
Family Update
Week of Feb. 10, 2025

Message from the Principals
Skyline Family-
First, we want to extend a huge thank you for spreading the word about Curriculum Night—we had an amazing turnout, and it was wonderful to see so many families engaged in their students' learning. Your support truly makes a difference!
This Monday, we invite you to join us in celebrating National African American Parent Involvement Day (NAAPID). This is a great opportunity to connect with our school community, visit classrooms, and engage in important conversations about student success. We would love to see you there!
Also, don’t forget—there are only a few weeks left to get your Hall of Fame tickets! This inaugural event on March 15 will be a special evening honoring outstanding alumni and contributors to our school. Be sure to grab your tickets before they’re gone!
Finally, as we navigate through challenges and busy schedules, we encourage you to choose happiness. Even in tough times, our mindset can shape our experiences. We’ll leave you with this quote:
"Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions." – Dalai Lama
Let’s continue lifting each other up and making our school community a place of positivity and support. Wishing you all a fantastic week ahead!
Your Skyline Administration Team,
Casey Elmore, Crystal Fluker, Terri Patterson, Lamanzer Williams and Delsie SIssoko
Week At A Glance - Week of Feb. 10, 2025
Monday
- NAAPID
- Coffee with the principals 8:30am
- Skytime Schedule
- 25-26 Course Selection Meetings for grades 9,10, 11
Wednesday
- Regular Schedule
- Count Day
- Please make sure your child is at school the full day today!
Thursday
Friday
- No School- Mid Winter Break
Upcoming Important Dates:
- Feb. 14-18- No School- Mid Winter Break
- Feb. 19- School Resumes
- Feb. 27- Assembly Schedule- African American Humanities Performance
- African American Humanities Evening Performance 6:00pm
Reminder- Magnet Applications due Today for 9th Graders
NAAPID Monday, Feb. 10- You're Invited!
We are excited to invite you to National African American Parent Involvement Day (NAAPID) on Monday, February 10. This is a special opportunity for parents and guardians to engage with their student’s school experience.
The day will begin with Coffee with the Principals at 8:30 AM, where you can connect with our administrative team and other families. Afterward, you are welcome to accompany your student to their classes and even join them for lunch! Please check in at the main office upon your arrival.
We hope you can attend and be part of this meaningful day of involvement and connection.
What We Wish Parents Knew
Monthly Substance Use Discussion
County Mental Health Resources- Document Attached Below
Frankenstein
Skyline Theatre Presents:
Mary Shelley's Frankenstein
February 7 - 9, 2025
Friday, February 7th: 7pm - 9pm
Saturday, February 8th: 7pm - 9pm
Sunday, February 9th: 2pm - 4pm
Tickets are available online and at the door, 30 minutes before the show begins.
Adults: $15
Students: $10
Aged just eighteen years, writer Mary Shelley dreams-up a monster whose tragic story will capture the imagination of generations to come. As Frankenstein’s creature desperately seeks his true identity, the agony of rejection and a broken promise push him into darkness. Vengeful, he threatens to destroy his creator and everyone he loves!
Good News
The Skyline Post has been awarded a second grant from The Knight Center for Environmental Journalism to expand and extend its investigative reporting on the Skyline Wetlands area. This time, The Post is partnering with Ms. Bartholomew's Michigan Botany course and will be documenting that class' preservation efforts. Stay tuned for publication of our first articles that will help Skyline understand the wetlands our school was built upon, what has happened to the plants and animals here, and what that means for the health of our local environment. And: attention, students who are currently taking AP Environmental Science and who have taken journalism -- you will be eligible this Spring to apply to join the team of reporters on this grant-funded story, which includes mentorship by a professional journalist, publication, and a chance to present their work at Michigan State University next year.
Hall of Fame Tickets on Sale Now!
Looking for Hall of Fame Business Sponsorships
We are looking for business sponsorships to support our Hall of Fame event this year. If you or your business are interested in being a sponsor please see the attachment below and submit the sponsorship form to elmore@aaps.k12.mi.us. Checks may be dropped off at the school attn: Maya Fields Jacobs
ELL Update
ELL families, you are especially invited to join us for
Coffee with the Principals
Date: Monday, February 10th at 8:30 am
Where: Skyline High School
Room A210 conference room
(enter through the main office / visitor’s entrance)
Why: Come for an informal gathering to discuss any topics or ask questions while sipping coffee and enjoying treats.
All parents and guardians are welcome!
We look forward to chatting with you!
An interpreter can be requested by emailing Jennifer Brose at brosej@aaps.k12.mi.us
International Neighbors is hosting a Winter Welcome on Thursday, February 20th from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. in Piper Hall, in the basement of the Zion Lutheran Church at 1501 West Liberty in Ann Arbor. Flier attached.
Best,
Jennifer Brose
ELL Teacher
English Language Learning at AAPS
Counselors Connection
Feb 7, 2025
NCAA help sessions w/ Ms. Lipton
Are you a student-athlete interested in playing collegiate athletics? Then, stop by to get guidance and answers to your questions. Location: A210 When: Friday 2/7, Wed 2/26, Tues 3/11, & Tues 3/18 from 11:15-12:15pm. More dates will be announced at a later date.
Scheduling for 2025-26 School Year
On February 11th, Counselors will be presenting to students regarding next year’s course requests. At that time we will have the latest offerings and students will get to see all the exciting options available. Counselors will be available in the weeks that follow to answer any questions you may have.
Fridays are Financial Aid Fridays in the CUBE! Are you unsure about finances for college? Do you need help completing the FAFSA? Are you not sure how to start a college or scholarship application? Do you need help figuring out your post-secondary plans? Please stop by the CUBE during your lunch on Friday to get help. There will also be pizza for seniors who attend!
Tuition Incentive Program (TIP):
If you are a senior that received Medicaid, you could qualify for TIP money to help pay for postsecondary education. Information from the State of Michigan can be found here. If you have questions about eligibility, or how to access TIP, please see your counselor. You must complete the FAFSA to access TIP $$$.
Senior Section
Scholarship Opportunities
Michigan Relocation Council (MiRC), website: Michigan Relocation Council - 2025 Scholarship Program. An exciting opportunity for a $1,000 scholarship offered by MiRC for 12th Grade Students
A couple of qualifications to highlight:
· Currently a senior in good standing at a Michigan public high school.
· Has relocated more than 50 miles and changed schools due to their family's relocation between grades 9 and 12.
DEADLINE is Friday, March 1st 2025.
Now Accepting Applications: AAPS Scholarships for Graduating Seniors
AAPS offers multiple Scholarships to graduating seniors looking to further their education at a credentialed college, university or trade school.
To view a listing of scholarships and apply online visit a2schools.org/scholarships
Application Deadline: March 14, 2025 at 10pm.
Attention Skyline Seniors:
Ann Arbor Public Schools is excited to announce several scholarship opportunities for Skyline Seniors looking to further their education at a credentialed college, university or trade school. The AAPS College Scholarship application deadline is March 14, 2025 at 10pm. Apply for AAPS scholarships at a2schools.submittable.com/submit
More scholarships available!
In addition to these scholarships, there are many more scholarships available. To view and apply for additional scholarships visit a2schools.org/scholarships, go to aaacf.org and click on Grants and Scholarships or view scholarships in your Xello account.
Link to Senior Packet for the Class of 2025
Here is your one stop shop for everything for seniors! Please review and be aware of important info.
College Applications
Please review the important information linked in this senior slideshow
What's New in the Cube!
The CUBE: Your Go-To Spot for College & Career Success!
Here’s what’s happening in the CUBE:
• Financial Aid Fridays – Get help with FAFSA, scholarships, and all things financial aid.
• Visits from
The Ann Arbor Neutral Zone & the fabulous Mr. Lacy – Explore opportunities, resources, and creative programs.
• Meetings with SSG Watson of the Army National Guard – Learn about military service, benefits, and career pathways.
• Scholarships & Resources – Find funding opportunities and tools to help you succeed.
• One-on-One Meetings with Mr. Woodford – Get expert advice on college, careers, and your future plans.
Stop by the CUBE and take your future to the next level
Summer Job Opportunity
Athletic Update
Greetings Eagles!
Skyline Spring Tryout Information
I am happy to introduce our new Spring coaches:
Cailin Young, Varsity girls lacrosse coach, Cailin is originally from California. She played lacrosse at San Diego State for 5 years and graduated in 2023. She currently is a graduate student at U of M and is very excited to get started with Skyline girl's lax!
Joel Drucker, JV girls lacrosse coach, Joel is currently coaching our jv girls Skyron hockey team. He also played lacrosse at Central Michigan University. Joel is looking forward to continuing is coaching with Skyline girl's lax!
Fengyi Chen, Varsity girls tennis coach, Fengyi is a self-sponsored tennis and pickleball instructor. He also plays at the USTA league. Fengyi is looking forward to working with our girls tennis team!
Jean Mrachko, PH.D, Varsity Track & Field Throws Coach, Jean has years of coaching experience and is looking forward to joining the coaching team. Jean will be an exceptional support for our track and field athletes.
*we are still looking for a JV girls tennis coach! If you or someone you know is interested please encourage them to apply:
Molly Lipton, NCAA Liaison will be hosting NCAA Informational Sessions at Skyline on the following dates:
Skyline Dates
Wed 2/26 - 11:15-12:15
Tues 3/11 - 11:15-12:15
Tues 3/18 - 11:15-12:15
Families, spring sports is right around the corner. If your athlete has not participated in a Fall or Winter sport please visit our website and begin the registration process. A current physical is required, specifics are linked here.
Do Not Park in the BUS LOOP, vehicles will be towed!!
Weekly Schedule beginning February 9, 2025
Sunday:
Monday: Bowling home vs. Monroe, Swimming home vs. Lincoln
Tuesday: Boys basketball away vs. Bedford, Girls basketball home vs. Bedford
Wednesday: Boys varsity hockey home vs. Huron
Thursday: Boys basketball away vs. Pioneer, Girls basketball home vs. Pioneer
Friday:
Saturday:
I want to remind everyone of our Skyline Athletics Core Values:
INTEGRITY - We do what is ethical under all circumstances.
EXCELLENCE - We strive to be our best on and off the field.
RESPECT - We honor and value ourselves and others.
TEAM - Together as one we pursue common goals.
COMMITMENT - We give total effort and sacrifice to achieve our purpose.
Important Links
High School Spectator Expectations
Skyline Academic Eligibility Policy
Skyline High School Live ArbiterSports Schedule
Thank you and Go Eagles!
Delsie Sissoko
Athletic Director/Assistant Principal
Student Trip to Greece- Spring Break 2026
Coffee with the Principals
Monthly, we will hold informal opportunities for parents/guardians to come in and meet with the administrative team in a main office conference room. There is no set agenda and we discuss the topics you bring while we sip some coffee and have a few treats. All are welcome!
Upcoming Dates:
Feb. 10 - 8:30 am
March 10 - 1:30 pm
April 11 - 8:30 am
May 12 - 1:30 pm
Upcoming Community Events
Saturday, February 8th, 2025: Pull Over Prevention Clinic and Mutual Aid Fair
At Growing Hope (9 S. Adams, Ypsilanti). Free car repair of lights, tires, and fluids to help prevent interactions with law enforcement. Partners may also provide additional resources including vaccines, basic needs and more. Free lunch provided. Also March 8th. Details. Flier with all dates and locations.
Tuesday, February 18, 7-8:30pm: Mind Matters: Navigating Pregnancy and Substance Use with Care and Support
Virtual Webinar run by the U-M Department of Psychiatry. Learn more and register here.
Updated Community Resources Available to Families
Food
Many more food options are available at a2schools.org/students-families/community-resources/food
Free food Pantry, Ypsilanti
Every 3rd Saturday of each month at Berea City of Hope -1070 McCartney Ave, Ypsilanti Charter Twp, MI 48198 from 11am to 2pm.
Academic Support
FREE Academic Support Opportunities
View an updated list of free Academic support resources available to AAPS students and families at
a2schools.org/students-families/community-resources/academic-support
Basic Needs
Ypsilanti Area - Love Ypsi Diaper Pantry
Provides supplemental baby diapers and wipes to families in need. Every 2nd Saturday of each month from 10am-1pm at Faith Lutheran Church – 1255 E Forest Ave – Ypsilanti.
Tax Assistance
FREE Tax Preparation for all
The Housing Bureau for Seniors in partnership with AARP are offering FREE tax return preparation!Appointments are offered Wednesday, February 5th through April 11th.
Trained volunteers will provide you with a full federal and state return or complete the Michigan Property Tax credits you qualify for.
Volunteers can help you complete returns for past years as well.
To schedule your appointment, call 734-998-9341.
Career Readiness
Kiwanis Law Enforcement Career Academy
Local Kiwanis Clubs sponsor high school students who express an interest in a law enforcement career.
Students are housed at the Michigan State State Police Training Academy in Lansing with staff instructors from state, county and local police departments.
This year’s Academy will be held June 15-20, 2025.
Applications are due March 31st.
Health and Wellbeing
Low Cost Dental Procedures: WCC Dental Clinic
Beginning February 11, the WCC Dental Clinic will be open on Tuesdays and Thursdays during February and March.
For available appointment times and to schedule, call 734-973-3332.
Services are provided by WCC Dental Assisting students working with University of Michigan School of Dentistry students under the supervision of a licensed dentist.
More information at wccnet.edu/dental-clinic. Flier with details.
Looking for more resources for Health or Medical Needs? Please visit a2schools.org/students-families/community-resources/medical-and-health-needs
Want to quit tobacco?
Freedom From Smoking helps people prepare for a shared "quit day" by learning about medications to help them stop, lifestyle changes that make quitting easier, and how to stay tobacco-free for good. This is a seven-week group class facilitated by trained experts. You can choose from Tuesday evening classes that started on January 21 or Thursday morning classes that start on February 6. Register and get more details here: https://www.henryford.com/.../managi.../freedom-from-smoking
Virtual Support Group for Spanish-Speaking Mothers
The Women's Center of Southeast Michigan is offering a virtual support group Thursday mornings from 10:30 AM- 12:00 PM. Fliers with additional information and registration: English and Spanish
Flyershttps://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1gMLsMh9NjNeCE6F3pKuNxoKZxWO5Sd3h?usp=sharing
Sibshops Program
A new season of Sibshops Washtenaw is starting soon!
Sibshops are fun events designed specifically for siblings who have a brother or sister with a disability/chronic illness.
They are designed to be an enjoyable experience that provides a special monthly event just for them to have some fun and meet other kids with a sibling that has special health care needs.
Our Sibshops are supportive and engaging virtual events with games, crafts, snacks, goodies, and helpful discussions!
There are two informational parent meetings this month - join in to learn more! Sibshops Washtenaw begins in February 2025. See attached flyer for more information.
Attendance Reporting
To Report an Absence or Tardy, email sky_attendance@aaps.k12.mi.us
Emailed is preferred, but If you cannot email, please call (734) 994-7842
When reporting an Absence or Tardy, please include the following information:
- Student's full name (spell out the last name)
- Student's ID number
- Reason for absence
- Day (date) and time(s) of absence(s)
- Your name and your relationship to student
If you are reporting a student’s early release from school, please include:
- Student's full name (spell out the last name)
- Student's ID number
- Reason for early release
- Exact time and day of release
- Your name and your relationship to student
- Report morning early releases by 8 am
- Report afternoon early releases by 12 pm
There is no need to call the main line.
AAPS - 24/7 Securely Tip Line 1-833-300-STOP
In conjunction with Securly’s email and web search monitoring, we are pleased to introduce the Securly Tip Line. Note that OK2Say is also still available via the Michigan State Police.
The Securly Tip Line is specific to AAPS and will follow the same notification process used for email and web searches. The Securly Tip Line app can be downloaded from the AppStore or Google Play.
Students, staff and parents can initiate an anonymous tip outside of the app via:
Tips can be made for any reason:
- Bullying
- Harm to self or others
- Mental health concerns
Mental Health Resources for Students, Parents, and Staff
It’s Okay to Ask for Help!
Care Solace is AAPS’s free Mental Health Care Coordination Service. Care Solace is available 24/7/365 to connect students, staff, and their families to mental health, substance abuse, and ABA service providers. Using Care Solace is easy!
Call 888-515-0595 any time. Multilingual support is available 24/7/365. A dedicated Care Companion will help you every step of the way to research options, secure appointments and follow up with you to make sure it's a good fit.
Search anonymously by visiting caresolace.com/aaps
Contact your student’s counselor, social worker or principal and they will submit a referral on your behalf.
Learn more about Care Solace here.