In the heart of Waterford, Michigan, the Board of Education meeting on September 19, 2025, unfolded with a palpable sense of urgency as educators and board members confronted pressing issues affecting local schools. The evening began with Mary Crate, a dedicated Waterford graduate and parent, voicing her deep concerns about the overwhelming challenges teachers face due to student absenteeism.

Crate, who has witnessed the educational journey of her children and grandchildren within the district, highlighted a troubling trend: a significant number of students are missing school days, which she believes is directly impacting their academic performance. “If they’re not there, I can’t help them,” she stated, emphasizing the critical link between attendance and educational success. Her impassioned plea underscored the burden placed on teachers, who are now expected to manage not only their teaching responsibilities but also to reach out to parents regarding student absences.

The discussion revealed a systemic issue within the district, where teachers are tasked with making multiple phone calls to parents after students miss just three days of class. Crate argued that this responsibility should not fall on educators, especially when they are already stretched thin with their teaching duties. “Their planning time should be used to plan for their kids, not making phone calls,” she asserted, calling for a reevaluation of the roles and responsibilities assigned to teachers.

As the meeting progressed, board members shared updates on various initiatives, including a successful shoe drive that exceeded its goal by a thousand pairs, showcasing the community's commitment to supporting students. Additionally, discussions touched on legislative matters affecting schools, including new laws aimed at protecting students from harmful online content.

The meeting concluded with a call for action, as Crate urged the board to address the attendance crisis head-on. “We’ve got to get the kids to school or none of this is gonna matter,” she declared, leaving a resonant message about the importance of collaboration between educators, parents, and the community to ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed in school. The evening served as a reminder of the collective responsibility to foster an environment where education can thrive, and where every student’s presence is valued.