June 2024 / Volume 02 COVER STORY: MASSP Announces Principal of the Year Pg. 29 Time to Celebrate: Jessica Lupone Captures AP Award Pg. 13
CATALYST CONFERENCE Debuts in Fall ‘23 Pg. 14
STUDENTS | MEMBERSHIP | PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT | EVENTS | RESOURCES
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WHAT’S INSIDE
WORDS FROM WENDY
Wrapping up the year & setting up the next
KICKING IT OFF
See how things got started before the first big event
EDCON 2023
It’s the end of the year and the start of the new at once
IT’S GAME DAY
Back at Albion College for THE BEST leadership camp
ASSIST FOR THE WIN
See how Bloomfield Hills HS celebrated Jessica Lupone
CATALYST
Let’s just say this conference sparked our imaginations
OUR JOB IS LEAD
We danced through the second Women’s Summit
EXPLORE WITH US
Fall season esports ended with a conference & finals
APs & DEANs
UNITE
Leaders nested in at Soaring Eagle, ideas took flight
HOWDY PARTNERS!
Those cowpokes wrangled up awards at Student States
IT’S HIS CAREER DAY
Cover: MASSP surprises Petoskey MS’s Jon Wilcox
SPRING INTO ACTION
More esports excitement & new awards debut
From MASSP 2023-2024 Board of Directors President
– Todd Simmons, Cedar Springs HS Principal
This past year has been a true blessing in more ways than I can count. I have continued to learn, grow and change my best due to the champion individuals that I am honored to share life with. In addition to being thankful for the support of Team MASSP, I have such gratitude for the other leaders on our MASSP Board of Directors, as our quarterly board meetings end up being some of the strongest PD I receive all year. While at board gatherings, I often find myself humbly listening, absorbing and feverishly jotting down notes, with my intent to not miss any of the genius being shared in the room.
Furthermore, I am thankful for all of the educational leaders across our great state. No one knows what it is like to be an educator in today’s schools other than those who are in the foxhole, fighting for kids, being the change they desire, on a daily basis. During pandemic learning our country’s teachers and lead learners were called heroes, and to this very day I believe that distinction still holds true. Thank you for pouring yourself out in an effort to do what is best for kids.
Finally, a gigantic level of gratitude to my queen, Lu, and to our children, Ronni, Braidi and Ty, as well as my extended family, and also my office team & staff at Cedar Springs HS and Pewamo-Westphalia MS/ HS prior to 2022. Thank you for putting up with me, not to mention thank you for making me smell good. No man is an island, and I sincerely recognize that the only reason I have been able to experience some pretty cool relationships, events and growth is because of the champion family, teammates, educators and students I have been fortunate to be surrounded by. I am a blessed man.
I challenge all of us, myself included, to continue fighting the good fight, to innovate wildly, & to push, prod and pull all of our students to their true personal best, as they are worth it.
Stay Up, thanks again & go Cedar!
With Red Hawk Pride, Toddo
“Leadership Lives Here” is more than a slogan—it embodies the essence of our association.
From Our Executive Director – Wendy Zdeb
As we reflect on the past academic year, it’s evident that 2023-24 sparked a period of transformation within our educational landscape. Like the ebb and flow of the seasons, each school year brings its own set of challenges and triumphs, yet this past year stands out for the momentum it generated toward positive change. Across Michigan, in every facet of our economy and infrastructure, there are unmistakable signs urging us to reimagine the very essence of schooling, to craft environments where both students and staff truly thrive.
At the forefront of this shift stood MASSP’s Catalyst Conference and subsequent webinar series, serving as catalysts for reevaluating our approaches to teaching and learning.
As an association driven by its members, we recognize the imperative to continually fortify the principal pipeline at every stage. This year saw tangible progress, with advancements such as the acquisition of mentor-coach funding for principals and enhancements to educator evaluation protocols.
Moreover, we’ve endeavored to amplify the voices of our members and spotlight the remarkable initiatives unfolding within our educational communities. Through podcasts, articles and various platforms, we’ve strived to showcase the exemplary work being carried out in the field. Our aim at MASSP isn’t merely to enlist members but to cultivate active engagement and collaboration. To each of you who embraced our shared vision by consuming our resources, participating in events and contributing your insights, we extend our heartfelt gratitude.
Indeed, our tagline, “Leadership lives here,” is more than a slogan—it embodies the essence of our association. We hope you feel not only our unwavering support but also our palpable presence in your daily endeavors. Together, let’s continue to chart a course toward educational excellence, where innovation flourishes, and every learner finds their pathway to success.
In closing, let us reaffirm our commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration. The journey ahead may be challenging, but with your dedication and our collective efforts, we are poised to make even greater strides toward shaping a brighter future for Michigan’s secondary schools. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to excellence.
ALWAYS AN EDUCATOR Seated front and center, Wendy Zdeb watches and listens to a student speaker present one of the EdTalks during an EdCon23 general session.
LEADER IN ACTION
Reflecting on the role of principal and his path to the presidency, Todd Simmons speaks to the crowd at EdCon23 and gives thanks to those who coached him.
GET IN LINE
As soon as they arrive, conference attendees check in, register and find some lunch
ROOM FOR ONE MORE BEFORE WE BEGIN
Conference attendees wait for Grand Traverse Resort staff to check them in as soon as they arrive. With the conference starting in the afternoon, early arrivers can fit in some fun.
DROP THE BAGS & GET READY
AT THE RESORT IN THE MARKETPLACE
Kristine Krieger, Reese MS/HS, grabs a bite to go while other attendees wait to check out.
ORDER UP
getting a jump on
BOARD MEMBERS SHOW UP EARLY TO PRE-GAME
Before the Pre-EdCon Sunday meeting, it was putting time
Brad Hale Brown City Jr./Sr. HS
Going above and beyond to keep his score as low as possible for the good of his team, Brad Hale converts from the classic putting style to essentially shooting pool in order to secure a successful shot.
Team building activities are the norm to kick off any MASSP Board of Directors meeting, this one was no different.
In patent leather loafers, Tiela Schurman plants herself, steadying to stay within the makeshift putt putt course boundaries. On a different hole she sunk a hole in one and her team errupted in celebratory cheers.
Schurman Midland HS
First official Board of Directors Meeting, Sunday afternoon
Photos, Data & Content Provided by the MASSP staff
Wendy Zdeb
Executive Director
Colin Ripmaster
Deputy Executive Director
Bob Kefgen
Associate Director of Government Relations
Matt Alley
Associate Director of Student Services
Tom Lietz
Associate Director of Training & Development
Nina Davis
Associate Director of Member Services & Middle Level
Lydia Cadena
Chief Communications Officer
Ryan Cayce
Director of Digital Learning & Resources, Director of Esports
Mike Brewer
Director of Business & Operations
Tammy Jackson
Program Manager - Path to Leadership
Angel Brewer
Director of Events & Office Operations
Maggie Helmer
Coordinator of Partnerships & Communications, Board of Directors
Liaison & Assistant Director of Esports
Abby Goosen
Communications & Design Manager
Sarah LaLonde
Membership & Billing Specialist
Tiela
Amy Hendry Carter MS
Jason Larson Lake Orion HS
10 Time for Some Fun Tuesday Night Hospitality
10 CHEERS for EDCON
The goal of MASSP is to provide an unparalleled experience to each person who chooses to end their school year surrounded by their peers, engaged and ready to be inspired for the next school year.
With care to ensure that each school leader will find what is needed to prepare for the next 12 months, the call for session ideas is shared early and often – a commitee determines the final sessions to ensure a variety of options are provided in each round. Executive Director Wendy Zdeb reaches out to nationally known keynote speakers, consulting with a network of EDs about their experiences with presenters beforehand to ensure they meet MASSP standards. It must have worked, 100 percent of survery respondents said they would recommend EdCon to someone in their network.
567 Conference attendees
From the daily menu to what type of pens to provide, every detail is considered to ensure members have what they need for a great three days.
With gaming, comedy, karaoke, dancing and plenty of space to gather and visit, there was something for everyone to enjoy with old & new friends.
4 Better Because You Lead
Keynote Speakers
Principal Kafele closed EdCon23, while a trio of concurrent keynotes set attendees up for success as principals/ directors, APs or ML leaders. Throughout the 2 1/2 day event, conference goers also learned more about MDE goals from Superintendent Dr. Rice and had a legislative update from MASSP’s Bob Kefgen.
9 Student Voice
Aby Kovacs, Mahi Garg, Olivia Csom & Thomas Romito represent MI students.
With their topics of Being in the Shadow, Seed to Sequoia, Take the Chance & Embrace the Bench, four young leaders presented speeches to an audience of administrators. With similar speeches, students compete through MASC/MAHS.
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Innaugural Winners
Presidential Service Award: Tom Heethuis & Steve Carlson.
Tom has served MI students as an educator, adviser, activity director and administrator for 50+ years. Steve exemplifies the essence of servant leadership, consistently advocating for MI principals with distinction.
4EVENT DETAILS
WHEN June 26-28, 2023 WHERE Grand Traverse Resort, Traverse City
8 Eyes On the Prize Vendor Bingo
Helping to inspire our vendors & conference goers to interact, we saw the introduction of Vendor Bingo –participants entered a drawing & dozens won prizes.
2
AP & Principal of the Year
While Brian Zawislak, Troy HS Assistant Principal & Tony Koski, Norhthville HS Principal were previously surprised in their buildings, their families were able to share the stage with them.
7 Students Again
With 30+ breakout session options, administrators turned students could find what they needed to prepare for the year ahead. Of the 127 survey respondents, 98% rated the breakout sessions as valuable or very valuable. “Every presentation had something I could take back to my building and use,” Principal Bret Krabill said.
6 Play Time
Family Picnic
It was literally all fun & games for kids who chose from face painting, balloon animals & contests.
1 Togetherness
General Sessions for Keynotes, Student Voice & Membership
Consistently, networking is one of the topranked aspects of MASSP events. “EdCon remains the most relevant, informative, and valuable conference that I have attended as an admin. I always come away with new ideas and better understandings of important topics. Networking opportunities are also plentiful. I have attended several years and look forward to it every year!” – Lisa Burns, Cross-Lex HS Principal
5 Principals On the Run
Moranda Gowell, SET SEG with winners Robert Harris, Petoskey HS & Libby Held, Lakeland HS
The air was a little crisper at 7 a.m., Tuesday morning when dozens of runners & walkers braved the route around Grand Traverse Resort to compete in a friendly 5K where everyone finished smiling.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Two of our “Top Tweeters” shared their experiences on social media.
Justin Hauser, L’Anse Creuse MS East @jmdHAUSER and Jason Skiba, Allen Park HS @SkibainAP
EdTalk Presenters
Can’t you almost hear them?
The pre-meal gathering at the Baldwin Hall steps on Albion College’s campus provides time for color cheers and chants as well as challenges thrown to counselors and other teams. Newbies learn from returning students and leaders, keeping the tradition alive. Inside the cafeteria, it’s time for so many interactive songs it can be tough to keep track of them all. It leads to fun and unity – a common experience that becomes a core memory.
massp mag / camp
Leadership Camp Brings the Noise
DETAILS
TAKE A STEP
In a reflective exercise, high school campers stand in a single line along the sidewalk waiting to begin an activity that challenges them to think about their personal experiences. With their eyes closed, or while looking straight down, students take a step for each prompt that speaks to something they identify with. Throughout the activity participants remain silent, listening to the group leader go through the list. Afterward, they are able to see where everyone stands – not knowing what led their peers to take each step that got them there, knowing they all have untold stories.
GAME at CAMP. friends with
WE’RE ALL BETTER TOGETHER
Campers join forces to create memorable moments
KEEP IT CLASSY
While with their colorcoded teams, campers engage in team building activities and plan presentations to share with the whole camp group, often relying on their creative writing and artistic skills. One student created a decidedly impressive team mascot for the Black Mambas crew.
LUNCHTIME PYRAMID POWER
Taking on a challenge presented during lunch, campers build an impromptu pyramid to entertain the crowd. At each meal attendees can expect some form of entertainment, whether it’s a skit or completed challenge.
LAWN GAMES
CIRCLE POWER
Getting a break from the afternoon sun under the shade of a giant tree in the middle of Albion’s campus, campers play a round of games that challenge their speed and attention.
SUMMER LEADERSHIP CAMP
While middle level students spend only a few days on Albion College’s campus for their camp experience, the MASC/MAHS leaders provide plenty of opportunities for team building, reflection and leadership growth. With educators from around the state serving as counselors, young teens are in great hands while they explore their leadership possibilities.
4EVENT DETAILS
WHEN July 19-21
DETAILS 105 middle school student attendees WHERE Albion College
Show Your True Colors
Groups are easy to spot on campus with a theme wardrobe
MIX IT UP GREAT MINDS
Teaming up with students from various color crews, young leaders work on communication skills – developing strategies and plans to accomplish tasks together at camp.
LEAD THE WAY ML CAMP COUNSELORS
It takes a special kind of magic to work with middle level learners and this little family of motivators and guides has the right stuff for the job: enthusiasm, patience, joy, understanding & love.
ROCK, PAPER, SCISSORS
Stretched out in two lines, students prepare to stand in the competition rings and bring the heat for the ultimate, quick showdown of the classic game.
A simple little game of Spot It got Board of Directors members on their feet and moving to try to spot more matching symbols faster than anyone in the room. As ice breakers go, this one may have led to the most interactions of all. President Todd Simmons shared the game to kick off the September meeting.
Spot It? Looks Like Fun for the Board
O Romeo, Romeo
5D+ Teacher Training makes its way to Romeo with Tom Lietz. You won’t find him in the picture, he’s behind the camera (phone) taking in the scene. While this image didn’t make it to a post on social media, other pics from his time there did. If you’re on social media, be sure to follow Tom – @PrincipalLietz – to know what’s going on with Team MASSP, as he posts about upcoming events and live on the spot updates.
massp mag / september happenings
We’re
Matt Alley facilitates the Student Mental Health Summit for 318 virtual participants, live from the MASSP classroom.
For his work planning & sharing the SMHS, Matt Alley was named the National Alliance on Mentall Illness - MI’s Educator of the Year –reserved for someone who goes above and beyond basic programming to ensure students with a mental illness receive services and that students are educated on mental health and stigma reduction.
“I wholeheartedly believe that Matt’s outstanding contributions to education, coupled with his advocacy for student voice and mental health awareness, make him an exceptionally deserving candidate for Educator of the Year.”
-Elizabeth Santer, NAMI-MI Board of Directors
BHHS Surprises Lupone, 2023
Assistant Principal of the Year
4
3 She Just Knows It
2
1 Wendy Zdeb Makes the Call A Group Hug You’ll Never Forget There’s No Mistaking the Love There’s No Place Like Home
In the middle of the Homecoming Pep Assembly, Principal Dan Hartley stepped onto the basketball court and brought out Wendy Zdeb, the student cowd errupted at the announcement that Jessica Lupone was being recognized as the MASSP Assistant Principal of the Year.
She has spent all 23 years of her career in education at Bloomfield Hills Schools – from a teacher to a student
leadership adviser to her current role as a building leader since 2019.
“Over the years we have had many advisers make the transition from educator to administrator, a transition that carries different responsibilities and can change your interaction with students,” said Matt Alley, MASSP Associate Director of Student Services.
“In working with Jessica for years as a dedicated student adviser, her
students will be the first to tell you that although she has a different office, her dedication and commitment to her student body remains her primary focus each and every day. Jessica has a remarkable ability to connect with students, parents and staff, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.”
Lupone’s mother and children were there to share the joy of the moment.
We’ve Got Some Big Questions
Challenging Catalyst Conference attendees with questions like: What is sacred? What is learning? and Where is the Power? – keynote speaker Will Richardson, of the Big Question Institute & BQI CoFounder, encouraged educators to not only discuss their thoughts with peers, but to consider student perspectives on those matters of import. Catalyst participants spent the morning not only listening to Richardson, but joined in a general session workshop: Fearless Inquiry and Radical Hope! They engaged in structured conversations and explored ideas about the future of schools that both integrate technology and inspire a vision of learning to carry schools forward. MASSP hosted Table Conversations around 10 Big Questions (from “One Foot In The Future”) and a student panel discussion on the future of learning. Students were also seated at each table so both generations could particpate in the conversations.
massp mag / catalyst conference
OVER TO YOU
Will Richardson asked attendees “What are the most important issues with AI & education today?”
Here’s what some said:
“How can we bring AI into schools to help level the playing field for schools and students that ‘struggle’?”
“In light of the negativity around it, how can AI help in the classroom?”
“How can we teach students to use AI appropriately, ethically and effectively?”
“How can I use AI to streamline parts of my job like grading and assessment?”
“How can I help students use emerging technology while providing some evidence of learning?”
“Where are our students on this?”
“How do we navigate COPPA and FERPA laws when kids are using AI on personal devices, starting to cause a digital divide and equity concern for those that only have school devices?”
4EVENT DETAILS WHEN October 17, 2023 DETAILS
200 Adults, plus invited college & HS students WHERE Macomb Community College
Sharing Spaces
Conference organizers worked with building leaders to invite students to the conference so educators could tap into their insight.
In general sessions teens were seated at tables without adults from their schools in order to allow for more free discussions. Together they continued the process of responding to the Big Questions like “Who is unheard?” “Are we literate?” and “Are we OK?”
Will Richardson emphasized that schools must answer these big questions before trying to go “Back to Normal” after the pandemic.
BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE! Educators in attendance were invited to keep the conversation going by joining the Catalyst+ webinar series where they engaged in topics like “AI and Legal Considerations for Schools” and “Breaking Out of Traditional Thinking.”
Tom Lietz, MASSP Assoc. Dir. of Training & Development and Colin Ripmaster, Deputy Exec. Dir. worked for months reaching out to AI & innovation leaders to ensure the best opportunities for attendees.
Winner, Winner, Chicken Lunch w/ a Super Fun Bunch! ML Leaders Meet Up in Frankenmuth for Lift Off
Unlock the Possibilities It Takes Teamwork to Achieve
Using a series of clues provided by Michigan Association of Student Councils & Michigan Association of Honor Societies Board of Delegates, middle school students work together to unlock a treasure box full of clues that can lead them onto their next task in a series of escape room style puzzles.
Throughout the day, young leaders engage in activites that challenge them to use unconventional, creative thinking to problem solve with their peers as they learn to better work as a team, relying on one another’s strengths.
Round Up
Guided post-activity reflection & discussion leads students to consider how they can use the activities they practiced and skills they’ve honed back at their own schools.
4MIDDLE LEVEL LIFT OFF
WHEN October 16, 2023
DETAILS
WHERE Bavarian Inn, Frankenmuth
This SOLD OUT event hosted 235 Middle Level Participants
Caro Middle School students prepared a poster to market their student leadership activity as practice for future Student Showcase contests they may enter in high school.
At
the End Of the Day
Nina Davis, MASSP Associate Director of Middle Level, provides students the chance to share what they learned with all of their peers and reminds them to take back ideas to their schools to improve the culture in each one.
4Women’s Summit
WHEN Nov. 12-13, 2023
DETAILS
DANCE the NIGHT
After evening activities, conference goers returned to find the room aglow.
DANCE COMPANY
ALL TOGETHER NOW
Back for year two of teaching a dance crew at the WS, Lindsey Simmons brought Rockford Dance Co. members to teach women of all ages the famous Barbie Movie dance routine. After, the group performed for other conference attendees.
At the Women’s Summit, attendees do all three. Not only do MASC/MAHS student leaders introduce speakers and share their voices through SheTalks (TED Talk type speeches), middle and high school student conference attendees, as well as adult educators, have opportunities to share their experiences and opinions in breakout sessions, at their tables during planned disscussion times, and can choose to volunteer to share with the entire conference group. With scheduled time to write their reactions and reflections in their custom journals, everyone leaves the event knowing they can look back on their time with school community members and think about what they learned and how they can use that knowledge.
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS included a legislative panel, Jenae Lodewyk (former MASC/ MAHS student) and Dr. Breanna O’Keefe.
FLASH FORWARD: Jenae Lodewyk was named Miss Michigan 2024
Women’s Summit Sequel: Blockbuster Hit
While not everyone saw Barbie in the summer of ‘23, the film’s impact could be felt leading up to the Women’s Summit: Plenty of people in pink, songs from the soundtrack being played everywhere and TikTok trends had people shouting “Hi, Barbie!” It was felt at the conference, too.
With the MASSP staff and College Volunteer Facilitators Corps helpers donning light pink
“My Job is Lead” T-shirts, the Rockford Dance Co. teaching a packed room of students and adults the famous dance party scene choreo at an evening activity option, and one of the most popular breakout sessions – Lessons from Barbie: A Multi-Generational Discussion of the Barbie Movie – being repeated to accomodate demand, Barbie vibes were omnipresent over the two days.
OUR JOB IS LEAD
We asked attendees what they most liked about the Women’s Summit. Here’s what some said:
“I like the community we have here. I love that at the Summit we are surrounded by a group of women who all support each other and empower us to do better things.” - Kyra, Canton HS Student
“I love how everyone was uplifting and positive. Being able to share like experiences is so powerful.”
- Danielle Laming, Cass City Jr./Sr. HS Teacher
“I liked being able to interact with lots of different people and I liked how interactive most of the activities and breakout rooms were. ”
- Evalyn, Ovid-Elsie HS Student
“The opportunity to build relationships with my students and network with other women. ” - Kristen Farkas, Canton HS AD
“The feeling of safety and connection I had with everyone because it was all women here. ” - Gwenyth, Caro HS Student
EXPLORE ESPORTS
Students & Coaches Learn from the Best
Voices in the large ballroom fell silent as the sound of a highlight video filled the space and lit up the front screens. All attendees, from high school students to adult educators, turned their attention to the front of the room as the keynote speaker took the stage.
More than 350 individuals from high schools across Michigan attended the Michigan High School Esports League’s second Explore Esports conference and/or watched the top four teams compete for the state championship in three game titles to finish the Fall 2023 season at Oakland University, Dec. 8-9.
The Explore Esports conference attendees were able to learn from industry professionals, collegiate coaches/players, high school program leaders and partners about the benefits of providing esports to student-athletes, college and career opportunities, how to get a program started, dealing with player behavior, game strategy and much more.
After keynote Speaker Michael Stevens aka FlakeofWrath (Channel 9 & 10 News Meteorologist, Award Winning Esports Show host and former esports pro-athlete) shared his journey, attendees went to three rounds of breakout sessions, had the opportunity to watch a collegiate Rocket League Showcase Match between Oakland University and Rochester University, and completed the day interacting with a keynote panel of Michigan College Esports Program experts.
“It is amazing to see high school esports growing and thriving where we live,” Stevens said. “Kids want to learn and compete regardless of who they are and at a high level! MHSEL and schools are answering the bell.”
SOLO SMASH CHAMP
Tristan Fillmore
Quincy High School
4EVENT DETAILS
WHEN Dec. 8-9, 2023
DETAILS
350+ attended the combined events
ROCKET LEAGUE
SUPER SMASH BROS ULTIMATE
MARIO KART 8 DELUXE
FALL 2023 MHSEL STATE CHAMPS & RUNNERS UP
ROCKET LEAGUE
CHAMPS: Linden High School COACH: Sherri St. Clair
PLAYERS: Nick Miller, Max Montague, Terry McCrimmon and Adler Teichman
RUNNER UP: Hartland High School COACHES: Cameron Montney and Jason Watkins
PLAYERS: Kyle Greig, Lincoln Demanr, Christian Gatien, Joe Wisniewski, Frederick Nikitin
SUPER SMASH BROS. ULTIMATE
CHAMPS: Detroit Catholic Central High School COACHES: Stephen Juncaj and Tristan Toma
PLAYERS: Lance Toma, Danny Padula, Ethan Reed, Noah Brady, Jacob Elerson and Nico DeLuca
RUNNER UP: Divine Child High School COACHES: Eric Heinz and Johnathan Horeczy
CHAMPS: Richmond Community High School COACHES: Hunter Hill and Kathy Campau
PLAYERS: Roland LaGruth, Talen Holdwick, Ethan DeLange and Lucas Vandenabeele
RUNNER UP: Pinconning High School COACHES: Rebecca Wehner and Mike Stoneback
PLAYERS: Dylan Krevinghaus, Griffin Morin, Jacob Stoneback, Eli Kuehnemund, Kameron Dake
Students Compete in Fall Semis & Finals
THREE CHEERS FOR HARTLAND
In their State Champ event debut, the Eagles are a fan fave
FACES IN THE CROWD
KEEP UP THE SPIRIT
Parents, grandparents, siblings and teammates from other sports showed up and showed out to cheer for the esport athletes as they competed in The Habitat.
EAGLES CAPTURE THE ROCKET LEAGUE RUNNER UP TROPHY
BACK UP LITTLE WONDER
Though he didn’t hop on to compete, one Hartland esport athlete brought the thunder in the form of the most enthusiastic support any MHSEL teammate has shown in the tournament.
BELIEVE THE HYPE
Your 2023-2024 AP MASSP BOARD REPS
West, Danelle Nauta | Central, Ben Berger | East, Jason Larsen
PUT IT RIGHT THERE
Encouraging administrators to get out of their seats and greet peers with creative handshakes he demonstrated with volunteers, keynote speaker Derrick Sier kicked off his presentation with a bit of fun. The ice breaker paid off when he later asked attendees to share responses to prompts with someone they had never met. His focus was “Relationship – The Great Retainer” and he shared methods to improve staff retention through establishing great relationships.
LEADING FORWARD
Former APs, now principals, Jay Vesperman, Steve Forsberg and Jenni Thunberg took questions from Tom Lietz to inform those interested in making the jump to Principal or finding out what qualities the panelists value in their leadership teams.
Admins Tell It AP & Dean Summit Sparks Ideas
Adjustments were made to the traditional Parade of Ideas, keeping all participants in one room, but mixing up the table seating to ensure a variety of experiences and perspectives for each group, made the process more efficient and allowed for increased engagement.
Dozens of solutions and program suggestions to tackle common challenges shared by administrators from across the state were discussed. Ben Berger, Traverse City Central HS Assistant Principal, maneuvered around the ballroom to give everyone interested a chance to speak on the mic and provide ideas.
FOLLOW UP
In the Now You Know email sent to all conference attendees after the event, MASSP provided access to all of the solutions and resources shared in the Parade of Ideas, along with links to event photo folders and slides shared by presenters.
After the conference was over, the Michigan Leadership Fellows stuck around for more learning and camaraderie, taking the opportunity to meet their cohort in person, guided by Tom Lietz, MASSP Associate Director of Training & Development. A collaboration between Michigan College Access Network & MASSP, Fellows is designed to create a pipeline of future principals who are equity-minded, transformative leaders who will advance postsecondary educational access and success.
HOWDY PARTNER Students Lasso in Leadership
Staying engaged is easy when activities are meaningful, learning is fun and your peers are doing amazing things you can’t wait to hear about. At the Michigan Student Leadership State Conference, young adults from coast to coast gather to celebrate the success of their activities as they compete in Student Showcase presentations, participate in problem-solving and team-building activities at their tables, and take time to focus on the Charity of the Year. The 2024 CoY is The Jenna Kast Believe in Miracles Foundation. Its mission is to enrich the lives of Michigan children suffering from lifethreatening medical conditions.
CoY Project: To support families in crisis, student leaders from across Michigan created letters of support and inspirational messages to ensure no child feels alone in their battle. They collected thousands of notes in boxes at the stage which will be distributed by The Jenna Kast Believe in Miracles Foundation.
On the last night of the Leadership Conference, after dressing their best for dinner and awards, students put on all the “glow out” vibe clothing and accessories they’ve got to join the fun. With games and a 360-degree video booth in the lobby and more than 1,500 of their new best friends in the ballroom, conference attendees can decide which activity will suit them best. Once the dancers left and the lights came up, the team of seven below cleaned up all of the fallen glow sticks and accessories –that’s leadership.
ADVISERS IN ACTION
While students attend presentations, adults work with their peers
WE NEEDED THAT THESE PEOPLE GET IT
Connecting with fellow leadership advisers/teachers gives chaperones the boost they need to make it through the second half of the year ready to lead student leaders. Building a network of peers is crucial to avoid burnout.
Ready for Next Steps
Giving up a Saturday isn’t easy for educators, but knowing you’ll receive valuable content that can help you decide whether to pursue a new role in your field makes the drive and time spent worth it.
Class is in Session Breakouts Provide Learning Options
With options ranging alphabetically from “A Day in the Life of a Middle School Principal” to “Urban Principalship,” educators had plenty of options to engage with MASSP Board member principals who were ready to share what they’ve learned along their leadership paths.
While the sessions are short, attendees report that they left learning valuable information to prepare them for the application and interview process.
With three rounds of repeating breakout sessions, a panel of administrators ready to give you the real story – and the crowd favorite: Practice Interviews, you’re in good hands at the workshop.
Practice Makes Perfect
Experienced principals and superintendents run small group practice interviews with workshop attendees, providing on the spot feedback. Hearing other particpants’ responses and comments from the questioner provide a multilayer approach to preparing for the real thing.
4ASPIRING PRINCIPALS WORKSHOP
WHEN March 2, 2024
DETAILS
WHERE MASSP & MELG Offices, Lansing
57 Educators attended the workshop for 6 hours
Dr. Steve Matthews, Rockford Comm. Schools Superintendent, shares homemade chocolate chip cookies with former employee Nicole Carter, Novi HS Principal & MASSP Board Rep., Reg. 7.
Paper Work For a Cause
Former ELA teachers and building principals Nina Davis, MASSP Ass. Dir. of ML, and Wendy Zdeb, MASSP Exec. Dir., put their skills and experience into practice providing feedback on resumés submitted by workshop participants.
SAY COOKIE
Meet
You at
Whether you call it late winter or early spring, the MASSP Board of Directors will stand out in whatever Mother Nature prepares for them to capture the annual team photo on the back Capitol steps.
BACK TO BACK
Prior to stepping outside for the group photo, BoD members and Team MASSP break off two by two to engage in a communication challenge led by Board President Todd Simmons. One partner had to describe a complicated shape for their partner to draw without either of them looking at one another’s pages. Results varied.
Once back inside, the day is filled with legislator presentations, an MASSP financial report and any other business on the schedule. The Capitol meeting provides the opportunity for your reps to ensure your voice is heard.
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Wilcox Captures ‘24 Principal of the Year
Jon Wilcox, Petoskey Middle School Principal, was surprised by the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals, the Michigan Association of Student Councils and Honor Societies and his district during Petoskey Middle School’s Career Day to announce he was selected as the award recipient for Michigan’s 2024 Principal of the Year.
“This year we received double the nominations for this award than in the past few years,” said Wendy Zdeb, MASSP Executive Director. “To win in
a year with so many phenomenal candidates really emphasizes the tremendous leader Jon is at Petoskey Middle School.”
To be eligible for the award, nominees must demonstrate a sense of collaborative leadership; involvement in curriculum, instruction and assessment; as well as a personal positive involvement with district staff, students and families.
“His character, demeanor, empathy and leadership have made Petoskey
Middle School the flagship of our school district,” said Dr. Jeffrey Leslie, Public Schools of Petoskey’s Superintendent and Wilcox’s nominator. “My greatest challenge as superintendent is to replicate what Jon is doing at the other five buildings.”
Wilcox received broad support for his nomination from his community; from teachers and students to board members and parents, each had positive stories to share.
MHSEL SPRING CHAMPIONSHIPS & AWARDS
SPRING
ROCKET LEAGUE CHAMPS:
2024 MHSEL STATE CHAMPS & RUNNERS UP
Detroit Catholic Central HS RUNNER UP: Linden HS
SUPER SMASH BROS. ULTIMATE CHAMPS:
Detroit Catholic Central HS
RUNNER UP: Farmington HS
MARIO KART 8 DELUXE CHAMPS:
Richmond Community HS
RUNNER UP: Bloomfield Hills HS
OVERWATCH 2 CHAMPS: Rockford HS RUNNER UP: De La Salle HS
ROCKET LEAGUE
SUPER SMASH BROS ULTIMATE
Winners Eric Heinz (2nd from left) of Divine Child and Stephen Juncai (5th from left) of Detroit Catholic Central captured Coach of the Year Awards.
Back for More & Bigger than Ever: Esports
The Michigan High School Esports League wrapped its largest and most exciting season to date. Over the course of the Spring 2024 season, 164 schools, 700+ teams and more than 3,000 students participated and competed; making MHSEL Michigan’s largest scholastic esports league. The league saw increased engagement from schools and student-athletes all across the state in more than 5,000 matches. MHSEL grew 76% from fall to spring with 53 new
schools taking the chance to offer new programs for their students. Through the leadership of the MHSEL Advisory Board, the league created the Esports Awards program which recognized All-League, All-State, Player of the Year and Coach of Year winners. All-League recipients were chosen by individual coaches at each school while AllState, Player of the Year and Coach of the Year recipients were selected from a nomination committee through a criteria and rubric process.
MHSEL Dream Team Ryan Cayce, MASSP Director of Esports; Maggie Helmer, Assistant Director of Esports and Caleb Love, MHSEL College Intern from Coastal Carolina University organized the Spring State Championships in coordination with the esports team at Oakland University.
SPRING 2024 MHSEL-PREP STATE FINALISTS
ROCKET LEAGUE CHAMPS:
Ravenna MS (Vita1ity 2.0)
RUNNER UP:
Kennedy MS
SUPER SMASH BROS. ULTIMATE CHAMPS:
Pioneer MS Varsity RUNNER UP:
Ravenna MS (Team 1)
MARIO KART 8 DELUXE CHAMPS:
Pioneer MS Varsity RUNNER UP:
Pierce MS Varsity
ROCKET LEAGUE
SUPER SMASH BROS ULTIMATE
MARIOKART 8 DELUXE
ML Students Compete for Trophies, Plaques & Bragging Rights
Michigan State University Esports helped host the championships in their new, cutting-edge esports facility, providing tech support and live shoutcasting. The atmosphere was electrifying, with enthusiastic spectators and exhilarating competition throughout the day. With monitors all around the room, parents and fans could keep up with the action through three rounds of semi-finals and finals. The students were great sports no matter the place they took.
a YEAR to REMEMBER LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
1 After both being released July 21, “Barbie” & “Oppenheimer” stayed at the top spots in box office earnings rolling into August.
4 The Maui wildfires began when a small brush fire was reported near Kahului Airport. By August 8 the fires had devastaded the island.
9 White House launches AI-based contest to protect government systems from hacking.
16 New York City bans TikTok on devices owned by government due to security reasons.
Sept. News
13 Appeal Court blocks California ban on gun marketing to kids.
7 An armed conflict between Israel and Hamas-led Palestinian militant groups began, taking place chiefly in the Gaza Strip.
Led the effort to revise Michigan’s educator evaluation law, successfully addressing all of MASSP’s member-driven priorities related to that law in the process.
Revised the school administrator evaluation law to add significant new protections for building-level administrators including guaranteed mid-year reviews and a rating appeals process.
Ensured that building administrators will be assigned a mentor during their first three years in a new position.
Secured state funding for mentoring/coaching services for all new administrators during their first three years in a new position.
Secured continued state funding related to student mental health support and recruiting and retaining school mental health professionals.
Worked to address educator shortage through state-funded mentoring for new teachers, counselors and administrators; simplified reciprocity for out-ofstate educators; and financial support for current and aspiring educators.
Provided more than 20 legislative updates this year to members across the state, both in person and virtually.
Jan.
Oct. News Feb.
12 Chiefs Beat 49ers in overtime to win third NFL title in five years. The relationship between Taylor Swift & Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce dominated the pop culture news cycle for weeks.
Albert – New Hire, Good Boy
MASSP staffers traded up for Detroit Lions fan gear at the holiday party party in rapid succession with Bernie Geahan, Bookkeeper, making the final steal to take the prize gift out of the trading pool. Some of the other
who where what
This year we made some great hires and some folks retired; here they are and what stands out about them:
when
A moment (or a few) I will remember fondly:
One thing I wish I could go back and change from the school year:
looking back YEAR on my
You’ve seen our last year, now reflect on yours.
Grab a pen and respond to our prompts – this could be a great item to check back in on over the years.
my why
The things I’m most proud of this school year, about my students, staff, school ...
My favorite places to be in the school to better understand students & school culture:
how
At the end of this school year, this is how I feel:
