January MIdweek UPdate

January is Board of Education Appreciation Month, and I want to take a moment to thank our Board members for their service to Whitmore Lake Public Schools.

At our January meeting, students and staff from across the district shared notes, small gifts, and words of appreciation–a meaningful reminder of the impact thoughtful governance has on our schools. Our Board members volunteer countless hours reviewing materials, asking important questions, and making decisions with students at the center of the conversation.

I am grateful for their commitment, leadership, and willingness to serve our community. Their work often happens behind the scenes, but it plays a critical role in supporting our students, staff, and schools.

WLPS Board of Education

• President: Shelli Kritzman
• Vice President: Lindsey Collins
• Treasurer: Frank Zolenski
• Secretary: Lisa McCully
• Trustees: Lee Cole, Kelly Henning, John Meadows

We provide multiple learning pathways designed to meet students where they are, from infancy through graduation–or as I like to put it, from diapers to diplomas. Our role is to help families understand their options and find the right fit for their child. Some important dates to be aware of as we prepare for the next school year include:

• School of Choice & New Student Enrollment opens February 17. You can learn more HERE.

• Kindergarten Round Up, March 12: For families with children who will turn five before December 1, this event is a must-attend. Learn more HERE.

• Go Like the Wind Montessori School: For families exploring a Montessori K-6 education, enrollment for new families opens February 17. For those interested in the tuition-based infant, toddler, or primary/preschool programs, enrollment is ongoing. Learn more HERE.

Providing personalized education doesn’t happen by chance. It takes intentional planning, regular collaboration, and a shared commitment to understanding each and every student’s needs. At the middle and high school level, one way we do this is through our Student Success Teams (SSTs).

These teams bring together classroom teachers, support staff, and special education staff, with the support of building leadership, to look at the whole student, not just a single grade or class. SSTs meet regularly, take a close look at student progress, and identify students who may benefit from additional support. Teams discuss what is working, what isn’t, and what adjustments might help–considering factors such as course demands, learning needs, and individual student circumstances. This is proactive, problem-solving work focused on helping students regain momentum and build confidence to help them succeed.

Just as importantly, SSTs prioritize strong school-to-home communication. As part of this process, families can expect proactive outreach, including positive check-ins and collaborative conversations focused on next steps for support.

Our goal is simple: to partner with families early, communicate clearly, and ensure students are known as individuals–not numbers–so they have the support they need to make steady, meaningful progress.

While this work often happens behind the scenes, it reflects the care, attention, and expertise our staff bring to every student, every day. It is a shared commitment reinforced by our building principal, who leads by example and ensures student-centered collaboration remains a priority.