The Au Gres-Sims School District

Hey AGS Nation,

What has two thumbs and says Gooooo Wolverines?

If you haven’t heard…This week, we focused on the P2 strength of Humor. When you walk the halls of AGS, you can hear it everywhere. Students are laughing, learning, and enjoying being part of our school. Our staff incorporate humor into their daily lessons, and that little bit of laughter helps create a positive environment where students feel comfortable, engaged, and ready to learn. It strengthens relationships between students and staff and helps take some of the stress out of the school day.

Throughout our school and community, humor brings people together. Whether it’s at events, in the hallways, or during activities, those shared moments of laughter help strengthen our connections and build that sense of belonging we value at AGS.

In everyday life, humor helps us keep things in perspective. It lifts our mood, reduces stress, and reminds us not to take everything too seriously. At AGS, we know that when we can laugh together, we grow stronger together as a Wolverine family.

Thanks & have a great Spring Break Wolverines!

As we move through March, our focus continues to center on strong instruction, thoughtful preparation, and supporting the whole child. From reviewing benchmark data and refining lessons to prioritizing student well-being and consistent attendance, our staff is working intentionally to ensure every student is ready for success. With state assessments approaching after spring break, this is an important time in our school year. In this edition, we are sharing information directly from the Michigan Department of Education to help families better understand what these assessments are, what they measure, and how they support student learning.

Education Assessment: What It is, What It Means, and What It Offers

Strive for Fewer than Five: Attendance Matters

As we approach spring break, we encourage everyone to take time to rest, recharge, and enjoy the change of season. Warmer weather and longer days provide a great opportunity to get outside, enjoy nature, and step away from daily routines. Whether it’s spending time with family and friends, getting fresh air, or simply slowing down, these moments can help students, families, and staff reset both mentally and physically. A refreshed mindset can make a meaningful difference as we head into the final two months of school, an important stretch where focus, effort, and consistency truly matter.

“Stay-cation” Family Fun

Staying home for break? Staying home doesn't have to mean a repeat of the daily grind; in fact, a family "stay-cation" is the perfect opportunity to create new family memories together.

• Culinary fun: Themed international dishes each night from around the world, including cultural music and making festive place mats. Have your child choose a place from around the world to research their cultural foods. Then, going to the store together to gather the ingredients, making the recipes together, and having your child serve the rest of the family.

• “Camp-out” in the living room making a “tent” fort, a pretend campfire and a smores’ fondue.

• Backyard Bootcamp: Set up fun fitness stations in the yard with music for the whole family

• Dress warm and cook and eat dinner around a backyard campfire

• Scavenger Hunt

• Touring your home town and the fun sights

• Go on a nature walk

• Minute-to-win it games & board games

• Charades

• Paint and illustrate together

• Create an “Escape Room” game at home

Mental Health Matters

Spring break is not just a break from school—it’s a chance to recharge mentally and emotionally.

Encourage your child to:

• Spend time outdoors and get some fresh air

• Take a break from screens when possible

• Connect with friends and family

• Do something they enjoy (reading, drawing, sports, etc.)

Even small moments of relaxation can make a big difference.

Looking Ahead: Testing Season

After spring break, many students (Grades 3–11) will begin state testing. You can help prepare by:

• Keeping consistent sleep schedules during break

• Encouraging reading or light academic practice

• Promoting a positive mindset about doing their best

More detailed testing information will be shared soon!

Counselor’s Corner

Spring is a time of growth, and this is a great opportunity for students to reset, reflect, and come back ready to finish the school year strong. If your child needs support—academically, socially, or emotionally—please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Wishing all of our students and families a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable spring break!