Dryden Community Schools

Dear Cardinal Families,

The arrival of December on the calendar brings a time when we all look forward to the holiday season. While it's natural to think ahead and plan for the future, it's important to remember to appreciate the present moment.

Sometimes, we get so caught up in preparing for what's to come that we forget to fully experience and enjoy what's happening right now. This season, I encourage you to take a moment to appreciate every snowflake, every smile, and every precious moment. The new year will be here before we know it, and it will bring new opportunities to cherish.

As we approach the holiday season, I urge you to embrace the small moments and value those who are dear to you. Let's remember to be kind and spread joy during this festive time. Amidst the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations, it's easy to become overwhelmed and lose sight of the true essence of this special time of year. Take a break from the shopping and decorating, and simply be present in the moment. Go for a walk in the crisp winter air and marvel at the beauty of nature. Engage in meaningful conversations with your loved ones, truly listening to their words and sharing your own thoughts and feelings.

The holiday season is a time for reflection, gratitude, and connection. It's an opportunity to slow down and appreciate life's simple pleasures. Take a moment to savor the taste of hot cocoa, feel the warmth of a cozy blanket, and relish in the joy of laughter with friends and family. Embrace the holiday spirit and spread love and kindness wherever you go.

While we eagerly await the arrival of winter break, which will take place from December 20th to January 2nd, let's not forget to express our gratitude to those who have supported us throughout the year. Take the time to write a heartfelt thank-you note to your child's teacher or send a kind message to a friend who has been there for you. These small acts of appreciation can make a significant difference in someone's day and remind us of the power of kindness and gratitude.

In the midst of the holiday chaos, it's crucial to remember to take care of ourselves as well. Make time for self-care and relaxation. Whether it's curling up with a good book, indulging in a long bath, or going for a peaceful walk, prioritize activities that bring you joy and rejuvenate your spirit.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for your continuous support and involvement in your child's education. Our school is a family, and your presence and trust mean a great deal to us.

As we anticipate the start of a new year, let's carry the lessons and memories of this holiday season with us. Let's strive to be more present, more mindful, and more grateful for the simple joys that life has to offer.

We wish you the happiest holiday and the healthiest new year.

Yours in Education,

Mary Finnigan

Superintendent

Stay updated on our progress with funds from the bond passed in May 2023 by using this checklist! We appreciate your continued support of our students, our schools, and our community.

Dear Cardinal Families,

The 2023-24 school year is off to a great start, and in many ways, it is hard to fathom how it is already December. As the holiday season approaches, let us take a moment to personally reflect on our many blessings and look toward a bright new year. Let us also be intentional in our pursuit to show kindness and compassion to all.

The cold and snowy weather has already made an appearance. Kindly remember that we will go outside for recess whenever weather permits. Please be sure to send your child to school with winter appropriate clothing- coat, hats, boots, mittens/gloves, snow pants, and a scarf. If you or someone you know is in need of help, please contact that main office.

We work diligently on maintaining our cleaning protocols. Despite that colds, flu, and other illnesses are still somewhat unavoidable. Please help us minimize the spread by considering keeping your child home if symptoms warrant. Don't forget to call the main office and get a doctor’s note when you can.

Winter also means we need to be ready for snow days or delayed starts. Please be sure that your contact information is up-to-date in PowerSchool so that you get our alerts. If you haven't been receiving our emails/text messages, please contact the main office.

School safety remains a top priority. In addition to the systems we have in place, we ask that families support our efforts by reminding your child of what is and is not appropriate to say or do in the school setting as well as items that should and should not be brought to school. Please encourage your child to be aware of his/her surroundings and to tell a trusted adult IMMEDIATELY if they see or hear something that makes them uncomfortable. We are stronger when we work together.

If you or someone you know is looking to make a positive impact, please consider joining our team or volunteering. We have open aide positions available; contact the main office. The PTA is also looking for new members. They meet the first Wednesday of each month in the media center.

Our blessings are abundant. We are grateful for each student and every family that entrusts us with the care and education of their children, and we are committed to continuous improvement. We are thankful for our staff who consistently go above and beyond to provide the best foundation they can for our students. We are indebted to our community for their partnerships and support. We wish everyone a joyous holiday season and a happy new year!

Sincerely,

Stacey Abromaitis

Principal

Dryden Elementary

Dear #proudcardinal Families and Students,

The midpoint of the school year will be here before we know it. As we approach the end of the first semester on January 12, it is important that our students put in their best efforts and dedicate themselves to completing all their assignments on time. Additionally, please remind them to dress appropriately for the colder weather. Free winter coats are available to anyone in need.

Exam days and half days for students will be held on January 10, 11, and 12. On these days, students in grades 7-12 will be dismissed at 10:35 a.m. It is imperative that the students are aware of these dates and make the necessary arrangements to be present and ready for their exams. While junior high courses do not have formal exams, high school students should be prepared for an end of the semester test or project. They should ensure that they have thoroughly and comprehensively studied the course material to excel in their assessments.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for trusting us with the education and well-being of your student(s). We take our responsibilities very seriously and are committed to providing the best possible support and guidance. Your support and involvement are highly appreciated, and we value the importance of our students' success and growth.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any further questions or concerns. We are here to assist you and ensure a smooth and successful end to the semester for our students.

Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday,

Mary Finnigan

Dryden Junior/Senior High School Principal

In education, dual enrollment (DE) involves students being enrolled in two separate, academically related institutions. Generally, it refers to high school students taking college courses. The state of Michigan allows students in grades 9 through 12 to enroll in post-secondary courses. Students can take up to 10 college courses while in high school. Contact Mrs. Fleming for additional information, if interested (kfleming@drydenschools.org).

Kimberly Fleming

Counselor

Dryden Junior/Senior High School

Students enrolled in the Dryden Early College Academy have the opportunity to continue their education at one of six post-secondary institutions: Baker College, Ferris State University, Oakland University, Macomb Community College, Mott Community College, or the University of Michigan-Flint.

Dryden High School is proud to announce that Ava DeVlaminck is this year's DAR Good Citizen. Ava was selected by teachers based on the DAR Good Citizen qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. Ava will have the opportunity to compete for a scholarship at the state and national levels.

"I am honored to represent Dryden High School, Women, and Daughters around the state. I want to thank my teachers for their consideration of me for this scholarship. It means a lot to me to be thought of for qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism," reflected DeVlaminck as she accepted her award.

This recognition was presented by Dryden High School Counselor Kimberly Fleming, who said “We are incredibly proud and honored to have Ava DeVlaminck represent Dryden High School as this year's Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen. Ava is a phenomenal student who cares about her community and others. She expresses this through her philanthropic endeavors and the leadership roles she assumes.”

The award is presented under the auspices of the John Crawford Chapter, NSDAR in Almont, Michigan. Once a student is chosen as their school's DAR Good Citizen the student is invited to participate in the scholarship portion of the program. This consists of a personal statement and an essay. Student participation in the scholarship portion of the program is optional. Scholarships are awarded to essay winners at the chapter, state, division, and national levels.

On October 25, National Junior Honor Society and National Honor Society members gathered to induct new initiates.

New NJHS Members are Willow DuBuis, Aiden Dunny, Ella Gustner, Rheilyn Holburt, Jaxen Hearold, Dakota Lowry, Jaycen Roberts, Victoria Smith, Jeffrey Taylor, and Elaina Yatros.

Current NJHS Members are Zechiah Bryant, Kale Bullock, Jax Morley, Tyler Roberts, and Claire Wright. Officers are Penelope Spencer, President; Levi Fitchett, Vice President; Gavin Prusakiewicz, Secretary; Kai Grabowski, Treasurer; and Madison Gammon, Historian.

New NHS members are Mallory Barker, Ryan Conn, Dakota Deel, Aiden Fitchett, Caila Fitchett, Alexis Godbey, and Cara Prusakiewicz.

Current NHS members are Tyler Biggs, Jacob Buffo, Sean Finnigan, Mikayla Fleming, Noah Hall, Matthew Livingston, and Lillian Wright. Officers are Audrey Napolitano, President; Ava DeVlaminck, Vice President; Raeshell Richardson, Secretary; Lily Finnigan, Treasurer; and Sophia Peter, Historian.

Congratulations to the new honor society members!

Tyler Biggs, Ava DeVlaminck, Ryan Conn, Audrey Napolitano, Aiden Fitchett

Photo by Nick Pugliese

Five Dryden High School seniors earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Programs. These programs celebrate students' hard work in high school and showcase their strong academic performance. The academic honors for rural area residence are an opportunity for students to share their strong academic achievements with colleges and scholarship programs that are seeking to recruit diverse talent.

Congratulations to the following students who received the National Rural and Small Town Award (NRSTA).

• Aiden Fitchett
• Audrey Napolitano
• Ava DeVlaminck
• Ryan Conn
• Tyler Biggs

“We’re thrilled to celebrate our students and recognize them for the great work they’ve been doing. We’re proud of their strong academic performance in the classroom and on College Board assessments like the PSAT/NMSQT® and PSAT 10,” said Mary Finnigan, Dryden High School Principal and Dryden Community Schools Superintendent. “There’s so much that makes our students unique, and receiving this honor reinforces this as an asset for their future.”

The criteria for eligible students include:
• GPA of 3.5 or higher.
• PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10 assessment scores that are within the top 10% of assessment takers in each state for each award program.
• Attend school in a rural area or small town.

Congratulations to these students on their hard-earned award!

Congratulations to Lily Finnigan and Aiden Fitchett!

Lily and Aiden were announced last week as Dryden High School's Heisman High School Scholarship School Winners.

The Heisman Memorial Trophy is annually awarded to the most outstanding college football player in the nation. The Heisman High School Scholarship extends the Heisman prestige to our nation’s most esteemed high school seniors by recognizing and rewarding outstanding scholar-athletes who understand that the most important victories not only happen on the field, but in their schools and communities. These remarkable young leaders set the example and make a game-changing difference every day, paving the way to greatness for everyone around them.

Thousands of high school senior scholar-athletes graduating with the class of 2024 from 4,129 different schools across the country applied for the scholarship earlier this fall. From this talented group of accomplished, community-minded young men and women, more than 4,878 have earned the honor of becoming School Winners in the Heisman High School Scholarship competition awarded by The Heisman Trophy Trust.

One hundred of these School Winners will become State Winners with the opportunity to become part of our esteemed group of 12 National Finalists and ultimately be named one of our two National Winners. State Winners receive a $1,000 college scholarship, National Finalists receive a $2,000 college scholarship and the male and female National Winners will each receive a $10,000 college scholarship.

To apply, students must be graduating with the class of 2024, have a cumulative weighted high school grade point average of a B (3.0) or better, participate in at least one of the sports recognized by the International Olympic Committee, the Paralympic Games and/or the National Federation of State High School Association and be a leader in his/her school and community.

At this time, we are offering the choice of fully in-person or fully online learning for students in grades 7-12 at Dryden High School. Families interested in the fully online Dryden Virtual Academy should contact the office at (810)796-2266.

With our fluctuating temperatures, the Fall Sports Season has come to a close.

Our Cross Country team competed at the League Meet on Wednesday, October 18th in Dryden. We had 9 runners finish in the top 15 and our team took 2nd Place. Both teams competed at Regionals on Saturday, October 28th at Wagener Park. Our Boys Team and 3 Girls qualified for States, most of our runners had personal records (PR) including Aiden Fitchett running a school record. The State meet was held on Saturday, November 4th at Michigan International Speedway. Congratulations to Aiden Fitchett for finishing 22nd in the state, an All-State finish, and to Cara Prusakiewicz finishing 66th with a school record.

NCTL All League:

First Team: Aiden Fitchett

Second Team: Cara Prusakiewicz, Logan Romain, and Noah Hall

Honorable Mention: Lily Finnigan and Audrey Napolitano

Tri-City Times All Area:

Boys: First Team: Aiden Fitchett, Noah Hall, Logan Romain, and Connor Wolff

Second Team: Brenden Peter, Sean Finnigan, and Matthew Hickmott

Coach of the Year: Kory Lohrmann

Girls: First Team: Cara Prusakiewicz, Audrey Napolitano, and Lily Finnigan

Second Team: Caila Fitchett and Lillian Eason

Our Volleyball team played in the MHSAA Volleyball District against Cardinal Mooney on Wednesday, November 1st. Although they did not win, we are still proud of their accomplishments this season.

NCTL All League:

Second Team: Sophia Peter and Lily Finnigan

Honorable Mention: Keira Miller, Ava DeVlaminck, and Isabella Weier

Tri-City Times All Area:

First Team: Sophia Peter and Lily Finnigan

Second Team: Isabella Weier, Keira Miller, and Ava DeVlaminck

This year we welcomed back Cardinal Football. Our team opened and closed the season with wins and we look forward to more of them next year.

NCTL All League:

Second Team All-Defense: Sontino Coscione

Honorable Mention All-Defense: Santiago Perales

Honorable Mention All-Offense: Sontino Coscione

Our Winter Sports Season is underway. We will have the following activities, and remember you can watch your Cardinals from home on the NFHS Network. (https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/)

High School:

• Girls Basketball

• Boys Basketball

• Sideline Cheer

• Bowling

Junior High:

• Boys Basketball (Jan/Feb)

Please check the Dryden Athletics page for the up to date schedule:

https://www.drydenschools.org/page/athletics

All student-athletes must have a 2023-2024 physical on file in the office in order to participate.

https://www.mhsaa.com/portals/0/Documents/health%20safety/physical2page.pdf

All spring sports will start on March 11. The following sports are available this spring and students will need their physicals by then.

Baseball (High School & Junior High)

Golf

Girls Soccer (co-op w/Imlay City)

Softball

Track & Field (High School & Junior High)

If you have any questions about athletics, please visit our page:

https://www.drydenschools.org/page/athletics

As always, Go Cardinals!

Ms. Loraine Brinker

Assistant Principal/Athletic Director

#PROUDCardinal!

December 11

January 8

February 12

March 11

All meetings begin at 7:00 p.m., will be held in the Dryden High School Library, and are open to the public.

Email: MFinnigan@drydenschools.org
Website: www.drydenschools.org
Location: 3866 Rochester Road, Dryden, MI, USA
Phone: 8107962266
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drydencommunityschools