The Husky Hub

Husky families, staff, and community supporters,

It's hard to believe it is already October.

I hope this message finds you and your loved ones well. As the Director of Communications for Benzie Central, I want to take a moment to thank you for the vital role you play in our school community. Your partnership, support, and trust help make our school a place where students can learn, grow, and thrive.

We have added many new faces to our district for the 2026-2027 school year. Please visit our district facebook page and get to know them all.

Parents and community members can get involved by actively participating in various ways. They can attend community meetings, join committees, volunteer their time and skills, provide input and feedback, and support fundraising efforts. Additionally, staying informed through school newsletters, social media, and our district website can help everyone stay connected and engaged in the initiatives. If you have information or photos that you would like shared, please feel free to email me at crossmanc@benzieschools.net

Be sure to follow us on Facebook to catch celebrations throughout the year. It is difficult to share every amazing thing our kids do, but we do our best to recognize as many as possible for their achievements.

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER: (Dates contingent on weather closings)

Lake Ann Elementary Wreath Sale - October 2-November 6

Spirit Week - October 5-9

Early Releases - Parent- Teacher Conferences - October 8&9

Homecoming Parade - October 9 - 5:00 PM

Homecoming Game - October 9 - 7:00 PM

Homecoming Dance - October 10 - 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Board of Education Meeting - October 12 - 7:00 PM

Betsie Valley Elementary Halloween Costume Drive - October 23 - 6:00 PM

Homestead Hills Elementary Book Fair - October 26-30

Homestead Hills Elementary Fall Festival - 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Middle School Halloween Dance - October 30 - 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

End of 1st Marking Period - October 30

Watson Benzie Trunk-or Treat - October 31 - 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

NO SCHOOL - November 2

Board of Education Meeting - November 9 - 7:00 PM

High School Fall Play - Arsenic and Old Lace - November 13 & 14 - 7:00 PM

National Honor Society Versiti Blood Drive - November 24 - 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM - Auditorium Lobby

Engage: Tier Takeover Tournament | Husky Robotics - November 14

If you are not receiving all calls, weather cancellations, the Friday Video, please contact your students main office and be sure your most recent contact information is on file. Closures and delays can also be found on our local news channels, WTCM, our district facebook page, as well as our website, www.benzieschools.net. Winter is right around the corner.

Please remember that you can keep up with your student(s) academic status as well as attendance within our student information system, PowerSchool. If you do not yet have an account set up, we encourage you to do so. You can create an account by accessing the following link: https://northwested.org/public/. Thank you, and remember the importance of attending classes every day from preschool to the 12th grade.

**Please be sure to visit our website for all of our recent job postings.

https://benzieschools.net/district/employment/

My commitment is to keep you informed, engaged, and connected, and to strive to share timely and accurate information, celebrate student and staff achievements, and communicate openly about what is happening in our classrooms and across our campus. Clear communication is essential to a strong school community, and we value your feedback and involvement.

I continue to facilitate the celebration of our student and district successes, all while encouraging continued growth.

Go Huskies!

Be connected...Stay connected!

All the best,

Catina

____________________________________

Catina M. Crossman

Executive Assistant to the Superintendent

Board of Education Administrative Assistant

Talent Management Administrative Assistant

Director of Communications

School of Choice Coordinator

Pupil Accounting Specialist

Benzie Central Alumni Committee

crossmanc@benzieschools.net

P 231-882-9653 . Ext. 2001 .|. F 231-882-9121

Hello Husky families, staff, students, and community supporters,

Our first marking period is flying by! Parent Teacher Conferences marked the halfway point of our first marking period! It is hard to believe how quickly October is going! Thank you to all of our families that were able to join us and meet with teachers. We believe parents are their child's first and best teacher. We understand the value and importance of having a strong partnership with families. We want to work together to support you and your child. We are so appreciative of the partnership.

As a reminder, our District is starting year 2 of our Strategic Plan. The 3 goal areas for our Strategic Plan are Communication, Attendance (Belonging), and Instruction.

Communication is a key! We are committed to reaching out to families to notify you of important information, upcoming events, concerns involving your child, and sharing academic information. This goal will be achieved through weekly newsletters or communication from school buildings and teaching staff. We also will share weekly phone call updates and Friday Facebook Posts about District information. We also will have Middle School and High School students send home emails each Monday to provide an update on grades and any missing assignments. All students will have quarterly report cards and progress reports.

We want to know when you have questions or concerns. If you are having a problem or need information, we ask that you start by contacting your child's teacher, then the principal, and then the superintendent. Your child matters and we want to work together to ensure they are getting the support they need to reach their full potential. Thanks for your willingness to partner with us.

Our Strategic Plan Goal on instruction is based on diagnostic assessment data and classroom data. Academic data will be collected using i-Ready for grades K-8 and NWEA will be used for students in grades 9-12. We will also use SELWeb data and SSIS to help learn about our non-academic skills. These reports were shared at Parent Teacher Conferences. If you did not receive this information, please reach out to your child's school office.

As the Superintendent of Benzie County Central Schools, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for all your support! We could not do it without our community partners and parents. We appreciate your trust in helping ensure the next generation reaches their highest potential and can become responsible, thriving community members!

Sincerely,

Amiee Erfourth

Superintendent

Benzie County Central Schools

Benzie Inspires Greatness • Connects Community • Cultivates Learning • Shapes Tomorrow

Understanding School Funding Ballot Proposals:

There are 2 Benzie School Proposals that will appear on the November 3 election ballot: (1) Operating Millage (2) Sinking Fund Millage

Should you have questions regarding either ballot proposal, please contact:

Amiee Erfourth, Superintendent at erfourtha@benzieschools.net or 231-882-9653

or

Danielle Banasiak, Director of Finance at banasiakd@benzieschools.net or 231-882-9653 Ext. 3

School security is our top priority at Benzie Central. Please see the protocols below that we have implemented to maximize the safety of our students, staff, and community visitors during the school day and at events:

1) Visitors to the school:

All parents and visitors must stop by the main office of their child's school to sign in and get permission before proceeding further into the school building. This includes arrival and dismissal. Please schedule an appointment if you would like to speak with a teacher about grades or other topics. Teachers use the time before school to prepare for students to arrive and class start.

2) Drills:

The State of Michigan requires all schools to hold safety drills each school year. We practice fire drills, tornado drills, secure mode drills, and lockdown drills to ensure that the students and staff are prepared and know how to respond in the case of an emergency.

3) Bark Alerts:

School administrators and guidance counselors receive a Bark Alert whenever a student records unsafe comments on their Chromebook or school email. This allows us to follow up and provide the necessary support needed. Parents are notified when these alerts impact their child(ren).

4) OK2SAY: We partner with OK2SAY, a student safety program that allows students to confidentially report tips on potential harm or criminal activities directed at students, school employees, and schools. Presenters from OK2SAY have been onsite to hold assemblies to encourage our students to come forward if they hear about students threatening harm to themselves or others. Students (or adults) can submit confidential tips by texting 652729 (OK2SAY), calling 8-555-OK2SAY (855-565-2729), or reporting online at https://ok2say.state.mi.us/ School administrators, guidance counselors, and our School Resource Officer (Officer McKinley or Deputy Maul) will follow up swiftly on these reports. We encourage students (and families) if you see something, say something.

5) School safety assessments:

We have a team of trained staff that can be brought together quickly to review any potentially harmful or concerning statements or situations. This group is comprised of administrators, school resource officers, counselors, Northwest Education staff members, and other staff members who are critical to supporting the student. Parents are contacted and part of the plan when it impacts their student.

Should you have any questions about safety or security, please contact the administrator of your child's building as they can best answer questions about their building's procedures.

Thank you for partnering with us to keep Benzie Central a safe environment for students to learn, grow, and thrive!

Our elementary schools use the following definitions when discussing student behaviors.

Mean Moment- These are events that are on purpose, hurtful, one sided, and one time events.

Peer Conflict- These incidents involve two peers that are engaging in similar, hurtful behavior. It may occur occasionally.

Bullying- This is repeated hurtful behavior that is intentional, one-sided, and includes a power imbalance (older student towards a younger student, 2 students against one student, etc).

Incidents are addressed by having students identify the behavior by completing a think sheet to help them process the choice made and how they could have handled it differently along with what they can do to repair the harm. These reflections are typically done with a trained adult. Students can also participate in a restorative conversation with others that were impacted. Additional consequences are outlined in the student handbook and range from removal from the activity to in-school suspension or out of school suspension. Administrators are required by State Law to review 7 factors before suspending or expelling a student.

Benzie Central Sr. High School earned high National and metro-area rankings in 2026-2027 Best High Schools, which U.S. News published on Tuesday.

By earning a national ranking in the top 40%, Benzie Central Sr. High School achieved status as a U.S. News Best High School.

Overview of Benzie Central Sr. High School
Benzie Central Sr. High School is ranked 190th within Michigan. Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement® coursework and exams. The AP® participation rate at Benzie Central Sr. High School is 15%, and the 12th grade enrollment is 58 students. Additionally, 50% of students in the school are economically disadvantaged.

https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/michigan/districts/benzie-county-central-schools/benzie-central-sr-high-school-9730

Congratulations to the staff and students at Benzie Central High School.

The U.S. News and World Report published their 2026 Best Elementary Schools, and the news is good for Lake Ann Elementary School: Our school placed among the top 40% of elementary schools in the state of Michigan, making it a U.S. News Best Elementary School.

Here’s a look at what was published about our school, including its new ranking(s):

https://www.usnews.com/education/k12/michigan/school-217780.

Do you love interacting with people? Have you ever considered serving your local community in a meaningful way? Do you enjoy challenges and making a difference in the lives of children? If so, Benzie County Central Schools just might be what you have been looking for!

https://benzieschools.net/district/employment/

Benzie County Chamber of Commerce

Chambers of Commerce are not-for-profit 501c6 organizations whose members are comprised of business owners, community leaders, and other community stakeholders. The Benzie Chamber of Commerce focuses on advocacy in the Benzie County area through the business lens and is actively advocating Housing Initiatives, Broadband Initiatives, Legislative Policy and so much more as it relates to our community. On a larger scale, as a member of the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance, the Benzie Area Chamber of Commerce is a partner in Legislative Advocacy for rural, Northern Michigan.

Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department

Community Connections is a free program that provides assistance connecting resources to adults, children, and families. Services are provided with supportive phone calls, office visits, and home visits by a community health worker, nurse, and/or social worker.

Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency (NMCAA)

Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency is a proud supporter of Benzie County. Our programs are available to Benzie County residents in all of the towns and surrounding areas such as Benzonia, Frankfort, Beulah, Thompsonville, Honor, Elberta, Lake Ann, and Hardwood Acers.

Grow Benzie - Benzie County Human Services Collaborative Body (HSC)

The Benzie County Human Services Collaborative (HSC) (formally the Benzie County Human Services Collaborative Body HSCB) was established in 1989 to facilitate greater coordination among service organizations to support and serve low income families and children in Benzie County.

Benzie Senior Resources

At Benzie Senior Resources, we provide an extensive suite of programs and services, from affordable care in your home to activities that engage and nourish connections. Our Benzie County community is at the core of all we do. Helping Benzie Seniors navigate the aging process through education, enrichment, and a caring smile is why we exist. When it matters…We’re here. How can we help? Call (231) 525-0600

Benzie Area Christian Neighbors (BACN)

In In 1983 the Benzie County worship communities joined together to serve Neighbors struggling with critical human needs. Since those humble beginnings Benzie Area Christian Neighbors (BACN) has transformed from a charity providing basic needs to a community nurturing the spirit of those they serve.

Mrs. Mullen's Closet

Mrs. Mullen’s Closet for Benzie County was set up in memory of Dyanne Mullen, a principal at Hart Public Schools and part time resident at Crystal Mountain. Dyanne was instrumental in making sure all students in her building had necessary clothing all year. When Dyanne passed away in 2010, Mrs. Mullen’s Closet was started in her memory to continue to help students in Hart.

Baby Pantry- St. Philip's Episcopal Church

Lake Ann United Methodist Church Food Pantry

Open at the church in Lake Ann, next to Stone Oven (park in the back parking lot and use back door entrance) on:

Tuesday’s 9am - 12pm
Wednesday’s 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Thursday’s 9am - 12pm

Any questions can be directed to the LAUMC office at (231) 275 - 7236.

Benzie Bus

(231) 325-3000

Benzie Bus connects people of all ages and abilities to our community and promotes independence and prosperity through a safe and convenient public transit system.

Help.Org

Our Our mission is to provide support for people who are dealing with substance abuse and addiction. We do this through our comprehensive resources and guides, and connecting people with the right treatment programs.

mission is to provide support for people who are dealing with substance abuse and addiction. We do this through our comprehensive resources and guides, and connecting people with the right treatment programs.

If your community organization would like to be added to the Husky Hub, please contact Catina.

$150.00 Daily Rate

$175.00 Designated Building Subs

Apply today!

https://signup.willsub.com/index.asp?fuseaction=start.show_requirements&fbclid=IwAR2XEa0F7oqi8rUDW7mZn-_0sarQJHR-GpUyijWp7kZUvffvDms2mL1e1QM

MISSION

The mission of Benzie Central is to provide a high-quality education in a safe and inclusive environment that empowers every learner to reach their fullest potential.

VISION

Benzie Inspires Greatness

Connects Community

Cultivates Learning

Shapes Tomorrow

BELIEFS

Beliefs About Students

• We believe that each child can thrive in a positive, safe, respectful and inclusive learning environment that nurtures their growth and curiosity.
• We believe each student has the right to learn, achieve their personal greatness, and become responsible citizens.

Beliefs About Staff

• We believe our staff are dedicated professionals who build strong relationships through effective communication, collaboration, and care.
• We believe that our commitment to collective responsibility fosters a culture where everyone feels valued, supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Beliefs About Community

• We believe effective communication and collaboration with families and the community build trust and strengthen our schools.
• We believe a strong Benzie Central School Community supports student success through partnerships, engagement, and shared responsibility.

Email: erfourtha@benzieschools.net
Website: www.benzieschools.net
Location: 9300 Homestead Rd. Benzonia, MI. 49616
Phone: 231-882-9653

The Husky Hub is from the desk of Mrs. Catina Crossman.

Go Huskies!

Email: crossmanc@benzieschools.net
Website: www.benzieschools.net
Location: 9300 Homestead Road, Benzonia, MI, USA
Phone: 231-882-9653 Ext. 2001
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/benzieschools