The Supe's Newsletter

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OUR MISSION IS TO DEVELOP A COMMUNITY OF LEARNERS WHO ARE PREPARED TO LIVE, WORK, AND CONTRIBUTE TO AN EVER-CHANGING SOCIETY.

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Dear Flint Community,

As we approach the end of the year and prepare for the holiday break, I want to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you—our scholars, families, staff, and community partners. Your unwavering commitment, hard work, and support are the foundation of everything we achieve at Flint Community Schools.

Every day, I am reminded of the incredible strength and resilience that define our school community. Whether in the classrooms, on the athletic fields, or during community events, your dedication shines brightly. Together, we are building brighter futures for our scholars, and for that, I am deeply thankful.

To Our Scholars:
Your curiosity, enthusiasm, and determination inspire us all. Keep dreaming big and striving for success. We are here to support you on your journey and celebrate your achievements every step of the way.

To Our Teachers, Support Staff, and Administrators:
Your tireless efforts and dedication to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for our scholars are remarkable. Your passion for education and commitment to excellence make a lasting impact, and I am proud to have such devoted individuals leading our schools.

To Our Parents and Families:
Thank you for being our partners in education. Your involvement—whether through helping with homework, attending conferences, or cheering from the sidelines—plays a crucial role in your child’s success and strengthens the fabric of our school community.

To Our Community Partners:
Your continued support and investment in Flint Community Schools help us create meaningful opportunities for every scholar. Together, we are proving that when we unite, we can overcome any challenge and achieve greatness.

As we move through this season of reflection and gratitude, let us take pride in the strides we have made and look forward to the possibilities ahead.

Looking Ahead to the New Year
As we welcome the New Year, let us embrace it as an opportunity for growth, renewal, and continued collaboration. Together, we will build on our successes, face challenges with determination, and create even greater opportunities for our scholars and our community. Let 2024 be a year of progress, hope, and shared accomplishments for all of us at Flint Community Schools.

Thank you for being an integral part of this journey. As we enjoy the holiday season, let us carry forward the spirit of unity, hope, and purpose into the New Year.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year!

Yours Educationally,

Kevelin Jones
Superintendent
Flint Community Schools

Gretchen Shafer, Principal at Potter Elementary, Dr. Shamarion Grace, Principal at Brownell STEM Academy, and Donnetta Moore, Principal at Holmes STEM Middle School Academy

Your unwavering dedication and leadership throughout the transformative renovations of Potter Elementary, Brownell STEM Academy, and Holmes STEM Middle School Academy have been nothing short of extraordinary.

These projects go beyond bricks and mortar—they represent our collective commitment to creating a nurturing and inspiring environment where our students, educators, and families can thrive and flourish. The physical transformation of our schools is a testament to the heart and soul you bring to our community each day.

Thank you for your steadfast focus on the future, your resilience during change, and your vision for a brighter tomorrow. Your efforts will leave a lasting legacy, not only in the renovated buildings but also in the lives of every scholar, staff member, and family you touch.

We are grateful for your leadership, and we celebrate the role you play in shaping a stronger, more vibrant Flint Community Schools. Together, we are building not just schools, but a future filled with hope and opportunity.

#LeadershipInAction #TransformingFutures #CommunityStrong #FCSPride

Flint Community Schools (FCS) proudly announces the resounding success of its annual "FCS Scholars Care" Food Distribution event, held on November 16, 2024, at Northwestern High School. This impactful initiative, made possible through a strong partnership with Chartwells, provided two weeks of nutritious food to 200 FCS families, affirming the district's commitment to supporting scholars and their families beyond the classroom.

The event was a powerful demonstration of community collaboration, with FCS scholars, staff, local dignitaries, and volunteers working side by side to pack and distribute food boxes filled with high-quality, balanced meal options. The scholar-led effort not only ensured families received essential resources but also empowered students with valuable service leadership experience, fostering a spirit of compassion and civic responsibility.

“We are incredibly proud of the unity and dedication demonstrated by everyone involved in the FCS Scholars Care event,” said Superintendent Kevelin B. Jones, II. “This initiative is a testament to our ongoing commitment to holistic support, ensuring our scholars and their families have the resources they need to thrive. Together, we are building a stronger, healthier Flint community.”

The event’s success highlights the power of partnerships, with Chartwells’ generous support ensuring access to nutritious food for families. By addressing immediate needs and strengthening community connections, FCS continues to exemplify its mission of fostering a supportive and thriving environment for scholars and their families.

Flint Community Schools extends its heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers, sponsors, and staff who made this event a success. Together, we are reinforcing the values of care, unity, and resilience that define our district.

Link to the images (click the image above or the following link) https://www.canva.com/design/DAGXDu8W_vI/ZxreVVipvEl6lGTY4JWEcQ/view?utm_content=DAGXDu8W_vI&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h0a39170acc

On November 13, 2024, Flint Community Schools hosted a Homecoming Celebration and Open House at Brownell STEM Academy and Holmes STEM Middle Schools Academy. This event celebrated the ongoing efforts to revitalize these institutions, recognizing significant support from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation and federal ESSER funds. The total $40 million renovation improved facilities for over 600 students, enhancing early childhood education, upgrading playgrounds, and sports facilities, and rerouting campus traffic.

The highlight of the renovation, The Cube, a 5,000-square-foot community hub, will support a variety of community and educational activities, fostering collaboration between Flint Community Schools and local organizations.

The celebrations on November 25 at Brownell STEM Academy and November 22 at Holmes STEM Middle Schools Academy included pep rallies, open houses, and tours, showcasing the schools' commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Superintendent Kevelin Jones expressed excitement about the progress and the forthcoming completion of The Cube, playgrounds, and track areas.

Stay tuned for future announcements about the Ribbon Cutting ceremonies, rescheduled due to ongoing construction. Flint Community Schools continues to strive for excellence, embodying its motto: RE-ENERGIZING THE PRIDE, RENOVATING THE PLANS, REBUILDING THE POSSIBILITIES, and REPURPOSING FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE.

Flint Community Schools is thrilled to announce its receipt of the prestigious MiMTSS Recognition Award for the 2023-2024 school year! This marks the third consecutive year of achieving this honor, showcasing our district's unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all scholars through the Michigan Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MiMTSS) framework.

District-Wide Achievement in MTSS Data Utilization

Flint Community Schools has earned the MTSS Data Utilization Award for its exemplary use of data to drive improvements district-wide. By systematically collecting and analyzing the District Capacity Assessment, the district has demonstrated a strategic approach to supporting each scholar’s growth and success.

School-Level Recognition for MTSS Fidelity Data Collection

We are especially proud to recognize the following schools for their exceptional work in collecting and using MTSS fidelity data to enhance behavioral support systems:

• Accelerated Learning Academy
• Brownell STEM Academy
• Doyle/Ryder School
• Durant Tuuri Mott School
• Eisenhower School
• Freeman School
• Holmes STEM Middle School Academy
• Neithercut Elementary School
• Potter School
• Southwestern Classical Academy (Reading & Behavior)

MTSS Implementation and Impact Recognition

Flint Community Schools has also been honored for MTSS Implementation and Impact, a testament to our dedication to enhancing behavior support structures across the district. The following schools received specific accolades for achieving Tier 1 and Tier 2 Behavior Support levels:

• Accelerated Learning Academy:
  • Tier 1 Behavior (Silver)
  • Tier 2 Behavior (Silver)
• Brownell STEM Academy: Tier 1 Behavior (Bronze)
• Doyle/Ryder School: Tier 1 Behavior (Silver)
• Durant Tuuri Mott School: Tier 1 Behavior (Bronze)
• Eisenhower School: Tier 1 Behavior (Silver)
• Freeman School: Tier 1 Behavior (Bronze)
• Holmes STEM Middle School Academy: Tier 1 Behavior (Bronze)
• Neithercut Elementary School:
  • Tier 1 Behavior (Bronze)
  • Tier 2 Behavior (Bronze)
• Potter School: Tier 1 Behavior (Silver)
• Southwestern Classical Academy: Tier 1 Behavior (Bronze)

A District-Wide Commitment to Excellence

This incredible recognition reflects the collective effort of Flint educators, administrators, and staff in championing innovative approaches to scholar success. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this significant achievement. Together, we are ensuring a brighter future for every scholar!

Congratulations, Flint Community Schools Team Members for your dedication to excellence!

Link to presentation: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGZq4KFBP8/3-cH0BzH1KVDG63G2tRysA/view?utm_content=DAGZq4KFBP8&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h129aa77722

Behind every successful school district lies a commitment to thoughtful planning, collaboration, and dedication to the needs of its scholars, families, and community. Flint Community Schools is no exception. In partnership with the Michigan State University Office of K-12 Outreach, the district is engaging in a robust strategic planning process aimed at ensuring a brighter, more equitable future for all.

The collaboration with MSU's Office of K-12 Outreach adds a critical dimension to this effort, bringing expertise, innovative strategies, and proven frameworks to guide the district’s planning. Together, this partnership is not just about addressing immediate challenges but also laying the groundwork for sustained success.

At the heart of this initiative is the Flint Board of Education, working tirelessly to align the district's goals with the needs of its community. The strategic planning process encompasses key focus areas that will define the path forward:

• School Consolidation & Repurposing: Developing strategies to enhance educational experiences while maximizing the district's resources to serve scholars and families effectively.
• Infrastructure Upgrades: Reimagining our facilities to ensure they meet the needs of both scholars and staff, creating safe, inspiring spaces for learning and growth.
• Plans for Vacant Properties: Transforming unused spaces into opportunities that benefit the broader Flint community, turning challenges into meaningful contributions.
• Building a New High School: Laying the foundation for a state-of-the-art facility that embodies Flint’s pride, resilience, and commitment to academic excellence.

Collaboration with key partners underscores the district’s dedication to comprehensive and informed planning. Presentations from organizations such as the Flint Center for Educational Excellence, Plante Moran, Thrun Law Firm, and the Government Relations Team provided valuable insights, ensuring that all decisions are rooted in expertise and community impact.

Community input remains central to this process. Flint Community Schools understands that its success depends on incorporating the voices of scholars, parents, educators, and community stakeholders. Transparency and engagement will continue to be guiding principles, with regular updates and opportunities for residents to contribute to shaping the district’s future.

The strategic planning process is more than a series of meetings—it’s a bold commitment to reimagining Flint’s educational landscape. It reflects a promise to provide scholars with the tools, resources, and environment they need to thrive while fostering a sense of pride and unity across the community.

As the district moves forward, its focus on maximizing resources, upgrading facilities, addressing vacant properties, and building a new high school highlights an unwavering dedication to the future of education in Flint. Together, with the support of our partners and the broader community, Flint Community Schools is poised to transform challenges into opportunities, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.

Stay tuned for updates and future opportunities to share your ideas and feedback as we work together to build a stronger, more vibrant future for our scholars and community.

https://www.flintschools.org/page/2024-in-the-news-stories-that-reflect-the-r4s

Flint Community Schools (FCS) continues to shine as a beacon of resilience, innovation, and community strength. Recent media coverage has highlighted the district’s inspiring achievements, collaborative efforts, and commitment to providing exceptional opportunities for scholars and families.

One standout story features the district’s ongoing partnership with Michigan State University’s Office of K-12 Outreach. Together, they are advancing a strategic planning initiative focused on key priorities, including infrastructure upgrades, school consolidation, and the development of a new state-of-the-art high school. These plans are shaping a brighter future for the entire Flint community.

FCS scholars have also made headlines for their remarkable accomplishments. From academic achievements to extracurricular excellence, our students continue to prove that dedication and hard work lead to success. Additionally, the district’s recent community events, such as the Family Engagement Celebration, brought families, educators, and local partners together to support student success and strengthen community ties.

As Flint Community Schools moves forward with bold initiatives and unwavering dedication, the positive momentum is undeniable. Together with the community, FCS is rewriting the narrative, showcasing the extraordinary possibilities that arise when we work together for our scholars’ futures.

Stay tuned for more updates as FCS continues to make headlines for all the right reasons!

We're Hiring Paraprofessionals! "LIKE, SHARE, AND APPLY TODAY!” Join the Flint Community Schools team and make a difference every day! We are currently seeking dedicated Paraprofessionals to support our vibrant learning community. Starting Pay: $16.00 per hour with the potential to earn up to $21.00 per hour based on your years of service with Flint Community Schools. At the top pay, FCS offers the 2nd highest pay in Genesee County for paraprofessionals. Often referred to as "paras" or "paraeducators," paraprofessionals are educational support professionals who work under the supervision of teachers or other licensed educational staff to provide added instruction and support to students. They assist in classrooms, work with small groups of students, and often help with classroom management, instructional activities, and providing individual attention to students who need extra assistance. Paraprofessionals play a crucial role in enhancing student learning and are vital contributors to the educational team. This is your opportunity to work in a supportive environment where your skills and dedication will truly impact our scholars' educational experiences. Apply today and grow with us. To learn more about career opportunities, please visit our website at www.flintschools.org and or click on the link: https://www.applitrack.com/gcaps/onlineapp/jobpostings/view.asp?district=724

FCS with Gccard and GISD Early Childhood & Parent Involvement Head Starts are offering the north end of Flint - "FREE learning environments for children STARTING @ 6 WEEKS TO 4-YEAR-OLD - EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS: The inclusive design of the early childhood center within "THE NEWLY RENOVATED" dedicated secure wing at Brownell STEM Academy Early Childhood Center that fosters a school climate conducive to successful transitions between Head Start, Great Start Readiness Program and Special Education. Families interested in learning more about this groundbreaking, all-inclusive early learning experience are encouraged to log on to/visit www.591kids.org, contact 810-591-KIDS, contact the Flint Community Schools Early Childhood office at 810-767-8018 or visit www.flintschools.org

Lady Jaguars Update: Our Lady Jaguars came out on December 15th and played a great basketball game. They were victorious in their Varsity Basketball game vs Bentley. The lady Jaguars jumped out early and continued to drops buckets through the first half as they went in at halftime 22-6. They didn’t let up and continued to play their game as they extended their score opportunities until the final whistle. Congratulations Ladies, we are proud of you !!!!!

The boys and girls varsity basketball teams play this coming Saturday, December 21st at Beecher for the first Holiday Classic. Boys play at 2:00 pm and the girls play at 4:00 pm so come out and support your Flint Southwestern Jaguars at Beecher.

Bowling Update: In addition to the Girls Varsity Basketball team we had another victory on this past Saturday, December 14th as the Jaguar bowling team beat a very strong Atherton Boys bowling team. The Jaguar’s Boys team beat Atherton 20 to 10. Elijah Lynch was the high bowler for the day with 247 in first game and 146 in the second. Dustin Farnham bowled 150 & 187, and Devin Windom bowled 174 & 163. Congratulations to our Boys !!!! We had some strong bowling from our ladies as well with Chile Combs and Myracle Haywood finishing strong. Congratulations Jaguar Bowlers!!!” If anyone is interested in joining the Bowling team we are still allowing a few more bowlers to join. Please see Mr. Maienbrook or Mr. Hicks in the athletic office for more details. The bowling team competes this Saturday December 21 at Galaxy Lanes starting at 10 am. Come out and support your Flint Southwestern Jaguars!!!

Holiday Break! Flint Community Schools will be closed for the holiday break from December 23 to January 3, 2025. There will be no school during this period as we celebrate the holiday season. We wish our entire Flint Community Schools family a joyful and restful holiday season filled with love, laughter, and special moments. See you in the new year! School resumes on Monday, January 6, 2025. Flint Community Schools. Click on the following link for the 2024-2025 School Year Calendar https://5il.co/2kv8b

Happy New Year from Flint Community Schools! Here’s to a year filled with hope, joy, and fresh beginnings. May the 2025 year bring happiness, success, and endless possibilities to all our scholars, families, and staff. Cheers to an amazing year ahead! #HappyNewYear

January is National School Board Appreciation Month, and Flint Community Schools is proud to celebrate and honor the dedicated members of the Flint Board of Education. These remarkable individuals are steadfast advocates for our scholars, families, and staff, and their leadership is instrumental in shaping the future of our district.

This year, we are especially excited to share a significant accomplishment. All seven members of the Flint Board of Education achieved certification in 2024 by successfully completing Level One of the Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB) training and classes. This milestone reflects their commitment to continuous professional development, ensuring they are well-equipped to make informed decisions that benefit our district and community.

Their certification demonstrates their dedication to enhancing their skills and knowledge to better serve the scholars, families, and staff of Flint Community Schools. This achievement is a testament to their passion for education and their determination to lead with purpose, vision, and accountability.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the following Flint Board of Education members for their unwavering service and leadership for 2024:

• Dr. Joyce Ellis-McNeal, President

• Mr. Michael Clack, Vice President

• Ms. Claudia Perkins-Milton, Secretary

• Mr. Dylan Luna, Treasurer

• Laura MacIntyre, Assistant Secretary/Treasurer

• Ms. Melody Relerford, Trustee

• Mr. Terae King, Jr, Trustee

Your commitment to fostering a thriving educational environment for our scholars is truly inspiring.

As we celebrate National School Board Appreciation Month, we invite the entire Flint Community to join us in recognizing the outstanding work of the Flint Board of Education. Their dedication, leadership, and vision are invaluable to the success of our district and the bright futures of our scholars.

Thank you for all that you do!

With our mobile app, parents, scholars, and staff can now access a wealth of information and resources from their smartphones. Whether staying updated with the latest school news, checking the academic calendar, or receiving real-time alerts, our app ensures you're always connected to Flint Community Schools.

You can download the Flint Community Schools app for free on Google Play or Apple App Store.

• Download for Android https://bit.ly/3t9skYw
• Download for iPhone https://apple.co/3ReLLa8

Please contact Bridgett Jones, District Communications Specialist at bjones@flintschools.org