National Freedom Day, always observed on February 1st, celebrates freedom from slavery. It also recognizes that America is a symbol of liberty. The day honors the signing by Abraham Lincoln of a joint House and Senate resolution that later became the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
Questions to Ponder:
Facts:
As educators, we don’t just educate children, we are charged to keep them safe. Review school policies that involve the protection of k-12 students and be vigilant about ensuring the freedom of all.
Topics include, but are not limited to:
Ethics are essential to the successful operation of the educational system. The Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB) has developed indicators of effective boards and board members that encompass the most important responsibilities of a board of education. Ethics are intended to ensure that the conduct of a school board holds the respect and confidence of the community, staff, students and all constituents. It’s the belief of MASB that high ethical standards translate into a focus on student achievement, culture and conduct at board meetings, and consistent accountability.
Focus on Student Achievement
Board members:
Accountability
Board members:
Culture and Conduct at Board Meetings
Board members:
Ethics
Board members:
Nominations are open for the School/University Partnership Office Outstanding Employee of the Year Award.
This year we are acknowledging the following school staff:
See the SUPO website for additional information.
Stakeholders from SVSU charter schools (school leaders, teachers, staff) can win a cash prize for their school for submitting photos of student learning, experiences, and activities that illustrate the theme of the year. Each photo must include a caption (1-3 sentences that links the photo to the theme).
2025 Theme – Growing Together
At the School/University Partnership Office (SUPO) we believe that a quality education welcomes all, fosters creativity, and entitles learners to grow into their most authentic selves. As every difference is an asset, education should always be a celebration of diverse views and people. Seek out photos that illustrate students discovering their talents, abilities, opportunities for enrichment, service, and personal development.
To enter the contest, submit the Photo Contest Terms & Rules form, photos, and Media Release Forms to Dawn Gillespie (drg@svsu.edu). Deadline April 4, 2025.
For additional information and forms see the SUPO website.
STUDENT SERVICE UPDATES
Legal News in Student Services
The Guidance reiterates OSERS’ long-standing guidance that a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) and positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) help schools implement positive, proactive, and preventative approaches to student behavior. It further states that functional behavioral assessments (FBAs) and behavioral intervention plans (BIPs) should be used as components of a school-wide framework to support students to reduce exclusionary discipline. (Thrun, 1/13/25)
Best Practice Corner
Want some money??? Spring Count!
Now is the time to review and ensure all Tri Annual Dates (3-year re-evals) and Annual Dates (annual IEPs) are compliant prior to spring count day to ensure your school receives optimal funding.
Special Education Coffee Hour
February 5, 2025, from 3:30 – 4:30PM - Discussing LRE
February 20, 2025, from 3:30 – 4:30PM - Discussing support opportunities from MDE
MCIFN hosts six meetings each year and an annual conference held over three days in June. During and between meetings, members engage in collective learning and collaborative problem-solving, provide feedback on state policies and initiatives, and share and create resources to support effective and efficient continuous improvement practices statewide.
2024-25 Schedule and Registration Fees
Upcoming Network Meeting
Annual MCIFN Conference - June 11-13 (Traverse City)
The MSTC conference will take place on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, 9:00 am - 6 pm, and on Thursday, February 13, 2025, 9:30 am - 4:15 pm. There will be 37 clinic sessions, and three keynote presentations offered.
School/University Partnership Office
Office Location: Gilbertson Hall
Email: supo@svsu.edu
Phone: (989) 964-4623