Board Briefs is a monthly newsletter published after Board of Education meetings. For additional information, please contact the Communications Department at 591-0852.

At Gates Elementary, fourth grade students have the opportunity in the fall to review 'job descriptions' and 'apply' for various responsibilities at the school. These jobs range from helping younger students with snow gear, greeting students as they enter the building, or performing tasks to help make Gates a great place to learn. Students are selected based on their application, ways in which they follow the Cardinal Code, and commitment to being positive role models for those around them. The students chosen to lead the Pledge of Allegiance at the April Board of Education meeting are members of the school's Flag raising and lowering crew. These students have learned the proper ways in which to raise, lower, and fold the American and Michigan flags, a job that requires great respect. It is truly a joy to see them go out each morning and afternoon with Security Officer Forman to perform this important task.

Thomson Elementary Paraprofessional Mandy Siple has been named as the April recipient of the Kids First award.

Each month, administrators nominate a DCS employee or contracted staff member who best exemplifies what it means to be “Kids First.” Winners receive a $100 Visa gift card thanks to Mark Owen, owner of MEEMIC insurance, and a certificate. The winner is chosen at random.

Amanda was nominated by Thomson Elementary Principal Mr. Andrew Criswell, who wrote:

"I am incredibly excited and wholeheartedly believe that Mandy Siple is an ideal candidate for the Kids First Award. Her dedication and commitment to our students make her an exceptional candidate who truly embodies the spirit of putting "Kids First."

Mandy's consistent reliability is crucial. We can always count on her to be punctual and prepared, providing a critical foundation for our team. Her willingness to help is exceptional; she consistently goes above and beyond to support both students and colleagues.

Mandy serves as a positive role model for all students. Her respectful interactions, positive attitude and strong belief in each student's abilities create a supportive and encouraging atmosphere. She starts each day by greeting students at the front entrance with a genuine smile, setting a positive tone as they begin their school day.

Furthermore, Mrs. Melissa Jones, Resource Room teacher at Thomson, has this to to say about Mandy: 'In addition to supporting students academically and behaviorally, Mandy is a tremendous resource to the team. She is always willing to share ideas and collaborate with colleagues, helping to create a more inclusive and efficient learning environment. Her commitment extends to assisting with preparing student materials and supporting students in all areas, including communication and sensory needs.'

In conclusion, Mandy's reliability, dedication to going above and beyond, critical support for diverse learners, positive role modeling, and collaborative nature make her an exceptionally deserving candidate for the Kids First Award. Her commitment truly puts the needs of our students first, and she is an asset to our Thomson school community!"

Pictured below are Superintendent Matt Lobban, Thomson Elementary Principal Andrew Criswell, Paraprofessional Mandy Siple and Board of Education President Holly Halabicky.

Individuals can be nominated by any DCS staff member. Once a month, an administrator can submit one name for that month's drawing. We are pleased to announce that our winners for April are Carri and Kevin Eisenbeis. They were nominated by Christy Flowers, Principal at Siple Elementary, who wrote:

"Carri and Kevin Eisenbeis have made a significant impact at Siple Elementary. Carri is a retiree of Davison Community Schools, but she has continued to be a regular presence at school. Carri's daughter, Kara Vergison, teaches 1st grade at Siple and Carri comes in to help at different times. Kara plans our Santa's Gift Shop every year. Carri and Kevin help with that all year long and run the weeklong event while Ms. Vergison is teaching. They work to supervise volunteers, help students shop, and make it a positive, magical experience for all. Running this event is not a simple matter. It takes a great deal of organization and time. Carri and Kevin's willingness to dedicate their time to this cause every year means that many children that would not be able to shop for their family members for Christmas are able to do so. Their efforts help students learn about the joy of giving to others. They serve as wonderful examples of how community members can impact our students and school in a powerful, positive manner. I proudly nominate them for the Cardinal Spirit Award and thank them for their dedication to bringing so much happiness to our students."

Pictured below are Superintendent Matt Lobban, Kevin and Carri Eisenbeis, Board President Holly Halabicky and Siple Elementary Principal Christy Flowers.

Davison High School senior Gabrial Martinez has been selected as the Davison Educational Foundation's (DEF) Cardinal Kid for the month of April 2025.

Each month, one student from Davison Community Schools is selected as the Cardinal Kid winner for his/her efforts to better the community. The recipient is honored at a Board of Education meeting and receives a $100 gift card for themselves and $100 to donate to their worthy cause.

Gabrial was nominated by DCER Assistant and Facility Use Coordinator Barbara Jean Peckins-Muszynski, who wrote:

"Gabe is a boy any person would love to have as a son. He is kind, patient, and is always there to help. Gabe became a part of the Actors Playhouse four years ago and has participated in numerous positions within the group. He is always the first to volunteer to help build sets, assist another cast member, mentor, fill in for parts or even direct in some capacity or another. He loves working with our community. He volunteers almost on the weekly basis for jobs at DCER and for the community. Just last week you could see him dressed up as Ken in a Barbie box dancing and taking pictures with the kiddos at DCER's Daddy Daughter Dance. He sang for the elderly for a special holiday performance for the residents and he played Gaston for the Hahn/Middle School Choral Concert. He has done many volunteer performances all over Davison for outside events. Not only is he giving of his time to his community he is also a great role model to our younger generation of performers coming up through the school. He is well loved and I am proud of the young man he is becoming. I know the kiddos in our Actors Playhouse rely on him and look to him for direction and encouragement and he never lets them down. I feel we will see great things in the future from this young man."

Pictured below: Superintendent Matt Lobban, Gabrial, Board President Holly Halabicky and Barbara Jean Peckins-Muszynski.

• Joe Merz, All-State (Singles Runner up) in Bowling
• Steve Vaughn, All-State, Wrestling
• Dominic Perez, All-State (Runner up), Wrestling
• Calvin Martz, All-State, Wrestling
• Tanner McDunnah, All-State (Runner up), Wrestling
• Tobias Pacheco, All-State, Wrestling
• Julius Pacheco, All-State (Runner up) Wrestling,
• Kyle Jelinek, All-State (Runner up), Wrestling
• Brandon Glisson, All-State, Wrestling

We are fortunate to have highly dedicated staff members who work diligently for the benefit of our children and community. Administrators in each building have plans to recognize the contributions of Davison teachers and staff.

A proposal for the purchase and installation of district security camera equipment in the new Davison High School Community, Weight and Wrestling rooms was approved by board members. The Buildings, Grounds and Transportation Committee met on April 11 to review the proposal and recommended awarding the project to Security 101 as part of the bids received through the GISD/GenNET existing competitive-bid process. As part of the GenNET contract pricing, which extends to local school districts, Security 101 will provide security camera equipment and hardware in the amount of $45,327 to be paid for out of bond funds.

The work will be completed by Advance Lighting & Sound of Troy and will include audio visual and sound systems, speakers and video projection screens for the new Davison High School Community Room, Weight Room and Wrestling Room.

The following donations were gratefully acknowledged:

• Suzette Ford donated hats, gloves, socks and various office and classroom supplies to Gates Elementary.
• Renee Duckworth donated a washing machine to a Siple Elementary family.