Supporting Allen’s morning arrival routine is the highlight of my day. I love seeing the children first thing in the morning: moments of captured hope, resilience, friendship, and anticipation as the children approach the school sidewalk. I’m reminded of how meaningful school is for most of our children and of the great responsibility we—the adults—have to cultivate a safe, loving day for every child who steps foot on campus.

Bach Elementary School’s multi-purpose room transformed into an interactive nutrition experience recently as Chartwells K-12 hosted a Mood Boost event designed to teach students how different foods can affect their emotions and well-being.

The afternoon event invited students from all grades to explore six stations, each featuring a different “mood boost character” and corresponding foods scientifically proven to influence that particular mood. As students moved through the stations, they collected stickers marking their progress and learned valuable lessons about nutrition’s role in how they feel.

Ann Arbor Rec & Ed‘s new “Adult/Child Cooking: Touchdown Treats” class was a huge success as families teamed up in the Pioneer High School kitchen to create the ultimate Super Bowl spread: Butterscotch Potato Chip Cookies, Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Baby Potatoes, and a BLT Dip.

The Pioneer High School Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Jonathan Glawe spread musical valentines across campus by delivering about 275 serenades throughout the school day for students and staff who paid $2 for the honor.  The money raised will support the orchestra.

One of the most rewarding moments for me recently was listening to my students talk about a book we were reading. I honestly found myself just sitting back in awe of their conversation. They were asking each other thoughtful questions and making connections on their own – not just to books we’ve read this year, but even to stories they remembered from kindergarten. Hearing them build off one another’s ideas and take such ownership of the discussion was such a powerful reminder of how much they’ve grown and how meaningful these learning moments can be.