East China School District News

🗓 Coming Up!

October 15 - Early Release

October 16 - No School Parent Teacher Conf.

October 17 - No School

October 27 - Board of Education Meeting

October 31 - 1/2 Day Elementary Only

Dear East China School District Families and Community,

I am proud to share that East China School District has been recognized as one of the top districts in the state of Michigan for growth in student proficiency scores in reading on the M-STEP state assessment from 2019 to 2024. Specifically, our district saw remarkable gains in third and fourth grade reading scores—a critical milestone in early literacy development. This accomplishment reflects the dedication and daily efforts of our teachers, principals, and support staff who work tirelessly to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.

What makes this recognition even more remarkable is that the growth was achieved through some of the most challenging educational conditions in recent history, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these obstacles, East China School District remained focused and resilient—ensuring that learning never stopped.

This achievement is a testament to the strength of our school community and a clear sign that great things are happening in ECSD!

Sincerely,

Suzanne Cybulla

Belle River 5th Graders Showcase Hands-On Learning at Board Meeting

Belle River Elementary 5th-grade students Skylar Bramlett, Adalyn Fustin, Winnie Smith, and Gabby Lumley took center stage at this week’s Board of Education meeting. They were joined by their teachers, Mrs. Ptaszek and Mrs. Schmitz, as well as principal Mrs. Smith-Herr. The group proudly presented a slideshow highlighting their work in partnership with Friends of the St. Clair River and St. Clair County RESA.

This engaging program includes a community-based project and a pen pal exchange with Port Huron students, all while reinforcing core Science and ELA standards. Parents, staff, and board members were so proud of how excited the students were and how clearly they shared what they’ve been learning. A big thank-you to these students and their teachers for doing such a great job representing Belle River and ECSD!

Bulletin Board Blitz Brightens the Halls

Before the students arrived for the 25-26 Open House, our amazing staff kicked off the school year with our annual Bulletin Board Blitz night, which is a fun team-building event where creativity and school spirit take center stage! Teachers and staff teamed up to transform blank boards into colorful, back-to-school masterpieces. From clever themes to eye-popping popular designs, the hallways came to life just in time for our Open House, where students toured the building and voted for their favorite display. The winning boards were revealed on the first day of school, earning their creators ultimate bragging rights for the year. It is a fun tradition that brings us together and sets the tone for a vibrant, welcoming year ahead! Even Winnie picked her favorite bulletin board, which earned that well-deserving team the “Principal’s Choice Award”.

Open House Fun

Our Belle River Elementary Open House was a fantastic kickoff to the new school year! Families filled the halls with excitement as students met their new teachers, dropped off important paperwork and supplies, and reconnected with friends after the summer break. Smiles were everywhere as kids toured the building, got a sneak peek at their classrooms, and voted for their favorite creative bulletin board displays. To add to the fun, students who turned in all their forms were entered into raffles for some awesome prizes. Winning at the River is always fun! Thanks to everyone who joined us and helped make the night such a success!

Welcome to Our Newest Sailors!

We're thrilled to welcome three wonderful new teachers to the Belle River Elementary family this year! Please give a warm Sailor shoutout to April Schroeder, our new 3rd-grade teacher, Colleen Flasher, who’s joining the 4th-grade team, and Kristi Schmitz, our new 5th-grade team member. Each of these talented educators brings their own spark, passion for teaching, and love for kids to our school. Whether they are diving into math lessons, exploring exciting books, or creating a classroom full of laughter and learning, we know they will make a splash at Belle River. We are so excited to have them aboard! Welcome, Mrs. Schroeder, Mrs. Flasher, and Mrs. Schmitz!

Meet Winnie, Our Beloved Therapy Dog

Each day at Belle River Elementary begins with a warm welcome from Winnie, our sweet and gentle therapy dog who has become a beloved member of our school family. Rain or shine, Winnie greets students with tail wags and smiles at morning drop-off, setting a positive tone for the day. She is always ready to lend a paw, whether it is curling up next to a student on the office couch who needs comfort or simply being a calm presence in the building. Known and loved by every student and staff member, Winnie has become a symbol of our school spirit. You will often spot Sailors proudly wearing their “Winnie” shirts, featuring her picture and the values she represents: Winners, Important, Noble, Neighborly, Inspiring, and Encouraging. Winnie does not just walk our halls; she fills them with love. Belle River Sailors Win With Winnie!

Kindergarten, Here We Come!

Our newest little Sailors made a big splash at Open House as they officially joined the Belle River family! Each brand-new kindergartener received a special yard sign to proudly display at home, announcing to the world that they are ready for their exciting journey in elementary school. With bright smiles and big hearts, these future leaders posed for pictures with their signs and met their teachers for the very first time. We cannot wait to watch them learn, grow, and shine here at the River! Welcome to kindergarten, Class of 2038! 💙

SCHS Powderpuff Football 9/28/2025 at East China Stadium

MCHS PowderPuff Football 10/5/2025 East China Stadium

Mariner Drama presents the Amazing lemonade Girl 10/2 and 10/4 at 7 pm

On Thursday, October 2 and Saturday, October 4 at 7 p.m. at the East China Performing Arts Center (David. L. Simpson PAC), Mariner Drama is presenting the Michigan premiere of the award-winning play, The Amazing Lemonade Girl. This inspirational and powerful play has been written for the WHOLE family, especially elementary students, to motivate them to commit selfless acts of giving. This beautiful play tells the true story of Alexandra Flynn Scott, a bright, fun and sunny young girl who was diagnosed with cancer at a very young age. After coming up with the idea to have a lemonade stand, she eventually raised millions of dollars (and counting) for pediatric cancer research, saving hundreds of lives. Her story inspires each audience member to always "make lemonade out of lemons".
Come enjoy and be inspired by Marine City High and Middle School's amazing talent and the POWERFUL story of Alex Scott. Tickets can be purchased online at https://marinerdrama.ludus.com/ or at the box office the night of each performance. Adults are only $10 and ALL students are only $8. Bring your family to an AMAZING night of theater.