The Au Gres-Sims School District

I have used this space in the past couple of weeks to update the community on the school budget, namely the fact that we didn't have one from the state. It is only right that I speak to the recently passed state budget and what is known about it at this point, as the Legislature passed the budget late last Friday, and the Governor signed it into law this week.

In the papers and being reported in the news is a celebration from Lansing of the "biggest school aid budget in history," but I encourage you to look at this statement with skepticism. Things are not always what they seem, and just below the surface the state school aid budget is not nearly as shiny as it is being made out to be. Educational organizations around the state representing teachers, business officials, principals, and superintendents, as well as the Michigan Department of Education, are busy dissecting the intricacies of the 513 page bill and trying to make sense of the implications to their districts. These groups all agree, this budget was done to us, not with us, as the details and discussions were kept hidden away until after they were passed.

While it is true that on the surface more money is being spent in the school aid budget than ever before here are some points to consider:

• Per pupil funding increased by $442 per student, but last year schools received a $0 increase per student. When spread out over two years that $442 does not cover the combined rate of inflation on district expenses plus increases to employee health plans.
• Quietly, the new budget has shifted an additional $400 million to higher education...from the K-12 budget!
• The state has pulled funding ($598 million) for a previously covered retirement health care subsidy, with the result being that districts now have to pay out an additional ~3% per employee.
• Funding for school safety and mental health has increased, however in order to access the funds that we were previously made available to us we must agree to comply with a stipulation that may make our district uninsurable.
• Applying to the all of "state aid" is a 5% penalty to districts who do not "complete the child nutrition and education benefits application, as provided by the department, for free and reduced-price school meals regardless of whether the district or intermediate district opts to provide universal breakfast or lunch." for ALL students.

I am glad that the Legislature has finally passed a budget, but I have a hard time celebrating a budget that was delivered 3 months late, was hatched behind closed doors, and that seeks to deceive the public by funneling money away from students under the guise of awarding more. I encourage you to dig deeper and to stay alert. Further, I hope that you will be responsive as the district may need you to complete forms so that we can keep each dollar allocated to us by the state.

AGS is proud to announce the return of the student Washington DC trip! In order to make the trip as cost effective for our families as possible we are cohorting two grades, with plans to take this trip every other school year. The trip is planned for September 13-17, 2026 for our 8th and 9th grade classes (note, this is NEXT school year...2026-27).

Locally, you may contact Mr. Dittenber with questions. We are partnering with Bennett Travel for this amazing student opportunity and our trip contact is Jeff Bennett. He may be reached by phone (231) 838-1925 or by email: jeff@bennett-travel.com

Registration for the trip is completed online, with instructions contained in the attached documents below. It is not too late to sign up for this great opportunity. Because we started the planning process so far in advance of the trip, you can still sign up using the online process. Don't miss out!

Hey AGS Nation,

This week’s P2 Character Strength was Being Present and as we navigate through another exciting fast paced school year, it’s important to reflect on this simple but powerful strength. Whether it’s sitting in a classroom, spending time with family, or participating in activities after school, presence matters. Here's why:

🏫 In School: More than just attending school

• Improves Learning – Active participation leads to better understanding and grades.
  
  

• Builds Social Skills – Helps form friendships and teamwork.
  
  

• Teaches Responsibility – Builds habits like punctuality and focus.
  
  

🏠 Outside School

• Strengthens Relationships – Being present with family and friends builds connection.
  
  

• Supports Mental Health – Mindfulness reduces stress and improves well-being.
  
  

• Builds Life Skills – Activities, hobbies, and jobs offer valuable learning.

In a world full of distractions, choosing to be present is a powerful act. It shows you care about your learning, your relationships, and your future. So whether you're in class or out in the world, remember: your presence is your power.

Thanks & Stay Present Wolverines!

I have had the opportunity to spend a couple of days in professional learning with our ISD partners talking about CTE and STEAM. STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—a hands-on, integrated approach to learning that encourages students to think critically, solve problems creatively, and make real-world connections across subject areas. This year, the Bay-Arenac ISD is placing a special emphasis on Career and Technical Education (CTE) and STEAM initiatives. These programs connect directly to classroom learning, giving students opportunities to build skills that prepare them not only for future careers but also for success in everyday life. By blending creativity with technical knowledge, our classrooms are helping students see how what they learn today ties into the opportunities of tomorrow. I wanted to share one of the great family activities that the BAISD has available currently.

You and your child can explore STEM locations and events in the Great Lakes Bay Region (GLBR) and compete to earn prizes by participating in the Goosechase Experience. You can still access the regional STEM Calendar of events, but Goosechase is a great opportunity to explore a variety of STEM destinations, programs, and at-home activities. Examples of missions include Unplug and Play with a Parent, Bay County Library System STEAM Kits, and Delta Kids Junkbot Takeover. Complete missions, track points, and win fun prizes!

Here at AGS, we will be focusing on how we can also bring STEAM and CTE into our classrooms K-12 and expand opportunities for our students to learn about this fun and engaging way to explore the world around them. We hope our families take advantage of the Goosechase Experience.

Strive for Five: Attendance Matters

The BAISD is also rolling out the “Strive for Five” attendance initiative. This regional campaign spans all eight counties served by the Region 5 MiFamily Engagement Center—Bay, Arenac, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Isabella, Midland, and Saginaw. The message is simple but powerful: students who miss fewer than five days of school are more likely to stay on track academically, achieve at higher levels, and strengthen their connection to school.

Every Day in School Counts. By working together with families to prioritize daily attendance, we can give students the best chance for long-term success.

Recipes for success: TEAMWORK!

Benefits of teamwork: Improved communication, empathy, problem-solving skills,

patience, a sense of belonging, love, support and cooperation skills.

Whether it be through school, sports or family fun, creating opportunities for students to build and practice teamwork skills, can carry over into every aspect of their lives.

Simple ways to practice teamwork to help build and practice these skills:

Board/card games

Build something together: blanket fort, bird house, wood fort, derby car, lego structure

Cooking together

Creating a dance party together

Community volunteering

“Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” ~Helen Keller

Parents/guardians,

October is college month in Michigan. For parents, College Month is a reminder to start conversations about life after high school. Ask your student about their interests and goals, encourage them to explore different types of colleges or training programs, and help them stay organized with deadlines and applications. Even small steps — like attending a college night or reviewing financial aid options — can make a big difference.

Most importantly, College Month is about creating a culture of possibility. Every student, no matter their background or plans, benefits from knowing that education and training after high school are within reach. With your support and encouragement, your child can feel confident taking their next step toward a bright future.

High School Parents (grades 9-12)

In support of Postsecondary opportunities, the school will be hosting a trip to SVSU for a short walking tour and tickets to the SVSU vs Ferris State football game on Saturday November 8th. Please see the attached flyer for more details or use the link to sign up. https://forms.gle/4iCSPYogiyYehbUA6

Warmly,

Ashley Cardinal

K–12 School Counselor

We have some great news to share. A press release came out late this week announcing that the Michigan Legislature had passed a state and school aid budget year for fiscal year 2026 (started on October 1). Contained within that budget is continued funding for school-based health clinics.

This means that the construction-completed Au Gres-Sims Health Clinic will be opening soon! The district will be working closely with Sterling Area Health Center over the next few weeks to complete the start up process, and we hope to be open and fully functioning very soon. Look for information to come home soon!

The first Parent Advisory Committee for the Health Clinic of the year will be held on Tuesday, October 21 at 6p in the Elementary Library. The PAC is looking for a few new members, so if you are interested, please try to attend.

As the leaves change and the air cools, our fall sports season is coming to a close. We are incredibly proud of all our student-athletes and coaches for their hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship throughout the season. Let's get ready for the Winter Sports Season! Go Wolverines!

SCHEDULE

Tues. 10/14

• 6p JV Volleyball AWAY @ Whittemore-Prescott
• 7:15p V Volleyball AWAY @ Whittemore-Prescott
• 6p V Girls Swimming (CO-OP w/ SSC) HOME vs Caro

Wed. 10/15

• 6p MS Football AWAY @ Hale

Fri. 10/17

• 7p V Football AWAY @ Hillman

Sat. 10/18

• JV Volleyball NSL Tournament

The Middle School/High School Handbook has been updated to reflect changes in the process for athletic eligibility. A copy of that process is provided as an attachment below. Eligibility will now be pulled every week, starting with the 3rd week of the semester. These changes have been shared with the coaching staff and will be communicated with their student athletes.

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The PTO plays an important role in supporting our teachers and students with many of the extras that make AGS so great. Consider joining this wonderful group and helping to make this school year a special one.

EVENTS:

• Holiday Bazaar: Saturday, November 1 ~ 9:00a.m. - 3:00p.m.
  
• Breakfast with Santa: Saturday, November 29 ~ 8:00a.m. - 10:00a.m.

POPCORN FRIDAYS: The PTO pops the corn on selected Fridays throughout the school year in the elementary building. Volunteers are needed to make this happen, with a report time of 8:00a.m. Your son/daughter's teachers will be reaching out to you at different times throughout the year.

Please consider volunteering!

• October 24
• November 7, 21
• December 12
• January 16, 30
• February 13, 27
• March 13, 27
• April 10, 24
• May 8, 22

Important dates for October for the Au Gres-Sims School District

OCTOBER

• 15: 1p Dismissal - Professional Development for Staff
• 16: 4p-7p MS/HS Parent-Teacher Conferences
• 24: End of 1st Marking Period

• October 15 - 2p.m. Movie at the Au Gres Community Library - see attached flyer
• October 18 - Halloween in the Park - see attached flyer

• December 6 - 6:15p.m. Au Gres Area Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade - see attached flyer

• Chamber of Commerce Gourmet Nut Fundraiser - see attached flyer for details

It was a Homecoming of sorts at The Wolverine Wake-Up Studio as we sat down with our newest Homecoming King and Queen, and rest assured we cruised the hallways giving fans a new challenge. Remember to Like, Comment, and Subscribe.

Click This Link to Watch The Wolverine Wake-Up Issue 133

Current job listings:

• SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER - ELEMENTARY

We are also always on the lookout for substitute teachers. If interested, please inquire with Mrs. Freehling in the district administration office, (989) 876-7150 and she will put you into direct contact with Laurie Crane at ESS-WillSub