The Au Gres-Sims School District

Hey AGS Nation,

I can’t believe that already in the words of Bon Jovi, “Oh, We’re halfway there” (you can thank me later for getting the rest of the song stuck in your head 🙂). It’s been a wonderful first half of the year, and I am prudent about what is to come.

And guess what…this week, we focused on the P2 strength of Prudence. Prudence means thinking before you act and making smart choices by considering what might happen next. In the classroom, prudence helps students pause, make good decisions, and stay focused on their goals. It also helps with managing time, handling challenges, and showing self-control and respect for others.

Outside of school, prudence is just as important. It helps you make good choices with friends, responsibilities, and future plans. Whether you’re managing your emotions, using your time wisely, or deciding how your actions affect others, prudence helps you do the right thing at the right time for the right reasons. Learning prudence now helps set you up for success in school and in life.

Thanks and keep leading into the future Wolverine!

A wonderful opportunity for our Au Gres-Sims families was shared with us this week regarding arts education. Arts for All at the Saginaw Art Museum & Gardens provides an exciting, no-cost way for students and their families to connect with the arts, creativity, and community. Developed in partnership with regional education agencies—including Bay-Arenac ISD—the program offers free student museum memberships that grant complimentary admission for the student and accompanying adults, plus access to Saginaw Silver Screen movies at The Temple Theatre. Through youth-focused programming, special Arts for All School Nights, hands-on activities, and educational field trips that integrate visual arts with Social Emotional Learning and English Language Arts, students have opportunities to explore artistic expression, build cultural awareness, and strengthen family engagement in meaningful, creative experiences. Please visit the Saginaw Arts Museum and Garden Arts for All website for more information.

Strive for Fewer than Five: Attendance Matters

Being at school every day helps students build strong relationships, practice positive social skills, and feel connected to their peers and teachers. Regular attendance gives students consistent opportunities to learn how to manage emotions, work through challenges, and develop confidence in a safe, supportive environment. When students miss school, they also miss important moments of connection and growth that support their overall well-being, not just their academics.

Attached is a flyer with information about ways to build attendance habits which will in turn help your child build social emotional strength as they make their way through school.

Attendance Habits

With busy schedules throughout the week and weekends, intentional relaxation and calm down time is important for all of us, especially kids. Here are some relaxation and calming strategies for kids:

Welcome Back from Winter Break!

A Message from the School Counselor

Welcome back! I hope you and your family had a restful, safe, and joyful Winter Break. As we begin the new year and return to our school routines, this is a great time to reset, reconnect, and refocus on learning, growth, and well-being.

Returning to school after a long break can bring a mix of emotions—excitement, nervousness, or even a little sadness that the break has ended. All of those feelings are normal. Please know that our school is a safe and supportive place where students are encouraged to share how they are feeling and ask for help when needed.

Starting the New Year Strong

January is a wonderful opportunity to set fresh goals—big or small! Students are encouraged to:

• Practice kindness toward themselves and others

• Set realistic academic and personal goals

• Ask for help when something feels challenging

• Celebrate effort and progress, not just outcomes
  
  

Remember, growth doesn’t happen overnight. Small steps lead to big success!

Social-Emotional Well-Being Matters

Winter months can sometimes feel long and tiring. Maintaining routines, getting enough rest, staying active, and talking about feelings can make a big difference. If your child seems overwhelmed, withdrawn, or unusually irritable, reaching out early can help.

I am available to support students with:

• Friendship concerns

• Stress or anxiety

• Emotional regulation

• Academic motivation

• Family or life changes
  
  

Warmly,

Ashley Cardinal

K–12 School Counselor