MASS CUSTOMIZED LEARNING MOVING FORWARD - Tecumseh Public School's - Board of Education Updates Our New Transportation Director Our Continuing ...
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Tecumseh Public School’s MASS CUSTOMIZED LEARNING MOVING FORWARD Board of Education Updates Our New Transportation Director Our Continuing Partnership with First Federal Bank How We Communicate Our Administrative Team Projects vs Project-Based Learning
A Message from the Superintendent
Happy New Year!
Our district is so excited to jump into 2018. The new year brings a spirit of hope for the future. The common
strategy of setting a New Year’s resolution works not only for individuals but for organizations. At Tecumseh
Public Schools, we will continue to make 2018 the best year yet!
While January signifies a fresh start, for us it signals the time to start planning and preparing for the 2018-19
school year. I wanted to share a few things that will be happening starting this month.
Our work on Mass Customized Learning continues to flourish. We began our restructuring efforts this school
year that included flexible structures to support customized learning. Our educators are working collaboratively to ensure that
each and every child is met at their learning level and are given the support needed to excel. Our educators utilize daily common
planning time to plan and implement learning plans to support learning. We continue to develop and improve on flexible structures
that will replace the rigid constraints of the educational system.
The start of the 2018-19 school year will bring some change to Tecumseh High School. The Class of 2022 will enter the high
school as a Freshman class and will be bringing with them the excitement of a learning structure that can look different. Begin-
ning in January, we will be working with educators, learners and families on what this new, flexible structure will look like for this
Freshman class. This will be a “school within a school” model and will impact the Freshman class only. Students in grades 10-12
will continue to follow a more familiar schedule which will still incorporate facets of customized learning.
In addition, we will continue to work with learners and families to support the transition of our 6th grade class to the STEAM Cen-
ter. Our educators have already started preparing learners through project-based learning activities that allow for creative thinking
and problem solving in areas of interest for the learners. Parents of 6th graders will receive information on our STEAM Centers
and what they can expect for their child’s educational experience.
As a district, we are on an exciting path to changing the face of education. This transformational work, based on years of research,
requires a change in our mindset about what we think and believe about education. We all recognize that change can be difficult
for any organization. It is especially difficult when we are looking at a rigid system that has been in place for over a century. We
have an abundance of research that supports and requires a structural change in how we prepare our children for the future they
face. We are proud to be leading the way in the county.
Kelly M. Coffin, Ed. D.
Superintendent
Strategic Design Visitors
Did you know that over 100 community Members of the Michigan House and Senate paid a
members were involved in our Strategic visit to our district in December to see our work
Design Process? This work, which in the STEAM Centers. They were so impressed by our
wrapped up in August of 2016, was leadership not only in Lenawee County but in our great
followed by committees that met state of Michigan.
each month during the 2016-17
school year to plan for the work Thank you to Rep. Kahle, Rep. Alexander, Senator Hopgood,
happening now. We are so thankful Bruce Noll from TED, Shane Preston from Senator Zorn’s
to the 75+ parents, faculty, business office, and Melissa Wilson from the LISD for taking the
leaders and community members who time to see the exciting work happening at TPS.
gave their time each month to help us
in the planning and preparation of this We will continue to work together with our
transformational work. legislators to move our educational system
forward.
A Message from the TPS Board President
Happy New Year!
The Board of Education has had a very busy start to the 2017-2018 school year. We have seen
many positive results since we have transitioned to mass customized learning for all learners.
We are also excited to welcome our newest board member, Lynne Davis, who joined us in
December.
Thinking of the arrival of another year only reminds me even more of how this world is ever
changing. The Tecumseh School Board members remain dedicated and committed to preparing
our learners for what lies ahead as we continue to work to move the district forward.
Kimberly Amstutz-Wild, President
The following list covers many of the Board Highlights from the TPS Board Meetings held August-
December, 2017:
• Welcomed new staff members to Tecumseh Public Schools for the 2017-18 school year.
• Approved the 2017-2018 Building Handbooks.
• Approved the 2017-2018 PESG 2-Party Substitute Contracting Agreement.
• Accepted a $20,000 gift From Sage Foundation, with funds earmarked to acquire musical instruments and
supplies for the new 7th and 8th grade STEAM centers.
• Approved the 2017-2018 Board Goals:
• The Board will allocate resources in support of the district goals which include the Strategic Design and School
Improvement
• The Board will explore Exit Learner Outcomes as they relate to the TPS learning process.
• The Board will implement a policy review cycle.
• The Board will establish a long-term financial plan process for the District.
• Accepted the resignation of Board Member-Greg Johnson, effective October 9, 2017.
• Approved the 2016-17 district audit report.
• Approved a resolution of support for the Lenawee Cradle to Career Partnership.
• Approved a change order in the amount of $48,820 for HVAC work to be completed by Grand Valley
Automation.
• Accepted an energy rebate check from Consumers Energy in the amount of $32,476.
• Approved the annual summer tax resolution authorizing the district to impose a summer tax levy and to
collect 100% of the annual school property taxes.
• Appointed Lynne Davis as the board candidate to fill the vacant 1-year board seat, expiring in November
2018.
Note: Full Board Minutes are posted on the district website (tps.k12.mi.us)
Tecumseh Public Schools Board of Education
Board Member Position Phone Email
Ms. Kimberly Amstutz-Wild President 517-423-5224 kamstutz-wild@tps.k12.mi.us
Mr. Roger Hart Vice-President 517-423-6788 rhart@tps.k12.mi.us
Mrs. Debbie Johnson-Berges Secretary 517-424-4411 djohnson-berges@tps.k12.mi.us
Mr. Steven Linn Treasurer 517-424-8364 slinn@tps.k12.mi.us
Mr. Jimmie Rice Trustee 517-423-5343 jrice@tps.k12.mi.us
Dr. Edward Tritt Trustee 517-423-2911 etritt@tps.k12.mi.us
Mrs. Lynne Davis Trustee 859-466-6587 ldavis@tps.k12.mi.us
Introducing our New Director of Transportation
Hello! My name is Shannon Gatti and I’m the new location manager for First Student in Tecumseh. I
come to First Student with 10 years of experience as a Transportation Officer in the U.S. Army, as well
as experience as a supervisor in the trucking industry. I’m originally from the Chicagoland area, and
I earned my Bachelor’s Degree from Lewis University in Romeoville, Illinois, and my Master’s Degree
from Loyola University Chicago. I have two little boys: Lane, 4, and Barrett, 15 months.
One of the issues I’m hoping to address is the disconnect between the bus garage and parents/
caregivers. With the introduction of the Remind app, I hope to strengthen the relationship between
the Tecumseh School District and First Student by opening up lines of communication. I’m also
looking forward to being able to instantaneously inform caregivers of any changes in the bus
schedule, and pave the way for parents and guardians to rapidly contact us as well. Of course, my door is always
open for parent comments or concerns, and I have had the fortunate opportunity to speak with many parents
already. In the meantime, I encourage you to get to know your learner’s driver, and am looking forward to serving
the Tecumseh community.
Job Shadowing at First Federal Bank
Hands-on experience can make all the headquarters in Defiance, Ohio. changing with the advancements in
difference when it comes to choos- They toured various departments technology which creates an exciting
ing a career field to pursue. It can and spoke with department leaders opportunity for those that are
take the “when will I ever use this” from Security, Marketing, Training, interested in a career in marketing,”
moments and turn them into “I want Accounting and Human Resources. said Tera Murphy, Director of Mar-
to learn more” moments. Through The group was welcomed by Donald keting for First Federal Bank. “We are
TPS’ partnership with First Federal P. Hileman, President and CEO of First looking forward to sharing our best
Bank, students will have various job Federal Bank, who shared with the practices with the students and offer
shadowing opportunities to witness students his career in banking and the opportunity to make decisions on
the many careers that the banking advised them on setting career goals. local marketing efforts.”
industry has to offer.
“Banking is more than what you see The brand ambassador program will
“The amount of opportunities when you visit a branch. Our goal was be an ongoing learning opportunity
available through the banking to present students with the where students will learn how to
industry is surprising to most,” said numerous behind the scenes engage with customers through
Katie Mattison, Financial Sales positions that help First Federal Bank digital marketing platforms such as
Manager at First Federal Bank in operate. There is a lot of teamwork social media, the website and through
Tecumseh. “From marketing to IT, involved with delivering excellent live events like sporting events and
even teaching – there is a little customer service,” add Mattison. community service projects.
something for everyone. With an
industry made up of so many skillsets, In January, three students will have Job shadowing experiences show-
it allows individuals to obtain jobs in the unique opportunity to serve as case information that students are
the fields that they enjoy mostwhile Brand Ambassadors for the bank learning inside of the classroom that
having opportunities for career They will gain hands-on experience can be applied in the “real world” and
advancement.” with building buzz campaigns and opens students eyes to careers that
learn tactics that the bank’s marketing they may not have otherwise
This December, a group of students department utilizes to promote its considered.
visited First Federal Bank brand. “The marketing field is rapidly
Communication Tools
Tecumseh Public Schools seeks to continuously inform parents and other citizens, about their
investment in public education. We value their insight in helping the school district deliver high
quality educational programs that meet the needs of our learners and the community. We use
many different tools to facilitate this goal.
Judson Lohman
Public Relations/Communications/Marketing Coordinator
• The Leading Edge - This new source of information is published three times a year and provides a variety of dis-
trict information to the community. The Leading Edge is distributed to approximately 8,000 homes.
• District, Building, and Teacher Websites (www.tps.k12.mi.us) - The building and teacher websites are all
available from the district website and are a comprehensive source of information, including district forms and
policy documents.
• Blackboard Connect - The district and building calling system that allows phone, text, and email
communication with the entire school population via the information in eSchool.
• iCalendar Sync - This system allows you to sync district and building calendars with your personal calendar. Visit
the district website and click on Calendar for more information.
• School and Classroom Newsletters - This traditional tool is used by many of our buildings and teachers to
share general information. Some teachers choose to send home paper copies of their newsletters, while others
choose to use SchoolPost to send email newsletters.
• District Newsletter - The district publishes a monthly email newsletter that is sent to all stakeholders in the
district.
• Home Access Center - Tecumseh Public Schools uses a student management system called eSchoolPlus. With
this system, students and parents are able to access student grade book information through the Home Access
Center (HAC). This can be done via computer or an app downloaded from the AppStore or Google Play.
• Facebook Pages - The district, athletic department, and each building maintains a Facebook page which is
continually updated with the latest news and activities. A full list of TPS Facebook pages can be found on the
Communications Department page on the website.
• Twitter - The district, athletic department, and each building maintains an active Twitter account. Many of the
administrators in our district, as well as teachers in the classrooms, also maintain professional profiles. A list of
these accounts can be found on the Communications Department page on the website.
• Instagram - The district maintains an active Instagram account. This account is a visual representation of district
activities and is dedicated mostly to highlighting the activities of our learners. You can connect to this account
from the district website.
• YouTube - The district maintains a channel on Youtube. This is where we host informational videos about our
programs and services, as well as highlighted learner activities. You can connect to this account from the district
website.
• TPS Connect Mobile App - The district is in the process of producing a mobile app to facilitate further
communications with our stakeholders. With easy access to the most requested information from parents
(menus, events, transportation, etc.) and the ability to send notifications to smart phones, this app will
provide another avenue for important information.
• District Email - All district administrative and instructional staff members have e-mail accounts and can be
reached through email. You can find a listing of those emails on each building’s website by clicking on Directory.
• Phone Communication - Each classroom in our district is equipped with a phone to facilitate internal and
external communications.
As you can see, a variety of tools exist. We encourage learners, parents, or caregivers to utilize these communication
resources. More information on these tools can be found on our website in either the Parent Portal, or on the
Communications Department page.
District Website
tps.k12.mi.us
Administrative Team
Meghan Way is the Principal at Tecumseh Deidra Thelen is the Principal at
South Early Learning Center. Her Tecumseh West STEAM Center. She
educational background is in reading, previously served as the Principal at
early childhood education, and school Patterson Elementary. She began her
administration. Previously, she spent 11 career at Clinton Community Schools as
years serving as a Reading Specialist for a high school math teacher, then Middle
Tecumseh Public Schools and co- School Principal. She earned her
developed our district’s Multi-Tiered undergraduate degree at WMU in
System of Support (MTSS) initiative. mathematics and her MA from MSU in
K-12 Administration.
Carl Lewandowski is the Principal at Alan Schmidt is the Princiapl at
Tecumseh North Early Learning Center. Tecumseh East STEAM Center and is
He began his career working with special a proud graduate of Tecumseh Public
needs students as an Instructional Schools. He began his career in education
Assistant. He attended EMU, earning a BA with TPS in 2002, teaching various science
in Special Education and earned his MA in classes for 8 years at THS before moving
Educational Leadership from Wayne State to teach 8th grade science at Tecumseh
University. He began at TPS as a teacher Middle School. Al left for a year to become
in 1992 and then as Principal of Tecumseh Assistant Principal at Onsted High School,
Acres five years later. but returned a year later to serve as
Assistant Principal at TMS.
Melanie Nowak is Co-Principal at Jacob Anastasoff is the Assistant Principal
Tecumseh Compass Learning Center. She at THS. He holds a BS in biology, with a
earned her BA in English and mathematics minor in mathematics education from the
from Siena Heights University and her MS U of M. Additionally, he holds a MA from
in Education Administration and the University of Toledo in Education with
Leadership from Concordia University. a PBL, Renewable Energy, and Leadership
Melanie has taught mathematics and focus. He earned his Educational
English at Ida High School for much of her Leadership Certification from Concordia
education career while also fulfilling her University. Jacob began his career serving
leadership roles in her local union and as a biology and algebra teacher at Ida
building. High School for 9 years.
Angel Mensing is Co-Principal at Griff Mills is the Principal at THS. He holds
Tecumseh Compass Learning Center. She a BA in economics from DePauw
holds a BA in English education, with a University with a minor in history, a MA in
minor in art education from Adrian education from ECU, and an Educational
College. Additionally, she holds a MA in Specialist Degree in Administrative
Educational Administration from Leadership from Oakland University. Griff
University of Phoenix. Angel began her began his teaching career at Armstrong
career as an English and art teacher in Atlantic University where he was also the
Grayling, MI, subsequently teaching in Men’s Head Basketball Coach. Griff was
Owosso, and then Tecumseh. She formerly an Assistant Principal/Athletic
previously served as the THS Assistant Director at Ypsilanti High School as well as
Principal. the Athletic Director at TPS.
TPS Building Contact Information
Tecumseh High School Tecumseh West STEAM Center Tecumseh North Early Learning Center
760 Brown Street, Tecumseh, MI 401 N. VanBuren Street, Tecumseh, MI 600 Adrian Street, Tecumseh, MI
517-423-6008 517-423-3331 517-423-9744
Tecumseh East STEAM Center Tecumseh Compass Learning Center Tecumseh South Early Learning Center
600 Herrick Park Drive, Tecumseh, MI 307 N. Maumee Street, Tecumseh, MI 2780 Sutton Road, Adrian, MI
517-423-2324 517-423-1105 517-423-2367
Projects vs. Project-Based Learning
You might be hearing a lot of conversation in education When students take part in project-based learning, they
today about project-based learning (PBL). Many of us are learn more than just academic content. Students learn to set
familiar with traditional projects that are done in the goals and manage their time. Having an open-ended
classroom, whether individually or by a group of students. question provides students the chance to use their
These projects are usually teacher-directed and occur creativity and critical thinking skills to determine where they
at the end of a unit of study. Project-based learning, want to take their learning and want they need
however, takes the idea of a project much further, valuing to accomplish it. Knowing there will be a final public
the learning in the development process as much as the presentation of their learning gives students the
finished product. opportunity to communicate their learning in a
real-world application.
The Buck Institute for Education defines project-based
learning as “a teaching method in which students gain Projects... Project-Based Learning...
knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time Can be done completely at home Requires teacher guidance
to investigate and respond to an authentic, engaging and without teacher and feedback.
complex question, problem, or challenge.” The goal of PBL is guidance.
for learners to learn content through the process of of Are all the same. Can be different for each
project development, actively reflecting and revisiting the student.
project as they gain more content knowledge. There is Are turned into the teacher for Is presented to a public
sometimes the assumption that project-based learning a grade. audience.
means that students need to learn all the content on their
Are used year after year and Is timely, complex, covers
own and are left to work independently. This assumption usually focus on a product (make many content standards, and
leaves out the important and crucial role of the educator a mobile, poster, slide show, etc.) takes a team of highly trained
during this process. During PBL, teachers meet regularly professionals significant time
with students to guide them through their learning. to plan and implement.
Give students one chance to Gives students several op-
demonstrate success. portunities to make mistakes,
improve their design, and
successfully demonstrate
their learning.
Do not resemble work done in Resembles work done in the
the real world. real world
By the Numbers
178 Teachers 538,600 square feet
of playground space in the district,
940 HS Learners that’s over 9 football fields!
189 East Learners Our teachers receive a minimum of 80
240 West Learners hours of district provided professional
development each year.
1,081 Compass
128 Support Staff Learners Our four Instructional Coaches spend 60
hours a week providing additional 1-on-1
support to our teachers
18:1
290 North Learners
201 South Learners Learner
2941 TPS Learners
to
32 Maintenance/Custodial Staff
Facilitator
18 Central Office/Building Administrators
Tecumseh Public Schools NON-PROFIT
212 North Ottawa Street U.S. POSTAGE
Tecumseh, MI 49286
PAID
Tecumseh MI 49286
Permit No. #64
***************ECRWSS**********
LOCAL
POSTAL CUSTOMER
Community
Learning
Connections
How we serve the Tecumseh learn-
ing community:
• 99% of TPS learners are served
by one or more CLC programs/
services
Every Child needs a Hero • 130 Friday Food Packs are sent
home each week
• 120 learners are attending free
Tickets Benefit: Before-School Activities
• 60 girls participating in ROX this
year with 100 ROX graduates
since 2015
• 25 Voices for Change Tecumseh
members
• 25 Jr. SADD members
• 34 children & 15 parents have
graduated from our Family
Nights/Getting Ahead Program
• 75 learners attended CLC Sum-
mer Programs
Sat., March 10 • 6-10pm • $45 • held at THS
• 35 Healthy Kids Club members
• 170 learners receiving Mindful
517.423.7574 • communitylearningconnections.org Practice lessonsYou can also read
