Madison/Preparatory High Newsletter

Take this time to relax, reset and recharge! Have a safe, fun spring break, Eagles!

In April, the testing period for the Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress (M-STEP) opens. M-STEP is an annual assessment, aiming to evaluate students' proficiency across diverse subjects, such as English Language Arts (ELA), mathematics, science, and social studies.

Please help us to provide a smooth testing experience by making sure that your student participates in device collection at the end of the day on Tuesday, April 8th so they have their school issued Chromebook and charger for testing. Please note:

Ninth and Twelfth grade students will not report to school on April 9th.

Tenth and Twelfth grade students will not report to school on April 10th.

Not only is attendance crucial for these upcoming standardized testing dates, DAILY attendance also cannot be stressed enough. Every day in school presents a valuable opportunity for learning, and when a student is absent, they miss out on essential educational experiences. According to Attendance Works (attendanceworks.org): "Missing 10 percent of the school, or about 18 days in most school districts, negatively affects a student’s academic performance. When students improve their attendance rates, they enhance their academic prospects and increase their chances for graduating."

Our goal is to partner with families to ensure that students are attending school every day. However, we are mandated by the State Of Michigan to monitor attendance. When a child is absent from school and/or tardy in excess of 10 days without a valid excuse, the law considers that child to be truant. Letters have been sent home in communication of this law and students receiving a letter will be required to meet with the truancy officer during school the week following spring break. Let's work together to empower our students by ensuring they are punctual and present every day. Thank you for your continued support in fostering a positive and enriching learning environment.

We are so proud of our Eagles who met the March Digital Detox Challenge!!!

Students made the pledge to go phone free every day, every hour to maximize their learning experiences and prepare for spring testing.

Huge CONGRATULATIONS to our overall winning class, Ms. Tocco's Advanced Placement Literature, who earned an awesome reward: a movie, a buffet-style lunch from Pita Way, and a choice of a Madison High School swag item—either a Chromebook bag, a beanie, or mid-ankle socks! Kudos to the winning class for staying focused and taking on the challenge!

Thanks so much to CIS PD Ms. Clark for taking time out of your busy schedule and for serving our Eagles today!!

A huge thank you to Pita Way for providing such a delicious reward for our students.

Thank you so MUCH to Pita Way and their team especially Chance and Mike, for sponsoring our Eagle Lunch!!! Check them out: Pita Way 31161 Mound Rd, Warren, MI 48092

Shout out to our total of 170 Eagles who met the challenge individually, earning their choice of Eagle Pride swag 🦅

We encourage all students to think about how they can utilize their screen time more wisely each and every day. Balance is key! Let’s continue to make the most of our time both on and off screens!

A Big Thank You to Our Madison High School Mentors!

Madison Elementary’s Communities in Schools Literacy Day was a huge success. A heartfelt thank you to Chloe, Keshon, Antonio, Khrystyna, Adam, Jayson, Scar, and Angel, who walked over to help students with fun craft activities. The elementary students had such a blast spending time with you all! They loved listening to the story and getting creative with the crafts. A special shoutout to Angel for reading to a whole class—you made the story come alive!

The kindness, energy, and support from our High School Mentors made the day unforgettable. The younger students had so much fun. Your time and enthusiasm sparked a love of reading that will stay with them. Thank you for making Literacy Day so special!

Shout out to Ms. Cat and our Dining Services team for sponsoring our March Spirit Week Raffles! They put together some amazing, tasty baskets students could enter to win by entering daily whenever they enjoyed a healthy MHS breakfast.

Congratulations to Chloe, Adam, Delmar, Fabian, Logan, Alyssa, Tiarra, Zach and Devin!

Big congrats to Ari who won the $50 Meijer Gift Card!!!

Our Eagles had another great Wednesday celebrating March is Reading Month with the Madison Heights Public Library! During lunch, students were able to spin the prize wheel for a chance to win a book, a reading buddy, or a snack. Shout out once again to Rae, the Community Engagement Librarian at MH Public Library, for bringing the fun!!!

Our 4HBeKindtoYourMind Club wrapped up their designs for our school posters during their third session. Justen, from the Alliance of Coalitions for Healthy Communities (ACHC), and Nickole, from the Madison Heights Community Coalition (MHCC), then led the discussion in selecting a design for our poster and the group began the "Create a Campaign" portion of the session. The campaign goal is to help more Oakland County students make healthy and safe choices.

Shout out to Student Council and their sponsors Ms. Smiley and Ms. Tocco for putting on a fun-filled Powderpuff Volleyball game. Our girls stepped up to coach and our boys battled it out on the court! It ended in a tie -- the 9th + 12th grade team won one match and the 10th + 11th grade team won one match! Thanks to all who came out to support!!!

*Scholarship Opportunities:

--MI Army National Guard Minuteman Scholarship: Up to four students in Michigan can be awarded it each year! Covers EITHER all tuition/fees or $10,000 in room and board for 4 years + $1,200 for books each year & $420 cadet stipend monthly to the student

Eligibility: US Citizen, Class of 2025, EITHER 19+ on ACT, 850+ on SAT or 110 GT score on the ASVAB, Attend a university with an ROTC program and Eligible to enlist in the MI Army National Guard

--Jack and Jill of America Inc, Oakland County Chapter Academic Incentive Scholarship - 3/31 deadline! Find more information at: APPLY HERE

--The Rho Sigma Scholarship: Three (3) scholarships will be awarded to students graduating as a high school senior entering a 4-year college/university in the fall of 2025 (see PDF and flyer)

--MSGCU is proud to provide scholarships to dedicated students to help them follow their passions and reach career goals. Apply for over $130,000 with a total of 57 eligible recipients! APPLY TODAY!!!

-- Wayne State Guarantee tuition pledge - covers the full cost of tuition and standard fees with federal, state and other Wayne State University scholarships and grants, and is renewable for up to four years. WSU INFO

Incoming Freshman planning to attend WSU can apply for these additional WSU internal scholarships due by April 1, 2025:

1. Wayne State Guarantee
2. Heart of Detroit
3. President’s Award for National Merit Scholarship Finalists
4. Warrior Award
5. Gold Award
6. Detroit Leadership Award
7. Green Award
8. Scholar Award
9. Wayne Med-Direct
10. Athletic Awards

*FAFSA Cafe

Spring is here, and so is our next FAFSA Café!
Join us for a FREE and supportive FAFSA completion event in partnership with the National College Attainment Network (NCAN) and Capital One. SIGN UP HERE

Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025

Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Location: Capital One Café, 511 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI

What to Expect: Free café beverages while you work on your FAFSA

1-on-1 FAFSA support from trained professional

A chance to win exciting raffle prizes

Next-step planning resources once your FAFSA is submitted

Laptops available (or bring your own!)

Pro Tip: Save time by creating your FSA ID at least three days before the event. If you need help, don’t worry—our experts will assist you on-site!

Let’s sip, submit, and succeed together this spring!

Team DCAN

*Michigan Achievement Scholarship

Students and their families looking to secure more financial aid for college are encouraged to register for an informational webinar about the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, which is the newest State of Michigan scholarship program expected to impact the majority of students.

Participants will be able to gather the following information:

• Information about the NEW Community College Guarantee

• Michigan Achievement Scholarship eligibility requirements and award amounts

*24/25 FAFSA application is now OPEN!!! Create an account or Log In

Colleges and career schools use the FAFSA form to determine how much financial aid your student is eligible to receive, which could include grants, scholarships, and loans.

FSA ID creation - federal student aid website - & FAFSA checklist

ATTENTION CLASS OF 2027!!!

EARLY COLLEGE IS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR INCOMING JUNIORS 25/26 AT OSTC

Dear 10th grade student, As a current 10th grader interested in OSTC, there is an exciting opportunity available this spring that we wanted to share with you. The Oakland Technical Early College (OTEC) program is an opportunity for you to earn a free associate degree at Oakland Community College (OCC) while attending your high school and OSTC. This opportunity is only available to be enrolled in during your 10th grade year and the deadline for this process is May 23rd, 2025.

ZOOM INFORMATION SESSION 4/21 & 5/7: There are two scheduled Information Sessions about OTEC on Monday, April 21st @ 6:00 PM and Wednesday, May 7th @ 7:00 PM. If you are interested in attending this, please make sure to register, but there is a previously recorded session available as well.

APPLICATION PROCESS: The application process involves 4 tasks that you can start and complete online at https://www.ostconline.com/early-college/application-process. Please note this application is completely independent from your application to the OSTC Campus.

UNSURE ABOUT APPLYING? Please note that attending the information session, applying to, and even being accepted into the OTEC program does not require you to participate, so if you are unsure about the program, we would encourage you to apply now and make a decision about participating afterwards. Late applications cannot be accepted, so don’t delay and get started today!

QUESTIONS? If you have any questions about applying for the OTEC program, feel free to reach out at the contact information below.

Scott Kortlandt (Mr. K) - scott.kortlandt@oakland.k12.mi.us

Janet Temnyk – janet.temnyk@oakland.k12.mi.us

Oakland Technical Early College Advisors - Southeast Campus

Our 7th Hour Credit Recovery and After-School Tutoring Program is now running 3 days per week -- Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays @ 2:40-3:40pm!

We have 3 Tutor Volunteers and 2 staff facilitators available during each session to provide help and support! If your Eagle is enrolled in a 7th hour class, their attendance a minimum of 2 days per week is needed, but all 3 days is strongly recommended. Also, please continue encouraging them to complete their Tutorials at home, so they may use their time wisely in taking their teacher-facilitated assessments during 7th hour. Enrollment forms can be picked up in the main office.

At Communities In Schools of Michigan, we celebrate the incredible women—past, present, and future—who inspire, lead, and create opportunities for students to succeed. From educators to mentors, advocates to changemakers, women have shaped the path for a brighter future.

Madison High School and Communities In Schools of Michigan wish all our students who observe Ramadan or Lent peace, joy, and blessings this holy month. May your days be filled with kindness and gratitude. Ramadan Kareem! (have a generous Ramadan) Happy Lent!
Muslim students who fast, if you need accommodation during your lunch time (to pray or to rest), please feel free to see Ms. Margi, Ms. Cauley, or Ms. Haïette

FAMILY FUN

- Saturday, March: Project Art Teens, Detroit Public Library, Lincoln branch. Registration at: Project Art Teens March 22 & 29

- Sunday, March 23rd & March 30th: Rolling into Reading with Shelter Dogs, Detroit Public Library, Children’s Library. More info and registration at: Rolling into Reading with Shelter Dogs

- Tuesday, March 25: Chess Club, Detroit Public Library, Wilder branch. More info and registration at: Chess Club March 25

- Wednesdays: Knit and Crochet with Ms. Joyce, Pontiac Public Library. Everything is provided. Age: 18+

- Thursday, March 27th:

*Net-Surfing Basic, Detroit Public Library, Hubbard branch. More info and registration at: Net-Surfing Basic March 27

*Anime Club, Detroit Public Library, Wilder branch. More info and registration at: Anime Club March 27

*Family Crafts, Detroit Public Library, Franklin branch. More info and registration at: https://detroitpubliclibrary.org/events/event/1225309697289

- Free Admission Days at Metro Detroit Museums

Detroit Institute of Arts: Always free for Macomb, Oakland and Wayne County residents.

https://www.metroparent.com/things-to-do/attractions/metro-detroit-museums-free-admission/

- See Brilliant March Calendar for family friendly events. https://brilliantcities.org/detroit/

Madison Heights: We're Hiring: Summer Camp Staff! (18+)

Looking for a fun and rewarding part-time summer job? Join our dynamic Madison Heights Recreation team and make this summer unforgettable for kids and staff alike! We're seeking passionate, energetic, and responsible individuals to fill various positions for camp this season.

What We’re Looking For:

• A positive attitude and a love for working with kids

• Strong teamwork skills

• Ability to handle a fast-paced environment

• Previous experience in similar roles

• CPR/First Aid certification (City of Madison Heights provided upon hire)

View all open positions and apply today at: http://www.madison-heights.org/Jobs

Message from our CIS partner nylc (national youth leadership council):

Looking for tools, insights, and stories that inspire youth leadership and civic engagement?

The Leader is NYLC’s monthly newsletter designed to empower young people and those who support them. Each issue is filled with actionable ideas, impactful stories, and resources to build informed global citizens.

Stay connected—subscribe today!

https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1980334/1960369/

- It’s National Poison Prevention Week: When the unexpected happens, Poison Help is here for you 24/7. Save the Poison Help number, 1-800-222-1222, in your contacts. #NPPW25

- Thursdays starting March 27th until May 15th: Brilliant Minds: an 8-week program focusing on aspects of mental health as a parent support group. Presented by Brilliant Detroit.

​ Brilliant Minds – A Support Group for Caregivers! ​

Parenting and caregiving come with its highs and lows — Brilliant Minds is here to provide a welcoming, non-judgmental space where caregivers can support each other and learn valuable skills to improve their well-being. Each session explores important topics like self-care, overcoming challenges, managing stress, and building resilience, all while connecting with others who truly understand the journey.

Need a moment to unwind? We’ve got you covered! While caregivers relax and connect, we’ll have engaging programming for the kids—so you can focus on YOU while they enjoy fun activities in a safe space.

Thursdays, March 27 - May 15

5PM - 6:30PM

Brilliant Detroit Central Hub

803 Hazelwood St., Detroit, MI 48202

​​ Let’s grow, uplift, and navigate this journey together. Register today: https://forms.gle/f5iqS8nRhHJJJmYa6

- Monday, March 31st: Join Michigan State Representative Brenda Carter for her upcoming Renters and Homeowners Resource Fair on Monday, March 31 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Bowen Senior Citizens Center, 52 Bagley St. in Pontiac.

- Citizenship preparation free online classes, presented by IIMD (International Institute of Metro Detroit): April 7 – June 18, 2025. Complete the online registration form by scanning the QR code or go to: IIMD On-Line Citizenship Spring Class (April 2025) Registration Form

- Message from our community partner ACHC: It’s true! Vaping nicotine does not help with anxiety or depression. If you are looking for more information on youth vaping visit http://www.alliancemi.org/resources/vaping-ends.

- Message from our community partners at MHCC (MH Community Coalition):

We’re proud to partner with Alliance of Coalitions for Healthy Communities to bring lifesaving harm reduction boxes to our community. These stations provide 24/7 access to:

--Naloxone (Narcan) doses

--Fentanyl & Xylazine testing strips

--Safe disposal kits

--Educational resources

You can find them at:

--Jennifer & Dequindre

--Sacred Heart Madison Heights Outpatient & Wellness Services

Even though Naloxone is available OTC, cost and stigma still create barriers. These stations are free and open to anyone in need.

Help us spread the word!

- Wellness Wednesdays, Baldwin Center, Pontiac. Every Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Oakland County residents in need of health, housing, employment and community resources are invited to enjoy a meal at the Baldwin Center, located at 212 Baldwin Ave., while connecting with services. More info at: Wellness Wednesdays by Oakland County

- Message from our CIS community partner, E-Community Outreach Services:

Did You Know?

Our Parent Empowerment Center is here to help families access vital resources!

DTE & Consumers Energy Assistance – We can place a hold on your account to help prevent shut-offs.

MI Bridges Navigators – Our team can help you apply for benefits like food, cash assistance, and healthcare.

Furniture Bank Partner – Need furniture? We can provide a referral to help furnish your home.

Strong Community Network – We’ve built relationships with over 10 community partners to connect families with essential resources.

ECOS Family Membership Store – Our members get exclusive access to shop once a month for household items, clothing, and essentials!

Looking for assistance? Contact us today! We’re here to help you and your family find the support you need.

Visit the Parent Empowerment Center or reach out for more information!

- Message from Oakland Family Services:

“Take the first step toward positive change with SMART Recovery! Our evidence-based, stigma-free meetings focus on self-empowerment and provide practical tools rooted in motivational and cognitive behavioral theories.

Topics Covered:

Building and maintaining motivation

Coping with urges and cravings

Managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors

Living a balanced life

Who: Adults 18+ | Free | No registration required

For more information, contact Rachel Boyle at rboyle@ofsfamily.org.

Join us on the path to a healthier, more balanced life—we’re here to support you!”

Royal Oak: Thursdays @6:30pm,

Pontiac: Tuesdays @ 1pm

- Message from MDHHS:

No one has to face their struggles alone. If you or a loved one are feeling overwhelmed or experiencing thoughts of suicide, free confidential support is available 24/7/365.

- Saturdays by appointment only from 1/25 to 4/12: Free Tax Preparation, Pontiac, provided by OLHSA in partnership with AccountingAidSociety. More info and locations at: IRS Get Free Tax Prep Help

- Start registering now for the April 5th MHYA and OCSD Women & Girls Self Defense Awareness Program. Girls ages 13 and up. Written permission from parent/guardian required for participants 13-17 years, not accompanied by parent/guardian.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MadHgtsYouth4-5-25

- Every Thursday, Pontiac Public Library is offering FREE TUTORING from 5:30-7 p.m. So please bring your child/children out and let us help them be the best they can be! A light snack will also be provided.

- Ferncare free clinic: to become a Patient, call 248-677-2273. This is an appointment only clinic. All calls are returned within 24 hours Monday through Friday. More info at: https://www.ferncare.org/

- The City of Pontiac is offering free carbon monoxide detectors to Pontiac residents through our Carbon Monoxide Safety Program.

Click the link to apply on our website today: https://tinyurl.com/PontiacGrants

Applications are also available at Pontiac City Hall in the Grants and Philanthropy office.

- Buyer's Assistance Program, Oakland County Treasurer's Office. More info at: Buyer's Assistance Program

- Need help with improving your computer skills? Check out Michigan eLibrary. Thanks Madison Heights Public Library for the tip! More info at: MeL Computer Skills Center

- The Hardship Assistance Program:

The Hardship Assistance Program can help eligible Oakland County residents. The program is open to Oakland County residents who get their water from a municipal water system, not a private well.

• Pay their current water or sewer bill for up to three months.

• Eliminate past-due balances.

• Pay for plumbing repairs.

For more info, visit: https://www.oakgov.com/government/water-resources-commissioner/affordability/hardship-assistance-program

To apply: United Way for Southeastern Michigan Utility Assistance Application

Volunteering opportunities:

- Volunteer with Madison Heights Public Library! Volunteens is every last Thursday of the month! Get recorded volunteer hours, a snack and help our library!