Kari Bennett

The document outlines Berrien Springs Public Schools' educational philosophy, known as 'The Shamrock Way'. This philosophy emphasizes inspiring a passion for learning through personalized experiences, utilizing traditional, online, and blended learning methods. Key priorities include preparing students to thrive in a global society, fostering cultural understanding and respect, and promoting innovation, inclusion, and real-world problem-solving. The approach is grounded in a collaborative 'village' model, involving students, staff, families, and the wider community, to inspire students to think, learn, achieve, and care.

This document outlines the approach for Berrien Springs Public Schools to safely and healthily commence the new school year amidst the challenges of COVID-19. Developed through a collaborative effort involving seven work groups within Berrien Springs Public Schools, as well as consultation with all Berrien County school districts and the Berrien County Health Department, the roadmap provides guidance for students and staff.

The vision for Mars Elementary focuses on developing self-directed lifelong learners demonstrating personal competencies in academic achievement, technology, and citizenship within a diverse culture. The plan emphasizes promoting curiosity, collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking through personalized education. Key initiatives include a Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS) system called ROCKS, which instills respect, ownership, compassion, knowledge, and success, alongside a focus on social and emotional well-being through nine virtues. This approach integrates behavior training with literacy instruction, aligned with common core state standards, and supports the broader district vision of inspiring students to think, learn, achieve, and care.

The event was the 64th annual induction ceremony for the National Honor Society (NHS) at Rain Springs High School, welcoming 22 new members. The proceedings included acknowledgments to the new inductees, their parents/families for their support, and the teachers for their dedication. Current NHS officers were thanked for their commitment. The ceremony featured an explanation of the four core pillars of the NHS: Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character, which guide membership eligibility and conduct. The new inductees took the pledge, and the event concluded with applause and an invitation to a reception.

This document serves as the Annual Education Report for Link Learning, detailing the progress on the second year (2025-2026) of its 3-5 year school improvement plan. The plan is built upon three core pillars: Math & ELA Proficiency, Organizational Communication, and Leadership Capacity. Key strategic areas include improving academic outcomes for at-risk and underserved youth in math and EBR, enhancing college and career readiness, and boosting student attendance and engagement through initiatives like Attendance+ and Link Path. The plan also focuses on addressing barriers to graduation through personal curriculums, fostering relationship building, improving staff professional development, and providing targeted support via behavior coaches and specialized services for ELL and special education students. The overarching goal is to ensure student success and drive continuous improvement.