The Au Gres-Sims School District

Hey AGS Nation,

This Monday was Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and this week we focused on the Positivity Project strength of Perseverance. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. reminds us, “If you can’t fly, then run; if you can’t run, then walk; if you can’t walk, then crawl, but by all means, keep moving forward.” This powerful message highlights the importance of perseverance.

In the classroom, perseverance means continuing to try even when learning feels challenging, knowing that progress doesn’t always happen at the same pace for everyone. Outside of school, perseverance helps us work through obstacles, setbacks, and tough moments in life. No matter how big or small the steps may be, continuing to move forward builds resilience and leads to growth and success.

Thanks and keep moving Wolverines!

As we look ahead to state testing in April, our teachers are already fine-tuning classroom lessons to support every student’s success. In Michigan, students participate in important statewide assessments such as the M-STEP in grades 3–8 and the PSAT/SAT in 8th through 11th grades. These tests measure mastery of grade-level standards in English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. While April may seem far away, now is actually the ideal time to uncover and address learning gaps, adjust instruction, and provide targeted support before testing season arrives. By identifying areas where students need extra practice or reteaching now, teachers can strengthen skills and build confidence well before test day. Parents can help by encouraging regular attendance, making sure students get enough sleep, asking about what they are learning in class, and supporting good study habits at home. These small daily supports make a big difference in helping students feel prepared and confident.

Strive for Fewer than Five: Attendance Matters

Being in school every day matters because regular attendance helps students stay on track academically, build strong relationships, and feel connected to their school community. We also understand that illnesses are going around, and we truly appreciate families keeping students home when they are sick to protect everyone’s health. Illness has also affected many of our staff members and we recognize the stress this can place on households when routines are disrupted. Please know that we take health concerns seriously and do everything we can to reduce the spread of illness in our buildings while continuing to provide consistent instruction for students. At the same time, we want to work together to avoid unnecessary absences when students are well enough to attend, as even missing just a few days each month can add up and impact learning. If your family is facing ongoing health challenges or other barriers to attendance, please reach out to the school as we are here to support you and help your child succeed while staying healthy.

Weather permitting, AGS elementary students enjoy outside recess twice a day. In the winter months, students’ gloves, hats, and socks can become wet during first recess. Therefore, we suggest sending in with your child to store in their locker, an extra hat, gloves and clean dry socks for them to use, if needed.

Life brings challenges for everyone—students and adults alike. Stress, disappointment, conflict, and big emotions are a normal part of growing and learning. What matters most is how we cope with those feelings. Helping students recognize healthy coping strategies and avoid unhealthy coping behaviors is an important part of supporting their emotional well-being.

What Is Healthy Coping?

Healthy coping skills are positive, safe ways to manage stress, frustration, sadness, or anger. These strategies help students calm their bodies, think clearly, and solve problems.

Examples of Healthy Coping:

• Talking to a trusted adult, friend, or counselor
• Taking deep breaths or practicing mindfulness

• Exercising or playing outside

• Listening to music, drawing, or journaling

• Taking a break when emotions feel overwhelming

• Using positive self-talk (“I can handle this”)

What Is Unhealthy Coping?

Unhealthy coping strategies may seem helpful in the moment but can cause more problems over time. These behaviors often avoid the issue rather than address it and may negatively impact mental health, relationships, or school success.

Examples of Unhealthy Coping:

• Ignoring feelings or pretending they don’t exist
• Yelling, hitting, or shutting down

• Isolating from others

• Excessive screen time to avoid problems

• Negative self-talk (“I’m bad at everything”)

• Risky or unsafe behaviors (especially in older students like vaping and other drugs)

Warmly,

Ashley Cardinal

K–12 School Counselor