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Superintendent marks 90 days, launches 'Positive Pause' recognition and pauses K-5 ELA purchase pending MDE vendor list
Summary
Superintendent Dr. Griffin used her 90-day milestone to launch a Positive Pause staff-recognition program, acknowledged numerous employees, and Dr. Foster said the district will pause planned K-5 ELA purchases until the Michigan Department of Education issues an updated vendor list; ELA consultant walkthroughs and a Nov. 11 PD on social-emotional health were also announced.
Superintendent Dr. Griffin used the work session to mark 90 days in the district and to launch a "Positive Pause" recognition program to highlight staff who demonstrate the district's "Tiger" values.
"This actually today is my 90th day with the district and I'm super happy about that," Dr. Griffin said when introducing the recognition program and announcing certificates and $50 gift cards (donated through the district's bank) for staff nominated by administrators. The board acknowledged dozens of employees by name and showed a short video honoring several individuals.
On curriculum, Dr. Foster told trustees the district will pause purchase of the K-5 SAS ELA materials previously approved while the Michigan Department of Education updates an approved vendor list, expected in January. "I do not want to purchase a curriculum that will not be on the vendor list," Dr. Foster said, citing new dyslexia-related state requirements and alignment concerns. Dr. Foster said the district will continue working with Barron Rees and McGraw Hill in the interim and that four ELA consultants will do district walkthroughs the following day to support teachers.
Student support services also reported measurable progress on attendance and health services: mobile dental clinics completed visits, the county health department and the Lions Club completed vision and hearing screenings, and district staff reported a year-over-year decrease in chronic absenteeism. The district's PD day on Nov. 11 will focus on social-emotional and behavioral health (PRIM) and strengthening classroom climate.
What happens next: Staff will circulate materials and next steps for curriculum procurement after MDE's vendor guidance is issued, continue walkthroughs and implement the Nov. 11 PD. The Positive Pause recognition will be an ongoing program for staff acknowledgement.
