We're building momentum and celebrating connection! First grade kicked off Donuts with Grown-Ups with smiles and sprinkles—thank you to all who joined us. Next up: Second and Third Grade families are invited to join us on Tuesday, October 15, from 7:00–7:455 AM. Start your morning with a sweet treat and a warm hello!

In classrooms, we're spotlighting Responsibility through our Character Strong lessons. Students are learning that being responsible means doing what's right—even when it's hard. Ask your child how they've shown Responsibility this week!

Let's keep growing together—one donut, one lesson, one moment at a time.
https://secure.smore.com/n/8jx1v-the-weekly-update-panther-pride
about 2 months ago, Kathy Konowalow
Hillcrest and Pine Avenue are proud to spotlight students who go above and beyond—whether it’s showing kindness, working hard, or leading by example. Check out this week’s honorees and what makes them shine!
https://secure.smore.com/n/d9fr1-the-weekly-update-panther-pride
2 months ago, Kathy Konowalow
We’re looking forward to cheering on our Panthers this Friday! With the beautiful weather we are having, it’s sure to be an amazing night. Come out and show your Panther Pride!

As a reminder, please review and follow the policies regarding student attendance at the event. Our goal is to ensure everyone enjoys a fun and safe time at both the parade and the game.
2 months ago, John Helinski
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At APS, we believe that every student matters and every day matters!

Our School Board Policy 5301 requires us to notify families if a student is absent more than 10% of school days. Attendance is first checked after the first 20 days of school, and then again at the end of each trimester.

This year, after the first 20 days, we saw a small increase in the percentage of students who have missed more than 10% of days (22.9% in 2024 compared to 23.5% this year).

We are committed to working alongside families to support positive daily attendance, because being at school every day helps students learn, grow, and succeed!

2 months ago, John Helinski
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This week’s Panther Pride Newsletter is bursting with excitement and connection! From Parent-Teacher Conferences that strengthen our home-school partnership, to the joy of Donuts with Grown-Ups, and the energy of Homecoming celebrations, there’s something for everyone. Dive in for important updates, upcoming events, and ways to stay engaged with our vibrant school community. Let’s keep the Panther spirit strong! Panther Pride Newsletter

https://secure.smore.com/n/czrsg-the-weekly-update-panther-pride

Panther Pride Newsletter

2 months ago, Kathy Konowalow
Mark your calendars! September 29-October 3 is Homecoming Spirit Week.
2 months ago, Kathy Konowalow
Elementary Homecoming Spirit Week
Join Us for the Pine Avenue PTO Meeting – Tomorrow at 6:30 PM
We’re excited to welcome families to our PTO Meeting on Tuesday, September 23 at 6:30 PM at Pine Avenue Elementary. This is a great chance to connect, share ideas, and help shape the school experience for all our students.
Whether you're a returning member or new to PTO, your voice and energy make a difference. We’ll be discussing upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and ways to support our classrooms and staff.
Let’s work together to build a strong, supportive school community. We hope to see you there!


2 months ago, Kathy Konowalow
PTO
We invite all families to attend the Annual Title I Meeting at Pine Avenue Elementary on Tuesday, September 23 at 6:00 PM. This is a great opportunity to learn more about how Title I supports our students, strengthens instruction, and builds partnerships between home and school.
We’ll share updates on academic programs, family engagement opportunities, and how Title I funding is used to enhance learning. Your voice matters, and we look forward to collaborating with you to ensure every child thrives.
We hope to see you there!
2 months ago, Kathy Konowalow
Annual Title I Meeting

Panther Pride Newsletter

Wishing our Panthers a great learning week.
https://secure.smore.com/n/98dzr-the-weekly-update-panther-pride

2 months ago, Kathy Konowalow
Last week, Alma Public Schools had the honor of hosting the observation portion of a Growing Learning Lab Facilitators through the Gratiot-Isabella RESD. More than 40 teachers, coaches, and consultants from across the state visited five of our classrooms to observe Number Corner lessons in action. Several of our teachers also shared their expertise during a panel discussion, answering questions and sharing insights. We’re proud to showcase the incredible teaching and learning happening every day at APS!
3 months ago, John Helinski
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Our Panthers had a great learning week! Stay connected with everything happening at Hillcrest and Pine Avenue! Our Parent Newsletter is your weekly window into classroom highlights, upcoming events, student celebrations, and important updates from both buildings.
Panther Pride Newsletter

3 months ago, Kathy Konowalow

Tonight is our Community Tailgate! 🎉 Join us for food, fun, and school spirit starting at 5:30 pm at the Don Miller Field! We can’t wait to see you there!

3 months ago, Nikky Holton
Photo
Coffee with the Principal is today at Pine Avenue.
3 months ago, Kathy Konowalow
Brown Yellow Retro Coffee Promotion Flyer (1)
Teachers across the district had Professional Learning today on Visible Learning with a focus on students driving their own learning. This theme will continue throughout the year.
3 months ago, John Helinski
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Our third graders had a wonderful and unique experience at the Lake Michigan shore today! On the return trip, one of the charter buses experienced a breakdown. Transportation adjustments have been made, and students are safely on their way back. Estimated arrival at Hillcrest is 7:00 PM. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
3 months ago, Stacey Criner
sand dune
Hillcrest and Pine Avenue students will have a late start day tomorrow.
3 months ago, Kathy Konowalow
Late Start Day
Each week, we share important updates, upcoming events, and highlights from around the school—all in one easy-to-read newsletter. You’ll find tips for supporting your child’s learning, reminders about school procedures, and celebrations of student success.
It’s a great way to stay informed, stay involved, and stay inspired. We’re proud of the partnership we share with our families, and this newsletter is one more way we keep that connection strong.
https://secure.smore.com/n/6huxf5-the-weekly-update-panther-pride
3 months ago, Kathy Konowalow
Hillcrest and Pine Avenue are looking for dedicated parent volunteers to make a difference with our students. Please join us for the Parent Volunteer Meeting at 9:00 a.m. at Hillcrest Elementary.
3 months ago, Kathy Konowalow
Hillcrest and Pine Avenue are looking for dedicated volunteers to make a difference with our students
Wishing our Panthers a wonderful Labor Day weekend!
3 months ago, Kathy Konowalow
No School
Wishing our Panthers a wonderful Labor Day weekend and a great learning week!
https://secure.smore.com/n/ugw5z9-the-weekly-update-panther-pride
3 months ago, Kathy Konowalow