The Highlighter - September 2025

Dear St. Johns Families, Staff and Community,

Welcome to a new school year! September is always an exciting time filled with new opportunities for learning, growth, and connection. Our dedicated staff have been hard at work preparing to provide engaging instruction and supportive environments where every student can thrive.

As we begin this year together, I want to thank you for your continued support. The strength of St. Johns Public Schools comes from the collaboration between our families, staff, and community members, all working toward the shared goal of student success. We look forward to celebrating achievements, overcoming challenges, and creating memorable experiences throughout the year ahead.

Thank you for your commitment to our students and for all you do to support our schools. Here’s to a positive and productive start to the 2025–26 school year!

With gratitude,

Dr. Anthony Berthiaume

Superintendent

St. Johns Public Schools

Mistie Mckane is essential to the success of students at Eureka Elementary School, serving as the school secretary.

How did you get started in your current role?

"While staying home and raising my two boys, I was asked to cover for an absence in

East Olive’s cafeteria. Next thing I knew I was subbing for recess duty regularly at

Gateway and in the elementary cafeterias. As years lapsed, I found myself subbing at

all the schools, doing a maternity leave at Adventure Club, and a long-term Secretary

position for East Essex, which ran into a support position for Kindergarten at East

Essex. I passed on the Secretary position at East Essex but found myself interviewing

the following year for the Eureka Secretary position. I’m at the very same desk in my

17th year now. I hope to put in 20 years here at Eureka as long as the community keeps

sending students our way."

What is a typical day like at your job?

"A typical day looks like a juggling circus act that’s been perfected over time. When I

was home raising my boys, I regularly asked myself, how parents that work outside the

home get everything done. Now, I find myself asking how the larger elementaries get

through their day."

What is your favorite part of the job?

"What I love most about working at Eureka is the size. Our building is small enough that

we can all get to know each other on a more personal level. But mostly, I know my

families! I’ve always felt Eureka is exactly where God needs me to be. Eureka – It’s

Worth the Drive!"

On September 8th, our dedicated 5th grade teacher at Oakview South Elementary School, John Ferden was honored as the August Teacher of the Month! This special recognition was presented by State Representative Penelope Tsernoglou, who travels across the 75th House District to award deserving teachers with this award.

Mr. Ferden was the first teacher recognized in 2025 and was chosen for “going above and beyond for your students, each and every year, making the classroom a welcoming environment for every student and providing the necessary resources for them to succeed and grow.”

Congratulations Mr. Ferden!

Since Teddy joined SJMS in April, he has made numerous friends and continues to grow through his training each day. He is proving to be a tremendous support for both students and staff at St. Johns Middle School, achieving impressive grades so far!

With so many exciting developments happening daily, the middle school staff decided to create a dedicated page for all things Teddy. The purpose of this facility dog program is to increase school engagement, provide comfort, and enhance positive school culture. The new page aims to highlight the incredible journey that lies ahead.

This program is made possible thanks to the generous support of French/Silm/Weber Agency Farm Bureau Insurance. A heartfelt thank you to Canines for Change for partnering with us to provide training and assistance.

The new book vending machine at Oakview South is part of a Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports system (PBIS) that is used to improve student behavior and academic outcomes by teaching and reinforcing positive behaviors rather than primarily relying on punishment.

When students exhibit good behavior, they get a reward, in the form of Behavior Bucks. Students can then use these "Bucks" for chances at prizes (including the book vending machine). In addition, every student gets to pick a book from the machine on their birthday.

Principal Alspaugh heard about the vending machine and its success from another school's principal and decided to reach out to the company. "I'm constantly looking for ways to promote positive behavior and I thought students would love this idea. As an educator, I loved the idea of a machine that promotes a love of reading and positive behavior. Nothing warms my heart more than watching a student be so excited to read!"

The machine is funded from both funds made in school book fairs and from school budget savings. "The machine so far has been a huge hit for students. I love watching them stop on their way to recess to talk with their friends on what book they want to get. It is by far the most popular prize that they can win for behavior bucks."

St. Johns Middle School is proud to share that our Assistant Principal, Jim Matice, has been nominated for The Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP) Assistant Principal of the Year Award! This honor recognizes school leaders who demonstrate excellence in leadership, a commitment to student success, the ability to foster positive relationships, and dedication to supporting both students and staff.

Mr. Matice exemplifies these qualities every day. He is an outstanding mentor to students, always guiding them with care and encouragement while creating opportunities for growth. His unwavering support of colleagues makes him a trusted partner and a valued leader in our school community. Known for his great sense of humor, he builds strong relationships that make students and staff alike feel seen, supported, and valued. Mr. Matice ensures that school is not only a place of learning but also a place of joy and connection.

We are thrilled to see his hard work and dedication recognized through this well-deserved nomination!

Construction of a new greenhouse for the Agricultural Program at SJHS began this summer. A cement slab was poured, and the necessary water and electricity were installed. The building is conveniently connected to the Agricultural classrooms, making it easily accessible. The structure, measuring 30 by 44 feet, was constructed by the maintenance team using durable plastic. While a few items are still to be set up, the greenhouse is expected to significantly enhance the hands-on, lab-based classes. The building and funding for the Agricultural Program were generously donated by AgroLiquid.

The Varsity girls swim and dive team welcomes some fresh yet familiar faces at the forefront this season. Andy Murray, a proud SJ Swim alumnus, steps in as the head coach for his inaugural year. Joining him are assistant coaches Zeke Ely and Chris Brewbaker, along with diving coach Jessica Salters, all of whom are alumni and former Redwing swimmers and divers.

"The swim and dive team is off to a great start this season. The team nearly doubled in size compared to last year. 10 freshmen provide young talent and senior captains Sydnie Billings, Madison Carlson and Kelseigh Schalow have done a get job leading the young team." - Coach Murray

It's Homecoming Week! Check out the HS Newsletter for information and details regarding the game, the dance, spirit week, and more. GO REDWINGS!