Mason Minute- March 4, 2026

March 4, 2026

Mason Public Schools (MPS) and Steele Elementary were honored to welcome State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko for a special visit today!

During the visit, Dr. Maleyko met with students, toured classrooms and read stories to to kick off March is Reading Month. He was joined by Michigan Board of Education (BOE) member Dr. Mitchell Robinson, who also read to students and answered questions; MPS BOE President Liz Evans; Superintendent Dr. Gary Kinzer and Steele Principal Craig Kueffner.

Dr. Maleyko's “Students First” initiative places students at the heart of every decision in the Michigan education system. He demonstrated this approach by answering questions from students, hearing their feedback about what they enjoy (and do not enjoy) about school and sharing information about his role leading the Michigan Department of Education.

Thank you to Steele teachers Shelby Pierce, Abigail Strachan, Holly Dornbush, Alexis Woodruff, Michele Sanders and their students for welcoming our special guests today!

• Harvey Education Center: 8:40 AM - 12:07 PM

• Alaiedon, North Aurelius and Steele Elementary Schools: 8:40 AM - 12:07 PM

• Mason Middle School: 7:40 - 11 AM

• Mason High School: 7:40 - 11 AM

The Mason FFA chapter at Mason High School gives students hands-on opportunities to build leadership skills and explore careers in agriculture. As part of the National FFA Organization, members participate in leadership contests, public speaking events, and agricultural skills competitions at the district and state levels. Last week FFA students across the country celebrated National FFA Week.

Students are also involved in agricultural experiences such as livestock projects, greenhouse work, crop production and maple syrup production. The chapter supports the community through agricultural education events, fundraisers and community service projects.

FFA provides valuable leadership training, scholarship opportunities and real-world experience that benefits members long after high school. Check out this short video highlighting some of the chapter's recent activities.

This week, we recognize and celebrate the important work of our Mason school social workers who play a vital role in supporting students’ academic success, emotional well-being and social development.

School social workers support students, connect families with community resources and partner with staff to ensure every student feels supported and valued. They make a meaningful difference in our school community each day.

Thank you to our school social workers- Kimberly Battjes, Hannah Duran, Jessica Evert, Madeline Hawkins, Meg Kleckner, Erinna Toodzio-Hook and Mindy Wood!

Mason Public Schools Child Development Services is hosting an Open House and Registration Night on Monday, March 16, 2026, from 6-7 PM, at the Harvey Education Center (HEC), 400 S. Cedar Street (enter through door #20).

Families interested in learning more about Preschool, open to three and four-year-olds, and Early Learning, open to four and five-year-olds, should attend. Registration for the 2026-27 school year will be available. For more information, please call the HEC office at 517.676.6528.

The Spring Enrichment Guide was posted on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, on the Community Education website and enrollment is now open for all programs and classes!

Kindergarten and Young Fives registration for the 2026-2027 school year is open for in-district students. Registration must be completed in the Skyward system for both new families and families with established Skyward accounts.

Young Fives registration closes March 15, 2026, and families interested in Young Fives should include a note in their kindergarten registration to indicate their interest.

All Kindergarten classes meet at Harvey Education Center (HEC). For more information about required registration materials, Kindergarten Roundup and School of Choice applications, please visit the HEC website or contact Karla Harkness with questions.

Priority registration for Summer Child Care and Before and After School Care for the 2026-27 school year is now open through March 13, 2026. Only currently enrolled tuition families will be eligible to enroll at this time.

On March 16, 2026, enrollment will open to the public if spaces are available. Space is very limited in both programs. In order to complete enrollment, families must turn in all paperwork and pay the registration fee.

Five-day or consistent three-day enrollment options are available for both programs for students enrolled in Early Learning through fifth grade. Please contact Mrs. Neisinger with questions about enrollment or to submit paperwork and payment.

Mason elementary students and their favorite adult are invited to a night of circus fun at the Elementary Dances! The dances will be Saturday, April 18, 2026, in the Mason Middle School gym. Registration information and details can be found in the Winter Enrichment Guide and on the MPS website.

Schedule through March 26, 2026

Family Open Swim

• Friday: 7 - 9 PM
• Saturday: 1 - 3 PM
• Cost: $3/adult, $2/student or senior, $8/family of four

Water Fitness (ages 14 and up)

• Monday and Wednesday: 7:15 - 8:15 PM
• Shallow and deep water classes
• Cost: $6 at the door, punch cards are available

Adult Lap Swim (ages 18 and up)

• Tuesday-Friday: 6 - 7:30 AM
• Saturday: 7 - 8:30 AM
• Monday and Wednesday: 7:15 - 8:45 PM
• Cost: $5/person or $35 per punch card of 10

Mark your calendars for upcoming events and activities. A full calendar of district happenings is available on the MPS website. Additional board meeting information is available on the Board of Education website.

• Thursday, March 19: Board of Education Meeting, 7 PM

• Friday, March 27: No School

• March 30 - April 3: No School (Spring Break)

Join the Mason Public Schools team and make a difference in the lives of our students each day! Check out our current job openings and learn more.