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  • Superintendent's Community Message December 5, 2025

    December 5, 2025 A Season of Anticipation December has a particular kind of energy. It comes quietly at first … darker mornings, a sharper wind, the soft hush that settles over our community after a fresh snow. And then, almost all at once, the calendar fills up! Between concerts, classroom celebrations, winter sports, service projects, family traditions, and the steady countdown to time together away from the usual routines. You can feel it in our schools, too. There is a gentle buzz in the hallways that says something is coming. Throughout my building visits over the last couple of weeks, you could feel the buzz of anticipation—At Woodland Meadows, seeing one of our SHS cadet teachers instruct a social studies lesson, and the anticipation of students ready to offer answers. At Heritage, seeing students tending to their recently hatched salmon and checking on them with the patience that real care requires. There is something beautiful about that kind of waiting ... not rushing the process or wishing it away; they were watching closely, noticing small changes, and learning that growth happens in its own time.  That’s the kind of anticipation December invites from all of us. We look ahead to holidays and gatherings, to rest and reconnection, to the joy that comes from shared experiences. At the same time, we stay rooted in the present. In our classrooms, staff are helping students stretch through these final weeks of learning before break: finishing units, reflecting on progress, and celebrating skills they have strengthened since August. In our offices and buildings, teams are planning ahead for January and beyond … reviewing what’s working, adjusting what needs attention, and ensuring strong starts for students when they return to us on January 5, 2026. As we move through this season, I hope we can hold on to that kind of hopeful waiting—the kind that doesn’t rush past today, but honors it. There is so much to look forward to, and there is also so much already here worth noticing. With gratitude, Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools   My Future Fund Saline Area Schools is a proud partner of the My Future Fund program, which is operated by the Washtenaw Intermediate School District in collaboration with Washtenaw County Government. Eligible 1st - 8th grade students attending a Washtenaw County public school automatically receive an early scholarship account that includes $25 to start their savings for college and career training through My Future Fund, unless a parent/guardian requests to opt out. All 1st - 8th grade families should complete the Permission Form form by December 31, 2025 to take full advantage of the My Future Fund program benefits, which could include an extra $475 for your child. Please visit www.myfuturefund.org for more information.   Community Events this Weekend The Saline Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting holiday events this Saturday, December 6. Many of our students and staff will be participating and we hope to see you there! 12-6 p.m. Cocoa Crawl 5 p.m. Tree Lighting 5:30 p.m. Merry Mile race organized by many of our student athletes and coaches Parade to follow featuring the SHS marching band, SAS therapy dogs, SAS Board of Education, and many others!   A Season of Giving Families may notice collection bins inside Saline Area Schools lobbies to donate new, unwrapped toys and new or gently used winter coats. We are proud to partner with student clubs and community organizations to spread joy in our community and appreciate our community's generous support of these efforts.   WISD Mental Health Workshop This month's WISD Mental Health Workshop for Parents and Caregivers features special guests, Sibshops. Sibshops support children and teens who have siblings with autism, neurodivergence, disabilities and/or chronic health needs. In this workshop, parents and caregivers will learn how the program combines fun, connection, and support to help siblings feel understood and empowered. The Zoom session will be held Tuesday, December 9 at 7:00 p.m. Please register in advance online.   Upcoming Events 🏛️ December 9: Board of Education Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Liberty Board Room 💻 December 9: WISD Mental Health Workshop, 7:00 p.m. via Zoom ❄️ December 22-January 2: No School

    Friday, Dec 05 2025

  • Superintendent's Community Message November 21, 2025

    November 21, 2025 Seeing What’s Around Us When I stepped outside early on Tuesday morning, getting ready to head to Pleasant Ridge Elementary, there was more than snow flurries in the air. I noticed something familiar but still a bit jarring: most of the leaves had fallen. Almost overnight, the trees that usually frame my neighborhood were without their cover, and I could see more than I typically do: backyards usually tucked behind leaves, porch and yard lights I had not noticed before, even the small paths between homes. Nothing in the neighborhood had changed, but the absence of leaves made everything easier to see, offering a gentle transparency to what was already there. This time of year often does that for us and for our school community. As the landscape clears, we start to see more clearly the realities within. We recognize needs that might go unnoticed during busier and brighter seasons, whether that is students who could use more support or neighbors dealing with challenges that are not always visible. The openness of the trees reminded me that paying attention matters, and that awareness is an important step toward helping one another. Inside our schools and within our district, our staff approaches their work with that same sense of awareness and openness. We strive to be clear about our decisions, our progress, and the areas where we are continuing to learn and improve. We will not always get everything right, but we remain committed, reflective, and appreciative of the trust this community places in us. Strong community is built in the everyday moments when we notice one another, connect, and step in to help. As we move into the holiday season, I am reminded of the many ways our students, families, and staff support one another and contribute to a caring and connected district. What we notice matters, and it strengthens the work we do together. In partnership, Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools   A Season of Giving Families may notice collection bins inside Saline Area Schools lobbies to donate, new unwrapped toys and new or gently used winter coats. We are proud to partner with student clubs and community organizations to spread joy in our community and appreciate our community's generous support of these efforts.   Care Solace Support Available Happy Thanksgiving to our Saline Area School District families! We hope this break allows you to connect with loved ones and recharge. Even though schools are closed, you still have access to support services. Saline Area School District partners with Care Solace to provide a complimentary and confidential care coordination service. Whether you need mental health or substance use treatment options, Care Solace can help. Call: 888-515-0595 (Available 24/7/365 with multilingual support) Visit: www.caresolace.com/salineschools to search or click “Book Appointment” for video chat, email, or phone support.   WISD Mental Health Workshop This month's WISD Mental Health Workshop for Parents and Caregivers features special guests, Sibshops. Sibshops support children and teens who have siblings with autism, neurodivergence, disabilities and/or chronic health needs. In this workshop, parents and caregivers will learn how the program combines fun, connection, and support to help siblings feel understood and empowered. The Zoom session will be held Tuesday, December 9 at 7:00 p.m. Please register in advance online.   Upcoming Events 📝 November 24: Second Trimester Begins 🦃 November 26-28: No School 🏛️ December 9: Board of Education Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Liberty Board Room December 9: WISD Mental Health Workshop, 7:00 p.m. via Zoom December 22-January 2: No School

    Friday, Nov 21 2025

  • Superintendent's Community Message November 7, 2025

    November 7, 2025 With Gratitude: Honoring Service and Our Shared Investment November has a way of reminding us to pause and take stock of the goodness that surrounds us in the rhythm of everyday life. In schools, gratitude takes many forms: a smile exchanged in a hallway, a word of encouragement offered to a student, or the collective energy of a community that believes deeply in education. As the air turns crisp—let’s be honest, downright COLD for this Michigander who did spend many years in Florida—I find myself reflecting on how fortunate we are to live, learn, and grow in a place where gratitude is expressed through action. This week, our community demonstrated that spirit of gratitude in remarkable ways. With the passage of the Washtenaw Intermediate School District’s Career Technical Education (CTE) millage, voters have made a lasting investment in the future of our students and our region. This commitment will sustain and expand opportunities for hands-on, purposeful learning, ensuring that every student in our county has access to pathways that connect curiosity to career. I am deeply grateful to our community for your trust and support—and mindful of our responsibility to be stewards of these resources. Together, we are strengthening the bridge between education and opportunity for generations to come. As we look toward Veterans Day, I am filled with gratitude for those who have served and continue to serve our nation. Their courage and sacrifice remind us daily of the values—commitment, service, and unity—that we strive to uphold in our school community. Students in several SHS classrooms had the opportunity today to learn about these values directly from Veterans right here in our community. I know more celebrations are in store for next week. Finally, I am thankful for this community’s kindness to me as a new leader and resident. I am immensely grateful for the time I’ve spent in classrooms with your extraordinary children. Every visit affirms what makes Saline so special: deep care, curiosity, and collaboration that define our community. With heartfelt gratitude, always- Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools   Help Available to Families During Federal Government Shut-Down During this federal government shutdown and decrease to public benefits, Saline Area Social Services continues to serve families and individuals connected to Saline Area Schools. Saline Area Social Services provides many resources to families in our community and beyond: Full SASS Shopping Services: Available for residents of the Saline Area Schools District or for families who have a child that attends Saline Area Schools. Full SASS Client Services: Includes full shopping and additional emergency assistance for residents of Saline Area Schools District or if you have a child that attends Saline Area Schools. Clients must meet income-based eligibility criteria. To-Go Food Bag: Available to anyone who asks, no residency or income criteria required. Visit the SASS Eligibility webpage for the Food Pantry Application and more details, or call SASS at 734-429-4579 during office hours for more information. As a reminder, Saline Area Schools provide free breakfast and lunch to ALL students. Breakfast is available before school in the cafeteria at the following times: Elementary schools: 8:35 – 8:50 AM Middle school: 7:40 – 8:00 AM High school: 7:30 – 8:00 AM   SAS Students Give Back Hornets across Saline Area Schools have been learning about the importance of giving back to their communities this season through canned food drives benefiting Saline Area Social Services. Saline Middle School students donated over 870 pounds of non-perishable items last week. Woodland Meadows students have already exceeded their 800-item goal in the first week of their canned food drive! Young Adult students purchased and donated over 80 boxes of Pop-Tarts (a special request from local seniors) and Alternative High School students are gearing up for the Liberty canned goods drive by decorating collection boxes. Students, staff, and families: thank you for the many ways you are supporting our community! The season of giving is ramping up. Keep an eye out for holiday collections of coats, toys, and more inside our building vestibules.   Meet the Superintendent: Special Education Edition I am sincerely grateful for the many students, staff, families, and community members who have extedned their heartfelt welcome to me by attending numerous community and "Meet the Superintendent" events this fall. Your insights have helped me to hone in on our district's strengths and opportutnities for growth. I am looking forward to the next opportunity to hear from members of our school community at the Special Education Listening Lab on November 12 at 6:00 p.m. at the Heritage Media Center. This important opportunity is hosted by the Special Education Advisory Committee and open to any family of students with special needs.   Thank you, voters! Constituents of the Washtenaw Intermediate School District (WISD) approved the countywide Career Technical Education (CTE) millage in the November 4, 2025, election. This funding will provide a sustainable local source of support for CTE programs, helping schools maintain and update existing programs and technology, expand equitable access to students across all communities, provide earlier exposure to career pathways, and strengthen connections with industry and postsecondary partners to meet skilled workforce needs. “This millage will eliminate barriers and expand access to purposeful, hands-on, applied and experiential learning in every school district across Washtenaw County, and I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to voters on behalf of our schools and students,” stated WISD Superintendent Naomi Norman. Students and families can expect to see additional CTE-related opportunities as early as the 2026-27 school year, including expansion of programs currently piloted this school year such as the Drone and Aviation Technology program, BEST Leadership entrepreneurship capstone, and a middle school experience called From Curiosity to Career. “This investment by our community will help shape a generation of hope,” said Dr. Ryan Rowe, WISD CTE Director and CEPD Administrator. “Our goal is for every student to cross the stage at graduation with an informed and inspired plan for what comes next, whether it’s college, an apprenticeship, the military, or a high-skill career. This funding allows us to build stronger pathways, connect learning to the real world, and help students see their future within reach.”   World Kindness Day November 13th is World Kindness Day, a reminder to be kind to each other, ourselves, and our world. Acts of kindness, no matter how small, create a ripple effect of positivity and community. Here’s how you can celebrate: Visit the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation for ideas to incorporate more kindness into your life. Take a moment to care for your well-being. If you or someone you know needs support, Care Solace is here to help. Care Solace Services Saline Area School District provides complimentary, confidential coordination services through Care Solace to match you with the right mental health or substance use provider: Call: 888-515-0595 (Available 24/7/365 with multilingual support) Visit: caresolace.com/salineschools to search or click “Book Appointment.” Let’s take a moment to support each other as we close out the year.     Upcoming Events 🗣️ November 11: Board of Education Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Liberty School Board Room 🧠 November 11: Washtenaw ISD Mental Health Webinar Series: Mental Health 101 Youth Focus, 7:00 p.m. via Zoom ⭐️ November 12: Meet the Superintendent: Special Education Listening Lab, 6:00 p.m., Heritage Media Center ☕️ November 18: Special Education Inclusion Coffee and Conversations, 8:15-10:30 a.m., Washtenaw ISD 🗓️ November 19: Half Day K-8 🌓 November 20: Half Day K-12 🌓 November 21: Half Day K-12 📝 November 24: Second Trimester Begins 🦃 November 26-28: No School

    Monday, Nov 10 2025

  • Election Day is Tuesday!

    Election day is Tuesday, November 4! Every vote matters. Do you have a plan for voting?  ✅  If you have an absentee ballot, you have until 8:00 p.m. on Election Day to complete and return your ballot. ✅ If you plan to vote in person, polls will be open on Tuesday, November 4 from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. On November 4, voters residing within the Washtenaw Intermediate School District’s service area - including Saline Area Schools- will be asked to consider a 1 mill tax that would support CTE learning experiences from preschool through high school graduation. CTE helps students understand why they learn what they learn from PreK-12. CTE programs open doors to college, careers, and beyond. If a CTE millage is approved by voters, regional hubs for CTE programs, like Saline’s South and West Washtenaw Consortium, will continue to operate, and CTE programs at those sites and across the county would be expanded. Millage funds generated would be used in four key ways: Maintaining and upgrading existing equipment like tools, machines, facilities, and technology to reflect the latest industry standards. Launching new programs, like drone and aviation technology, and expanding access to high-demand programs that currently have waitlists, like health sciences and construction trades. Sustaining existing programs by returning $10+ million to local districts’ general funds. Increasing PreK-12 career exploration opportunities like camps, electives, curricula, and real-world learning experiences. If a CTE millage is approved by voters, students in preschool, elementary, middle  and  high school would benefit from sustaining existing and expanding new programs. Washtenaw County’s CTE framework would be from PreK-12, with age-appropriate experiences that build on each other as students grow and learn: PreK: Wonder  – Children utilize play and imagination, sparking curiosity about how the world works. Grades K-5: Awareness  – Students discover personal interests and a sense of self, expanding their view of what is possible. Grades 6-8: Exploration  – Students explore their interests and skills, and match them to potential career pathways. Grades 9-12: Preparation  – Students connect academic content to careers through real-word, applied and experiential learning and plan for their future. Still need to learn more about the CTE proposal first? Check out this  on-demand pre-recorded Zoom presentation  that you can watch on your own schedule!

    Sunday, Nov 02 2025

  • Superintendent's Community Message October 24, 2025

    October 24, 2025 Learning and Growing Through Seasons of Change As October deepens and the colors around us shift from green to gold, I have found myself reflecting on the quiet and natural changes happening in and around our schools. Over the past few weeks, as I have visited classrooms, joined students and staff in their daily work, and connected with families at school events, I have been reminded that change, like the turning of the seasons, is both constant and beautiful. Change in our schools can take many forms: new ideas taking root, fresh energy in familiar spaces, and growth that sometimes asks for patience before it reveals its full impact. When we look closely, we see that even small shifts, like the ones happening in classrooms, can lead to something remarkable. One of my favorite reflections on change came during a visit to the SWCC Culinary Arts program at Saline High School, an amazing CTE program available to our students. Chef Danielle Phelps shared that she and her students were preparing bagels using a sourdough starter that has been nurtured for more than thirty-five years, eight of which she has tended herself. Over time, that starter has been fed, cared for, and adapted. It has developed richer depth and character, shaped by the hands and environments that have sustained it. I could not help but think of how our schools and our community evolve through the steady influence of care, creativity, and collaboration. As you look through the photos from my school visits, I hope you see what I see: the beauty in transformation, the strength in continuity, and the promise that comes when we nurture both. Change is never about leaving behind what we value. It is about allowing what is strong to grow even stronger. With appreciation and optimism, Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools   Meet the Superintendent: Fall Edition I am wrapping up a busy season of numerous events that have afforded me valuable opportunities to meet students, families, staff, and community members and gain important insights on the things most valued at Saline Area Schools. Wednesday's Saline Main Street Trunk or Treat event was a highlight to witness both the amount of community engagement from local businesses and the amazing turnout of young families enjoying this annual tradition. I hope to see a great turnout of students and families of all ages at tonight's tailgate with the team, from 5:30-7:00 p.m. in the parking lot outside Hornet Stadium. Join me and members of our district leadership team for games, prizes, and tailgate fare! The football team will stop by at 5:30 p.m. I will wrap-up this season of community events with a Special Education Listening Lab hosted by the Special Education Advisory Committee on November 12 at 6:00 p.m. at the Heritage Media Center.   Make a Plan to Vote: CTE Millage Matters On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, voters across the Washtenaw ISD service area will decide on a proposed 1 mill tax to expand Career & Technical Education (CTE) in local schools. Make a plan to vote! ✅ If you have an absentee ballot, you have until 8:00 p.m. on Election Day to complete and return your ballot. ✅ If you plan to vote in person, polls will be open on Tuesday, November 4 from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. If the CTE millage is approved by voters, students in preschool, elementary, middle and high school would benefit from new programs and expansion of existing programs. Washtenaw County’s CTE model would be from PreK-12, with age-appropriate experiences that build on each other as students grow and learn: PreK: Wonder – Children utilize play and imagination, sparking curiosity about how the world works. Grades K-5: Awareness – Students discover personal interests and a sense of self, expanding their view of what is possible. Grades 6-8: Exploration – Students explore their interests and skills, and match them to potential career pathways. Grades 9-12: Preparation – Students connect academic content to careers through real-word, applied and experiential learning and plan for their future. These proposed expanded programs connect to future-focused careers in high-wage, high-skill, in-demand pathways in our region. Still need to learn more about the CTE proposal? Check out this on-demand pre-recorded Zoom presentation that you can watch on your own schedule!     Upcoming Events 📣 October 24: Meet the Superintendent: Tailgate with the Team, 5:30-7:00 p.m., Hornet Stadium Parking Lot 🏛️ October 28: Board of Education Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Liberty School Board Room 🗳️ November 4: Election Day 🗣️ November 11: Board of Education Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Liberty School Board Room 🧠 November 11: Washtenaw ISD Mental Health Webinar Series: Mental Health 101 Youth Focus, 7:00 p.m. via Zoom ⭐️ November 12: Meet the Superintendent: Special Education Listening Lab, 6:00 p.m., Heritage Media Center ☕️ November 18: Special Education Inclusion Coffee and Conversations, 8:15-10:30 a.m., Washtenaw ISD

    Friday, Oct 24 2025

  • Superintendent's Community Message September 26

    September 26, 2025 Building Connections Through Learning As I’ve spent time in classrooms over the past two weeks, I’ve been reminded that learning is rooted in connection. I knew this as a classroom teacher, and I see it daily in the work around our district. Students connect ideas when they collaborate with peers, staff connect lessons to real-world experiences, and families connect with schools to support learning at home. These connections often become the foundation for leadership. I see this across our district: teacher leaders stepping forward to guide new initiatives, and students showing leadership in classrooms, in conversations, and on the athletic field. I recently had the privilege to share a lesson about leadership with students at Heritage. The book taught us that leadership is not as much about position or power as it is about creating a sense of belonging and purpose. I’ve been encouraged by the ways I’ve seen students and adults bridge differences and welcome others into their conversations and learning. In classrooms and at community events, people from varied backgrounds and perspectives come together with a shared purpose: to learn, to grow, and to support one another in our community. These are reminders that what unites us is greater than what separates us. When we create spaces where every student feels safe, valued, and able to belong, we are showing them the kind of community we want them to carry forward into the future. We are building strong connections that prepare our students to thrive in a diverse community, state, nation, and world. With gratitude for the ways we come together, Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools   Please Join Me & Our Team Saturday for the Public Grand Opening of the New Additions at SHS! Please join us for the public grand opening of the new additions at Saline High School- the SHS STEAM Center and Weight Room. A public open house will be held Saturday, September 27 from 12-4 p.m. and will include facility tours and interaction with student-driven Science Olympiad and Robotics teams. This event is made possible with the support of our bond construction partners, Clark, Kingscott, and Barton Malow and the Saline Area Schools STEM Boosters.   Attendance Spirit Days September is recognized nationally as Attendance Awareness Month, and we know in SAS that every day matters. When students attend regularly, they stay connected to their teachers and peers, feel more engaged, and are better prepared for success. Families help set the tone by building routines, encouraging positive habits, and reinforcing that school is a priority. As September closes, we look ahead to Count Day (Wednesday, Oct. 1). In Michigan, Count Day determines the state funding that supports everything from teachers and classroom resources to transportation, technology, and student services. Quite simply, when students are here, we all benefit. To celebrate the close of Attendance Awareness Month and Count Day, we’re inviting all students and staff to participate in Attendance Spirit Days across the district: Monday, Sept. 29 – Comfy Cozy Day: Wear your favorite cozy outfit (sweatshirts, flannels, etc.). Tuesday, Sept. 30 – Silly Socks Day: Show off your wildest or most colorful socks. Wednesday, October 1 – Count Day & Hornet Pride Day: We need all healthy students to be in attendance. Wear your Hornet gear and show ultimate pride as we count every student!   Foundation for Saline Area Schools Fall Luncheon The Foundation for Saline Area Schools invites all community members to attend a FREE fall luncheon, hosted Wednesday, October 22 at 12 p.m. at the Saline High School Auxiliary Gym. Attendees will hear about funded grant opportunities that support students across Saline Area Schools. Attendees are invited to tour the new SHS STEAM Center after the event. Please register by October 15 at www.supportfsas.org   Meet the Superintendent: Fall Edition I'm very thankful for the families and community members who were able to participate in the first Community Listening Lab on Wednesday. The next opportunity to connect is coming up on October 6. These events are designed to create space for open conversation, thoughtful questions, and celebrate the pride we share in Saline Area Schools. 🍕 Pizza & Priorities — October 6 | Beginning at 6:00 PM | Liberty School Board Room. Pizza Dinner Provided. RSVP helpful, but not required In order to provide feedback to drive district priorities, small groups will be invited to discuss viewpoints on a variety of topics impacting education today! Additional opportunities to meet Dr. Kowalski this season will be held at: 🎃 Trunk or Treat — October 22 | 6:30 PM | Downtown Saline 🏈 Tailgate with the Team — October 24 | 5:30–7:00 PM | Hornet Stadium RSVP Here   Your Ballot, Our Students’ Future: CTE Millage Matters On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, voters across the Washtenaw ISD service area will decide on a proposed 1 mill tax to expand Career & Technical Education (CTE) in local schools. Absentee ballots are arriving this week, giving registered voters the opportunity to weigh in on an investment that would open doors for students from preschool through high school graduation. If approved, the millage would cover operational costs needed to expand CTE programs—providing more students with hands-on, future-focused learning opportunities. Over the past four years, CTE enrollment has grown by 69% countywide, even as overall student enrollment has declined. Right now, hundreds of students are on waitlists, and here in Saline, demand for CTE programs already exceeds the number of available spots. The millage would allow us to meet that demand by strengthening existing pathways and creating new ones aligned with high-demand industries across Washtenaw County. To learn more, the Washtenaw Intermediate School District will host a final community information session on Thursday, October 9 at 5:30 p.m. at the WISD (1819 S. Wagner Rd., Ann Arbor). For additional details—or to register for the session—visit www.washtenawisd.org/ctemillage     Upcoming Events 🧬 September 27: Public Grand Opening of SHS Additions: STEAM Center and Weight Room additions, 12 p.m.-4 p.m. 🏛️ September 30: Board of Education Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Liberty Board Room ✅ October 1: Count Day & Hornet Pride Day 🍕October 6: Meet the Superintendent: Pizza and Priorities, 6:00 p.m., Liberty School Board Room 🌗 October 17: Half Day 📌 October 20: No School

    Friday, Sep 26 2025

  • Grand Opening of Saline High School Additions

    Join Saline Area Schools for the Public Grand Opening of the new additions at Saline High School. These additions include a STEAM Center (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) and Weight Room. The STEAM Center provides an additional space for classroom projects and events, and serves as the home for Saline High School's Science Olympiad and Robotics teams.  The Weight Room expands the footprint of our current weight room, allowing more students to access this important facility in support of athletic training and for use during Physical Education classes.  The event will be held Saturday, September 27 from 12:00-4:00 p.m. and will include opportunities to interact with students, coaches, teachers, administrators, and our construction partners. This work is made possible thanks to the support of the community through the approval of the 2022 bond and our construction partners.

    Tuesday, Sep 23 2025

  • Listening Lab with Dr. Kowalski

      Families and community members are invited to join Superintendent, Dr. Rachel Kowalski, for a Listening Lab- an opportunity to reflect, listen, learn and share your experiences and hopes for Saline Area Schools. Join Dr. Kowalski on Wednesday, September 10 from 6:00-7:30 p.m. in the Heritage Media Center.  Please note: This event runs simultaneously to the Welcome Back family event held at Heritage and Woodland Meadows. Parking may be most easily accessed from Liberty School. 

    Tuesday, Sep 09 2025

  • Superintendent's Community Message- August 29, 2025

    August 29, 2025 A Year of Opportunity Begins in Saline What an energizing first week of school. As I have visited classrooms and connected with families, I have been reminded again and again of the incredible opportunities we have here in Saline for our students. In just a few short days, I have seen students learning in creative and hands-on ways, such as SHS students conducting a paintball lab in AP Biology. I have also seen the important work of building community, such as a lesson on classroom norms, kindness, and “bucket filling” at Harvest. Beyond the classroom, it has been a joy to meet so many of you at Open House events and at the STEM Social last Friday. At that event, I even ran into Miss Saline, Madilyn Marshall (student at SHS), helping out. These gatherings highlight the many ways families and our community creates opportunities for students to grow, explore, and thrive. It is not lost on me how fortunate we are to have such a wide range of experiences available to our students. These include academic, social, artistic, and athletic opportunities, as well as many others. The examples I have shared are just a glimpse of what is happening across our district, and I know there are countless more unfolding each day. Here is to a year of discovery, growth, and opportunity for every student in Saline. With gratitude and excitement, Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools   Meet the Superintendent: Fall Edition This fall, I look forward to connecting with even more families, parents, and community members. These upcoming events are designed to create space for open conversation, thoughtful questions, and celebrating the pride we share in Saline Area Schools. 📚 Community Listening Lab — September 10 | 6:00–7:30 PM | Heritage Media Center 🍕 Pizza & Priorities — October 6 | 6:00–7:30 PM | Liberty School 🎃 Trunk or Treat — October 22 | 6:30 PM | Downtown Saline 🏈 Tailgate with the Team — October 24 | 5:30–7:00 PM | Hornet Stadium Together, these gatherings are opportunities to strengthen relationships and shape a shared vision for our district. I look forward to seeing many of you there.   CTE Millage: Opportunity That Lasts a Lifetime On November 4, 2025, Washtenaw County voters will decide on a Career Technical Education (CTE) millage. This proposal would expand hands-on, real-world learning opportunities for students from PreK through 12th grade. CTE connects classroom learning to life beyond high school and does so through projects, camps, mentorships, internships, and work-based experiences. Students can explore passions early, earn college credit in high school, and prepare for high-skill, high-demand careers in fields like healthcare, engineering, aviation, skilled trades, and more. The CTE framework grows with students: PreK: Wonder – Curiosity through play K–5: Awareness – Discover interests and possibilities 6–8: Exploration – Match skills to career pathways 9–12: Preparation – Connect academics to real-world careers To learn more, visit www.washtenawisd.org/ctemillage   Upcoming Events 🛠️ Monday, September 1 – No School (Labor Day – a time to recognize the value of work and the people who make our communities strong) 🏫 Wednesday, September 3 – Middle School Open House, 6:30-8:00 p.m. 📝 Thursday, September 4 – ECSE and Young Adult Open House, 5:00-6:30 p.m., Liberty School 🏫 Thursday, September 4 – Saline High School & Alternative High School Open House, 6:30-8:00 p.m. 👋 Saturday, September 6 – Meet the Superintendent at the Saline Farmers Market, 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. 🏛️ Tuesday, September 9 – Board Education Meeting, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Liberty Board Room 🧪 Wednesday, September 10 – Community Listening Lab, Heritage Media Center, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

    Friday, Aug 29 2025

  • Students Begin Classes at Saline Middle School- Upda...

    August 27, 2025 Dear Saline Area Schools Community: Six of our seven school buildings welcomed students for the scheduled first day of school this week. I regret that the same “first day” excitement was delayed for our students at Saline Middle School (SMS) due to the remediation of mold discovered in the building. I’m writing to provide a summary of the maintenance, repairs, and remediation efforts that have taken place at SMS this week, along with our plans moving forward. Importantly, SMS WILL be in session tomorrow, Thursday, August 28. The Middle School is currently open to teachers and staff. The Saline Area Senior Center is also open, and extracurricular activities are able to continue in the building. SMS staff and families have received regular updates on this topic, which are posted on our District website. This summary is provided as an update for all Saline Area Schools staff and families.  On August 11, we became aware of a problem with the building HVAC system involving vents that had broken and remained open. This caused ductwork to condensate and fill with water, which in turn increased the humidity in the building, exacerbating an already humid summer. We consulted with professionals immediately to help resolve the issue, who were on site by August 12. Due to delays in obtaining parts and skilled labor, the system was fully repaired on Thursday, August 21. When teachers were fully back in the building last week, they reported concerns as they unpacked and prepared their classrooms. On Wednesday, August 20, our facilities team began reaching out to professional partners to help address the problem. Balfour was on-site as soon as Wednesday evening, utilizing industrial air scrubbers and dehumidifiers to bring down the humidity in the building. On Thursday, August 21, Nova Environmental assessed the building and conducted preliminary testing that was then shared with district officials on Friday afternoon. In the meeting, Nova categorized the results as “largely reassuring.” One classroom (the orchestra room) showed indoor mold levels above outdoor levels, and surface testing confirmed some areas of growth. In those initial samples, taken before any professional cleaning, Nova identified Stachybotrys/memnoniella (commonly known as black mold) in one air sample from the orchestra room and in two surface samples in other locations. These findings were very isolated and required only limited cleaning. While we were only required to complete limited cleaning and restoration in one room, district officials took action on Friday afternoon to notify employees and proactively closed the entire building in order to allow remediation efforts to begin, above and beyond the guidance of professionals. By Friday evening, Nova Environmental conducted a complete walk-through of the building and provided guidance on remediation actions and recommended contractors. Contractors replaced ceiling tiles, roof air handler filters, and individual classroom unit filters to ensure clean air throughout the building. By Sunday, a full crew from Serv-Pro was on-site to lead a thorough, building-wide cleaning process that included air scrubbers, HEPA vacuuming, dehumidification, and antimicrobial surface cleaning. Unfortunately, delays in the availability of skilled professionals delayed our timeline. We are aware of other districts contending with similar challenges and timelines simultaneously.   As work neared completion, we again consulted with our partners at Nova Environmental to identify a plan for additional testing in the building. Since mold on the surfaces had been remediated, Nova Environmental recommended focusing on air sampling and provided the district with a recommended plan for re-testing. Nova Environmental retested the air in 13 areas of the building and the outdoor air on Tuesday, August 26. That afternoon, a representative from Nova Environmental met with District officials to review air testing results and reported they were very pleased. Nova Environmental’s full lab analysis and report is available on our Buildings and Grounds website.  Out of an abundance of caution and concern for our staff and students sensitive to mold allergens, the District is continuing to run dehumidifiers to address the presence of asperilligus pencilium mold in the orchestra room, which, while markedly improved, remains above the level reported on the outdoor air sample. The orchestra room will remain closed until additional testing results are conducted, scheduled for Friday, August 29. It should be noted, no presence of any Stachybotrys/memnoniella was identified in the building at the time of sampling. Our Operations and Facilities teams are committed to providing training to our staff in order to more proactively identify problem areas in the future. In light of the numerous challenges experienced in the area recently, Nova Environmental has additionally recommended that our schools conduct annual summer testing for mold moving forward, and we are committed to adhering to their guidance.  Related to the missed days of instruction at SMS, Michigan schools are allotted six days that can be forgiven for any reason (snow, power outage, health, etc).  If the delayed start to the school year causes SMS to exceed the six forgiven days, we will begin working with the state Department of Education to determine a plan for making up (or forgiving) the missed instructional time.  While this was not the start to the school year we had hoped for at SMS, I am extremely grateful to our families, students, staff, and teachers for your patience and flexibility. I also extend my gratitude to our professional partners, contracted skilled laborers, and internal facilities and operations teams who have logged many long hours to re-open the building as quickly as possible. The health and safety of our students, staff, and all visitors to our buildings is at the heart of every decision we make and something we do not take lightly.  I am VERY excited to see our students back at SMS Thursday morning to kick-off the 2025-26 school year!  Sincerely,  Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools

    Wednesday, Aug 27 2025