The Weekly Update Panther Pride

Dear Hillcrest and Pine Avenue Families,

At Hillcrest and Pine Avenue, we believe every child deserves the full opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive—and that begins with being present.

Consistent school attendance is one of the strongest predictors of academic success. When students are in class, they’re not just absorbing content—they’re engaging in discussion, building relationships, and practicing skills that can’t be replicated outside the classroom. Each day builds on the last, and missing even small chunks of time can disrupt that momentum.

Tardies and early dismissals, though seemingly minor, add up. When a student arrives late or leaves early, they miss direct instruction—moments when teachers introduce new concepts, model strategies, and guide learning in real time. These experiences are foundational and cannot be fully recreated through homework or catch-up work. Over time, these missed minutes can lead to gaps in understanding and increased frustration.

That said, we understand that children get sick. If your child has a fever, is vomiting, or is truly unwell, keeping them home is the right choice—for their health and the safety of others. We appreciate your partnership in making thoughtful decisions about attendance.

Let’s work together to ensure every student has the best chance to succeed. Showing up—on time and ready to learn—is one of the most powerful ways we can support their journey.

Your partner in education,

Dr. Konowalow and Ms. Jaeck

Respect Grade 1

Respect Grade 2

Respect Grade 3

Respect Grade 4

Respect Grade 5

As we begin the school year, we want to ensure every child has access to nutritious meals. While Michigan has not yet finalized its state budget, students will receive free breakfast and lunch through September 30, 2025. After that date, meal eligibility may change depending on state funding.

To prepare for any changes and ensure your child continues receiving meals, we strongly encourage all families to complete the Household Information Report as soon as possible. This form not only helps determine eligibility for free or reduced-price meals—it also directly impacts our school’s Title I funding.

Title I funds support essential programs like reading and math interventions, classroom resources, and additional staff to help students succeed. When families complete these forms, it strengthens our ability to provide high-quality instruction and support for all learners.

You can complete the form online at the link provided below, or reach out directly to our Food Services Coordinator:

Grace Kaczorowski

(989) 466-7529

gkaczorowski@almaschools.net

Thank you for partnering with us to support every child’s success—your action makes a difference.

Students were sent home a school picture form. Please see the link beleow to make an online order.

Student of the Week and Month:

Earning Student of the Week or Month honors as part of a PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) school acknowledgement program can be an exciting and motivating way for students to be recognized for positive behavior. Here are the ways in which students can earn Student of the Week or Month honors: