Au Gres-Sims Families,
Memorial Day is a time to remember and reflect. Sure, for students and many of our parents it means a three-day weekend, but that isn't what I'm talking about. As we approach Memorial Day, it's important that we take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of this day beyond the barbecues, parades, and the unofficial start of summer. Memorial Day is a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring the brave men and women of the armed forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Their courage, dedication, and selflessness have protected the freedoms we enjoy every day, and their legacy deserves our deepest respect and gratitude.
In our school community, we have the opportunity—and the responsibility—to help the next generation understand the value of remembrance. Whether it’s through a moment of silence, learning about local veterans, or participating in community events, we encourage students and families to take time to honor those who have served. As we enjoy the freedoms this weekend affords us, may we also carry in our hearts the memory of those who made them possible. Let us never forget their sacrifice.
It is too easy to get wrapped up in our own lives and the frantic pace that everything seemingly moves at these days. This weekend is a reminder that many of the everyday things that seem so important right now pale in comparison when viewed with a wider lens. I encourage our students and families to slow down this weekend, to reflect, and to think about those who fought bravely for the freedoms that we too often take for granted; to keep those people in our hearts and allow their examples of selflessness guide our own actions.
From the Desk of Mr. Zeien
As we get to the end of the year, here are some of the “bigger” events going on for the remainder of the year.
-May 26 No school- Memorial Day
-May 28 Senior Graduation Rehearsal 8:30-10:00, Senior Class Night 6:00-8:00
-May 29 Senior Graduation Rehearsal 8:30-10:00, MS/HS Academic Awards 7:00-8:00
-May 30 Hosting BB/SB Districts- boys at girls play at noon, Graduation at 7:30
-June 2 Elementary Fun Day at the City Park
-June 3 Elementary Fun Day Backup Day
-June 4 1:00 Early Dismissal after Exams 1-3
-June 5 1:00 Early Dismissal after Exams 4-6- Last student day
8:30-9:45 4th/5th Awards
10:00-11:00 1st/2nd/3rd Awards
10:30-11:30 6th Grade Orientation in MPR
11:30-12:30 K Awards
Although Memorial Day will officially be celebrated on Monday, every day should be a celebration for the opportunities that we have been provided by the individuals who have given the ultimate sacrifice. Thank you! While celebrating our military, don’t forget to also give a simple “thank you” to all of our current military and veterans.
Last week I noted a summer drivers safety opportunity that will take place in June (days and times TBD). King of the Road has recently shared that they will also offer a Segment 1 and 2 opportunity in August! For more information please contact them at 989-600-5519 or kotrdrivingschool@gmail.com.
This year we are fortunate to host baseball and softball Districts. Districts will take place next Friday, May 30, with the boys and girls teams both playing at noon against Alcona. For all District games fans must purchase tickets through Go Fan. With the opportunity to host, we are hoping to draw some extra fan support and gain some home field advantage. Because the games are happening during the school day when class is in session, all students must have adult supervision. Students cannot be excused to attend the game without having a responsible adult to be responsible for them. Students who are unsupervised will be sent back into the school for a parent to come pick them up. Thank you for supporting our student athletes.
Mrs. Steinbauer's Weekly Update
This week during our early release professional development time, staff across the district are engaging in meaningful analysis of our MiStudent Voice Perception Survey data to guide our next steps as a learning community. This survey provides valuable insight into student experiences across three critical domains: Engagement, Belonging, and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). The data includes students’ perceptions of how connected they feel to school, the level of academic challenge they experience, their relationships with peers and staff, and their overall emotional well-being. By examining these responses, staff are identifying trends, celebrating areas of strength, and pinpointing opportunities for growth. This collaborative data review is driving conversations about how we can create more inclusive, supportive, and engaging learning environments. Our goal is to use this student voice data to inform district-wide decisions and ensure that our actions reflect the needs and experiences of the students we serve. We ended both our April and May early-release days discussing our data and proposing solutions to the areas where we need improvement.
Chronic Absenteeism
As we wrap up the school year, we want to take a moment to celebrate the importance of showing up—every day, every class, every opportunity to learn. Consistent attendance plays a vital role in student success, and we’re proud of the effort our students and families have made to prioritize being present. Whether learning in the classroom, building friendships, or participating in activities, each day has contributed to a stronger school community. Thank you for partnering with us this year to support student growth through regular attendance. Let’s keep that momentum going into next year—because every day counts!
Weekly Update from the Dean's Den
Summer Learning Series - Week 2: Math in Real Life—Keep Those Math Skills Sharp!
Summer is full of opportunities to sneak in real-world math practice without feeling like homework. From budgeting for snacks at the store to measuring ingredients while cooking, math is everywhere.
Ways to Practice Math at Home This Summer:
Cook or bake together. Measure ingredients, double recipes, or cut them in half to practice fractions and multiplication.
Play math-based games. Card games like "War" or board games like "Yahtzee" help with math fluency.
Compare prices. Let your child calculate which brand is the better deal at the store.
Plan a trip or activity. Estimate the cost, distance, or time it will take to get there.
Track scores or stats. Follow a summer sport or favorite player and calculate averages or percentages.
Family Challenge:
Pick a real-life activity like grocery shopping or cooking—and let your child take the lead on using math to make decisions!
Mrs. Cardinal's Weekly Update
End-of-Semester & Exam Prep Guide
1. Organize and Prioritize
List All Upcoming Exams & Deadlines: Include dates, times, and grading weight.
Identify Challenging Subjects: Allocate more time for tougher subjects.
Gather Materials: Make sure you have notes, textbooks, old quizzes, study guides, and past assignments.
2. Create a Study Schedule
Start Early: Ideally 2–3 weeks before exams.
Use a Planner or Digital Calendar: Schedule daily study blocks.
Mix It Up: Rotate subjects to keep focus sharp.
Include Breaks: Study in 45–60 minute sessions with 5–10 minute breaks.
3. Use Effective Study Techniques
Active Recall: Quiz yourself without notes.
Spaced Repetition: Revisit material regularly over time.
Teach What You Learn: Explain topics aloud to someone else.
Practice Exams: Mimic test conditions with old exams or mock questions.
4. Take Care of Your Wellbeing
Sleep: Aim for 7–8 hours per night.
Eat Well: Fuel your brain with balanced meals.
Exercise: Even light activity boosts focus and mood.
Avoid Cramming: Sleep-deprived studying is less effective.
5. Ask for Help
Form Study Groups: Reviewing with peers can boost retention.
Visit Office Hours: Professors and TAs can clarify tough concepts.
Use Campus Resources: Writing centers, tutoring services, and academic coaches are often free.
6. Manage Stress
Practice Mindfulness or Meditation: Apps like Headspace or Calm can help.
Breathe Deeply: Use breathing exercises to calm nerves.
Stay Positive: Focus on progress, not perfection.
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
SCHEDULE
Tue. 5/27
- 5p Girls Varsity Soccer (co-op with SSC) District Semi-Final AWAY @ Alma vs. Gladwin
- 4p Varsity Baseball AWAY vs Whittemore-Prescott
- 4p Varsity Softball AWAY vs Houghton Lake
Fri. 5/30 ~ BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL DISTRICT PLAY HOSTED BY AU GRES-SIMS
SOFTBALL DISTRICT SEMIFINALS
- 10am Mio Au-Sable vs Winner of Whittemore-Prescott & Charlton Heston
- 12pm Au Gres-Sims vs Winner of Alcona & Hale
SOFTBALL DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP
- 2:30pm
BASEBALL DISTRICT SEMIFINALS
- 10am Whittemore-Prescott vs Winner of Hale & Mio
- 12pm Au Gres-Sims vs Alcona
BASEBALL DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP
- 2:30pm
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.
Important Dates
MAY
- 26: NO SCHOOL - Memorial Day
- 29: 7pm MS/HS Academic Awards
- 30: 7:30pm Graduation
JUNE
- 2: Elementary Fun Day
- 4: 1pm Early Dismissal - Final Exams
- 5: ELEMENTARY AWARDS - Main Gym
- 8:30-9:45am ~ 4th/5th Grade
- 10:00-11:00am ~ 1st/2nd/3rd Grade
- 10:30-11:30am ~ 6th Grade Orientation in MPR
- 11:30-12:30pm ~ Kindergarten
- 5: 1pm Early Dismissal - Final Exams - LAST DAY FOR STUDENTS!
- 12: 7pm Bond Community Forum in High School Cyber Cafe
- 16: 6p Board of Education Regular Meeting
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
