AGS NEWS

July 9, 2025

AGS Office Staff

Eric Rettenmund, Principal

Zachary Bradley, Assistant Principal

Lisa Wissinger, Dean of Students

Melissa Welsh, Counselor, L.C.N.

Stephanie Miller, Counselor, M.S.W.

Barb Stinson, Secretary

Randi Thorp, Clerk

Dear AGS Families,

I hope this message finds you enjoying a safe, relaxing, and fun-filled summer! As we move through these sunny months, I wanted to take a moment to connect with you and share a few updates as we look ahead to the upcoming school year. We are excited to welcome students back in August with fresh energy and enthusiasm.

Our team is already hard at work preparing for the 2025–2026 school year and construction crews are busy renovations and facility upgrades. The current construction projects, at AGS, include the installation of the exterior metal wrap, updated sprinkler system throughout, and the renovation of the old main office - which include a concession area, special services office, and a new science lab. Due to the ongoing construction we will be modifying our traditional schedule pick-up process. Please find more information in the section below. We appreciate your flexibility and understanding during this time of renovation.

Please keep an eye on your email for future newsletters that contain more details as we get closer to August. Wishing you and your family a joyful and restful remainder of the summer. We can’t wait to see our students’ smiling faces again soon!

Warm Regards,

Eric Rettenmund

Principal

AGS Schedule Pick Up

Schedule Pick-up / Registration / School Photos:

6th GRADE – Thursday, August 7, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

7th GRADE – Friday, August 8, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

8th GRADE – Friday, August 8, Noon – 2:00 PM

** This year's orientation will look different due to building construction taking place. We still plan for students to register, pick up schedules, get pictures taken and receive locker assignments prior to the start of the school year. However, this will all take place in the Cafetorium and Gymnasium.**

It is our goal to open the building the week of August 10th during the day and evenings so students can walk schedules and grow more accustomed to AGS. We will share this schedule once we have a better timeline from our contractors- so be on the lookout for an update!

Tentative Information Stations (based on construction progress)

1. Photo Station - All students should have their picture taken for the yearbook and school ID – even if a packet is not purchased.

2. Food Service/ Meal Magic Information – Food service staff will answer any questions. You can even put money on your account!

3. Transportation Information – Parent drop-off procedure, bus routes/numbers/rules

4. PTO Information – members of the AGS PTO will provide information regarding fundraising and volunteer opportunities. AGS Spirit items for sale!!

5. Schedule Pick – Up - In the event that your child's schedule needs an adjustment there will be a Google Form to complete. Link will be shared.

6. Chromebook Pick - Up - all 6th grade students and new students will receive a chromebook.

7. Supplies Lists - Teacher supplies lists will be made available for families.

*there will be a scheduled picture re-take day, in October, during the school day if you are unable to attend on August 7th or 8th.

Meet Mr. Bradley- AGS Assistant Principal

Greetings AGS Families,

My name is Zachary Bradley, and I’m excited to officially join the team at Andrew G. Schmidt Middle School. After serving as an assistant principal at Fenton High School, I’ve recently transitioned into this role and am looking forward to working alongside you.

Over the past few years, I’ve had the opportunity to be involved in several district-wide efforts. I’ve supported MTSS implementation with a focus on using student data to guide decision-making and improve outcomes. I’ve been part of our District Assessment Literacy Team, helped establish a secondary-level guiding coalition, and have continued working as a liaison with Easterseals MORC and our E3 partnerships to support student mental health and community collaboration.

Outside of school, I spend most of my time with my wife, Angela, and our two daughters, Cecilia and Mabel. We enjoy heading up north, spending time outdoors, and checking out Lake Michigan in the summer. I’m also an avid Detroit sports fan, and I like to cook—especially bake cookies when I get the chance.

I’m truly excited to be part of the AGS community and to support the great work already happening in the building. I’m looking forward to learning from all of you, building relationships, and finding ways to work together in support of our students.

Thanks again for the warm welcome—I’m glad to be here and can’t wait to get started. Enjoy the rest of summer, everyone!

With Gratitude,

Zachary D. Bradley

Back 2 School Resources

Happy Summer AGS Families!

As we get closer to the start of school I wanted to reach out and reintroduce myself. My name is Lauren Underwood and I am your School Home Coordinator. My main goals and focus are making sure that our students and families basic needs are being met so our kids can be the best version of themselves.

If your family is in need of school supplies, backpacks, clothing, food, utility help, getting to school or just plain positive support, I would love for you to reach out to me at ANY time!

My email address: lunderwood@fentonschools.org

School Phone: 810-591-7750

AGS Construction Updates

Below are a few updated photos showing the progress of our bond work and construction. During this There will be more details in the FAPS newsletter and on the FAPS website as the project continues. We are excited about improving the facility for our staff, students, and families.

AGS Exterior

You may have noticed the teal barrier and thought "who picked that color?" The teal sealant is a barrier that was sprayed on the bricks prior to the installment of the metal wrap. The metal fascia will cover the bricks that were spalling and chipping away. AGS will have a brand new look for 2025-26!

Hallway view of new Science Lab

Part of the old main office is being transformed into a new Science Lab for our students.

View into Special Services Office and Concession Area

Special Services will be joining AGS in part of the former office. The addition of a concession area (formerly the principal's office) for athletics and other events can be seen in the background.

New Concession Stand

The new concession stand is located in the main lobby near the gym and cafetorium. It was formerly Mr. Rettenmund's office.

Back to School Pancake Breakfast

We hope you can join us for the annual Back to School Pancake Breakfast. The event will be held at AGS on Sunday, September 7th. The event features FAPS Staff flipping pancakes, photo booth, FAPS Principal Pancake Catching Contest, kids games, and more! We hope to see you there!

*Click on the Blue Button below to purchase tickets in advance