Our Kids, Our Community, Our Future Bond Proposal ~ Please Vote!
Please remember to vote on Tuesday, November 7. The Our Kids, Our Community, Our Future Bond Proposal will be on the ballot, outlining plans for district-wide improvements focusing on safety and security, learning environments, learning tools, aging infrastructure, and community needs. This proposal is structured with no expected tax rate increase from the current tax rate of 5.5 mills. For a comprehensive overview of what the bond encompasses, we invite you to visit HowellSchools.com/Bond. Participation in local elections is vital, and we encourage all eligible community members to exercise their right to vote on Tuesday.
Mobile Food Pantry in Howell on Thursday, November 16, 2023
On Thursday, November 16, Gleaners Food Bank will have a Mobile Food Pantry in the bus lot at 411 N. Highlander Way (between Highlander Way Middle School and the Freshman Campus). The Mobile will be open from 4 p.m.-5 p.m. Anyone in the community needing food can drive through and pick up food from the Mobile. A family of 4 receives about 40-45 pounds of food. A Family of 5 or more receives double the amount. Each portion consists of fresh produce, milk, fresh meat, and shelf-stable items. If you have any questions regarding the Howell Food Mobile or food access in Howell, please contact Gleaners Food Bank at 517-548-3710.
ParentGuidance.org November Newsletter
Financial stress can significantly impact mental health, and as a parent, you play a crucial role in helping your child navigate these challenges. Understand the profound link between financial stress and mental well-being. The ParentGuidance.com November Newsletter provides insights into strategies to equip your child with the resilience to face financial challenges head-on. As always, check out the ParentGuidance.org resources, where you can access free courses led by licensed therapists on more than 50 topics. To access the course, navigate to ParentGuidance.org and click courses.
School Breakfast is Available Each Day
Did you know the Howell Food Service Department serves breakfast daily at every school? Students who eat breakfast have been shown to have better concentration, be more alert, and reach higher levels of achievement. You can view the breakfast menu for your child's school at https://bit.ly/3oVCcPD. Breakfast is free for all students as part of the Michigan School Meals program. While school meals are free for all students, we still encourage eligible families to complete a Free and Reduced Price School Meal Application as they may qualify for addition such as the Summer EBT program, discounts on college application fees, academic tests, home internet access, and reduced Chromebook repair fees. If you think your family may be eligible for free and reduced-price school meals, please complete an application at https://howell.familyportal.cloud/.
Counselor Connection- Ms. Gigi Jackson
Strong mental health is essential for success, in and out of school. Click on the links below to learn more about some upcoming (and free) events to help you best support your child’s mental health and well-being.
Your Child’s Anxiety (November 9, 2023) - Simple strategies to help parents respond to child or teen anxiety. When applied, these skills will help the child and parent bond, allowing the child to identify and work through their anxiety more effectively.
Livingston County Mental Health Series - In an effort to proactively support students’ overall well-being, Livingston County has partnered with ParentGuidance.org to offer monthly webinars developed by licensed therapists. This series will be virtual, interactive, and is designed to help parents/guardians support students. Registration, attendance, and interactions are kept totally anonymous from other viewers.
As always, please reach out for support or information: [email protected].
Gigi Jackson~School Counselor
Principal's Message:
In the midst of November's transition and its display of nature's splendor, our school community is presented with a wonderful opportunity to embrace gratitude. This month serves as a beautiful catalyst, a reminder to cherish and acknowledge the countless blessings that surround us, extending far beyond material wealth. It's a time to deeply appreciate the connections we forge, the knowledge we accumulate, and the unwavering support we receive from each other. Within our vibrant community, it's imperative to recognize the tireless commitment of our educators, the infectious enthusiasm of our students, and the unyielding backing of families. Gratitude is more than a passing emotion; it's a profound, daily practice that elevates our lives and nurtures a culture of appreciation. As we navigate the academic landscape and embark on our personal journeys, let us continue to carry the essence of gratitude with us, acknowledging that thankfulness transcends the confines of a single month and becomes a guiding principle, enriching every facet of our lives and uniting us in a deeper sense of community. I’m not sure if I will ever be able to express how profoundly grateful I am for our Southwest community. As we embark on this holiday season together, may we do so with a greater sense of gratitude.
With Veterans Day approaching and every day, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our nation in the armed forces. Their unwavering dedication, sacrifice, and courage have safeguarded our freedom and way of life. It's essential to remember and honor their commitment not only on this special day but in our daily lives, as their service remains a cornerstone of our nation's strength and security. Thank you, veterans, for your selflessness and valor; we are forever indebted to you.
Thank you to all the parents who dedicated their time and effort to attend the recent fall conferences. Your active involvement in your child's education is incredibly valuable, and we are grateful for your partnership in fostering a supportive learning environment. The collaboration between the school and families plays an integral role in a student's success. Your participation and insights during these conferences further strengthen this partnership, ultimately benefiting the growth and development of each student. Thank you for your commitment and for being an essential part of our Southwest community.
Please remember to vote today!
Jennifer Goodwin ~ Principal