Hello Bay District Schools families,

As we move into our third week of school, I just want to pause for a moment and say how proud I am of the start we’ve had together. The energy across our campuses has been incredible, and it’s clear our students are excited and ready to learn. But as good as the first couple of weeks have been, I know the best is still ahead of us, and that’s what I want to focus on today.

One of the most important ways we can keep this momentum going is by making sure our students are in school every single day. Attendance matters. In fact, studies show that when students attend school regularly, they’re more likely to stay on track academically and more likely to be successful in their future careers. Even missing just a couple of days each month can add up quickly. So I want to encourage you—help us make every day count for your child. Your partnership in this matter makes a tremendous difference. 

I also want to brag a little bit on our students, because they have done an outstanding job following the dress code. At Mosley High School, out of nearly 1,900 students, fewer than 20 were out of dress code by the end of last week. That is a remarkable accomplishment. At Deer Point Elementary, 95% of students were in compliance, and both Mowat Middle School and Southport Elementary had 98% of their students in dress code. We’ve seen similar numbers all across Bay District Schools. Families, thank you for reinforcing those expectations at home. It helps our classrooms stay focused on learning, and it shows our students that details matter.

Looking ahead, I also want to remind everyone about the Focus Parent Portal. This is one of the very best tools we offer families, because it gives you instant access to your child’s grades, attendance, teacher communication, and other important information. But not just that. Your Parent Portal also gives us your emergency contact information and access to important medical information about your student.

If you haven’t registered for a Parent Portant account yet, I strongly encourage you to take a few minutes to get signed up. It’s a simple process that you can find on our district website. Staying connected is truly one of the most powerful ways you can support your student’s success.

Families, thank you again for the encouragement and support you’ve shown as we begin this year. 

Together, we are one team working to put the “A” back in Bay, and I am so excited for what we will accomplish side by side in the weeks ahead.