MIdweek UPdate
September 21, 2023
Dear WLPS Families,
The school year is in full swing, and I hope you and your students are getting settled into your new routines. Our Board of Education and staff continue their work and dedication to moving the district forward. In my previous update I shared that there are four areas of focus driving our discussions and decisions. They are, in no particular order, budget stability, programs, safety, and academics. Last month I highlighted academics. Below is a brief update on another focus area- Safety.
Safety
School safety is paramount in all things we do at WLPS. Safety in the traditional sense of providing secure, safe places to learn and work. Safety in terms of providing students and staff with training so we are prepared for the many “what ifs.” But we expand it and really see our commitment to safety in terms of how we take care of our people–the students, staff, families and community we serve.
Two recent developments shared with the WLPS Board of Education at our meeting this week that highlight this commitment is a Community Health Center coming to Whitmore Lake and our recent A+ Bus Inspection.
Whitmore Lake Community Health Center
In the greater Whitmore Lake area there are no primary care clinics within 15 miles of our schools. Of the residents living within this 15 mile radius, 1 of 5 have no consistent source for health care. These statistics might not sound like a big deal. But, to members of our school community who struggle with physical/mental health issues and have limited access to transportation, that distance creates a choice…to treat an illness, or not. That is about to change!
WLPS has been working collaboratively to support three partners: Northfield’s Human Services, University of Michigan School of Nursing, and Hamilton Community Health Network. These partners examined the needs of the community and listened to WLPS’ story and how we work to support students and families with great needs. Together they secured funding to make opening a clinic in our community possible! I’m looking forward to sharing more details as this clinic should be available early in the new year. I’m going on record - This is kind of a big deal!
Bus Inspection
The WLPS BOE has been actively budgeting to add newer buses to our fleet. Just 5 years ago our fleet had a median age of 12 years old. Today, it is much younger with a median age closer to 6 years. Most districts turn over their fleet of buses after 5 years or 100,000 miles. WLPS gets the most out of our buses by averaging 200,000 miles.
This management is only possible because of the work and expertise of our Transportation Department. Our supervisor and mechanic, Steve Wolk, has ensured these buses are safe each and every day. Michigan State Police recently came for the annual inspection of our fleet. I’m proud to share that WLPS earned a 100% on the inspection. This is the 22nd consecutive 100% rating Mr. Wolk has earned for WLPS! Join me in sending a two-clap of appreciation his way.
Fall Sports & Community Recreation
The BOE is annually updated on extracurricular activities in October and November. However, at the start of the year, I always like to remind parents that WLPS is more than just Kindergarten to 12th grade programming. We offer a lot more - like sports. If you haven’t attended a WLPS sporting event yet this school year, I encourage you to do so. You can find middle and high school athletic schedules here. And you can find a catalog of what WLCR has to offer all ages here.
Cross county is a great sport to come watch. And, if you didn’t know, our girls’ team is the #1 ranked team in Division 4! Freshman runner Kaylie Livingston has broken the school record for the 4th time this season already!! History is in the making, and you get to be a part of it. Don't miss out.
Homecoming
Natalie Meadows, the student council representative on our BOE, and member of that #1 ranked cross country team, mentioned above, updated our BOE members this week on Homecoming events that I wanted to share with our community at large.
Homecoming is a great chance for all Trojans, young and old, to come together, reconnect and celebrate #TrojanPride. Mark your calendar with the following dates:
Homecoming week is October 2-October 7.
Volleyball Game: Thursday, October 5, JV at 5:30 p.m. and Varsity at 6:30 p.m.
Parade: Friday, October 6, 4 p.m.*
Football Game & Homecoming Halftime: Friday, October 6, 7 p.m.
Dance (for 9th-12th grade): Saturday, October 7
*Early release for all K-12 students on Friday, October 6
- Grades 5-12 will be released at 1:35 p.m.
- Grades K-4 will be released at 2:35 p.m.
Reminders will be sent by building principals as the date approaches.
It is a pleasure to share many of the great things WLPS has been doing. Go make today a great day to be a Trojan.
#TrojanPride
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