HAS Parent Outreach Program

Welcome back to the Parent Outreach Team’s family newsletter! We are excited to share this resource with you as part of our ongoing effort to build strong, meaningful connections between home and school. Together, we can ensure every student thrives—both academically and emotionally—through open communication, active partnerships, and shared support.

In each edition, you’ll find helpful tips for supporting your child's success at home, updates on family events, and opportunities for you to get involved in our school community. We’ll also highlight available resources for families, such as mental health services, community resources, and programs that enhance your family’s well-being.

Our goal is to make this newsletter an essential guide to all things related to family engagement at Holly Area Schools. Whether it’s offering parenting tips and advice, showcasing success stories from our school community, or inviting you to join one of our upcoming family events, we hope this newsletter will help you feel more connected and supported.

We’re always looking for ways to improve, so if you have feedback or ideas on what you’d like to see, please let us know! Together, we can build the best possible environment for our students to succeed.

Thank you for being such an important part of our school community!

Warmly,
Cheryl Price and Sydney Sinclair
The Holly Area Schools Parent Outreach Team

What did our families think?

In this free class, an Oakland County Health Division Health Educator will share how to dispose of medications safely and properly.

Learn what local stores in Oakland County accept medications and provide safe medication disposal kiosks.

This class is open to adults.

Various training dates are available:

• Tuesday, May 19 from 12 - 1:30 p.m.

Register at https://bit.ly/4tfLjL2. Training link will be sent out 1 day before the event.

Contact Nadli Arabo at arabon@oakgov.com with any questions.

On Thursday, February 5, Holly students and families gathered at Holly High School for our Dual Event Night, featuring Freshman Orientation and Broncho Opportunity Night—an evening focused on helping students prepare for a successful transition to high school.

Families had the opportunity to explore high school programs, learn about graduation requirements, pathways, and support services, and connect with counselors, teachers, and program leaders. Students and families also discovered clubs, athletics, performing arts, CTE programs, and elective courses, helping them envision how they can get involved from day one. Whether families were beginning their high school journey or continuing to build their Broncho experience, the goal was to help students move forward with confidence.

We appreciate all families who joined us for this informative and engaging evening and look forward to continuing to support students as they prepare for high school success! If you were unable to attend or for questions about Opportunity Night, families are encouraged to contact Cheryl Price at 248-328-3230 or cheryl.price@hask12.org.

On Tuesday, February 3 (rescheduled from Tuesday, January 27), Holly families gathered at Holly Middle School for our Community Resources Fair, an afternoon focused on connecting families with helpful programs and services available in our community.

Families had the opportunity to learn about a wide range of resources in one place, including housing stability supports, mental health and wellness services, healthcare access, financial guidance, youth programs, and educational opportunities. Whether families were seeking immediate assistance or simply exploring what support is available, the goal was to make community resources more accessible and easier to navigate!

If you were unable to attend or for questions about community resources, families are encouraged to contact Sydney Sinclair at 248-328-3417 or sydney.sinclair@hask12.org.

On Thursday, November 20, Holly families gathered at Holly Middle School for our Mental Health Resource Fair, an evening focused on supporting the mental health and wellness of students and families in our community.

Families had the opportunity to connect with local mental health agencies, ask questions, and explore resources related to anxiety, depression, social media use, and overall well-being. Whether families were seeking immediate support or simply learning what options are available, the goal was to make mental health resources more accessible and less overwhelming.

Featured workshops included:

• Raising a Child with Anxiety and Depression, led by Jerilynn Jacobson, Giesken Counseling

• The Effects of Social Media on Mental Health, presented by Dr. Phillip Pitman, New Oakland Family Centers
  
  

If you were unable to attend, please reach out to our District Counseling Specialist, Cheryl Price, who is happy to support families with questions regarding mental health supports and access: 248-328-3230, cheryl.price@hask12.org

Filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is an important step for families with students planning to attend college in the fall of 2026—whether they’re pursuing a two-year, four-year, or trade program.

Families can start the process by visiting studentaid.gov and using their 2024 tax information to complete the form. Be sure to gather your student’s Social Security number, your 2024 tax return, and FSA ID logins before you begin.

The earlier you submit, the better your chances of receiving aid! If you have any questions or need help walking through the process, please reach out to our District Counseling Specialist, Cheryl Price, who is happy to support families every step of the way: 248-328-3230, cheryl.price@hask12.org

Families learn practical tools like the Homework Assignment Sheet, ways to motivate children through positive reinforcement, and strategies for responding to challenges such as trauma, anxiety, or resistance to school. The workbook’s Six-Step Action Plan provides clear, realistic steps for parents and caregivers to help their children thrive academically and emotionally.

If you have any questions or would like additional support using these strategies at home, please reach out to our Family School Liaison, Sydney Sinclair, for assistance and resources: 248-328-3417, sydney.sinclair@hask12.org

The workshop focused on using the Pause–Breathe–Respond cycle to interrupt automatic reactions, practicing emotion coaching that both validates feelings and holds clear boundaries, and identifying personal triggers to respond with greater self-awareness and compassion. Families also explored how values and repair build trust and how small, daily “micro-habits” can promote calm and resilience.

If you have any questions or would like additional support practicing these strategies at home, please reach out to the Family School Liaison, Sydney Sinclair, for more information and resources: 248-328-3417, sydney.sinclair@hask12.org

Parenting can be incredibly meaningful, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. An article from Psychology Today explores the growing topic of parental burnout and stress and reminds families that constant exhaustion, emotional overwhelm, and feeling “stretched too thin” are more common than many people realize. The article explains that parental burnout is more than simply having a hard day, it can develop when ongoing stress and pressure outweigh the support and rest caregivers are receiving.

The article also shares how burnout can impact emotional well-being, patience, relationships, and overall family dynamics. Families are encouraged to recognize the importance of self-care, realistic expectations, asking for help, and building supportive connections with others. One important takeaway is that taking care of yourself is not selfish, it is an important part of caring for your children and family.

Read more to learn about:

• Signs and symptoms of parental burnout and chronic stress
• How stress can affect caregivers emotionally and physically
• Ways to build healthy routines and supportive connections
• The importance of rest, balance, and realistic expectations
• Strategies families can use to care for themselves and one another

Take a few moments to read Parental Burnout and Stress for helpful insight and encouragement. Sometimes even small steps toward rest, support, and connection can make a meaningful difference for both caregivers and children.

Check out the article below for more information!

Mental health matters—this month and every month. The reality is that many people around us are struggling, and they deserve care, understanding, and support. Mental health challenges don’t define a person; they are simply part of the human experience. By having open, compassionate conversations, we can break the stigma and create a culture of support.

Let’s stand together to ensure no one has to struggle alone. If you or someone you know needs help, Care Solace is here for you. This complimentary and confidential mental health care coordination service, provided by Holly Area Schools, can help connect you with a provider quickly and easily:

📞 Call 888-515-0595 for multilingual support, available 24/7/365.

🌐 Visit caresolace.com/hask12 to search for a provider or click “Book Appointment” for personalized assistance via video chat, email, or phone.

You are not alone. Help is always available—don’t hesitate to reach out.

In an effort to ease the burden of finding the mental health and substance use services you need, Holly Area Schools has formed a new partnership with Care Solace, your central hub of care.

With a network of over 350,000 providers and services, Care Solace will help you find the right help at the right time, 24/7/365, at no cost to you. They will connect you with providers accepting all medical insurances, including Medicaid, Medicare, and sliding scale options for those without insurance.

You can access Care Solace services in three ways:

1. Call 888-515-0595 to connect with a Care Companion who will guide you through the process
2. Search anonymously to get matched with an extensive list of care providers here or click the link below!
3. Contact your school counselor or social worker and they will submit a referral on your behalf

Please reach out to Cheryl Price with any questions: 248-328-3230, cheryl.price@hask12.org

As we head into summer, we want to share this free “Summer Survival Kit” from Care Solace, designed to support the mental health and wellness of students and families. The resource includes simple strategies for building healthy routines, encouraging emotional check-ins, promoting outdoor play and social connection, and helping families navigate conversations about mental health and support. The toolkit also includes activities, reflection prompts, and information on how to connect with mental health services if needed.

Click the image below for the full toolkit!

If you have any questions about mental health wellness, please contact Cheryl Price: 248-328-3230, cheryl.price@hask12.org

As the weather gets warmer and the school year begins to wind down, many students are spending more time outside riding bikes, scooters, skateboards, and playing with friends in their neighborhoods and local parks. Outdoor play is a great way for students to stay active, build confidence, and enjoy time with family and friends, but it is also important to practice safe habits while having fun.

One of the most important ways to help prevent injuries is by wearing the proper safety equipment. Encourage students to wear a properly fitted helmet anytime they ride a bike, scooter, skateboard, or rollerblades. Knee pads, elbow pads, and closed-toe shoes can also help protect students during outdoor activities and reduce the risk of injury.

Families can also help students stay safe by reviewing basic outdoor safety rules together. Remind children to look both ways before crossing streets, stay aware of cars and driveways, use sidewalks when available, and avoid distractions such as phones or headphones while riding. Younger children should always have adult supervision or clear safety expectations when playing outside.

As temperatures begin to rise, it is also important to encourage students to take breaks, drink plenty of water, and apply sunscreen during long periods of outdoor play. Staying hydrated and protected from the sun can help students remain healthy, energized, and ready to enjoy spring and summer activities safely.

By focusing on outdoor safety, hydration, and protective equipment, families can help students enjoy an active, healthy, and fun-filled spring and summer season.

Click the pictures below to learn more about bike safety, outdoor play tips, and injury prevention for children and teens!

The Nurse on Call service is a free resource available to Holly families and all Oakland County residents.

Staffed by public health professionals, the service provides expert advice, answers to health-related questions, and guidance on accessing local health related resources. Families can connect with the service Monday through Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm, by calling 800-848-5533 or emailing noc@oakgov.com.

Whether you need help with managing health concerns, navigating public health services, or finding health related resources and support, Nurse on Call is there to assist.

Click the link below for more information!

See the flyer below for more information!

Rx Kids is a free program available to families living in Flint or Pontiac that provides direct financial support to expectant mothers and families with newborns. As the nation’s first community-wide prenatal and infant cash prescription program, Rx Kids offers a one-time $1,500 payment during pregnancy and $500 per month for a baby’s first year, with no income requirements or restrictions on how the money is used. The goal is to support families during one of the most critical and costly times by helping cover essentials like housing, food, childcare, and baby supplies, while also improving maternal and infant health and overall family well-being. Families can enroll during pregnancy or shortly after birth if they live in the City of Flint or Pontiac.

If you have any questions about physical health and your students, please contact Jessica Morantes: 248-328-3028, jessica.morantes@hask12.org

Did you know there is a free resource available to help Oakland County residents find support and services in their community? Oakland Connects is a county program that helps individuals and families connect with local resources that can support everyday needs.

Through Oakland Connects, trained Community Health Workers can help guide residents to services such as food assistance, housing and utility support, health resources, transportation options, and employment programs. Their team works with families to understand their needs and help connect them to the right services across Oakland County.

If your family is looking for support or simply needs help finding the right resource, Oakland Connects is here to help. You can reach the Oakland Connects Helpline at 1-800-848-5533, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m or email ochelpline@oakgov.com.

Sometimes the hardest part is knowing where to start — Oakland Connects can help point you in the right direction.

We’re excited to remind you about Holly Area Youth Assistance (HAYA) - a local, community-driven organization dedicated to strengthening youth and families in our school district. HAYA offers a variety of supports designed to help your student - and your family - thrive.

Here’s how HAYA can help:

• Casework Services: Low-cost, confidential, and short-term counseling and referrals focused on the whole family, not just one incident.

• Scholarships & Assistance Programs: From Skill Building Scholarships (for camps, arts, athletic programs) to a Footwear Program, Musical Instrument Loans, and more — these services can ease financial burdens and help students stay active and engaged.

• Family Education & Parenting Programs: Workshops and classes aimed at supporting positive family growth and healthy communication.

• Seasonal & Community Projects: Back-to-school supplies, holiday giving (Toy Project), and youth recognition — ways to lift up families and celebrate students in our community.

If your student could benefit from counseling support, a scholarship opportunity, or any of HAYA’s helpful programs, you can reach out to them directly: 248-328-3181, office@www.hollyareaya.com

Let’s partner to make sure every Broncho has the support and resources they need to succeed - both in school and at home.

Holly families are encouraged to explore the Emergency Relief Fund through the Water Resources Commissioner and United Way of Southeastern Michigan, designed to help households struggling with water-related expenses.

This program offers up to $2,000 per household to assist with past-due water bills, current bills, and necessary plumbing repairs. Whether families are facing temporary financial hardship or ongoing challenges, the goal is to help ensure continued access to safe and reliable water service.

Families can apply online at https://uwsem.smapply.org/prog/HAP/ or call 844-211-4994 (press 3) for assistance, Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

See the flyer below for more information!

Families in Holly are welcome to take part in Wellness Wednesdays at the Baldwin Center, located at 212 Baldwin Ave, Pontiac, MI.

This weekly event will run every Wednesday from 10:30 am to 1:00 pm, offering a free meal alongside access to a variety of vital resources. Services include showers, laundry facilities, housing support, career assistance, medical services, and more, with additional rotating services available.

Open to all Oakland County residents, Wellness Wednesdays provide a welcoming space to connect with essential health, housing, and employment resources.

See the flyer below for more information!

Holly residents have access to the Western Oakland Transportation Authority (WOTA), a door-to-door public transportation service for adults aged 18+ and their children.

WOTA prioritizes seniors aged 55+, disabled adults, and veterans but is available to all registered adults in the service area. With lift-equipped vehicles, WOTA ensures accessibility for individuals with mobility needs.

For Holly residents, the service extends to nearby areas like Fenton, Grand Blanc, and parts of Flint.

Rides cost $4 per stop, with reduced rates for seniors, disabled individuals, and low-income families, while veterans and their families ride free. Registration is required, and rides must be scheduled at least 48 business hours in advance by calling 248-887-4979.

The Oakland County Foster Closet provides free essentials for children in foster care, adoptive and kinship families, as well as low-income and at-risk youth. Families can receive clothing, shoes, bedding, hygiene items, diapers, school supplies, toys, and even birthday kits at no cost.

If you or someone you know might benefit please call/text 248-419-4487.

Holly Area Schools can submit a referral on your behalf, please contact: Sydney Sinclair, 248-328-3417, sydney.sinclair@hask12.org

Holly families can access a variety of free supports through the Fenton Center of Hope, a community organization dedicated to helping local families in need.

Services include access to a free choice food pantry, baby supplies such as diapers and clothing, short-term housing assistance, pregnancy resources, and family mentoring and counseling. Parenting classes and educational programs are also available to help strengthen and support families.

Families interested in receiving assistance can call 810-620-8167.

See the flyer below for more information!

Access to clean clothes and hygiene essentials is important for every individual and family. Laundromat Love is a community-based resource that partners with local laundromats to help cover the cost of laundry while also offering free hygiene supplies such as soap, shampoo, deodorant, and dental care items.

This program is designed to meet people where they are, offering support in a respectful, welcoming environment. Volunteers are present to connect with individuals and families, helping ensure everyone has access to the resources they need to feel comfortable, confident, and cared for.

Are you in need of assistance? You are not alone and we are here to help.

Looking to build new skills or continue your education? The Oakland Literacy Council offers free adult education opportunities for individuals across Oakland County. Programs include English language learning, GED support, and computer skills development—all designed to meet learners where they are.

Participants can access tutoring on their own schedule, either online or within their community, at no cost. The program also provides ongoing support and encouragement to help individuals reach their personal, educational, and career goals.

See the flyer below for more information!

Oakland County residents have access to free, personalized English language support through the Oakland Literacy Council. This program offers one-on-one tutoring for adults, with flexible scheduling and options for both in-person and virtual learning. Sessions are designed to meet individual needs and help build confidence in reading, writing, and conversation.

Adults ages 18 and older who live, work, or attend school in Oakland County are eligible. This welcoming program is available in multiple languages to ensure accessibility for diverse community members!

See the flyer below for more information!

Attending school every day is essential for academic success and well-being. Students who attend regularly are more likely to stay on track in their classes, build strong relationships, and develop important life skills. Research shows that students who miss just two days per month (about 18 days per year) are significantly more at risk of falling behind and facing challenges from kindergarten through high school graduation.

In fact, chronic absenteeism can lead to a decrease in literacy skills in the early years and lower graduation rates in high school.

We want to partner with you to support positive attendance for every student! If you need assistance with transportation, morning routines, or other concerns, please reach out to your child’s school counselor or social worker—they’re here to help.

Remember: Every Day Counts, Every Broncho Matters!

Check out the information from Attendance Works below!

Let us know your thoughts and what you want to hear about next!

At Holly Area Schools we believe that families aren't just a part of our team, but the heart of it. Thank you for partnering with us in support of your students!

Cheryl Price: 248-328-3230, cheryl.price@hask12.org

Sydney Sinclair: 248-328-3417, sydney.sinclair@hask12.org