & Clarifications | December 14, 2022
In this week's podcast we share highlights from this week's reception honoring and celebrating Trustees Johnson, Kelly, and Lazarus. We share the highlights of what has been accomplished in the AAPS while they have served on the Board of Education.
Then we have remarks from Superintendent Swift, Dawn Linden, Emile Lauzzana, former Trustee Glenn Nelson, and State Representative Donna Lasinski.
Finally Trustees Kelly, Johnson, and Lazarus share their thoughts on serving on the AAPS Board of Education.
A2Schools Podcast
Bonus Episode
Sexual Health Education Advisory Committee (SHEAC) Biannual Report
December 7, 2022
The Ann Arbor Public Schools' Sexual Health Education Advisory Committee (AAPS SHEAC) is comprised of representatives from the following community groups: parents of children in the district, clergy, medical professionals, students, district health teachers, and a district administrative liaison (Contact Information). The committee meets regularly, reviews submitted materials and makes recommendations to the AAPS Board of Education regarding the sexual health curriculum. The SHEAC functions in accordance with Michigan legal guidelines, and works to follow best practices in sexual health education while maintaining compliance with state laws and local community priorities.
A2Schools Podcast
Bonus Episode
Fall 2022 Student Enrollment Annual Report
December 7, 2022
Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeanice Kerr Swift, provides an update to the Board of Education on the evening of December 7, 2022
- Introduction
- Equity Work Continues in the AAPS
- Environmental Sustainability in the AAPS
- AAPS Winter Giving
- Karen Thomas Fund Literacy Grants
- Before/After Care
- Fall Sports Wrap-Up
- Winter Programs
- Technology
- Transportation - My Stop Bus Tracker App System Implementation Update
- Transportation Staffing Update
- School Safety
- Communication from the AAPS
- Honor and Celebrate Trustees Johnson, Kelly and Lazarus
- Earhart Building
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Pioneer health and wellness and personal fitness teacher Wylen Kirkland, and Eberwhite second grade teacher Emma Packard.
Both Kirkland and Packard are Ann Arbor Public Schools graduates and have returned this year to teach in the district. We discuss their experiences as students in the AAPS, why they opted to become teachers and return to AAPS, and how the year is going so far.
In AAPS good news we share that the Actors Studio at Pathways this weekend is presenting a play written by a pair of AAPS grads and current Pathways students.
Dr. Jeanice Ker Swift provided an AAPS update to the Board of Education on November 30, 2022. Topics Include:
Introduction
2022 AAPS Education Fund awards
Communication from the AAPS
Inclement Weather Update 2022-2023
AAPS Safety Update
Protocols when concerns arise in a school or on social media channels
Process when concerns arise with a student
Guidance and Reminders for Students
AAPS Environmental Sustainability Framework
Presented to the Ann Arbor Public Schools Board of Education
November 30, 2022
View the plan here: https://www.a2schools.org/site/Default.aspx?PageID=18978
Mission: The Ann Arbor Public Schools is committed to care for the environment, to model and achieve an environmentally sustainable existence. We demonstrate this commitment, both through our critical mission of educating generations of students as strong stewards of the environment, and also in living an environmental commitment with every decision across every area of the organization.
Vision: In all decisions, we embody and live the deeply held value of caring for the earth and our environment. Individual, team and district decisions are consistent with care for the earth.
Introduction: The Ann Arbor Public Schools (AAPS) serves a central role in the education of generations of students in our community. As the Ann Arbor community faces the opportunities and challenges of the climate crisis, AAPS fully embraces its responsibility in the community and joins our many partners in working towards shared environmental sustainability goals.
In considering our commitment for sustainability minded change, and recognizing the unparalleled potential within our critical mission of educating generations of students who are climate literate and action oriented, we also recognize the key importance of modeling authentic climate and educational practice by demonstrating sound environmental sustainability solutions through innovative and informed organizational behavior.
Our most important contribution to addressing the climate crisis will be in leveraging our central role in education. We will empower our next generation to act as good stewards of the environment, to become active in climate mitigation and adaptation in their professional and personal lives, and impart in them the confidence, wisdom, hope and inspiration to be resilient in facing the many challenges of the climate crisis.
Keeping students at the center, the work of AAPS will have a collective impact on broader systems in our neighborhoods, city, region, and world. It is the next generation- in our schools today- that will face the increasing impacts of climate change. By empowering them with a climate informed education, AAPS will help create the foundation for their success, and ultimately the success of our community, in rising to meet an uncertain climate change future.
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Executive Director of Environmental Sustainability Emile Lauzzana.
We discuss the Environmental Sustainability Framework that was presented to the Board of Education this week and the work of the AAPS Environmental Sustainability Taskforce. You can learn all about the framework and give feedback on the plan here.
In AAPS good news we celebrate Pioneer High School’s Girls Swim and Dive team for capturing their third straight Division One State Championship.
A2Schools Podcast
Bonus Episode
Capital Program Phase 2: 2025-2030
Recorded on November 16, 2022
A2Schools Podcast
Bonus Episode
2021-22 Annual Financial Audit Report
Recorded on November 16, 2022
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Executive Director of Instructional Technology and Information Services Heather Kellstrom.
We discuss the important role technology serves to support face to face teaching and learning, lessons AAPS is offering students on cyber security and how to stay safe while online, and the crucial work IT does to make the district cyber resilient as cyber attacks on schools and businesses become a bigger threat.
In AAPS good news we celebrate Skyline's Harper Murray being named the 2022 Michigan Miss Volleyball, and Huron's Adam Samaha being chosen to play in the U.S. Army All American Bowl.
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Director of Strategic Partnerships and Community Engagement Nancy Shore.
We discuss the crucial role community members, parents, non-profits and area businesses play in making the Ann Arbor Public Schools a special place. Shore highlights volunteer options in the AAPS, some of the crucial partnerships that help the district serve students, and winter giving opportunities that are currently available.
If you want to know more about AAPS Community Engagement and Strategic Partnerships you can watch the presentation to the Board of Education last month here, or listen to the bonus podcast of presentation here.
In AAPS good news we celebrate Pioneer girls field hockey winning the Division One State Championship over Skyline 2-1. The two teams faced each other in last year's state championship as well, with Skyline winning the title in overtime in 2021. Congratulations.
In this report to the Board of Education on October 26, 2022, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning Dawn Linden:
• Reviews the intervention and acceleration actions taking place to support strategic, targeted student skills in Literacy and Mathematics.
• Shares the plan for 98c funding
Ann Arbor Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Jeanice Kerr Swift provides an update to the Board of Education on October 26, 2022.
Topics include:
- Introduction
- Philipino American History Month
- Marci Harris receives Language Education Award
- Pioneer Choir Receives Honors
- Huron High Student Gabby Mayrend Wins at Milan Dragway
- Cyber Security Month
- Inclement Weather Practices
- Communication Highlights
- Election Day is November 8
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Assistant Superintendent Human Resources and Employee Relations, John Randle.
We discuss the district's recruitment and hiring efforts, including Randle's vision of ensuring the AAPS is an "Employer of Choice." He highlighted that in the current labor market the key is keeping employees to stay once they are here. Randle shares he's been impressed with the diversity that is in place already across AAPS.
In AAPS good news we celebrate Community High School French teacher Marci Harris for winning the most prestigious award a professional in the field of world languages can receive in the state of Michigan. Harris was named the Michigan World Language Association’s (MIWLA) Barbara Ort-Smith Award winner. Congratulations.
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley review what's been going on this fall in the Ann Arbor Public Schools and talk about some of the things upcoming.
We kick off the podcast talking about the upcoming elections for the Board of Education. We will be getting a visit from the International Baccalaureate organization for a new five-year authorization. AAPS has celebrated some of the typical fall events including Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day, Hispanic-American Heritage Month, and Principal Month.
We also talk about renovations that are wrapping up at Pioneer High School, and the Mitchell and Pathways communities meeting with architects to talk about what they hope to see in designs for their new buildings.
In AAPS good news we share a variety of fall productions that are coming up in the next few weeks. This includes Sense and Sensibility at Huron, Into the Woods at Pioneer, Urinetown the Musical at Skyline, and The Visit at Community.
A2Schools Podcast Bonus Episode
Fall 2022 Student & School Safety Update - October 12, 2022
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Executive Director Environmental Sustainability Emile Lauzzana.
We discuss the district's environmental efforts, including work that started this summer to install geothermal at Forsythe and Clague, solar panels, electric busses, and plans for all electric schools. Mr. Lauzzana also talks about the work of the Environmental Sustainability Task Force and an Environmental Sustainability Framework that is under development.
In AAPS good news we celebrate Community High School kicking off a year-long study and celebration of their building turning 100-years-old. Students and staff will be researching Jones School and the African-American community that lived in the area, with the goal of creating an historical marker to preserve the community's history.
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Executive Director Student and School Safety Liz Margolis.
We talk about the measures the AAPS has taken, collaborations with law enforcement, what students should do if they see or hear about a school threat, and the important role parents play in school safety.
In AAPS good news we celebrate Clague 8th Grade Orchestra and Pioneer Symphonic String Orchestra for being selected by the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association to perform at the 2023 Michigan Music Conference in Grand Rapids.
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Assistant Superintendent Capital Programs and Physical Properties Bernerd Rice, Capital Programs Director Jason Bing, and Stephanie Corona, Project Executive at Gilbane Building Company.
We talk about the capital projects that took place across AAPS this summer thanks to community support of the 2019 Bond and our Sinking Fund.
In AAPS good news we celebrate 39 AAPS students being named Semifinalists in the 2023 National Merit Scholarship Competition.
We answer the question of what families can expect next week as the State of Michigan's Student Count Day falls on Yom Kippur. As always students do not need to be in school specifically on any single day to count towards official AAPS enrollment numbers.
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Dr. Roberta Heyward, Executive Director K-8 and Middle Level Education and Matt Hilton, Executive Director Elementary Education.
We talk about the start of the school year, what families can expect at Curriculum Night at their child's school, and what's coming up in the Ann Arbor Public Schools this fall. We also review what families can expect in terms of communications with the district.
Superintendent Jeanice K. Swift provided an update to the Board of Education on August 24, 2022. Topics include:
Introduction
Schools Are Fully Open
Teacher Professional Development
International Baccalaureate Kick-off and Graduate Darryl Phillips
"We Got This" by Cornelius Minor Presentation
Transportation Update
Food & Nutrition, Free & Reduced Cost Meal Programs
Before & After Care Programs
Schools Supplies are Included at AAPS
Staffing Update
COVID and Health Guidance
Summer Reflections
Thank You, AAPS Community
A2Schools Podcast
Bonus Episode
Welcome Incoming 2022-23 School Principals and Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources
A2Schools Podcast Bonus Episode
AAPS Schools Are Open to All
August 19, 2022
AAPS Schools open on August 29th!
Ann Arbor Public Schools
NWEA Benchmark Assessment Results
Spring 2022
Board of Education
Wednesday, June 29, 2022
The presentation referenced in this report may be found on the AAPS Board of Education section of the A2Schools.org website: https://bit.ly/AAPS-BOE
(Look for the June 29, 2022 meeting agenda.)
To watch the entire video, including trustee questions and comments, please visit CTN's government channel online: http://bit.ly/a2-gov
________________________________________________
Ann Arbor Public Schools - Ann Arbor, Michigan
https://www.a2schools.org/
http://news.a2schools.org/
Ann Arbor Public Schools Superintendent Jeanice Swift provides an update to the Board of Education on June 29, 2022.
Topics Include:
- Summer Construction
- Third Week of Summer Camp Season
- Summer Academic Programs
- Summer Food Program
- AAPS Faculty & Staff Summer Activities
- COVID & Mask Policy Update
- Before & After School Programs Update
________________________________________________
Ann Arbor Public Schools - Ann Arbor, Michigan
https://www.a2schools.org/
http://news.a2schools.org/
Annual Report:
Graduation Rates 2021
Presented to the Board of Education on June 29, 2022.
Annual Graduation Rate Analysis
• AAPS Progress Over Time
• 4 Year - 5 Year & 6 Year Graduation Rates
• Comparisons to Statewide, County, Most Similar & High Performing
Michigan Districts
• Drop-out Rates Over Time
The presentation referenced in this report may be found on the AAPS Board of Education section of the A2Schools.org website: https://bit.ly/AAPS-BOE
(Look for the June 29, 2022 meeting agenda.)
To watch the entire video, including trustee questions and comments, please visit CTN's government channel online: http://bit.ly/a2-gov
________________________________________________
Ann Arbor Public Schools - Ann Arbor, Michigan
https://www.a2schools.org/
http://news.a2schools.org/
Dr. Swift provides an update to the Board of Education on June 22, 2022
Topics Include:
- Pride Month
- AAPS Summer Programming
- Summer Academic Programs
- Ann Arbor NAACP Juneteenth Celebration
- Free Meals Available for Kids and Teens
- COVID & Mask Policy Update
A2Schools Podcast | Bonus Episode | Presidential Award Recipient for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) - Theodore Emch - June 22, 2022
Student Intervention And Support Services (SISS) Update
June 22, 2022, at the Board of Education Meeting
In this update, we share the comprehensive, systemic and ongoing improvement work to provide a deeply connected, inclusive, and highly effective educational experience for our students and their families.
While attending to this important improvement work, it is important to note that our District and school teams mobilized with urgency to meet the needs of our students and families resulting from the global pandemic.
These teams responded with great care to review each Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) of every student, closely monitoring and assessing progress and establishing support and plans for additional services where needed. The impact of the pandemic will have a long reach, and we will continue to hold our values of equity, inclusion, and connections close as we adapt and respond to the needs of our students and their families.
The document referenced in this report may be found on the AAPS Board of Education section of the A2Schools.org website: https://bit.ly/AAPS-BOE
(Look for the June 22, 2022 meeting agenda.)
To watch the entire video, including trustee questions and comments, please visit CTN's government channel online: http://bit.ly/a2-gov
In this week's podcast, we share highlights from Dr. Swift's conversation with members of the graduating class of 2022.
For this week's episode, we're focused on the nearly 1,500 graduates in the class of 2022. Recently, Superintendent Swift sat down for a conversation with members of the class of 2022 and discussed their high school experience, the additional challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and their future plans. We share now a highlight video from that conversation. You can watch the video here.
In AAPS good news we recognize Pioneer's women's tennis team and Skyline's crew team who both won state championships this spring.
2022-23 Budget Update:
School Aid Proposals from the Michigan Executive Branch, House, and Senate
Presented to the Board of Education by Jill Minnick,
Assistant Superintendent, Finance and Operations on May 18, 2022
Superintendent Dr. Jeanice Swift updates the Board of Education on May 18, 2022.
Topics include:
- Intro, Buffalo Terror Attack Statement
- AAPS Response to Buffalo Terror Attack
- Wrapping up the 2021-22 School Year
- Recognition of Speech Pathologists
- Project Lead the Way Distinguished School Announcement
- Summer Learning
- Before and After School Program Staffing
- Preparing for Fall 2022 - Register on InfoSnap
- COVID Update
- Mask Guidelines for End-of-Year Ceremonies
- Mask Guidelines for Summer Programming
- Voices from the Path Pathways to Success Video Teaser
- Closing Remarks from BOE President Lazarus
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Jenna Bacolor, Executive Director Student and School Health and Community Division.
We talk about the programs Rec and Ed is offering this summer. We start the discussion with the long-running and very popular Safety Town for incoming Kindergarten students and then discuss other summer camps. We also highlight Rec and Ed summer classes that will be available for pre-K, K-12 students, and adults. Registration for summer classes through Rec and Ed opens on Monday, May 23, 2022.
In AAPS good news we celebrate Clague Middle School and Slauson Middle School earning re-designation as Schools to Watch through the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform.
We answer the question of what masking policy will look like during the summer. We will continue to mandate masks as long as Washtenaw County is classified in the Red category of COVID community spread, but will make masks optional at times the county is in Yellow or Green.
Superintendent Swift provided an update to the Ann Arbor Public Schools Board of Education on May 11, 2022
Topics include:
Transition Day (Middle & High School Visits)
School Nurse Shout Out
Asian, Pacific Islander & South Asian American Heritage Month
Jewish American Heritage Month
Summer Learning Opportunities
Summer Enrichment/Rec & Ed
Now Hiring Before & After School Program Staff
COVID Update
In-person Spring Activities & Ceremonies, Mask Policy
You can watch this report on the Ann Arbor Public Schools YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/AAPS_YT
Emile Lauzzana, Executive Director of Capital Projects, presents an environmental sustainability opportunity from DTE Energy called MIGreenPower. This is an information item.
You can watch this report on the Ann Arbor Public Schools YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/AAPS_YT
To watch full-length Board of Education meetings complete with Trustee questions and comments, visit: http://bit.ly/a2-gov
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Jenna Bacolor, Executive Director Student and School Health and Community Division.
We talk about the Before and After Care Program as we work to expand the program back to more elementary and K-8 buildings for the 2022-23 school year. AAPS has reorganized the program. We are actively hiring Program Directors and Child Care Assistants/Noon Hour Supervisors. Positions include healthcare and retirement benefits, competitive wages, and opportunities for advancement. You can learn more about the positions and apply here.
In AAPS good news we recognize Skyline science teacher Casey Warner who was named a University of Michigan Chapter of Sigma Xi (a scientific research honor society) 2022 Teacher of the Year.
We answer the question of where families can learn more about AAPS Summer Learning Opportunities.
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Dr. Roberta Heyward, the Executive Director of Middle and K-8 Education and Paul DeAngelis Executive Director High School Education in the Ann Arbor Public Schools.
We look ahead to the 2022-23 school year, focusing this week on the experience families can expect in our middle and high school levels. Also steps families should take to ensure their child or children are registered and for families new to the district enrolled. In case you missed it, last week's episode focused on the elementary level.
In AAPS good news we recognize art teacher Laura Wayne being named the University Musical Society (UMS) and the DTE Energy Foundation’s 2021 DTE Energy Foundation Educator of the Year.
We also celebrate the success of AAPS students at the 55th Annual Academic Games National Tournament.
We also answer the question of what families can expect at the upcoming end of year celebrations across the AAPS.
A2Schools Podcast Bonus Episode
Environmental Sustainability in the Ann Arbor Public Schools
Report to the Board of Education on April 27, 2022
In this week's podcast, Dr. Swift and Andrew Cluley talk with Matt Hilton, the Executive Director of Elementary Education in the Ann Arbor Public Schools.
We look ahead to the 2022-23 school year, focusing this week on the experience families can expect in our pre-school and elementary school level. Also steps families should take to ensure their child or children are registered and for families new to the district enrolled.
In AAPS good news we look at the upcoming high school stage productions.
Huron Players - "The Mystery of...." April 29, 30 and May 1st
Skyline Theatre- "Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic" April 29, 30 and May 1st
Community Ensemble Theatre- "Just Desserts" April 30th
Pioneer Theater Guild - "Les Miserables" May 13, 14 and 15th
Actors Studio at Pathways- "Voices From the Path" May 19
In this Earth Day episode we talk about the Ann Arbor Public Schools Environmental Education program. Since 1960 this program has been educating and inspiring students through meaningful learning experiences in the natural environment. Currently students in Young Fives through sixth grade take field trips designed to support and enhance the classroom curriculum.
We also discuss the role the Freeman Environmental Education Center plays in the Environmental Education program and some of the potential the site offers for additional enhancements.
Happy Earth Day!
AAPS Superintendent Swift provides an update to the Board of Education on April 13, 2022
Topics include:
Thank You School Librarians
Library Programs
AAPS Website Updates
A2Schools Podcast Announcement
AAPS Student Building Industry Program
National Arab American Heritage Month
COVID Update
Spring 2022 Assessments
Community Meetings on Equity
In this episode we talk about a pair of Community Meetings on Equity that AAPS will host with Dr. Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz. The first meeting is Tuesday, April 19th from 6 to 7:30 PM.
We recognize the Ann Arbor Student Building Industry Program. Students from the program excelled at the SkillsUSA State Leadership and Skills Conference in Grand Rapids. Their home should be complete and going on the market in May. Read more about their success this year here.
We also answer the question of what students and parents can expect during this spring's assessment testing period.
In this episode we talk about plans to have counselors/social workers in each of the Ann Arbor Public Schools elementary schools starting this fall.
We highlight some of the recent student musical performances, including Orchestra Day/Night, Choral Cavalcades, and Bands in Review.
We also answer the question of when the 2022-23 school year starts. The first day of school for all students will be Monday, August 29, 2022. There will be no school on Friday, September 2 or Monday, September 5, 2022, in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Work on finalizing the full calendar for next school year continues, but we wanted to share this important detail so families can make their summer vacation plans.