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The Gladiator Gazette Summer Update

July 15, 2026

The Gladiator Gazette Summer Update July 15, 2026
The Gladiator GazetteSummer UpdateJuly 15, 2026

Operational Millage Renewal on the August 4 Ballot Operational Millage Renewal on the August 4 Ballot

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Fowlerville Community Schools has a non-homestead operational millage renewal proposal on the Tuesday, August 4, 2026, ballot. Polls will be open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.


This is a renewal of the existing non-homestead operating millage, not a new tax. The proposal is for four years, covering 2027 through 2030. The millage applies to property that is not exempt from local school operating taxes. Primary residences are not taxed by this local school operating millage.


Revenue from the non-homestead operational millage helps fund the district’s day-to-day operations, including staffing, instructional supplies, utilities, transportation and other regular school expenses. Michigan’s school funding system assumes districts will levy this millage in order to receive their full per-pupil foundation allowance.


The district will continue sharing factual information with families, staff and the community before the election. Additional information is available on the district’s website.

Alternate Busing Forms Due by July 31 Alternate Busing Forms Due by July 31

If your student(s) will need to be picked up from or dropped off at a location other than your home during the 2026-27 school year, you must complete an Alternate Busing Form. All previously completed forms expired on June 5, 2026. A fully completed form is required for each student. All listed quidelines must be met, and families must provide a consistent transportation schedule, which may include submitting a calendar for the school year.


Completed forms can be emailed to Elizabeth Gullett or dropped off at the Transportation Department. All forms must be received by July 31, 2026.

Schools of Choice Open Enrollment Schools of Choice Open Enrollment

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Fowlerville Community Schools is accepting Schools of Choice applications for the 2026-2027 school year.


The Board has approved participation in the Schools of Choice program with openings for grades Kindergarten through grade 12. Applications are currently being accepted and will close at the end of the business day on Friday, August 28, 2026.


Families from surrounding communities who are interested in Fowlerville Community Schools are encouraged to apply. Additional information is available through the district office and on the district website.

New to Fowlerville? Enroll Now for the 2026-27 School Year New to Fowlerville? Enroll Now for the 2026-27 School Year

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Fowlerville Community Schools is enrolling new students for the 2026-27 school year. Families can call 517.223.6060 to set up an appointment. Appointment hours are currently Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday from 7:00 AM - 1:00 PM. After August 10, all enrollments can be done at the building your student will be attending.


Required enrollment documents include: certified copy of your child's birth certificate, immunization records, dental examination record (Kindergarten only) and vision examination record (Kindergarten only). For proof of residency, we will also need a current driver's license or lease agreement AND either a utility bill, vehicle insurance document, homeowners insurance statement, bank statement or medical/health insurance statement.


We look forward to welcoming you and your student(s) to the Gladiator Family!

Extended Summer Learning Opportunities Extended Summer Learning Opportunities

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i-Ready MyPath lessons remain available online for K–8 students through mid-August as an optional summer learning resource. MyPath provides personalized reading and math lessons that meet students where they are, give practice at the right level, and help strengthen important academic skills over time. This is one of the extended learning opportunities FCS makes available during the summer for families who would like their students to stay engaged and continue building confidence before the new school year begins. Students can access i-Ready MyPath lessons by logging into Clever with their Google account password.

Homeschool Families: Fowlerville Can Be a Partner Homeschool Families: Fowlerville Can Be a Partner

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Fowlerville Community Schools recognizes that families make different educational choices for their children. For some families, homeschooling is the right fit. Even when a family chooses to homeschool, FCS can still be a partner and a resource.


The district offers homeschool families opportunities to connect with FCS through elective courses, activities and school programs. Depending on grade level, student interest, schedule availability and enrollment requirements, homeschool students may be able to explore options such as art, music, physical education, library, band, world languages, theater, robotics, computers and other electives. Students enrolled in electives may also be able to participate in related clubs and after-school activities.


FCS also offers online learning options, including both full-time and part-time options, for families who may be looking for a flexible learning model connected to Fowlerville Community Schools. These options may be helpful for families who want access to district programming while still maintaining a learning plan that fits their student’s needs.


All students, including homeschool students, may also participate in Fowlerville Community Recreation programs. Program fees may apply. In addition, homeschool students may be eligible to participate in MHSAA-approved athletics if they meet applicable eligibility requirements, including being enrolled at least 66% of the school day.


FCS is continuing to explore flexible learning opportunities and ways to better connect homeschool families with district programs, enrichment opportunities, and community resources. Our goal is not to replace a family’s homeschool plan, but to provide support where the district can be helpful.


Families who are interested in learning more are encouraged to reach out. Questions may be directed to Adva Ringle, Assistant Superintendent of Academics. Families may also contact the building principal for their child’s grade level to discuss available options and next steps.

District Budget, Staffing and the State Budget Update District Budget, Staffing and the State Budget Update

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Fowlerville Community Schools continues to plan carefully around student enrollment, state funding, staffing and long-term financial stability. The Board of Education and district administration have been reviewing budget information throughout the spring and summer as part of the 2026-2027 planning process.


The Board adopted the district’s 2026-2027 budget on June 29, 2026, using the best information available at the time. Since then, the State of Michigan has adopted the final state budget, and the district is reviewing the impact for Fowlerville Community Schools.


FCS has also been using a tiered budget planning process to identify reductions, cost controls and possible revenue enhancing options. The purpose of that process is to help the district make thoughtful decisions, protect student needs as much as possible and maintain long-term financial stability.


We will continue to monitor student enrollment, staffing needs and other financial factors as the new school year approaches.

FCS Participating in SUN Meals To-Go Program for the Summer FCS Participating in SUN Meals To-Go Program for the Summer

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Fowlerville Community Schools is participating in the SUN Meals To-Go program during Summer 2026. This U.S. Department of Agriculture funded program provides free meals to children and teens age 18 and under. Meals are available to all children in the community. Meal packs include both breakfast and lunch. Seven-day meal pack pickup is available at:


Fowlerville Elementary School
420 North Hibbard St.
Fowlerville, MI 48836


Pickup is scheduled for Tuesdays from 12:00 -2:00 PM.


Families are encouraged to take advantage of this free summer meal opportunity. No child needs to be enrolled in Fowlerville Community Schools to participate.

K-12 Open House and Information Fair K-12 Open House and Information Fair

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Fowlerville Community Schools will host its K-12 Open House on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, from 4:30-6:00 PM.


This is an important opportunity for students and families to visit K-12 buildings, meet staff, learn more about the upcoming school year and gather helpful back-to-school information. Families should watch for final building-level details, including times, parking information, classroom visit procedures and any additional activities connected to the Information Fair.


The district is also planning to include community partners and school-related groups as part of the back-to-school experience. More details will be shared as the date gets closer.

Book Bus and Summer Reading Book Bus and Summer Reading

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The Fowlerville Community Schools' Book Bus continues to support summer reading and access to books for children in our community.


The Book Bus has been part of summer community events and is scheduled to be at the Fowlerville Family Fair Kids’ Day on Wednesday, July 29, 2026. Families are encouraged to stop by, choose a book for summer reading, say hello, ask questions about the non-homestead millage renewal or request Schools of Choice enrollment information.


Little Glad Early Childhood Center is also serving as a collection site for gently used children’s books. Donated books will be redistributed through the Book Bus to help put more books in the hands of young readers across the community.

Freshman Orientation Scheduled for August 19 Freshman Orientation Scheduled for August 19

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Incoming freshman and their family members are encouraged to join us for Freshman Orientation on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 3:30 PM in the Alverson Performing Arts Center. We are excited to welcome the Class of 2030 to Fowlerville High School.

New This Year: Senior Painted Parking Spots! New This Year: Senior Painted Parking Spots!

Fowlerville High School is excited to announce a new opportunity for the Class of 2027 - Senior Painted Parking Spots! Seniors can personalize their own parking space while supporting a senior class fundraiser. We can't wait to see our seniors' creativity on display!

Junior High Fall Sports Junior High Fall Sports

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The start of the school year is just around the corner. As a reminder, Fowlerville Junior High offers sport opportunities in volleyball and cross country starting the first week of school. All students must have an MHSAA sports physical on file in Final Forms or the Athletic Office prior to starting practice or trying out. All students (grades 6-8) can participate in cross country. Girls in grades 7 & 8 may participate in tryouts for volleyball. Specific dates and times for practices will be announced in the coming weeks.


Students in grades 6-8 interested in playing football can find information through the Recreation Department.

Little Glad Early Childhood Updates Little Glad Early Childhood Updates

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Fall Enrollment

Little Glad Early Childhood Center is continuing enrollment for the 2026-27 school year. Families looking for high-quality early childhood programs are encouraged to contact the center to learn more about available preschool and GSRP opportunities.


For enrollment information or to schedule a tour, please contact Molly at 517-223-6496 or Emily at 517-223-6493. Little Glad Early Childhood Center looks forward to welcoming new families this fall and continuing to provide a safe, caring and engaging environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive.

Summer Programs in Full Swing

While planning for fall is underway, Little Glad's summer programs are in full swing! Children have been making lasting memories through exciting water days, creative art projects, engaging in-house assemblies—including a live theater performance—foam parties, and hands-on learning experiences each day. The classrooms and outdoor spaces have been filled with laughter, exploration and opportunities for children to learn through play all summer long.

Seeking Book Donations for the FCS Book Bus

Little Glad Early Childhood Center is also serving as a collection site for the Fowlerville Community Schools' Book Bus. Families are invited to donate gently used children's books by dropping them off at the Little Glad Early Childhood Center. Books will be redistributed throughout our community, helping put quality books into the hands of young readers and encouraging a lifelong love of reading.

Transportation is Coming to our GSRP Program Transportation is Coming to our GSRP Program

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We are excited to share that transportation will be available for our Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) program during the upcoming school year!


To help us plan routes and better meet the needs of our families, we are asking all GSRP families to complete a brief survey regarding their transportation needs for the upcoming school year. Please complete the survey as soon as possible. Your prompt response will help our transportation department begin planning routes and ensure we are able to provide the best possible service for our students.


If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Molly Moulton.

Updates from the Athletics Department Updates from the Athletics Department

Golden Guest Pass

The District offers a Golden Guest Pass for residents age 62 and older. The pass admits qualifying residents to most athletic and school events free of charge.


Residents who qualify do not need the pass to enter, but they should be prepared to show a valid ID. The Golden Guest Pass is one way FCS recognizes and thanks qualified community members for their continued support of our students and schools. Passes can be picked up at Central Office or the High School Athletic Office.

Athletics Year-in-Review 2025-26

An Athletics Year-in-Review 2025-26 brochure has been developed to share the success of our high school athletic programs. Additional copies are available at either the Athletics Office at the high school or at Central Office.

Fall High School Sports Starting Soon

High school Fall sports will start on Monday, August 10, 2026. All participants must have an up-to-date physical on file for the first day of practice. If you have questions, you can contact the appropriate coach:

  • Football - Zack Douglass
  • Soccer - Jason Sperry
  • Volleyball - Michelle Hardenbrook
  • Girls Cross Country - Amy Maurer
  • Boys Cross Country - Barry Kloenhamer
  • Girls Golf - Brent Goulding
  • Sideline Cheer - Madalyn Donal

Performing Arts Camps a Success Performing Arts Camps a Success

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Thank you to those who attended our summer theatre camps! At the Get the Gig! camp, our teens made significant strides toward memorable auditions. Each student walked away with a self-taped audition, featuring a new monologue tailored to them. All of the students worked incredibly hard, and we are proud of their progress and artistry.


Stay tuned for more workshops coming this fall!

Upcoming Events at the Fowlerville District Library Upcoming Events at the Fowlerville District Library

There are several upcoming events at the Fowlerville District Library that provide local students the opportunity to practice reading, enjoy a magic show and sell their handmade crafts. Be sure to check out these event and many more at the Fowlerville District Library!

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What's Coming up in our Schools What's Coming up in our Schools

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July

  • 21 - SUN Meals To-Go Pick Up, Fowlerville Elementary, 12:00 - 2:00 PM
  • 28 - SUN Meals To-Go Pick Up, Fowlerville Elementary, 12:00 - 2:00 PM
  • 29 - Fowlerville Book Bus at the Fowlerville Fairgrounds Kids Day
  • 31 - Alternate Bus Forms for the 2026-27 SY Due to Transportation Department

August

  • 4 - FCS Non-Homestead Operational Millage Election, Polls Open 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • 4 - SUN Meals To-Go Pick Up, Fowlerville Elementary, 12:00 - 2:00 PM
  • 10 - First day for fall High School sports to begin
  • 11 - Last SUN Meals To-Go Pick Up, Fowlerville Elementary, 12:00 -2:00 PM
  • 18 - Staff First Day/ Professional Development
  • 19 - FHS Freshman Orientation, Alverson Performing Arts Center, 3:30 PM
  • 19 - K-12 Open Houses (all buildings) & Information Fair, 4:30-6:00 PM
  • 24 - First day of school for students
  • 27 - First home Varsity Football game vs. Waverly, 7:00 PM
Fowlerville Community Schools
www.fowlervilleschools.org
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