The Compass

We are excited to share stories and news with you in The Compass, the HSSD monthly eNewsletter for families and community members. The Compass is published the last Thursday of each month. Submit your story ideas for future editions here.

In this Issue:

• HSSD Stronger Together
• Board Briefs
• Staff Showcase
• Join Our Team
• Alumni Connections
• And More!

Thank you, Howard-Suamico community! Last week, we came together for our Stronger Together event, and the energy, collaboration, and shared purpose were incredible. This gathering highlighted the strength of our community partnerships, the support for our educators, and the bright future we’re building for our students.

Together, we explored essential skills for our students in an ever changing world, personalized learning, career readiness, the need for adequate funding, mental health, and much more. We’re so grateful for everyone who participated and supported this engagement session. Your voice and commitment inspire us to keep striving for excellence!

HSSD 2025-26 Calendar

The Howard-Suamico School District has announced dates for its 2025-26 school year calendar. Click here to view the At-A-Glance Calendar for 2025-26.

Bay Port PAC YouTube Channel

Did you know the Bay Port Performing Arts Center has a YouTube channel to live stream concerts and events? Subscribe today!

School Closing Notifications

The days are shorter. The weather is colder. It’s the time of year when snow and ice can cause HSSD to close, delay opening, or dismiss early. HSSD will use the following channels to notify families and staff of closings, delays, and early dismissals:

• Social Media (Facebook, Instagram Story, Twitter)
• HSSD Website
• Emergency Emails
• Emergency Texts (staff and families can sign up by texting YES to 67587.
• Local Media

Learn more about School Closing Guidelines on our website.

• The Board recognized Bay Port FFA for its stellar performance at the 97th Annual National FFA Convention.
• The Board approved and received an informational update regarding E2: Student Engagement from Angela Buchenauer, Director of Student Services; Erin Adams, Bay View Associate Principal; and Sean Berendes, Bay View teacher.
• The Board received an informational update regarding 2024 Technology Changes from Mike Juech, Asst. Supt. of Operation, and Josh Patchak, Director of Technology. Recommendations:
• The Board approved GP-13: Board Communication Monitoring Report.
• The Board approved and received an informational update regarding Facilities Planning from Juech and Nathan Carlson, Director of Facilities.

Forest Glen library aide Ruth Dawidziak loves her job because it allows her to engage and connect with students. She enjoys giving her students book recommendations, and reminds them often that there are 11,000 books in the Forest Glen library; there is something for everyone! Ruth started at Forest Glen as a lunchroom/playground supervisor, and was encouraged to consider the library aide position when it became open. “I really love my job, and truly want to come to work,” said Ruth. “I feel supported, part of the team, and like I am making a difference.”

Ruth has a son who graduated from Bay Port, and another son who is currently a junior.

• December 23-January 1 - No School (Winter Recess)
• January 2 - School Resumes
• January 15 - The Giving Tree Food Pantry
• January 17 - Coffee with the Superintendent (7:30 a.m. at Twin Brothers Café)
• January 20 - No School (MLK Day)

District and School Calendars | Bay Port Athletics Calendar

Substitute Teacher

• Opportunities at all levels (elementary, intermediate, middle and high school)
• $160/full-day
• Apply today!

Substitute Support Staff

• Hourly wage is $15/hour
• Part-time positions during the school year include:
• Substitute Lunchroom/Playground Supervisor
• Substitute Campus Support Specialist
• Substitute School Nutrition Assistant
• Substitute Secretary
• Substitute Special Education Aide (requires certification)

View all employment opportunities on the HSSD website.

From Alec's newsletter: This Thanksgiving, we played in my hometown of Green Bay, WI. I am honored to have been featured during the NBC halftime show. I am thankful for all my family and friends who helped get me to where I am today, and for coming to the game, making the holiday even more special! You can watch the feature here.

Alec has been nominated once again for the 2024 Miami Dolphins Walter Payton Man of the Year Award! Vote here.

• Access prior issues of The Compass on our website.
• Nominate a teacher, staff member, student, or alumni to be featured in The Compass.