Traverse City Area Public Schools

The TCAPS spring concert season is officially here. We invite you to join us in celebrating the hard work and talent of our student musicians. 🎶

View the "Sounds of the Season" schedule: https://sholink.to/SoundsoftheSeason

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools

7 minutes ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

Graphic for TCAPS Music Department Spring Concerts, titled "Sounds of the Season," featuring a play button icon over a spring landscape with flowers and hills.

It's High 5 Friday! 🙌🖐

This week, high fives go out to:

It was awesome to see so many of our students across the district celebrating Earth Day this week!

1. Eastern Elementary students in Mrs. Hites' first-grade class who received an exciting visit from Mr. Hites of the Traverse City Light and Power team! He shared valuable insights into different types of energy, the significance of clean energy, and practical conservation tips. It was an enlightening experience for our STARS! 💡👏

2. Westwoods Elementary students who took action for the planet this week. Mrs. Carter's Kindergarteners and Mr. Stave's 5th-grade class teamed up to celebrate Earth Day by cleaning up their school grounds. It was a wonderful opportunity for our younger and older students to work together as stewards of the environment, ensuring their campus stays beautiful and litter-free. Way to go! 🌟🙌

3. West Middle School students in Mrs. Steele and Ms. Stallworth’s 6th-grade science classes who enjoyed fresh air and sunshine this week! In honor of Earth Day, students took full advantage of their beautiful surroundings and headed outside for a sound map activity. This hands-on experience allowed students to connect with their environment while celebrating the natural beauty of their campus. 🌲👍

4. Traverse Heights Elementary students in Mrs. Miller's and Mrs. Thomas' classes who celebrated the completion of their American Revolution CKLA Unit with a "Boston Tea Party"! This themed celebration was a fantastic way for students to wrap up their learning, bringing history to life while honoring the hard work they put into the unit. It was an unforgettable day of hands-on education for our learners! ☕🥳

5. West Senior High students who explored their futures at the NMC Career and Majors Fair. From hands-on demos to chatting with professors and industry pros, it was a day of turning "What if?" into a solid plan. Huge thanks to NMC for hosting such an inspiring event! 🎓💫

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools #High5Friday

2 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

A teacher stands in front of a classroom screen showing an energy-saving presentation, with children seated around him.

A man and girl in a classroom ride a bike on a stand with a traffic light.

A group of people stands in front of a structure on a dirt field, with bare trees and a building in the background.

Several children walk on a dirt field with dry grass, surrounded by bare trees, under a clear sky.

Many students sit on a path, likely for a field study. They hold papers and are surrounded by trees.

Two young women seated on the ground, one holding a clipboard and writing, the other holding a pencil.

A group of children and adults smile in a room with cupcakes, tables, and a checkered floor.

Three girls seated at a table hold cups, snacks, and a red balloon. The girl in a headband holds a cup.

People gather around a table with promotional materials. A woman and three men are engaged in conversation.

Several people are at a table with a woman, all looking at items. A TV is mounted on a wall.

Regular attendance helps students build the routines they need to feel confident in their school day. These small daily habits lead to significant long-term achievements and help students become capable learners.

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools #SuccessStartsWithShowingUp

3 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

A child with their hand raised in a classroom. The text reads, "Success starts with showing up."

TCAPS invites you to the Groundbreaking Ceremony

Join us as we break ground on the new TCAPS Afterschool Clubhouse and Multi-Purpose Fieldhouse!

Tuesday, May 5 | 4:00 p.m. Carlisle Road Project Site

The public is welcome to attend. Please join Superintendent Dr. John VanWagoner, TCAPS Board of Education, and our contributing partners as we officially begin construction on this new facility for our students and community.

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools

4 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

Poster with blue background featuring a building and field, and text about a groundbreaking ceremony.

Calling All Area Artists: The Trashion Fashion Show!

Turn your "trash" into a high-fashion trend. We are looking for K-12 students to design and create wearable art using alternative and/or recyclable materials. Show off your vision in a professional runway-style show and compete for prize money awarded in every division!

Divisions: High School, Middle School, and Elementary.
When: May 15, 2026 @ 7:30 pm
Where: TC West High School
Cost: $5

Register Now: Visit trashionfashion.weebly.com for more info and to sign up today.

4 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

TCAPS Traverse City Area Public Schools Celebrates Earth Day.

5 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

Meet TCAPS Compass Winner: Laurie Bott, Cook's Assistant, Long Lake Elementary🏆

Her nomination highlights her positive attitude and commitment to our school community.

Laurie has been an integral part of the Long Lake Elementary team for over two years, recently showcasing an impressive level of responsibility and teamwork. In the absence of the kitchen leader, she truly stepped up to the plate, ensuring that food service standards remained high through her dependability and hard work.

From meticulous food preparation to maintaining a clean and orderly kitchen, Laurie’s initiative and positive attitude have made a significant difference in the daily operations of the school. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated and committed professional serving our students and staff. 💐🌟

This recognition is well-deserved! The Compass Award celebrates employees who contribute to the District's Strategic Plan through their daily work. Review the full Strategic Plan here: www.tcaps.net/strategicplan.

5 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

Every hour in the classroom is a chance for discovery and collaboration. From hands-on science to group discussions, much of the learning process happens in real time. We look forward to seeing our students each day to make the most of these moments.

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools #SuccessStartsWithShowingUp

5 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

A child with hands raised in a classroom setting. The text above reads "Success starts with showing up".

Join us for the TCAPS District-Wide Art Show at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, running April 23 through May 7.

Don't miss the Opening Reception on April 23 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. This event is free to the public and showcases projects from students across the district.

Special thanks to our sponsors: Oryana Community Co-op, Harvitt Insurance Agency/Meemic, Tom’s Food Markets, and Mundos Coffee.

6 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

Promotional flyer for the 2026 TCAPS Art Show at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, April 23 to May 7. Opening reception on April 23, 6-8 PM. Sponsored by Oryana, Harvitt Insurance/Meemic, and Tom's Food Markets.

TCAPS Administrative Update:

TCAPS wants to share a quick update regarding office locations and service hours as work continues to support students and the community.

The TCAPS Administration Building (2075 Cass Rd) is open for administrative services, including Human Resources and the Business Office. These offices are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

While renovations are being finalized at the TCAPS Administration Building, the Office of the Superintendent and the Department of Curriculum and Instruction are temporarily located at Glenn Loomis (1009 S. Oak Street) and Central High School (1150 Milliken Dr.). To contact a staff member in these departments, use the official Staff Directory on our TCAPS website. These specific offices are currently operating by appointment only.

All Board of Education and Board Committee meetings will continue to be held at the Glenn Loomis Building.

For general inquiries or assistance, please contact TCAPS main at 231.933.1700.

Thank you for your patience and continued support of Traverse City Area Public Schools!

6 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

An orange banner with a white bell icon reads "TCAPS UPDATE" on a blue background.

It's High 5 Friday! 🙌🖐

This week, high fives go out to:

1. Our Peer to Peer students, who spend quality time building friendships with our awesome students across the district. These connections foster a culture of inclusion, understanding, and belonging within our schools. It is inspiring to see our students leading the way in celebrating neurodiversity and ensuring every peer feels seen and valued! 💫🙌

2. Our Mentor Tutors from the U.S. Coast Guard! These dedicated service members visit WMS every Thursday to provide academic support, help students stay organized, and build meaningful connections as caring mentors. ⚓👏

3. The Rockies Clarinet Quartet from the USAF Academy in Colorado who visited several of our buildings last week! Our students were treated to an incredible live performance by these world-class active-duty musicians. It’s not every day you get to learn from the best in the business. We are so grateful to the Quartet for sharing their time, talent, and passion for music with our community! 🪈✨

4. Blair Elementary’s March THINK Ambassadors, who were honored at this week’s THINK assembly! We are so proud of these students for their hard work and for consistently modeling the core values of the program. A special shout-out to parents and family members for being such vital partners in our students’ continued success.Way to go Bobcats! 🥳

5. East Middle School’s Chamber Choir students who had a fantastic and inspiring trip to East Lansing! The group spent time exploring the Michigan State University campus and went behind the scenes with a tour of the Wharton Center for Performing Arts. Filled with learning and fun activities, the field trip was a huge success, leaving our vocalists motivated and energized by the world of collegiate and professional performance! 🌟

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools #High5Friday

9 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

Students holding up a poster that says Every Mind Shines Differently.

Student mentor interacting with a younger student.

Peer to Peer mentors interacting at tables with other students

Coastguard mentors standing in a row inside the library

Quartet members playing instruments in front of seated students

Four members of the Rockies Clarinet Quartet perfroming inside West Senior High

Principal and students standing in a row holding their certicates.

Students from the Chamber Choir standing in front of the Wharton Center for Performing Arts building.

At this week’s regular meeting, the TCAPS Board of Education recognized the TCAPS Montessori 7th & 8th Grade Orchestra.

Before the meeting began, guests arriving at the administrative building were greeted by the music of these talented students performing in the hallway. The students were recognized for their hard work and artistry, as well as their contribution to the school community.

Congratulations to the TCAPS Montessori orchestra students on this well-deserved recognition!

9 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

Students playing their string instruments in the hallway

Last week, we stopped by Silver Lake Elementary to catch the Gutter Car finals, where the gym was filled with excitement! 🏎️

To prepare, students used Tinkercad to research, design, and model their cars. Following the Engineering Design Process, they engaged in iterative prototyping, testing, analyzing, and refining their designs, to optimize performance and master engineering principles.

Congratulations to all the participants for their hard work and creativity!

10 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

Students in a gym setting work on a project at a table, with a woman assisting.

Two young girls stand next to each other holding medals and a trophy. One wears a gray shirt; the other, black.

Multiple silver medals and their red, white, and blue ribbons on a green table.

Two children with medals pose for a photo in a gym. One holds a trophy and medal, and the other has two medals around their neck.

Colorful toy cars and objects on a green table with a wall and a sphere-shaped object in the background.

Two kids, a boy and a girl, stand in a gymnasium with medals around their necks.

Three golden star trophies with black bases are lined up on a green table. The trophies are labeled 1st, 2nd, and 3rd.

The 2026 State of the District video is now live! Stay up to date with TCAPS’ initiatives and see how we are educating, engaging, and supporting all learners to maximize individual excellence.

Watch the video here: https://itl.ink/TCAPSStateoftheDistrict26

10 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

Reminder: TCAPS has an early release day today, Thursday, April 16.

Find start and dismissal times here: https://5il.co/3jfxa

View the academic calendar here: https://5il.co/3jfx6

For questions, please contact your school directly.

11 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

TCAPS Transportation and Safety Update

Our TCAPS Administrative team spent the day working closely with Grand Traverse County to evaluate road conditions and finalize bus routing. While families whose students have been rerouted have already been notified, we ask for your patience tomorrow, as there will likely be delays in both morning pick-up and afternoon drop-off times. School administrators are aware of these delays and are prepared to assist students as they arrive.

To stay updated on your student’s transportation status, please utilize the MyRide K-12 app. You can access Account Setup Instructions and Routing Information online to view real-time routing details at https://www.tcaps.net/page/transportation. The Grand Traverse County Road Commission asks that you plan ahead for the next few days and give yourself extra time. Please use extra caution when traveling and slow down immediately if you encounter areas with standing water.

Also, please note that tomorrow is a scheduled early release day. You can view start and dismissal times athttps://5il.co/3jfxa and the full academic calendar athttps://5il.co/3jfx6. Thank you for your flexibility and for your partnership in keeping our students and drivers safe.

11 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

Orange banner with a bell icon reads "TCAPS Update" against a blue background.

11 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

School is Closed: All TCAPS schools are closed today, Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

This closure is at the request of Grand Traverse County due to widespread flooding and road closures across the region.

Students in Michigan Virtual, Acellus, or Dual Enrollment classes should follow the direction of their specific instructors for those programs.

For more information on closure procedures, including how they are communicated and how decisions are made, please go to www.tcaps.net

12 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

"TCAPS ALERT" written in blue with a red exclamation point in a triangle shape on top.

Meet TCAPS Compass Winner: Jeremiah Williams, Custodian, Central Grade🏆

His nomination highlights his strong work ethic and commitment to our school community.

At Central Grade School, we know that a great learning environment starts with the people who care for it. We are honored to nominate Jeremiah for his outstanding dedication, kindness, and professionalism.

Jeremiah doesn’t just maintain our school; he elevates it. Whether he’s brainstorming solutions with staff, responding to a last minute request with a smile, or helping a teacher carry a heavy load to their car after a long day, Jeremiah’s "people-first" approach makes a world of difference. His work ethic and collaborative spirit ensure our school is safe, welcoming, and full of heart. He is deeply deserving of this recognition, and we are grateful for the daily difference he makes for our staff, students, and school. 🎉👏

This recognition is well-deserved! The Compass Award celebrates employees who contribute to the District's Strategic Plan through their daily work. Review the full Strategic Plan here: www.tcaps.net/strategicplan.

12 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

Reminder: TCAPS has an early release day on Thursday, April 16. 🔔

Find start and dismissal times here: https://5il.co/3jfxa

View the academic calendar here: https://5il.co/3jfx6

For questions, please contact your school directly.

12 days ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools

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