The Tecumseh News
October 2023 - Volume 3, Issue 1
THE TECUMSEH NEWS
November 2023
Volume 3, Issue 2
Thank you to everyone who voted in the election!
The Non-Homestead Millage renewal passed by a wide margin, with nearly 74% of voters in favor.
The unofficial results are 2,621 votes in favor and 921 votes against.
We appreciate the support from our community and your commitment to our district.
Message From the Superintendent
Building Strong Foundations: The Crucial Role of Parental Input in Education
Furthermore, parent involvement enhances the sense of community within schools, creating a network of support that extends beyond the classroom. When parents are actively engaged, students are more likely to feel a sense of belonging and connection to their school.
To foster this sense of community, Tecumseh Public Schools will be establishing a Parent Advisory Committee soon after the first of the year. Our plan includes having parent and teacher representatives from all grade levels and led by a facilitator to set and accomplish goals that will enhance our ability to serve the needs of Every Student, Every Day.
Rick Hilderley - Superintendent
Tecumseh Public Schools
Making the News
Tecumseh Unites in Gratitude: A Day of Tribute to Veterans
On Friday, November 10th, the community of Tecumseh came together in a resounding display of gratitude and honor, celebrating Veterans Day with two remarkable events that paid tribute to the veterans and exemplified the unity and appreciation felt across the district.
The day began with the resounding success of the Veterans Day Breakfast at Tecumseh Middle School, which witnessed an overwhelming turnout. The event, orchestrated by the TMS staff and supported by the National Junior Honor Society from TMS and Cadets from Tecumseh High School, was a heartfelt gesture to honor the courageous veterans who have dedicated their lives to safeguarding freedom.
A striking performance of The Star-Spangled Banner by the THS Chamber Choir set an inspiring tone for the event, followed by captivating displays from the TMS band and the 8th-grade Orchestra. The TSO’s rendition of the Armed Forces Salute, representing various military branches, was a moving tribute to the heroes in attendance.
However, the morning's highlight was the Gratitude Campaign, where over 1,000 heartfelt letters from TMS students were delivered to the veterans. The aim was to create a lasting impact, mirroring the profound effect it had on the students themselves.
Carrie Barden and Kristin Hess, instrumental in orchestrating these projects, received commendation for their hard work and dedication. The generous support from Tuckey's Big Boy in Tecumseh, through their donation of food and workforce, significantly contributed to the event's success.
The day continued with Tecumseh High School's grand "We Salute" Ceremony and the Sculpture Garden tribute unveiling. This collaborative effort involved multiple school departments and organizations, all coming together to pay homage to the veterans.
The event saw the choir's emotional rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner and the band students' heartfelt performance. The highlight of this tribute was unveiling of the new “Fallen Brothers” sculpture, designed by Veteran Jim Bundshuh, which will grace the THS campus for the next year.
Beyond this, the commemoration extended to the creation of over 80 unique yard signs, sold to families to honor their loved ones and lined along the amphitheater-style seating. Sculpture students showcased their talent through captivating installation figures made from clear packing tape, capturing iconic and well-known poses. Also, Ashley LaVoy’s third and fourth-grade students designed patriotic art to adorn the Heart Sculpture.
The efforts of the Sculpture Garden Committee, comprised of dedicated individuals like Jackie Whiteley, Ron Frenzen, Christine Obeid, and Sarah Carter, were acknowledged for their commitment and hard work in making the event a success.
Both events are heartfelt gestures of appreciation and honor toward the veterans who have fearlessly served the nation. The unity and dedication showcased by the Tecumseh community, students, and staff made this Veterans Day a memorable and touching celebration.
The spirit of appreciation and unity witnessed in Tecumseh today serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring those who have dedicated their lives to safeguarding the freedoms cherished by all.
Tecumseh Acres Students Rally for Veterans in Heartwarming Hat Day Fundraiser
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Tecumseh Acres Early Learning Center students recently donned their favorite hats for a special cause. Hat days took over the school grounds, not just as a fashion statement but as a collective effort to raise funds for the Wounded Warrior Project.
The initiative was more than just a fun way to accessorize; it was a mission to make a difference. The students, driven by a shared sense of responsibility, managed to raise several hundred dollars for the Wounded Warrior Project—an organization dedicated to supporting wounded veterans and their families.
But the students didn't stop there. Janey Stark's second-grade class went above and beyond by channeling their creativity into heartfelt letters for local veterans. The charming notes, filled with gratitude and admiration, were hand-delivered to Hall-Slater VFW Post 4187 a few days before Veterans Day.
Tecumseh Acres ELC stands as a shining example of how small actions can lead to significant impacts. The students not only contributed financially to a worthy cause but also took the time to express their appreciation directly to those who have served our country.
This heartening story of unity and appreciation is a testament to the incredible things that can happen when a community comes together for a cause greater than themselves.
TMS Students "Rake a Difference" in Annual Community Service Event
Despite facing a two-day weather delay, Tecumseh Middle School students rallied together for their annual "Rake a Difference" day, proving that nothing can deter their spirit of community service.
Dozens of enthusiastic TMS students, accompanied by dedicated staff members, descended upon more than 30 homes in the Tecumseh community to participate in this event. Whether they walked or rode a bus to their designated locations, these young volunteers joined forces to rake leaves and fill countless bags, providing assistance to those who may struggle with this task on their own. It was a heartwarming display of unity and compassion within the community.
Rake a Difference is organized by the Tecumseh Middle School Builders Club, which is the largest service organization for our middle school students. What makes this club even more inspiring is that it's entirely run by the students themselves. This hands-on approach not only allows students to take charge of their community service efforts but also instills in them the values of empathy and responsibility.
The event wouldn't have been possible without the support of the Kiwanis Club of Tecumseh, Mary Tommelein, and Cindy Hook, who played vital roles in the organization of this incredible community service project. Their dedication to making a difference in the community is commendable and serves as a reminder of how collaboration and community support can create meaningful change.
Rake a Difference not only showcases the remarkable dedication of Tecumseh Middle School students and staff but also demonstrates the power of community service in bringing people together for a common cause. The event is a testament to the positive impact that young people can have on their community when they come together with a shared goal: to make a difference.
Talent Together: Empowering Aspiring Educators in Tecumseh Public Schools
In a significant development for Michigan’s educational landscape, Tecumseh Public Schools has welcomed its very first participant into the “Talent Together” program. Launched this year, Talent Together is a state initiative aimed at boosting the quality of education by providing Michigan residents with the opportunity to become educators or expand their qualifications in crucial learning areas, all at no cost to the individual.
The Michigan State Legislature is taking proactive steps to address the teacher shortage by allocating $66.4 million to the Talent Together initiative – a collaborative effort involving 48 intermediate school districts across the state.
Talent Together is garnering recognition as a groundbreaking program driven by the goal of nurturing highly skilled educators while removing financial barriers that might deter aspiring teachers. With its commitment to educational excellence, TPS has eagerly embraced the program and has six employees who have been accepted into this transformative initiative.
Its emphasis on experiential learning sets Talent Together apart from conventional educational pathways. Participants engage in all required coursework through various accredited higher education institutions in Michigan. However, the program’s uniqueness truly shines through its approach to real-world teaching experiences. Participants are paired with host districts and mentor teachers for an entire school year, with compensation and benefits. This format provides invaluable insights and practical skills that differentiate Talent Together from traditional student teaching programs.
Jayme Funchion from Tecumseh Middle School is the first TPS employee to embark on her Talent Together journey. She is currently in her apprenticeship. Jayme’s unwavering passion for education and her commitment to professional growth have earned her this distinction, and her apprenticeship officially commenced in September.
Carrie Barden, an experienced 5th-grade teacher at TMS, has assumed the role of Jayme’s mentor for the current school year. Together, they will navigate the intricacies of classroom management and other essential pedagogical skills, providing Jayme with a well-rounded and immersive educational experience.
Upon successfully completing her Talent Together program, Jayme will emerge as a certified teacher, well-prepared to assume a vital role as a qualified Michigan educator. Her journey serves as an inspiring example of Talent Together’s potential to transform dedicated individuals into accomplished educators who will contribute to Michigan’s educational landscape.
As Talent Together continues to gain momentum, it promises to usher in an era of excellence in education throughout the state. The collaboration between Tecumseh Public Schools and this groundbreaking program underscores a shared commitment to nurturing talent, fostering educators, and ultimately enhancing the quality of education for Michigan’s students.
Jayme had served as the secretary at TMS for the past several years. With her taking on this new role, Bobbie Jo Brandou has transitioned into the secretary position. Bobbie Jo has been with TPS for a few years, spanning several positions during that time.
TPS Rallies Together to Support Brave Teenager's Battle Against Rare Cancer
Leiomyosarcoma, also known as LMS, is a rare cancer that primarily affects the smooth muscles found in hollow organs such as the intestines, stomach, bladder, and blood vessels. While this type of cancer is more commonly diagnosed in adults, Meadow’s case is a stark reminder that cancer knows no age boundaries. Her battle against this formidable foe escalated quickly, reaching stage 3, prompting aggressive treatment through chemotherapy and radiation.
According to the National Cancer Institute, LMS is an exceptionally rare diagnosis in children, with only 20 to 30 cases reported annually in the United States. Meadow’s journey has garnered attention not just for its rarity but for her incredible strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
To support Meadow and her family during this challenging time, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched, providing a platform for well-wishers to contribute to her medical expenses and offer words of encouragement. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/ea9yeupr.
As a testament to the community’s solidarity, an upcoming event, “Bowl for Meadow,” is set to take place on December 10th, from 3 pm to 6 pm at Ten Pin Alley in Tecumseh. The event is $25 per person, and participants can enjoy two hours of bowling from 3 pm to 5 pm. The event promises a fun-filled afternoon and includes a Bake Sale and Fish Bowl Auction, both designed to raise additional funds for Meadow’s ongoing medical needs. The Fish Bowl Auction runs from 5 pm to 6 pm.
In the spirit of the holiday season, “Bowl for Meadow” serves as a reminder that when faced with adversity, a community can come together to make a meaningful difference. This event offers financial support and provides an avenue for friends, neighbors, and well-wishers to express their solidarity with Meadow and her family.
As the Tecumseh Public Schools community unites to rally behind Meadow in her fight against Leiomyosarcoma, it becomes clear that the strength of a community lies in its ability to support and uplift one another during life’s most challenging moments.
Happening Around TPS
PBIS Assembly at Herrick Park ILC
Just before school ended one day, students and staff at Herrick Park Intermediate Learning Center took part in a PBIS Assembly.
PBIS stands for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support.
During the assembly, students presented Respectful, which is part of the READY Expectations. Throughout the month, students and staff are focusing on respect and what that looks like.
Students are exploring this important value through engaging lessons, an assembly, READY tickets, fun activities, and more.
Students earned prizes and even ended the day with a fun game.
Students and Staff Celebrate Halloween
It was a shortened day because of the Early Release schedule, but that didn't stop students and staff from Tecumseh Public Schools from celebrating Halloween.
Most of the students and quite a few staff members from the district got in the spirit of Halloween and enjoyed the day with a parade that families could participate in.
Unified Sports Flag Football Game at THS
Students at Tecumseh High School came together for a Pep Assembly and the Unified Sports Flag Football game.
The Unified Sports program at TPS is relatively new, with a straightforward aim: to enable individuals of all abilities to engage in sports. Unified Sports provides a platform to emphasize the crucial importance of inclusion within our educational institutions.
Unified Champion is an endorsed program by the Special Olympics, designed to promote social inclusion through intentionally planned and executed activities that create a system-wide impact.
The teams traversed the court, scoring touchdowns and fostering unity among our students as they rose to their feet to support the athletes.
Following the game's conclusion, a pep assembly was held in anticipation of our football team's battle in the playoffs.
ELC and ILC Students Take to the Stage in Finding Nemo, Jr.
A packed house at the Tecumseh Center for the Arts for the production of Finding Nemo Jr., starring our students!
This production is being put on by the Tecumseh Youth Theatre. TYT is a nonprofit organization that brings theatre to students in our area, promoting young talent and give the theatre experience to our youth. They do productions for the community with the help of local business sponsors.
Students from the ELCs and ILCs supported their fellow classmates, taking in the first show of the production. The packed house cheered and laughed as they were taken through the big blue world during this stage musical based on the beloved Pixar film.
What’s also cool about this production is that it’s not just Tecumseh students taking part. There are performers from other local school districts and homeschooled students in the production.
Kiwanis Club Winners - November 2023
The Tecumseh Kiwanis Club awarded Ashley Bemis and Allie Norden as the November Kiwanis Seniors of the Month
Ashley Bemis (pictured with Superintendent Hilderley) is a standout student at Tecumseh High School with a stellar GPA of 4.036 and a passion for both academics and community service. Actively involved in the National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, Orchestra, and Student Council, Ashley’s leadership shines through her initiation of the Gift of Life program.
Ashley’s commitment to academic excellence extends to AP classes and dual enrollment at Jackson College. She’s not just academically driven; Ashley’s leadership was recognized at the MyLead Leadership Conference, where she returned as a volunteer and plans to contribute again this year.
Beyond academics, Ashley is a dedicated community servant, contributing to Re-Tree Tecumseh, Kiwanis events, and participating in dance for 13 years, where she learned valuable life skills. Her part-time role as a Cat Caretaker at Ahimisa Sanctuary aligns with her dream of becoming a veterinarian.
An active St. Elizabeth Catholic Church member, Ashley volunteers for various church activities, emphasizing her joy in helping others. She sees volunteering as an avenue for personal growth, expanding her experiences, and refining essential soft skills.
Ashley plans to major in Pre-Vet Animal Science with a minor in Art. Acceptance offers from Iowa State University and Missouri University underscores her thoughtful approach to the next chapter of her academic journey. Ashley embodies the spirit of a dedicated student and community advocate poised to impact the world positively.
Ashley is the daughter of Elaine and Michael Bemis.
Meet Allie Norden (pictured with Superintendent Hilderley), an accomplished student with a 3.3 GPA at Tecumseh High School, excelling academically and in community leadership.
Allie’s academic journey includes Honors English and various leadership roles, from Student Council to Key Club, where she served as President in her senior year. A dedicated athlete, Allie contributed to Varsity Cross County, Junior Varsity Basketball, Varsity Soccer (as captain), and Varsity Track.
Her commitment to the community is evident through volunteer work, academic honors, and a part-time position at Basil Boys since 2022. Despite facing challenges like ACL surgery, Allie sees volunteering not just as giving back but as a source of personal growth and well-being.
Allie plans to attend college, earn her master’s and doctorate, and become a physical therapist while joining the National Guard. Her journey reflects a passion for service, leadership, and positively impacting various aspects of life. Allie Norden is not just a student but a future beacon of positive change.
Allie is the daughter of Melanie and Brian Norden.
Tecumseh Preschool
Preschool has had a very busy few months. We started the school year with new playground equipment and a new organization plan for the outside materials. Our teachers, Kaitlyn Huntley, Nikki Painter, and Child Care Director Susan Bird all worked hard to make the playground look wonderful! The preschool students have had so much fun exploring the playground over the past couple of months!
Our studies this year have already included Trees, Tubes and Tunnels, Music, Balls, and Pets. We have had all kinds of visitors, including Sutton Second Grade Teacher Tony Pfalzgraf playing the trumpet, Raisin Township Fire Department, Mr. Todd from Naugle Heating and Plumbing, Ms. Kendra from Red Mill Pet Supply, Officer Grayer from the Raisin Township Police Department and many others.
Mrs. Reasoner from the Tecumseh Public Library came to read to our classes last week. We are so thankful for our community involvement from all of these visitors.
We had our 3rd annual field trip to Forever Acres Farms in Britton, MI. We saw animals, apple trees, and pumpkins. We always have a fantastic time at Forever Acres Farms.
If you know any three or four-year-old child who would like to join in all these exciting learning experiences, we can welcome a few more to our school.
Tecumseh Public Schools Preschool still has a few spots for new students this school year for both Tuition classrooms and GSRP (Great Start Readiness Program) classrooms. If you are interested in information on Tecumseh Preschool, please contact:
Shawn Behnke - Tecumseh Preschool Director
2023-2024 School Year Calendar
Contact Us:
Administration/Business Office
760 Brown St., Tecumseh, MI
517-423-2167
Sutton Early Learning Center
2780 Sutton Rd., Adrian, MI
517-423-2367
Tecumseh Acres Early Learning Center
600 Adrian St., Tecumseh, MI
517-423-9744
Herrick Park Intermediate Learning Center
600 Herrick Park Dr., Tecumseh, MI
517-423-2324
Patterson Intermediate Learning Center
401 N. Van Buren St., Tecumseh, MI
517-423-3331
Tecumseh Middle School
307 N. Maumee St., Tecumseh, MI
517-423-1105
Tecumseh High School
760 Brown St., Tecumseh, MI
517-423-6008
Tecumseh Public Schools Daycare
2780 Sutton Rd., Adrian, MI
517-423-2367
Transportation Department
700 S. Maumee St., Tecumseh, MI
517-423-2706