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  • Superintendent's Community Message April 17, 2026

    April 17, 2026 In a Season of Learning and Blooming There is a time each year when two things arrive together in our schools: spring and state testing. One asks students to demonstrate what they’ve learned, while the other quietly reminds us of something just as important: this is also a season of blooming. There is something powerful about that balance of this season where we are asking students to often show what they know while we work to quantify their growth. Learning continues, confidence builds, and curiosity expands. Our students are not pausing their growth; they are blooming through it. At Heritage School, students took a brain break from the intensity of state testing to create beautiful tulip artwork, moments of creativity providing a break during a demanding time. At Saline Middle School, the grounds themselves tell the story, with vibrant tulips blooming outside, made possible by the care of Mrs. Laird, Teddy, and their students. A visible reminder of growth and spring.  At our secondary buildings, I'm reminded that successful blooming requires resilience. Resilience shows up in students who stay with a challenging project and see something all the way to completion, whether that’s in the classroom or challenging themselves at a SkillsUSA competition. The resilience and perseverance required to finish strong is another form of blooming, one that reflects not just academic growth, but character and determination. In our elementary buildings, we watch students blossom on stage as they confidently perform at grade level concerts. On the stage and in the classroom, I saw students who were engaged, focused, and continuing to grow.  Spring gives us a visible metaphor for what we know is happening every day in our schools. Not all growth is immediately seen, and not all progress is measured in a single assessment. Thank you for the role each of you plays in that cultivation. In classrooms, hallways, and across our district we continue to create environments where students can continue to grow, persist, and ultimately bloom. In anticipation of continued growth, Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools   Strategic Planning Updates I am continuing to work alongside district staff, administrators, families, and students to seek feedback on the next iteration of the Saline Area Schools strategic plan, and I am anticipating board review in August. The next opportunity to provide feedback will take place on Wednesday, April 29 at 4 p.m. at the Liberty School Cafeteria, through our "Sculpt the Future" event in partnership with Clay + Code. The event quickly filled to capacity, so I am considering additional opportunities for families to engage at future events. More to come!   Early Childhood Programs Enrolling Now Saline Area Schools is thrilled to announce the expansion of early childhood program options for the community! Thanks to Michigan's PreK for All program, which is proudly ranked #1 in the nation, we have participating PreK classrooms available at NO COST to families in Saline Area Schools. 🏫 The Saline Start: Empowering Our Youngest Hornets Saline Area Schools provides a strong, supportive start to our youngest Hornets’ educational journey. Through play-based, developmentally appropriate learning, children build foundational skills in early literacy, problem-solving, social-emotional development, and independence. Each classroom is staffed with two professional and experienced teachers, ensuring a nurturing and responsive learning environment for every child. Saline Area Schools utilizes the research-based High Scope Curriculum Framework.  Please review the following options to determine the best fit for your child. 📋 2026-2027 Program Options Tuition-Free Preschool Offered through the Michigan PreK for All program, providing high-quality preschool at NO COST. Ages Served: 4 (as of September 1, 2026) - 5 years old Location: Liberty School  Expanded! Full Day Option (3 classrooms* / 48 slots): Monday-Friday, School Day New! Half Day Option (1 classroom* / 16 slots): Monday-Friday, Half Day AM (no lunch period)  Cost: Free Eligibility: Available to all families, with priority given based on state guidelines.  Registration: Register through the WISD (Families must choose three locations when registering) Pooh Corner Preschool Ages: 3-5 (turning 3 by September 1, 2026) Location: Liberty School Schedule:  Option A: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, Half-Day AM (1 classroom/16 slots) Option B: Tuesdays and Thursdays, Half-Day AM (1 classroom/16 slots) Cost: Option A- $425 / Option B - $300 per month Registration: Opens Wednesday, April 15 at 9:00 a.m. Register through Saline Community Education. Registration will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis with priority given to returning families registered by April 25. Saline Area Schools also continues to offer Young 5s/Developmental Kindergarten for students turning five between June 1, 2026 and December 1, 2026 and Early Childhood Special Education and Early On programs for children ages 0-5 who qualify. Visit the Saline Area Schools Early Childhood Education     Upcoming Events 💥 April 21 & 22: SHS Choir Cabaret- Heroes and Villains, 7:00 p.m., SHS Auditorium. Tickets are $10 at the door and include a dessert buffet. Children 12 and under are free. 🏛️ April 28: Board of Education Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Liberty Board Room 🐝 April 29: Sculpt the Future Event, 4:00 p.m., Liberty School 2026-2027 School calendar now available!  

    Friday, Apr 17 2026

  • Saline Preschool Program Updates - Please Help Sprea...

    Dear Families:  Saline Area Schools is thrilled to announce the expansion of early childhood program options for the community!  Thanks to Michigan's PreK for All program,  which is proudly ranked  #1 in the nation , we have participating PreK classrooms available at NO COST to families in Saline Area Schools. As a current Saline Area Schools family with elementary students, please help us spread the word to your networks.  🌟 Why Choose Preschool? For families new to the idea of preschool, the benefits are life-changing. Research shows that participation in a high-quality PreK program  improves a child’s emotional, social, and intellectual skills. Children who attend PreK learn essential social skills and build a foundation in reading, science, and math, getting them prepared to start kindergarten ready to learn.  🏫 The Saline Start: Empowering Our Youngest Hornets Saline Area Schools  provides a strong, supportive start to our youngest Hornets’ educational journey. Through play-based, developmentally appropriate learning, children build foundational skills in early literacy, problem-solving, social-emotional development, and independence.  Each classroom is staffed with two professional and experienced teachers,  ensuring a nurturing and responsive learning environment for every child. Saline Area Schools utilizes the research-based High Scope Curriculum Framework.  Please review the following options to determine the best fit for your child. 📋 2026-2027 Program Options Tuition-Free Preschool Offered through the Michigan PreK for All program, providing high-quality preschool at NO COST. Ages Served:  4 (as of September 1, 2026) - 5 years old Location:  Liberty School  Schedule:  Expanded!  Full Day Option (3 classrooms* / 48 slots): Monday-Friday, School Day New!  Half Day Option (1 classroom* / 16 slots): Monday-Friday, Half Day AM  (no lunch period)  Cost:  Free Eligibility:  Available to all families, with priority given based on state guidelines.  Registration:   Enrollment Now Open: NO-COST, High-Quality PreK at Saline Area Schools! 🐝 Register through the WISD  (Families must choose three locations when registering) *Pending approval from the State of Michigan Pooh Corner Preschool Ages:  3-5 (turning 3 by September 1, 2026) Location:  Liberty School Schedule:  Option A:  Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, Half-Day AM (1 classroom/16 slots) Option B:  Tuesdays and Thursdays, Half-Day AM (1 classroom/16 slots) Cost:  Option A- $425 / Option B - $300 per month Registration:  Opens Wednesday, April 15 at 9:00 a.m.  Register through  Saline Community Education . Registration will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis with priority given to returning families registered by April 25. Saline Area Schools also continues to offer Young 5s/Developmental Kindergarten for students turning five between June 1, 2026 and December 1, 2026 and Early Childhood Special Education and Early On programs for children ages 0-5 who qualify. Visit the  Saline Area Schools Early Childhood Education Website  for more information. In Partnership, Sarah Barth Early Childhood Program Specialist Saline Area Schools barths@salineschools.org 734-401-4063

    Tuesday, Apr 14 2026

  • Superintendent's Community Message March 27, 2026

    March 27, 2026 Momentum Matters Heading into spring break, there is a quiet but powerful sense of momentum building. Momentum is the force or energy that builds over time and keeps something moving forward. There is also something unique about this time of the school year. We are not quite finished, yet we are not at the beginning either. We find ourselves in that in between space, where work is underway and the outcomes are still unfolding. It can feel both full and unfinished at the same time. And yet, it is often in this space where momentum matters most, where the daily work of teaching, learning, and leading begins to carry itself forward. This week, I saw momentum in so many ways. At Pleasant Ridge, that energy took on a rhythm of its own, as a basketball moved from one student to another in the gym, each pass building toward something shared and reinforcing the power of teamwork. At Saline Middle School and Woodland Meadows, I saw students leaning into challenge, especially in science, where curiosity and persistence built understanding over time and pushed their thinking further than they first expected. At Saline High School and at Liberty, momentum showed up in growth and voice, as students worked toward goals and shared their experiences. At Heritage, it showed up in celebration, as students earned classroom rewards through a Plinko game and in our iLab classrooms where momentum of all kinds matter. All of it visible in the curiosity and energy of students deeply engaged in science learning. Across all of our schools, momentum is not found in a single moment, but in the steady build of learning, effort, and relationships over time. It is the quiet accumulation of progress that keeps us moving forward together. I also see this same momentum in our strategic planning work and in the involvement of so many across our system. It is present in the conversations, the collaboration, and the shared commitment to what comes next. As we look ahead to the final stretch of the year, this work continues to build, guided by purpose and shaped by the people who bring it to life each day. Moving forward together, Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools   Spring Break Resources Available to SAS Families Mental Health Resources As Spring Break approaches, we encourage students to fully embrace this time for relaxation and rejuvenation. Take a break from screens, reconnect with loved ones, and indulge in activities that bring joy. Should you find yourself in need of support during this time or any other, Care Solace is here for you, ready to provide confidential mental health care coordination 24/7/365. Remember, your mental well-being matters. If you need support, Care Solace is available 24/7/365. Reach out for confidential mental health care coordination: Call: 888-515-0595 (Multilingual support available) Visit: caresolace.com/salineschools Enjoy your break, unplug, and return refreshed! Emergency Assistance & Food Pantry Resources Saline Area Social Services serves 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.   AI in Education Survey Closes Wednesday The Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators (MASA) is inviting families and staff to share their thoughts about Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. Your feedback will help schools in our district and across Michigan understand how AI is being used and what support is needed to make it effective, safe, and beneficial for everyone. The survey is optional, open until April 1, and should take 10-15 minutes to complete. The survey is available in English, Arabic, Spanish, and Ukrainian. By completing the survey, you will help shape future programs and resources for students, families, and educators statewide.     Upcoming Events 🌸 March 30-April 3: Spring Break, No School, District and Building Offices Closed 🚌 April 6: School Resumes 🏛️ April 14: Board of Education Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Liberty Board Room 2026-2027 School calendar now available!  

    Friday, Mar 27 2026

  • Superintendent's Community Message March 13, 2026

    March 13, 2026 Season of Beginnings It may be the middle of the school year, but in many ways this time of year is full of beginnings. Across our district this week, I was reminded that it is never too late to begin. Students are starting a new trimester, launching new units of study, and beginning curriculum that introduces new ideas and skills. Even in the midst of a busy school year, there are moments when learning opens a fresh door and invites students to step forward with curiosity and purpose. The weather outside seems to nod to this idea as well. While winter still lingers, there are hints of a new season ahead. A slightly warmer afternoon, more daylight at the end of the day, or new growth beginning to appear. Spring reminds us that beginnings often happen gradually, sometimes before we even notice them. Beginnings carry possibility, energy, and hope. They set a foundation for what comes next. During visits to our schools this week, I saw beginnings represented in many ways. In classrooms, students were launching new topics and tackling new performance tasks. At Heritage Elementary’s Literacy Night, I had the opportunity to read one of my favorite children’s books, Enemy Pie. As the story unfolded, everyone listened closely as I read about an unexpected friendship. It was a simple but powerful reminder that beginnings are not only about learning new content, but also about discovering new perspectives and building connections with one another. These moments also caused me to think about the earliest beginnings in a child’s educational journey. Children first encounter the joy of books, learn how to work alongside others, and begin to develop the confidence that will carry them through school and beyond. These experiences shape how children understand themselves as learners and how they engage with the world around them. The strength of these early beginnings matters, and we must continue working together to ensure every child has access to them. In the coming months, I plan to share more with our community about enhancing our offerings for our earliest learners.  Across every grade level, beginnings continue to unfold. Just like the changing season, these beginnings bring a sense of warmth to our schools. Not only the warmth of longer days ahead, but the warmth created when students, educators, and families work together to support learning and growth. With appreciation for our community and the season ahead, Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools   A Note of Care and Concern We are deeply saddened by the news of the violent incident reported yesterday at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield. Events like this are difficult for all of us and can be especially unsettling when they happen close to home. No matter where we live or worship, acts of violence and hate affect far more than a single place or community. We unequivocally condemn hate and violence in all forms and remain committed to the values of dignity, respect, and safety for every member of our community.    Early Childhood Programs Survey Saline Area Schools is proud to offer several high-quality preschool options for families. We are working to expand preschool programs and provide more access to free early childhood programs. Share your interest and help us plan by completing the short survey.   Middle School Athletic Complex Safety and Bond Project Updates Construction crews have been hard at work at Saline Middle School and the adjacent athletic complex. Please note the Athletic Complex remains closed and is an active construction site. For the safety of our students and crews, unauthorized individuals should not enter the new athletic fields until they are completed. Signage is in place and fields are secured, however, we continue to remove students and visitors from the athletic fields. We appreciate your cooperation in this important matter. Crabtree Field at Liberty School will remain accessible until June 1, 2026.  We look forward to celebrating the completion of bond-funded projects in the coming months, including:  Expansion of the Saline Senior Center (estimated completion late April, 2026) New cosmetology facilities for students (estimated completion August 1, 2026) Tennis & pickelball courts, track, and turf fields (estimated completion July 1, 2026) Middle School STEAM classroom renovations (estimated completion August, 2026) Work will begin on additional projects at the athletic complex this spring, including:  Demolition of the original Crabtree Field Demolition of Lamberson Field Construction of new baseball and softball fields Additionally, work on Heritage School renovations will begin at the conclusion of this school year. To learn more about progress on renovation projects with the passage of the 2022 bond, please visit our website at https://tinyurl.com/SalineBond.   AI in Education Survey Reminder The Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators (MASA) is inviting families and staff to share their thoughts about Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. Your feedback will help schools in our district and across Michigan understand how AI is being used and what support is needed to make it effective, safe, and beneficial for everyone. The survey is optional, open until April 1, and should take 10-15 minutes to complete. The survey is available in English, Arabic, Spanish, and Ukrainian. By completing the survey, you will help shape future programs and resources for students, families, and educators statewide.   Family Engagement Survey Closes Today Saline Area Schools families and staff are invited to participate in this Family-School Engagement Survey, conducted by Hanover Research on behalf of the Washtenaw Intermediate School District. The survey will help our district better understand the perceptions, experiences, and needs around family engagement from both parents and staff, and we would appreciate a strong response rate from SAS families. The survey deadline is set for March 13 and should take 10-12 minutes to complete.  This survey is made possible thanks to a grant from the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP), and is being conducted by the Region 9 Family Engagement team in partnership with Hanover Research. We look forward to your participation and feedback!   A2Y Teacher of the Year Nominations Sought The Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti (A2Y) Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations for the annual Teacher of the Year recognition. The chamber is seeking nominations of certified educators (teaching at least 50% of the time) who inspire students, earn respect from students, familes, and colleagues who are leaders in the school and community. Nominations are open until Thursday, March 19 at 4:30 p.m.     Upcoming Events 🎶 March 14: Saline Fiddlers Philharmonic Hometown Show, SHS Auditorium, 6:30 p.m. 🌓 March 20: Half Day Y5-12 (10:30 Dismissal for Young Adult) 🏛️ March 24: Board of Education meeting, Liberty Board Room, 6:30 p.m. 🌸 March 30-April 3: No School, Spring Break 🚌 April 6: School Resumes 2026-2027 School calendar now available!  

    Friday, Mar 13 2026

  • Superintendent's Community Message February 27, 2026

    February 27, 2026 It Takes A Village Over the past week, as I spent time with parents, teachers, cherished bus drivers, community partners, law enforcement, legislators, district and building administrators, and many others who serve alongside us, one thread connected us all - our community. In every conversation, every classroom, and every gathering, I was reminded that it truly takes a village. And, our village is made up of people with different roles, experiences, perspectives, skills, and talents.  It takes a village to safely send students out into the world and bring them home again to SHS. It takes a village to host the Pleasant Ridge Culture Night, so students could experience the richness of another continent, learning about traditions and communities far beyond our own. It takes a village to create memorable learning experiences for students at Woodland Meadows, who "stamped a passport" as they traveled the world, exploring stories that introduced them to many different places and perspectives. Behind every experience for our students, there are team members supporting the details that make meaningful experiences possible. It takes a village to raise up our earliest learners. In our Pooh Corner GSRP classroom, I watched eager young students experiencing the anticipation of reading a new book while eagerly enjoying their family-style daily breakfast where they learn skills and gain experience with social skills before gearing up for the academics of the day. On that same morning, down the hall, our young adult students raised their drumsticks for cardio drumming, filling the space with rhythm and joy. Across every setting, I saw people working together with intention and care. I saw adults modeling collaboration. I saw students learning from one another. I saw systems that support not only academic growth, but belonging, wellbeing, and connection. A strong village does not happen by accident. It is built through relationships, trust, shared responsibility, and an unwavering commitment to our children. I am grateful for the many individuals who make up the Saline Area Schools village and for the ways you show up for one another every single day. With appreciation for our village, Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools   Family Engagement Survey Reminder Saline Area Schools families and staff are invited to participate in this Family-School Engagement Survey, conducted by Hanover Research on behalf of the Washtenaw Intermediate School District. The survey will help our district better understand the perceptions, experiences, and needs around family engagement from both parents and staff, and we would appreciate a strong response rate from SAS families. The survey deadline has been extended until March 13 and should take 10-12 minutes to complete.  This survey is made possible thanks to a grant from the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP), and is being conducted by the Region 9 Family Engagement team in partnership with Hanover Research. We look forward to your participation and feedback!   WISD March Mental Health Workshop WISD is offering free, online workshops for parents and caregivers on a variety of mental health topics. The next workshop is Tuesday, March 10 at 7:00 p.m. and is open to all Washtenaw County parents, caregivers, grandparents, school staff, and adults who work with children. In a world full of change and uncertainty, parents and children face constant stressors that impact wellbeing. This workshop will help parents understand how their own nervous system shapes their capacity to respond with calm and connection. Join Mishelle Rodriguez, PhD to learn practical, evidence-based tools to avoid common pitfalls and strengthen wellbeing for the whole family. Register here.     Upcoming Events 🎭 February 27-March 1: SHS Drama Club Production of Hello Dolly, public welcome 🌓 March 5: Half Day Y5-12 (Full day for Young Adult program) 🌓 March 6: Half Day Y5-12 (No school for Young Adult program) 🎨 March 7: Spring Craft Show, Saline Middle School, 8:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 🏛️ March 10: Board of Education meeting, Liberty Board Room, 6:30 p.m. ❤️‍🩹 March 10: WISD Mental Health Workshop, via Zoom, 7:00 p.m. 🌓 March 20: Half Day Y5-12 (10:30 Dismissal for Young Adult) 🏛️ March 24: Board of Education meeting, Liberty Board Room, 6:30 p.m. 🌸 March 30-April 3: No School, Spring Break 2026-2027 School calendar now available!  

    Friday, Feb 27 2026

  • Superintendent's Community Message February 13, 2026

    February 13, 2026 The Power of Patience There is something about February that invites us to “practice the pause” - days are still short, the air still carries a winter chill, and yet there are subtle signs of change that are quietly beginning. Earlier this week, we even had a small “glimpse” of spring! This time of year reminds me that some of the most important growth does not happen all at once. It unfolds gradually, often asking us to wait. Over the past few weeks during my visits to schools and in work within the community, I have noticed patience showing up many ways. In classrooms last week on Groundhog Day, students eagerly watched Punxsutawney Phil in quiet patience to learn about what the season might bring. At Pleasant Ridge, I observed students engaged in a math tower challenge, a task that required persistence, careful thinking, and VERY steady hands. As I watched the activity, I saw towers waver and plans adjusted, but there was no rushing the process. Success came through steady effort and encouragement from peers and the caring staff supporting the lesson. I have seen that same spirit in other corners of our district. Students counting the days toward the 100th day of school, or our spring athletes preparing quietly as they wait for their season to begin. In each example I have seen in SAS, there is an understanding that worthwhile things often require time, commitment, and belief in what is not yet fully visible. In a world that often urges us to move faster all of the time, there is strength in choosing to move with care. There is confidence in trusting that growth is happening, even when we cannot yet see the full results. Patience is not passive; it is active and steady, and it shows up in classrooms when students wrestle with new concepts. It is present when educators guide learning and collaborate with parents, knowing that mastery develops over time.  The work we are doing together is meaningful, and it is unfolding just as it should. I am grateful for the many ways our students, staff, and families demonstrate steady commitment to one another.  With optimism for what lies ahead, Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools   February Observances As we continue highlighting the learning happening across SAS this month, February also gives us the opportunity to recognize important observances that connect directly to our mission and the experiences of our students. February is Career and Technical Education Month, a time to raise awareness about the value of CTE and the many ways it prepares students for college, careers, and life. Through hands on learning, skill development, and real world experiences our students are building knowledge and confidence that will serve them well into the future. February is also Black History Month. Throughout our schools, we honor the achievements, resilience, and contributions of Black Americans past, present, and future. This month offers an important opportunity to deepen understanding around Black history.   Foundation for Saline Area Schools The Foundation for Saline Area Schools is a non-profit organization that provides private funding to support academic projects, enrichment programs, and other activities aimed at enhancing the quality of education in the Saline school district. The Foundation rewards excellence and innovation through distribution of individual teaching grants and funds for district wide strategic goals. Grants distributed by the Foundation serve as seed money for educational initiatives that cannot be funded by the general budget. There are two opportunities to get involved this month! This is the final weekend to purchase tickets to attend the Foundation for Saline Area Schools annual fundraising event, Let the Good Times Roll. The event will be held Friday, February 20 at Weber's Inn. Registration closes February 15. The FSAS Hall of Fame honors individuals who have demonstrated outstanding individual ability, leadership, character, personal drive and dedication. Their lives and accomplishments serve to inspire our students and the Saline community. Nominations for the Hall of Fame close on Friday, February 20.     Upcoming Events 🌓 February 13: Half Day 📣 February 16: No School 🎉 February 20: Foundation for Saline Area Schools, Let the Good Times Roll Fundraising Event ⭐️ February 20: Foundation for Saline Area Schools Hall of Fame nomination deadline 🏛️ February 24: Board of Education Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Liberty School Board Room 🎭 February 27-March 1: SHS Drama Club Production of Hello Dolly, public welcome [Friday, Feb 13 at 7:57 PM] The Superintendent's Community Message has been updated. The Board of Education meeting date has been updated to reflect the correct date (February 24). Apologies for the error!

    Friday, Feb 13 2026

  • Superintendent's Community Message January 30, 2026

    January 30, 2026 The Power of Teamwork As I continue my visits across our schools and see students in action, I find myself thinking a great deal about teamwork. Not the kind that shows up as a feel good slogan, but the kind you can feel when you step into a classroom, watch students work through challenges together, or see adults coordinating behind the scenes to support learning and keep everyone safe. There is real power in that kind of teamwork, and lately it has been everywhere. That spirit was especially clear during our Superintendent Day of Service on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, when I spent time alongside students, families, and staff at Saline Area Social Services. Together, we completed a variety of tasks to help prepare for an upcoming influx of donations thanks to the SHS National Honor Society canned goods drive. While the work itself mattered, what stayed with me most was how people worked side by side, talking, listening, and building connections while serving our community. It was a reminder that teamwork is rooted in shared purpose, and that service brings people together in meaningful ways. I saw that same collaboration at Woodland Meadows Elementary during a visit to I Lab. Students were presented with complex, real world scenarios without simple solutions. As they worked through the challenges, teamwork became essential. Students divided responsibilities, leaned on one another’s strengths, and adjusted their thinking as new ideas emerged. At Heritage, teamwork took on a different rhythm. During a rehearsal for an upcoming concert, students practiced Boom Snap Clap, moving together with focus and precision. Watching them rehearse was a reminder that teamwork is built through practice and patience, and that individual contributions matter most when they come together toward a common goal. At Saline Middle School, I spent time in an advisory class where students were deconstructing an assignment. What stood out was their understanding of the content, but also how intentionally they listened to one another. They asked questions, clarified ideas, and helped peers see different perspectives, demonstrating how learning deepens when students feel collective responsibility. Teamwork extends beyond what we see during the school day. Teaching and learning depend on educators planning together, adjusting instruction, and supporting students in many ways. Keeping students safe requires coordination among staff, transportation teams, and families, especially on winter mornings when road conditions demand careful decision making. Even snow days are the result of teamwork, grounded in communication, trust, and a shared commitment to student wellbeing. In the same spirit, our team and I have fielded questions from families and parents about the collective well-being of our school community as a result of national events and conversations. I want to acknowledge that these weigh heavily on me as well, and they have since I taught high school history to students from a variety of backgrounds. My commitment to you is that we, as a TEAM, will continue to support our students, ensuring high-quality teaching and learning in every classroom - and keeping ALL students (all means ALL!) both physically AND psychologically safe. Across our district, teamwork shows up in both big moments and small ones. It is students learning together, staff supporting one another, and families partnering with schools. Our strength does not come from any one person or program, but from the way we work together. Together through teamwork, Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools   Saline Area Schools Hall of Fame The Foundation for Saline Area Schools honors individuals who have demonstrated outstanding individual ability, leadership, character, personal drive and dedication annually through the Hall of Fame. FSAS is accepting nominations until Feb. 20 for individuals who have met the following requirements: A Saline High School graduate of 5 years or more OR A former faculty, staff member, coach or administrator (must have retired from all full-time positions) Has gained recognition and prominence in his/her field or endeavor and/or made noteworthy contributions to that field or in community service Is a person of integrity and good character Has exemplified the principles, philosophy and mission of the Saline School District and the FSAS Alumni Association   How We Communicate: Winter Weather Starting this fall, the Deparment of Communications and Community Relations shared a series of informational posts around district communication norms. The entire How We Communicate series is now posted on the Family Resources page of the Saline Area Schools website. January has provided plenty of challenging winter weather and an opportunity to test our communication systems. A Winter Weather FAQ providing insight on district decision-making is also available on the Family Resources page of the SAS website. We have learned that some voice messages about Monday's cancellation were delayed on Sunday evening due to the volume of urgent alerts sent nationwide in the wake of the large winter storm. ParentSquare is taking the delays seriously and working to increase voice capacity to prepare for future events. Urgent alerts are designed to notify users through multiple channels, and we believe text, email, and app alerts were delivered as expected. Please contact the SAS ParentSquare team with any questions unique to your experience.   Welcoming New Hornets- Events on Thursday! Do you know someone new to the area or considering a move to the Saline area? Friends or family with students ready to sign up for Kindergarten or Young 5s? Help us spread the word to new and prospective Hornets to join our team at two enrollment events at Saline High School on February 5, 2026. Young 5s and Kindergarten Round Up and Information Night: This event is designed for parents to begin to prepare for enrollment (opening March 2) and answer questions about their students' transition to Kindergarten or Young 5s. The presentation will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the High School Auditorium. District Open House and Resource Fair: This event is designed for families with students of all ages who are new to or considering attending Saline Area Schools. Families will have an opportunity to interact with staff from all buildings and departments to learn more about what SAS has to offer. The Open House will run from 6:15-8:00 p.m. and will be held in the High School Media Center and Commons.     Upcoming Events 🐝 February 5: Young 5s and Kindergarten Round-Up, 5:30 p.m., SHS Auditorium 🎈 February 5: District Open House and Resource Fair (for new and prospective families), 6:15-8:00 p.m., SHS Commons 🏛️ February 10: Board of Education Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Liberty School Board Room 🌓 February 13: Half Day 📣 February 16: No School 🎉 February 20: Foundation for Saline Area Schools, Let the Good Times Roll Fundraising Event

    Friday, Jan 30 2026

  • Superintendent's Community Message January 16, 2026

    January 16, 2026 Goals In Action For The New Year There is a different kind of energy that fills our schools as we settle back into routines after a break, a sense of focus that is easy to feel when you walk through classrooms and hallways. January invites us to think about goals, not as resolutions or a checklist, but as intentions that give us direction. Goals help our students focus their work and track progress. During visits to our schools since we returned from winter break, I was struck by how clearly students understand the power of goals. I watched students in math class carefully explain their thinking and persevere through challenging problems because they knew what they were working toward. I saw second graders in gym moving with incredible focus, eyes forward and bodies determined, working hard to meet personal and class goals. From classrooms to learning spaces of all kinds, students were laser focused, motivated not by perfection, but by progress. That same mindset is guiding our district as we begin to engage in strategic planning that will shape our buildings and district for the future. I know that from the outside, a strategic plan can sometimes feel abstract or distant. In reality, it is the foundation for nearly everything we do. Strategic planning helps us clarify our priorities, align our resources, and make thoughtful decisions that reflect the feedback and needs of our community and that support students today and into the future. It shapes how we invest in learning through our budget, how we support staff, how we care for students, and how we partner with families and the community. As your superintendent, I want this plan to ensure that our daily work connects to a shared vision and clear goals that reflect what our community values most. Just as our students set goals to guide their learning and growth, our district sets goals to guide our collective efforts. Both require focus, reflection, and commitment. Both remind us that meaningful progress happens step by step, through collaboration and actions taken together. As we move through January, my hope is that we all take a moment to notice the goals in action around us. They are present in student effort, in staff collaboration, and in the thoughtful planning happening across the district. These goals keep us moving forward with purpose and care. It remains a privilege to serve our community, Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools   School Closed Monday for MLK Day On Monday our schools will be closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This day offers space for remembrance and reflection. Dr. King spoke about service and the responsibility we have to care for one another. Those ideas feel meaningful when we slow down and consider how they show up in our community. I will be spending part of the day participating in a service project alongside students and families. It is a reminder that learning happens outside of the classroom. It also happens when we give our time listen to one another and work together. Whatever your plans are, I hope it is a meaningful pause for you and your family.   Welcoming New Hornets! Do you know someone new to the area or considering a move to the Saline area? Friends or family with students ready to sign up for Kindergarten or Young 5s? Help us spread the word to new and prospective Hornets to join our team at two enrollment events at Saline High School on February 5, 2026. Young 5s and Kindergarten Round Up and Information Night: This event is designed for parents to begin to prepare for enrollment (opening March 2) and answer questions about their students' transition to Kindergarten or Young 5s. The presentation will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the High School Auditorium. District Open House and Resource Fair: This event is designed for families with students of all ages who are new to or considering attending Saline Area Schools. Families will have an opportunity to interact with staff from all buildings and departments to learn more about what SAS has to offer. The Open House will run from 6:15-8:00 p.m. and will be held in the High School Media Center and Commons.   Foundation for Saline Area Schools Fundraising Event The Foundation for Saline Area Schools invites SAS families, community members, and friends to a festive night of music, merriment, and meaningful impact! The evening will feature the Cleveland Keys a dueling pianos band, back by popular demand. Every ticket supports the Foundation’s mission to invest in students, educators, and innovative programs that strengthen Saline Area Schools. Bring your friends, bring your bids, and be part of something that makes our community stronger! Early bird ticket sales ($85) end January 18, with regular ticket ($100) available until February 15. Register online.     Upcoming Events 📣 January 19: No School, Martin Luther King Jr. Day 💙 January 19: Day of Service with the Superintendent, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Saline Area Social Services (event is full- thank you!) January 27: Board of Education Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Liberty Board Room February 5: Young 5s and Kindergarten Round-Up, 5:30 p.m., SHS Auditorium February 5: District Open House and Resource Fair (for new and prospective families), 6:15-8:00 p.m., SHS Commons February 20: Foundation for Saline Area Schools, Let the Good Times Roll Fundraising Event

    Friday, Jan 16 2026

  • Superintendent's Community Message December 19, 2025

    December 19, 2025 Moments of Joy There is a different kind of rhythm that emerges across our district as we approach winter break, a noticeable easing in the pace of our routines. It’s a season that invites us to slow down just enough to notice what’s good, and to experience JOY. Joy is shared through small moments, celebrations, shared laughter, and the steady comfort of familiar places and people. In our classrooms and hallways, that feeling shows up as a lightness in the air, a reminder that rest and renewal are just around the corner. During recent visits to our schools, I have been reminded of the way joy shows up in simple, student-centered moments. I saw it in elementary students delighting in inches of sustained snow at recess in December, in the conversations at Liberty School where students and staff shared what brings each of us joy, and in the satisfaction of Middle School leaders preparing to serve hot cocoa to their 6th-grade peers. Liberty students, by the way, had a lot to say about the people and pets they love most and who bring them joy, and Hank is always a popular choice. I can relate. So much of my own joy comes from my family and my three labradors, and I feel the same gratitude each day I get to serve and lead Saline Area Schools. This is the kind of joy winter break offers our entire district community. It is found in time to rest, to reconnect with family and friends, and to step away from the usual pace of school days. It is also present right now, as staff help students wrap up learning, reflect on their growth, and head into break with a sense of accomplishment. Behind the scenes, our teams are planning for what comes next, reviewing data, strengthening supports, and preparing for strong starts, so that when students return in January, they are met with clear routines, thoughtful instruction, and caring adults ready to welcome them back. As we enter this season, my hope is that we all make space for joy…not the loud or fleeting kind, but the joy that comes from noticing progress, appreciating one another, and allowing ourselves time to recharge. It remains a privilege and joy to serve this community, Rachel Kowalski, Ed.D. Superintendent Saline Area Schools   Day of Service with the Superintendent Join SAS Superintendent, Dr. Rachel Kowalski, to honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day by serving our community. Dr. Kowalski is inviting SAS families and students ages 13 and up to join her at Saline Area Social Services on Monday, January 19 from 1:30-3:30 p.m. This event will provide an opportunity to serve our community while engaging in important conversations about the future at Saline Area Schools. Space is limited. Please RSVP to reserve your spot.   Winter Break: A Time for Rest and Reflection As the winter break approaches, we invite you to take a moment to slow down, recharge, and embrace the peace this season can bring. The holidays are often filled with joy and connection, but they can also bring challenges—whether it’s missing a loved one, juggling holiday preparations, or managing the pressures of the season. While each of us celebrates in our own way, it’s important to acknowledge all feelings that may arise and remember it’s okay to ask for support when needed. Saline Area School District has partnered with Care Solace to help support the well-being of our community. Whether you or a family member need support with mental health or substance use, Care Solace can connect you to care options that meet your needs—quickly, confidentially, and at no cost to you. How to Access Support: Call: 888-515-0595 (Multilingual support available 24/7/365) Visit: caresolace.com/salineschools Search for providers independently or click “Book Appointment” to get assistance via video chat, phone, or email. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a peaceful start to the new year. May you return from winter break rested, recharged, and ready for what’s ahead!   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.     Upcoming Events ❄️ December 22-January 2: No School, Winter Break 🐝 January 5: School Resumes 🏛️ January 13: Board of Education Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Liberty Board Room 🌓 January 16: Half Day 📣 January 19: No School, Martin Luther King Jr. Day 💙 January 19: Day of Service with the Superintendent, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Saline Area Social Services

    Friday, Dec 19 2025

  • 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