Shepherd Middle BlueJay Bulletin

April 26, 2026
From the Principal's Desk:
I hope everyone had an enjoyable weekend. For those who attended the Maple Syrup Festival, the weather certainly cooperated. I had the opportunity to spend some time at the rides with my children, and while there, a few carnival workers talked with me after noticing I had been speaking with different groups of our students. Once they learned of my role in Shepherd, they shared how friendly our students had been. It was a proud reminder that we have good kids!
Last week, our 7th grade students visited the CTE programs in Mount Pleasant. This experience provided valuable insight into the wide range of opportunities available to them as they begin thinking about their high school paths.
This week, our 8th grade students will wrap up state testing with the Science and Social Studies M-STEP assessments. We appreciate their continued effort and focus throughout the testing season.
As we move through the week, we are encouraging students to view perseverance not as a one-time act, but as a lifelong habit. Whether working through a challenging task or learning from setbacks, persistence helps build both confidence and character.
Try this at home: Challenge your family to a “perseverance day” by choosing a task to work through together, even when it becomes difficult.
Reminder: No School Tomorrow-Monday April 27.
Upcoming Dates
April 27 - No School - Staff PD
May 25 - No School - Memorial Day
June 4 - Last Day of School- Half Day
Counselor's Corner
Blooming Through Exposure 🌸
This week, we explore exposure therapy, a way to help children gradually face fears and anxiety-provoking situations. Rather than avoiding discomfort, exposure teaches them that fears can be managed safely, building confidence and resilience over time.
🌱 Supporting Growth Through Challenges
Identify a manageable fear. Choose one anxiety-triggering situation (e.g., asking a question in class).
Take small steps. Break the challenge into 2–3 gradual steps, starting with the easiest. Celebrate progress along the way.
Reflect and repeat. After each step, discuss what happened and what your child learned before moving to the next step.
🔗 Learn More
BlueJays of the Week
Tweens, Teens and Technology
Is My Child Ready for Social Media?
There’s no magic age for social media—readiness depends more on maturity than a number. Before giving the green light, consider whether your child can manage emotions, understand online consequences, and handle peer dynamics. Start with “training wheel” apps like Messenger Kids, model healthy digital habits, and keep the conversation open. Read more from the Child Mind Institute: When Are Kids Ready for Social Media?
Sick Guidelines
BlueJay Wellness Center
Food Pantry Opportunities
25/26 School Calendar
PA 57 of 2023
PA 57 of 2023 requires districts to provide all students in grades 6–12 with the Michigan Department of Education’s (MDE) Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Information Guide, the district’s Title IX coordinator contact information, and the district policies on sexual assault and harassment. This information, for Shepherd Public Schools, is linked below.
Contact Us
Email: sps_sms_office@shepherdschools.net
Phone: (989) 828-6605