#ProudToBeAnEddie Community Update
December 2023
Happy Holidays
As we head into the last few days of the year I find it a great time to reflect on all the wonderful things that we have done together over the last year. I am filled with gratitude and pride for all that our Eddies have accomplished because of everyone working together.
Even in this last week of school before a break it has been truly awesome to see the mix of the continued academic focus our staff has for our students, balanced with the fun and celebration this time of year brings. Our students continue to excel academically and socially because of our educators and staff going above and beyond in creating an environment that encourages students to have fun and take risks while learning.
Our community support and engagement has continued to be strong this year. Thank you for your participation in community forums, school events K-12 and surveys to gather your input on topics such as facilities and our next strategic plan. We know through this collaboration we will continue to grow and improve. My wish for 2024 is that our community will continue to support EPS through active participation in our strategic planning process, attendance at our community/school events, and getting out to vote on our February Non-Homestead Millage Renewal. Family and community involvement is incredibly important and I want to say thank you for all that you continue to do for our schools.
Over this holiday break I hope that you are able to take time to do what brings you joy. I personally want to say thank you for welcoming my family into this truly amazing Eddie family.
Happy Holidays,
Dr. Courtney Szucs
Superintendent of Schools
Once an Eddie, Always an Eddie Spotlight
Edwardsburg Public Schools has an exceptional staff of Eddies! Our goal is to highlight our staff members in a more personal way so that every Eddie (in the schools and in the community) can get to know the people who help make our district a great place to be!
Jeff Kozinski, EHS Social Studies Teacher
This is my 29th year with Edwardsburg Public Schools. Outside of school I like to go for bike rides with my wife Aimee and spend time with my family. The best thing about Edwardsburg Public Schools is the students. My favorite book is Lead...for God's Sake; and my favorite snack is peanuts that you have to take the shell off.
Noelle Motuelle-EPS Bus Driver
This is my 3rd year at Edwardsburg Public Schools. The best thing about working at Edwardsburg is the people I get to work with everyday! When I am not working I love raising my kids and building my homestead. My favorite quote is "You can learn anything from anyone, even if it's what NOT to do". My favorite snack to eat is potatoes.
Ashley Stein-Student Support Specialist at Eagle Lake
This is my 3rd year at Edwardsburg Public Schools and my 11th year working as a social worker. The best thing about working at EPS is my co-workers! We are more than co-workers; we are a family! When I am not at school I enjoy anything to do with my family and friends, and of course my little dog Stevie! The best snack is almonds and string cheese and the best book is, Where the Crawdads Sing.
Bond Scope Options
Thank you to everyone who has provided input through surveys, meetings, and discussions on recommendations to narrow our possible bond scope. On Monday night, our Board of Education met to review two different approaches for a 0 Mill bond. The draft of the two options are broken down in the attachment below.
The first option focuses on providing safety, security and infrastructure upgrades at all of our buildings, including bringing the former church property up to code and licensing standards to house programs such as early childhood and our Alternative Learning Center program. Option one does not include long term upgrades, such as air conditioning or window updates, to the Primary and Eagle Lake, with the idea the community may want to support a new building within the next ten years.
Option two provides more upgrades to the Primary and Eagle Lake and less to the other buildings in order to bring these two buildings up to a standard where they could continue to be used for a longer period of time. This option does not include any updates to the church property for student use.
Please save the date for a community meeting on January 23, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. This meeting will be held to gather input on which option the district should focus on as a bond scope for a 0 mill bond attempt. It will also provide an opportunity to discuss any adjustments that should be considered to either of the options. If you are unable to attend you may email any input you would like shared to cszucs@goeddies.com.
Remember to Vote on Feb. 27
Non-Homestead Millage Renewal Info
The State of Michigan expects districts to levy 18 mills as a portion of the foundation allowance. If schools do not levy the 18 mills they will not receive the full foundation allowance. This millage does not change the amount of taxes you pay on your primary home.
Strategic Planning Survey
If you haven't already taken our survey please do. We want your input! Please share the QR code below with all of your friends, neighbors and anyone you see in the Edwardsburg community! If any one needs a paper copy they can be picked up at the administration building.
January Board Meeting
Edwardsburg Public Schools Board of Education's next meeting is on January 8, 2024. Please see the website for the agenda.