Au Gres-Sims Families,
That's a wrap on another successful school year. Time flew by on the 2024-25 school year and we had a lot of fun this year, while making great learning progress. Student learning is a complex and critical development task and I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the contributions of all the work that goes into the teaching and learning process each year:
- Bus Drivers; who are the first and often last staff members that see our students each day.
- Custodians; who provide a safe and clean environment for student learning.
- Kitchen workers; who nourish the body with the fuel needed.
- Paraprofessionals; who support individual and small group learning.
- Teachers; who take the lead role in delivering content and making students feel capable
- Administrators; who created the structure necessary for success to happen.
- Other support staff; who provide for the many other needs of our students.
The list of learning influences is not inclusive to AGS staff, however, it also takes you, the families. Student learning happens all around and it is through engagement with the school and your own children that learning is given importance. Thank you for supporting your student this school year and your continued support of AGS.
The end of the school year always carries a bittersweet feeling. From early August when high school sports start up, to this week as we head off into summer vacation, the AGS campus is a buzz with energy and activity. The close of another school year is reason to celebrate, sure, but it is also a time to say goodbye. When we return in the fall it will be under the guidance of a new Principal as we wish Mr. Chad Zeien a heartfelt congratulations on his retirement after 30 years of dedication and service to the families and staff of Au Gres-Sims. We are excited to share that our top principal candidate has accepted the position and we will be announcing that to you all in a few weeks time, but that individual will have big shoes to fill.
This will be our final newsletter of the school year and it is pertinent to share some of our Points of Pride from 2024-25. I encourage you to read about all the good stuff that took place on our campus this year. I also wish all of you a wonderful summer vacation, filled with laughter, learning, and fun in the sun.
See you in August AGS for the 2025-26 school year!
From the Desk of Mr. Zeien
Planning for next year, here are a couple of events to prepare for:
-August 21 Schedule Pickup 8:00-3:00
-August 21 Open House: Elementary 4:30-6:00, MS/HS 5:00-6:30
-August 25 First day of school
-August 29 and September 1 No School
This year has been long and stressful as many hurdles were thrown at us. Despite the hurdles, we all made it through and prospered. In the end, this has made us all stronger and many good things came about as a result. I am confident that next year will be a successful school year and that with a little time off we will all be ready to get back at it in a few months. With that said, after 30 years at AGS, my education journey has come to a close as I will be “retiring” June 30th. I would love to say I am all done working and can drift off into the sunset, but I have many more years of work left in me although it will now be in some different directions. Thank you to everyone I have crossed paths with over the last 30 years and the kindness you have shown to me and my family. I am forever grateful for everything I have been provided and the people I have been blessed to be a part of their lives. I wish everyone a long and restful summer and hopefully our paths will cross in the future. Take care!
Mrs. Steinbauer's Weekly Update
As we wrap up final exams in our secondary classrooms, I wanted to share one last reminder about our change to summer school this year and the importance of attending if students are in need of making up credit from failed classes. Failed classes must be made up in order to graduate. Attached to this message is our student handbook, where graduation requirements are outlined on page 23. Students who earn at least a 45% as a final grade may be eligible to attend in-person summer school for up to 12 days in June to recover credit. The specific amount of time required will be shared with families when students receive their eligibility letters. Those who choose not to participate will be placed back in the class they failed and will need to repeat the required semester. Students earning below a 45% will automatically be re-enrolled in the failed course, as they have not demonstrated the content knowledge necessary to move forward. We believe this shift to in-person instruction will better support student learning and success, especially compared to previous online credit recovery options. I shared this information with all of our 9th through 11th graders Tuesday afternoon to ensure they understood the importance of trying their best on their exams as well as putting forth effort in all classes to pass them all semester long. Each class is an important piece to earning their diploma.
Today we also celebrated the successes of our elementary students with our awards ceremony as well as our Kindergarten graduation. We always enjoy seeing our families and community come together on this day to celebrate a year of hard work by both our students and staff. We hope that everyone has a great summer and we look forward to seeing all of our kids again in the fall.
Weekly Update from the Dean's Den
As we wrap up another incredible school year, I want to take a moment to thank you—our families for your unwavering support, encouragement, and partnership. It has been a true privilege to be part of your child’s journey this year.
Whether it was cheering them on at events, reading together at home, helping with homework, or simply showing up with a smile. You have made a difference. The connections between school and home are what help our students grow into confident, curious, and compassionate learners.
Throughout the year, I’ve had the joy of visiting classrooms, sharing lunch with students, joining in celebrations, and watching them learn and thrive. They’ve shown resilience, kindness, and a willingness to try new things and that is something to celebrate.
While school may be out, learning never stops! This summer, I encourage families to:
Read together often—books can take us anywhere.
Explore the outdoors—science and curiosity are everywhere.
Use math in real life—measuring, budgeting, and problem-solving keep skills sharp.
Talk and connect—conversations help build confidence and emotional strength.
Thank you for welcoming me into your children’s lives this year. I am so grateful for the relationships we’ve built and the growth we’ve witnessed together. It has truly been an honor to serve as your Dean of Students. Wishing you and your family a safe, restful, and joy-filled summer break.
Mrs. Cardinal's Weekly Update
Summer Mental Health Tips from Your School Counselor
Dear Students and Families,
As the school year winds down and summer stretches ahead, I wanted to take a moment to encourage everyone to prioritize mental wellness during the break. Summer is the perfect time to recharge—not just academically, but emotionally and mentally, too.
Here are a few simple and meaningful ways students can support their mental health over the summer:
1. Get Outside Every Day
Whether it’s a walk around the block, a bike ride, or reading under a tree, fresh air and sunshine can do wonders for your mood and energy. Nature is a natural stress reliever—no prescription required!
2. Stick to a (Loose) Routine
While it’s great to sleep in a little and take a break from early mornings, having some daily structure helps maintain balance. Set regular times for meals, movement, and rest. Your brain loves knowing what’s coming next!
3. Limit Screen Time
Phones and video games are fun, but too much time in front of a screen can leave you feeling drained or disconnected. Try trading a few screen hours for hobbies like drawing, cooking, journaling, or even just talking with a friend in person.
4. Stay Connected
Friendships and family relationships matter for mental health. Make an effort to stay in touch—send a text, plan a hangout, or simply chat at dinner. Connection helps us feel supported and grounded.
5. Try Something New
A new activity, book, recipe, or local volunteer opportunity can boost confidence and spark joy. Summer is the ideal time to explore interests without the pressure of grades or deadlines.
6. Rest Is Productive Too
It’s okay to have “do-nothing” days. Rest is not lazy—it’s necessary. Sleep well, slow down, and listen to what your body and mind need.
7. Talk About Your Feelings
If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or down, you’re not alone. Talk to someone you trust—whether it’s a parent, friend, coach, or counselor. Mental health matters year-round, and help is always available.
Wishing you all a summer filled with sunshine, laughter, growth, and plenty of peace. I’ll be cheering you on—whether you're relaxing, working, adventuring, or just figuring it all out.
See you in the fall!
Ashley Cardinal
AGS Health Clinic News
Construction has been completed and we are working with Sterling Area Health Center to get the supplies and furniture in place for the opening of the health clinic. More information will be coming out soon when we learn about the opening date.
Unlike the school, the health clinic will be open during both the school year and the summer months. Once the clinic doors have officially been opened to see patients, our school based health clinic will operate three days a week, throughout the entire calendar year.
Athletics Update
Congratulations to all of our Spring Sports Athletes on great seasons. We look forward to rolling the success of this Spring into our Fall Sports program.
As a reminder, student-athletes need a new physical for next school year, and must have it completed before they can participate in any practices or games in the Fall. Any physical conducted after April 15 of this year (2025) is good for the entire 2025-26 school year, so don't wait!
Parent Teacher Organization
The PTO plays an important role in supporting our teachers and students with many of the extras that make AGS so great. Consider joining this wonderful group and helping to make this school year a special one.
Thanks to our PTO for another great year of support to the students and staff of Au Gres-Sims School District.
Help Wanted at AGS
We are also always on the lookout for substitute teachers. If interested, please inquire with Mrs. Freehling in the district administration office, (989) 876-7150 and she will put you into direct contact with Laurie Crane at ESS-WillSub
For the 2025-26 School Year
