Black History Month Across SPSD
February was filled with meaningful moments across Saginaw Public Schools as students and staff honored Black History Month through learning, creativity, and community engagement.
At Loomis Academy, students led weekly assemblies featuring guest speakers and performances, including a special presentation by kindergarten students singing the Black National Anthem. The school also produced a student-led Black History Month video highlighting reflection, culture, and pride.
Across the district, students engaged in activities that encouraged learning, expression, and appreciation of history and identity.
Success Academy Honors Black History Month
Success Academy students and staff came together to celebrate Black History Month through a meaningful and engaging program.
The event featured a special presentation from local speaker Dr. Allen, who shared insights that encouraged reflection, pride, and continued learning. Students also enjoyed a musical performance by Indigo Connolly, adding a powerful and creative element to the celebration.
Student Recognized as Black History Maker of Tomorrow
Saginaw United senior Ahnyala Eichelberger was named a McDonald’s Black History Makers of Tomorrow recipient, recognizing her leadership, academic success, and community impact.
Feature Stories
Saginaw United Boys Basketball Wins District Title, Advances to Regionals
The Saginaw United Phoenix boys varsity basketball team captured a Division 1 district title with a 74–64 win over Heritage on Friday, Feb. 27, continuing a strong season of focus and determination.
With the win, the Phoenix advance to the regional round, where they will face Rockford on Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Alma High School.
The team’s performance reflects the hard work, discipline, and resilience shown throughout the season — and the continued growth of Saginaw United athletics.
Congratulations to the players and coaching staff, and best of luck as they continue their postseason run.
SASA Robotics Team Recognizes Board Support
The SASA robotics team, Pantheon 5193, presented the Board of Education with a plaque of appreciation for supporting their trip to the FIRST Championship in Houston. The experience allowed students to compete at a global level and represent Saginaw with pride.
Saginaw United Mock Trial Team Competes in Oakland County
Saginaw United’s Mock Trial Team won half of their competitions during a recent trip to Oakland County, showcasing strong preparation and teamwork. The experience was made possible through collaboration with the Saginaw Defender’s Office and community partners.
HELP Program at Thompson Receives Federal Support
Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet visited Thompson Middle School to announce $700,000 in funding for the HELP program (Healing, Engagement, Love, Presence). Students shared how the program supports confidence, emotional growth, and positive decision-making.
Gifted Programs Continue to Shine
SASA and Handley Elementary continue to provide high-level academic opportunities for gifted learners. Recent outreach efforts have focused on increasing awareness of testing opportunities, program access, and upcoming informational sessions for families.
Student Achievement & School Highlights
Saginaw United Athletics Signing Day
Saginaw United celebrated student-athletes continuing their academic and athletic careers at the next level, highlighting the results of hard work and dedication.
Several students officially committed to continue their academic and athletic careers at the next level:
Melchizedek Washington — Olivet University
Jovell Robinson — Olivet University
Ryan Kennedy — Olivet University
Jordan Allen — Olivet University
Tellis Sears Jr. — Lead Prep Academy
Jamarion Goodman — Northwood University
This historic moment reflects the growing opportunities available to Saginaw United students and celebrates their commitment to success both in the classroom and in competition.
Competitive Cheer Team Wins County Championship
The SASA competitive cheer team placed 2nd in Division 4 at the North American Spirit All County Championship and earned the title of Saginaw County Champions with season-high scores.
Saginaw Middle Students Advance in State Art Competition
Saginaw Middle School students earned recognition in the Michigan Art Education Association Regional Show, with artwork from Ja’Kiyah Bland, Vanessa Lovell, Zaya Wright, and Avah Garza displayed at the Saginaw Art Museum. Avah’s piece, “Shoutout to MLK,” was selected among the top entries in the state and will advance to be showcased at Adrian College as part of the Top 100 works in Michigan.
Saginaw Career Complex Student Success
SCC Featured on WNEM TV-5
Saginaw Career Complex was recently highlighted on WNEM TV-5’s Education Matters segment, with Principal Ben Leal and student Jah’lyse Reynolds representing SCC.
During the segment, they shared how Career & Technical Education programs are giving students hands-on, real-world experience and preparing them for future careers.
Elementary Highlights
Zilwaukee Celebrates Black History Through Creativity
Students at Zilwaukee Elementary celebrated Black History Month with an interactive door decorating contest that brought creativity and learning to life throughout the school. Classrooms designed displays honoring Black history, culture, and achievement, making it a close and competitive event. Community members and district representatives served as judges, ultimately resulting in a three-way tie. Congratulations to Ms. Majchrak’s, Ms. McFarland’s, and Ms. Fredenburg’s classes for their outstanding work.
Arthur Eddy Chess Club Builds Strategy & Discipline
Students at Arthur Eddy Academy are strengthening critical thinking and problem-solving skills each week through the Charles McNair Chess Club. Held every Thursday after school, the program gives students the opportunity to learn and practice strategy while building focus and discipline. The club continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of volunteers who invest their time and guidance into supporting student growth.
Handley Students Celebrate World Hijab Day
Handley Elementary students marked World Hijab Day with a special learning experience for kindergarten and third-grade classrooms. A guest speaker shared the meaning of the hijab, helping students understand its significance as a symbol of dignity, strength, faith, and identity. The experience encouraged meaningful conversations about culture and reinforced the importance of respect, inclusion, and understanding within the school community.
Kempton Kindness Week
Kempton Elementary students celebrated Kindness Week with a series of activities focused on compassion and community. Each day, students participated in acts of kindness—from writing encouraging notes and helping classmates to showing appreciation for staff. The impact extended beyond the classroom, as students also carried those actions into their homes and neighborhoods, helping to spread positivity throughout the community.
Merrill Park Career Day
Students at Merrill Park Elementary had the opportunity to learn about a variety of career paths during a recent Career Day event. A highlight of the day was a presentation from SPSD Board of Education Vice President Janet Nash, who introduced students to the role of therapy dogs and how they support individuals in schools and the community. Meeting the dogs made the experience both engaging and memorable for students.
Stone Elementary Valentine’s Dance
Stone Elementary welcomed students, families, and staff for a fun-filled Valentine’s Dance that brought the school community together for an evening of music, laughter, and connection. With festive decorations, great music, and plenty of time on the dance floor, the event created lasting memories and highlighted the strong support and engagement of Stone families.
Jessie Rouse Welcomes Miss Michigan
A classroom writing assignment turned into a memorable experience for students at Jessie Rouse Elementary. After being tasked with inviting a public figure to visit, one fourth-grade student reached out to Miss Michigan, Hannah Palmer—and received a response. Palmer visited the school, speaking with fourth-grade students as well as visiting second- and third-grade classrooms, creating an inspiring and exciting experience for students.
Herig STEM Night Brings Learning to Life
Students explored science, technology, engineering, and math through interactive activities that encouraged curiosity, problem-solving, and creativity. The event provided families an opportunity to experience learning together while highlighting the importance of STEM education in preparing students for the future.
Chester Miller Students Recognized for Attendance
Chester Miller Elementary continues to emphasize the importance of showing up every day.
Mr. MacMurray’s class was recognized for having the best attendance in the building for the month of January. Students were celebrated with a special visit from Truancy Officer Charles Cork, who congratulated them on their commitment and consistency.
Strong attendance remains a key focus across the district as we continue encouraging students to be present, engaged, and ready to learn each day.
#AttendanceMatters
Dates to Remember
Kindergarten Signing Day – March 10
School of Choice Opens – March 16
School Board Action Meeting - March 18
Spring Break - March 30 - April 3
No School - April 6 (Easter Monday)