West Maple Empathy Project and Groves debate team honored at board meeting

The board paused regular business to recognize classroom and extracurricular achievements in the district.

West Maple teachers described an eight-year Empathy Project linking first- and fourth-grade students. First-grade teacher Madeline Partham said the project centers on empathy and compassion, research and solution design; fourth-grade teacher Kara Frye described fall activities focused on food scarcity, including a volunteer visit to Oakland Hope food bank and a student-led snack drive. Teachers said students later research water pollution, visit the zoo for a program on environmental effects, and create 3-D prototypes to present at an "empathy museum" for families in the spring.

Dr. Roberson and the board recognized West Maple Principal Jason Pezemowska for receiving the Michigan Lottery's Excellence in Education Award. Pezemowska, described in the presentation as an educator for 17 years and principal at West Maple for seven years, thanked staff and families and said the award reflected schoolwide work. "I'd rather accept them for our school and all the work they do," he said.

The board also recognized the Groves High School debate team and its coaches for a successful season, citing state-tournament placements and national appearances including the Tournament of Champions. Coaches and team members described competitive results and travel to regional and national events.

Board members applauded the presentations and invited trustees and central-office staff to attend student showcases and tournaments.