Chirp Sheet
Singing the praises of our DCS students and staff 9-15/23
November 22, 2023 - Special "THANKFUL" Edition
DCS staff members share reasons why they are thankful this Thanksgiving holiday season
Did you know that research shows that grateful people are happier and more likely to maintain good friendships? In fact, it's actually physiologically impossible to be stressed and thankful at the same time. Keep reading to discover why some of our DCS staff members are feeling grateful (and less stressed!) this holiday season.
"I am so thankful for my family! As we face the challenges of getting older, we are able to still laugh and enjoy our time together! We have been so blessed to be able to have so many special memories!" Jody Baldridge, Davison High School Teacher
"I am thankful for all God's work and blessings in my life, my family, the wonderful community at my church and my coworkers. I particularly want to share a thankfulness shout out to my teaching mentor MaryAnn and the awesome people in the social studies department who adopted me and help me everyday!" Megan Gieselman, Davison High School Teacher.
"After spending Intersession in Colombia, I feel like I have so much to be thankful for. I am so appreciative of our clean drinking water and the ability to walk into a store or pharmacy easily and shop. I am thankful for the wide variety of items I can buy here in the states. I am appreciative of the US Postal service that reliably delivers my mail. I am even thankful for our 'rules of the road.' Although things are not perfect here, I certainly have become more aware that not all countries have such luxuries. My eyes were opened to the fact that we are so fortunate to live here and experience freedoms that not all countries receive." Suzie Richards, Hill Elementary Teacher.
"I am thankful to work with students every day who are engaging and supportive. I am also thankful to spend time with family over the holiday. I cherish every minute we have together." Tracey Fowler, Davison High School Teacher
"I am thankful for so much this year. I can honestly say that the quote 'courage has been an accumulation of small steps' rings true for our household. This year I am thankful for the friend that cut my kids' hair, I am grateful for the meals my dad made, I am grateful for the food that was given to us by friends, I am grateful for the friends from the past who came to visit our family, I am grateful for the clothes that were provided for the cold months, I am grateful for all the times when we could sit around and play board games and just spend time together. Overall, though, I am grateful for a relationship with God this year. Every stitch, every morsel, every snip, every laugh, every hug and every tear is so much more appreciated and enjoyed with God. This year has been a year of transition and we have learned so much and have become so much stronger." Rachael Suchy, DCER Supervisor
"I am thankful for my husband who always supports me in everything I do, my 2 sons who are wonderfully kind humans, my 23rd year in Davison in a job I love with amazing co-workers, students and parents, my friends and all my family, good health, a loving God, days full of sunshine and fresh air, a hot cup of coffee and a good night’s sleep." Christine Glann, Gates Elementary Counselor
"I am thankful for my family, friends and such supportive colleagues!" Chelsea Paull, Social Worker
"I am thankful for God for forgiving me time after time, in areas I fall short." Michelle Sevener, Hahn Intermediate Monitor
"As Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself reflecting on the many blessings that enrich my life. Today, I am especially thankful for the freedoms we enjoy in America and the countless blessings from God that surround us. In the land of the free, we have the liberty to dream big and pursue our passions. The opportunities that America offers are boundless, allowing us to strive for our goals and aspirations. I am grateful for the diversity that enriches our nation. The mosaic of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives makes America a tapestry of unity. It is a privilege to learn from and be inspired by the people around me. In every sunrise and sunset, in the laughter of loved ones, and in the beauty of nature, I see God's grace. The blessings that surround me are a testament to His love and guidance, a source of strength and inspiration. The love and support of family and friends are priceless treasures from God. I am blessed to have a circle of loved ones who uplift me, share in my joys, and stand by me during challenges. The promise of tomorrow is a beacon of hope. I am thankful for the resilience that allows us to face uncertainties with courage and optimism, trusting that the future holds even greater blessings. On this Thanksgiving, let's not only count our blessings but also share our gratitude with others. Wishing everyone a joyous and thankful celebration filled with love, laughter, and appreciation for the abundant blessings that grace our lives." Jenny Berhe, Hahn Intermediate Vocal Music Teacher
"I am thankful for being able to see all of my students' smiling faces. They brighten my day, and make me happier than they will ever know!" Gesicca LaRocque, Cardinal's Nest Associate Teacher
"I am thankful for my wife. This past few months have been rough for me. She has been my emotional/physical support through everything that has happened these few months. One more thing - working for Davison Schools is a great place to work for. Thanks again everyone." Gary Stebbins, Hahn Intermediate Housekeeper
"I am thankful for my husband, Dave Flowers. We became friends in the 5th grade at Gates Elementary. In the 12th grade we started dating and we have been together for 38 years! We were just talking about how grateful we are to have grown up together, faced life's challenges together, and shared so many wonderful memories together. He is my rock and I am so incredibly grateful for him." Christy Flowers, Siple Elementary Principal
"I am grateful for a fulfilling career, my helpful husband, my home, my friends and family, my health, my dog Sadie and my 4 cats." Shelli Hester Hyde, Hahn Intermediate Teacher
"I am thankful for accepting a job at Hahn one year ago! The kids at Hahn are next to none! They make me smile and I truly believe they will change the world one day. The 5th grade teachers at Hahn have taken me under their wings and have become some great friends of mine. They are the best! I am so thankful to be a part of Davison Schools." Jenna Blake, Hahn Intermediate Teacher
"I am so thankful for my family, especially my grandkids, Rowen and Ella Grace. They bring so much joy. It's wonderful to see their excitement when we play games, puzzles, color or read books." Anne McDonald, Cardinal Center Secretary
"I am thankful to work for a district that understands that in order to put kids first, the administration must also put staff first. I feel supported and valued here at Davison. It makes coming to work a joy! As a parent in the district, I am also thankful for Mr. Piger as he loves our students and is present at a variety of their activities, showing all of them how much they matter to him!" Amy Cottrill, Davison High School Teacher
"I am thankful to work with kind, caring and loving coworkers," Hillary Stimson, Gates Elementary Secretary
"Thankful for the chances that came my way in both my career and personal journey this year. It was an unusual ride at times, but one filled with positive experiences and memories. I'm particularly thankful for the love and support from my family and especially my wife Stacy who is not just supportive but also incredibly cute." Josh Evans, Cardinal Center, Director of Business Services
"I am thankful that my college student is coming home for a few days and I get to see his grumpy, little face!!!!! I really miss that grumpy, little face." Laurie Heath, Davison High School Health Sciences Teacher
"As simple as it seems, I am extremely grateful for my family and friends. The people who have been there for me through the celebrations and struggles, the highs and lows, the good and the bad. People who have pushed me to be a better version of myself and those that have pulled me through when I just didn't think I was going to make it. The older I get the more cognizant I am of the relationships in my life. We talk all the time about the importance of relationships, of human connection, but when 'things' happen (good or bad) and you stop and look around, you realize it is the people you are with that matter. I have been lucky to be surrounded by some pretty amazing people in both my personal and professional life...and for this, I am so grateful!" Natalie Miller, Gates Elementary Principal
"I am thankful for my family, friends, and to be working in the Davison Schools." Matt Lobban, Superintendent
"I am thankful for my family and being home for the holidays." Debbie Pawlow, Davison Middle School Cook
"I am thankful for my family and good friends, the opportunity to work with kids every day, and warm sunny days!" Tammy Fellows, Davison Middle School Teacher
"I am thankful for being a part of this community, including the City of Davison Police Department and the Davison Community School District. I've had the pleasure of working in and around the Davison Community now for about 13 years. It really is a wonderful place to work and raise a family. Happy Thanksgiving to all! Officer Bryan Illig, Davison City Police Officer and DMS/Hahn School Resource Officer
"I am thankful for good health, a loving and supportive husband and family. I am thankful to be a grandma to Easton and Emerson! I am grateful for friends, laughter, and cherished memories with the ones that I love. I am blessed to serve in the district that I hold dear with wonderful colleagues and my Hill School family. Every day is truly a blessing." Jen Burke, Hill Elementary Principal
Thanksgiving: the perfect time to talk turkey and share gratitude
As Davison Middle School and Hahn intermediate students attended library the past two weeks, they were encouraged to decorate and write down on a paper feather what they are thankful for. You can see their efforts in the photo above.
"Our turkey has perhaps turned into a peacock lol with so many feathers," joked Media Paraprofessional Mrs. Lisa Johnson.
From turkey slop to bird feet socks and a turkey top, Siple Elementary has the Thanksgiving holiday covered! Above, Siple Elementary Teacher Mrs. De'Angela Garety-Worrell and Secretary Ms. Suzette Jewell show off their holiday spirit.
DAE holds its first Career Fair for students
Earlier this month, Davison Alternative Education partnered with Travis Howell, executive director of the Davison Chamber of Commerce, to hold its very first Career Fair.
"In total we had 15 local businesses agree to come give our students the chance to see what career opportunities are right here in our community," said Jennifer Gekeler, Student Academic Advisor and Family Liaison. "The students were able to browse the booths, ask questions, and learn from the participants. Overall, it was a great success!"
DHS, DAE name Students of the Month for November
November Students of the Month
9th Grade: Rylee Bednarski
Nominating Teacher: Mrs. Oskey
Rylee is courteous, attentive, respectful, dependable, and supportive at all times. She is a positive role model to her peers and an absolute joy to have in class. She always uses her time wisely and turns in quality work. Rylee is very deserving of the student of the month nomination.
10th Grade: Kylie Worthing
Nominating Teacher: Mrs. Stengel
I have had the joy of being Kylie's ASL teacher for the past two years. Kylie is an overall joy to have as a student. Kylie is a kind and positive student who brings a lot to our classroom. Her energy lifts the spirits of her classmates and she brings a lot of great discussions into the classroom. When I am absent, she is always willing to come into the classroom every hour in between classes in order to help the substitute with the GenNET system. I can always count on Kylie when help is needed in class!11th Grade: Cole Houser
Nominating Teacher: Ms. Aboneaaj
If you've ever been lucky enough to have Cole in class you know why he is being nominated. Cole has never walked in my room without a huge smile on his face. He is friendly, generous, kind and helpful, in addition to being very hardworking and intelligent! When the content in AP Microeconomics gets too tough, he's the first to ask questions and work until he can figure out the answer. I have seen him on many occasions helping other students try to grasp the material and challenging his friends to do better. I am so grateful to have Cole in class and I couldn't be more proud of the work he is doing. Keep up the good work Cole!12th Grade: Paige McArdle
Nominating Teacher: Mr. Crongeyer
Paige is an outstanding student/athlete. She has over a 4.0 GPA while taking multiple AP classes. She follows the Cardinal Code to a T. Paige is also a leader on our cross country team. Last night she earned all conference honors helping the girls win their first ever SVL Championship. Along with her classroom and sports responsibilities, Paige is a student ambassador. Paige is an awesome kid and well deserving!!DAE: Charity Millay
Nominating Teacher: Miss Brooks
Charity is such a fresh breath of air! She is so sweet and courteous to everyone, she always has a smile and is always doing her work in class. I love our little gab session we have while we are still working on health class. Charity always acknowledges all teachers and students; she is the absolute best example of a Cardinal Code student.Central Elementary students invite grandparents to school on grammies and grampies in pajammies day
First graders at Central Elementary welcomed grandparents as part of Grammies and Grampies in Pajammies Day, a special and sweet tradition normally held near the Thanksgiving holiday. Students were excited to show their special guests their classroom and introduce them to their classmates and teachers. For an hour, they shared stories and treats, played games and read to each other.
Upcoming events offered by Davison Township Parks and Recreation
Check out the latest programs from our friends at Davison Township Parks and Recreation.
Positivity Project
Next week's character focus is Perspective
What does Perspective mean?
You appreciate that people see things in different ways. You have the ability to understand the world from multiple points of view. Perspective is also referred to as wisdom. It is distinct from intelligence. People with this strength are sought out for advice. They see the big picture and can make sense of
the world’s complexity. The strength of perspective gives individuals the ability to see to the heart of difficult questions and achieve clarity. Importantly, they are also honest and behave in an ethically consistent manner.
Perspective is usually gained over time, as one accumulates more knowledge and experiences. However, developing perspective is not simply a matter of time. It comes from truly listening to others when they talk — and working to understand new points of view when reading books, listening to stories, or watching movies.
The Writing on the Wall
I'm NOT a Turkey! I am a ...
Seen in the hallway at Hill Elementary, Owen writes: I am NOT a turkey, I am looking for a turkey. Have you seen one? I am a ninja. I am spying on a turkey."