Welcome to the 2024-25 IDEA Newsletter where you will find a place of belonging, inspiration, education, and space for your contributions…

Finding our path, finding our purpose, finding our link.

Polish American Heritage Month: celebrated to commemorate the first Polish settlers, and celebrate the history and culture of the Polish community in America

Filipino American History Month: which honors the history, culture, and accomplishments of Filipino Americans.

National Bullying Prevention Month: a month-long event to prevent childhood bullying and promote kindness, acceptance, and inclusion.

October 2-4 (sundown to sundown): Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year celebration, marking the creation of the world

October 3-12: Sharad Navratri, the nine-day Hindu festival celebrating the triumph of good over evil

October 10: World Mental Health Day

October 11-12 (sundown to sundown): Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the Jewish calendar, a day of atonement marked by fasting and ceremonial repentance

October 14: Canadian Thanksgiving, a chance for people to give thanks for a good harvest and other fortunes in the past year

October 14: National Indigenous Peoples Day, an alternative celebration to Columbus Day, gives recognition to the indigenous populations affected by colonization

October 16–23: Sukkot, a seven-day Jewish festival giving thanks for the fall harvest

October 23-24 (sundown to sundown): Shemini Atzeret, a Jewish holiday also known as The Eighth (Day) of Assembly

October 24-25 (sundown to sundown): Simchat Torah, a Jewish holiday, marks the end of the weekly readings of the Torah

October 31: Halloween

October 31 - November 1: Diwali

Check out the links below for additional resources:

“Rosh Hashanah is a time of spiritual renewal and forgiveness. It is a time for me to think about who I am and what I am…what I am doing right and what I am doing wrong. I am remembering who I am in the cycle of life. This time provides a pace for life and meaning…family coming together for dinner…oh how I loved when I would have 30 people over my home for dinner.”

~Dr. Eugene Greenstein’s response when asked what Rosh Hashanah meant to him.

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is one of Judaism’s holiest days. Meaning “head of the year” or “first of the year” or “day of remembrance.” The festival begins on the first day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar, which falls during the months of September or October. Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in Yom Kippur.

The observance of Filipino American History Month was officially recognized by the U.S. Congress in 2009, through a resolution introduced by Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez. October was chosen because it commemorates the arrival of the first documented Filipinos in the United States, who landed in Morro Bay, California, on October 18, 1587. During this month, various events, festivals, exhibitions, and cultural activities take place across the country.

In Farmington Public Schools, we proudly recognize October as Filipino American History Month, celebrating the rich culture, contributions, and history of Filipino Americans within our community and across the nation. This month offers an opportunity to reflect on the resilience, accomplishments, and influence of Filipino Americans, particularly in shaping our educational, cultural, and civic landscapes. By honoring Filipino American History Month, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of diversity, create a sense of belonging for our Filipino American students, staff, and families, and continue building an inclusive school environment where every culture is celebrated and valued. Let’s come together to learn, share, and uplift the vibrant Filipino American heritage within our district!

Since 2006, in the United States, October has been designated Bullying Prevention Month. Bullying can occur in many ways; it may be verbal, physical, through social exclusion, or digitally via email, text, social media, etc. The Centers for Disease Control reports that students who are bullied are more likely to experience low self-esteem and isolation, perform poorly in school, have few friends in school, have a negative view of school, experience physical symptoms, and experience mental health issues. Effective bullying prevention efforts involve students, parents, teachers, and community members to address larger issues of disrespect, bias, and violence that can contribute to bullying issues in schools. A community-wide effort shows students that adults care about what happens to them and that they are not alone.

Check out the links below for additional resources:

As Halloween approaches, let's guide our learners in celebrating creatively while respecting diverse cultures and avoiding cultural appropriation in their costume choices. It's essential that costumes do not diminish or stereotype others' traditions or histories. Cultures, their symbols, and traditions are not costumes; they're a rich heritage to be respected. Let's use this opportunity to foster an environment of inclusiveness, belonging, and mutual respect, ensuring our celebrations are fun and respectful for all. Wishing everyone a mindful and joyful celebration!

10 easy ways to tell if your kid's Halloween costume is offensive - Today's Parent. "Geez, they're just kids, let them wear what they want" isn't really a thing anymore. Answer these 10 questions to see if your kid's costume is respectful.

https://www.todaysparent.com/kids/school-age/10-easy-ways-to-tell-if-your-kids-halloween-costume-is-offensive/

Recognizing Polish Heritage Month honors the rich cultural history and contributions of Polish Americans to our society. It serves as an opportunity to celebrate Polish traditions, language, and the resilience of people who have made significant impacts in various fields. In celebrations, it’s important to highlight the enduring Polish spirit of perseverance, the influence of Polish art, music, and cuisine, and the contributions of Polish immigrants to American history. These takeaways foster a deeper understanding of the diverse cultural landscape that enriches our Farmington Farmington Hills communities.

Try New Polish Dishes
Whether you want to be brave in the kitchen or prefer to eat out, embrace Polish heritage by trying some of its many delicious delicacies. Love pork? Try golonka. For a hearty stew of meat, sauerkraut, and cabbage, consider making bigos. Looking for a classic? Opt for pierogi — the Polish version of a dumpling.

Get in Touch with Local Organizations
Try searching for Polish American organizations in your area and help them put together events such as a Polish-speaking Mass service at a local church, Polish dance lessons, a screening of Polish films, or a Polish food cook-off.

Visit a Museum
If you don't have one locally, visit Chicago, Detroit, New York ,or Philadelphia, and experience the Polish American museums they have to offer.

In our efforts to center belonging as our primary pursuit, we dedicate our abilities to stretching our understanding, pedagogical and communal practices, and uplifting our collective humanity. We warmly welcome and encourage the ideas and contributions of our community as we recognize and celebrate heritage months throughout the year. Your insights are invaluable in helping us honor the diverse cultures and traditions that enrich our district. Together, we can create meaningful and engaging celebrations that involve not only our students and staff but also families. By working collaboratively, we can foster a deeper sense of inclusion and belonging for everyone, ensuring that these heritage months are celebrated in ways that connect us all. Please share your thoughts and help us make these celebrations impactful and inclusive for all.

For more information, please contact Gregory Smith, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

for Farmington Public Schools at gregory.smith@fpsk12.net

The government has made legal provisions to ensure that no person is discriminated against on the basis of race, color, natural origin, sex, age, or disability. In order to protect these rights and assure compliance, the Farmington Public Schools District has appointed Mr. Christopher O’Brien as Coordinator of Title IX and Section 504 and Mr. Greg Smith as Coordinator of Title VI, the Age Discrimination Act, and Title II. Inquiries concerning the application of, or grievances for, any of these regulations should be addressed to: christopher.obrien@fpsk12.net or gregory.smith@fpsk12.net.