The Sunshine Bus is on the go!

Join us today and every Friday this summer at Kings Court Mobile Home Park from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the Corner of Zimmerman Rd. & Agate Way 1:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m., and at Silver Shores Mobile Home Park from 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Free food and basic needs will be delivered around the district all summer (no service week of July 3-11) from June 17 to September 3. This program is for all kids ages 3-20.

Visit www.tcaps.net/sunshine to learn more.

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools
2 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
Colorful poster promoting Sunshine Bus service. It provides free food and needs for children ages 3-20. Dates are June 17-September 3, excluding July 3-11.

The Sunshine Bus is on the move!

Join us today and every Thursday this summer at Meadow Lane Mobile Home Park from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., Blair Elementary School from 1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m., and the Interlochen Plaza Parking Lot from 2:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Free food and basic needs will be delivered around the district all summer (no service week of July 3-11) from June 17 to September 3. This program is for all kids ages 3-20.

Visit www.tcaps.net/sunshine to learn more.

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools

2 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A colorful graphic displays the "Sunshine Bus" with a school bus icon and text, June 17 - September 3.
The Sunshine Bus is back!

Join us today and every Wednesday this summer at Tradewinds Terrace Apartments from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. and at Traverse Heights Elementary School from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Free food and basic needs will be delivered around the district all summer (no service week of July 3-11) from June 17 to September 3. This program is for all kids ages 3-20.

Visit www.tcaps.net/sunshine to learn more.

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools
2 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A colorful poster for Sunshine Bus with a bus icon. Dates: June 17 - September 3. No service July 3-11.

Meet TCAPS Compass Winner: Gabriella Cioffi, Custodian, CHS🏆

Her nomination highlights her dedication and commitment to our school community.

Gabriella's nomination highlights her dedication and commitment to our school community. Each day, she and the entire custodial team at CHS bring wonderful energy and dedication, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and playing a vital role in our school environment.

Gabriella is always ready to assist with a smile and a willingness to help. A heartfelt thanks to Gabriella and the entire CHS custodial team for their dedication, positive energy, and immense pride in keeping our school a beautiful place to learn and work. We are incredibly grateful to have you all as part of the Trojan Family! 💐✨

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.

2 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A smiling woman with glasses over a hexagonal pattern and "TCAPS Compass Award" logo.
The hallways might be quiet for the summer, but learning never stops for our leadership! 🏫

Today, our principals gathered to collaborate, share insights, and engage in professional learning together. 🌟

We’re so grateful for their dedication behind the scenes. 💙

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools
2 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A group of people in various clothing poses for a photo in a room with a white board.
We're eager to meet you and discuss our open positions. Join us for Open Interviews at the TCAPS Administration Building (formerly known as Sabin Data Center), 2075 Cass Road, Traverse City, MI 49684, on Wednesday, June 17, from 8:00-10:00 a.m.

TCAPS is hiring for various positions, many requiring no prior experience, and on-the-job training is provided. No appointment necessary.

Learn more at www.tcaps.net/jobs

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools
2 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A child in school uniform stands by a chalkboard. It reads "NOW HIRING!" and "TCAPS OPEN INTERVIEWS."

Reminder that today, Wednesday, June 10, is a half day and the last day of the school year! ☀️

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.

3 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A colorful advertisement announces a TCAPS Update for June 10, 2026. It reads: "Half Day, Last Day of School."

Meet TCAPS Compass Winner: Linda Caswell, Kitchen Leader, Central Grade Elementary🏆

Her nomination highlights her passion and commitment to her position.

As a truly phenomenal Kitchen Leader, Linda's dedication to our students transforms the school lunch experience every single day. She has an incredible passion for her job, bringing serious attention to quality, presentation, and high expectations. In fact, the quality of service found in her elementary kitchen mirrors what you would expect to find in a nice restaurant.

Thank you, Linda, for treating our students like VIP guests, taking such immense pride in your work, and bringing restaurant-quality standards to our school community. You are an essential part of what makes our district thrive! 🙌💫

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.


3 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A blue hexagonal background displays a smiling woman and the text "TCAPS Compass Award".
Reminder that Wednesday, June 10, is a half day and the last day of the school year! ☀️

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.
3 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A colorful advertisement announces a TCAPS Update for June 10, 2026. It reads: "Half Day, Last Day of School."
TCAPS Board Community Connections 🤝

We invite you to join us for an informal conversation regarding district-wide updates and TCAPS policy. These sessions offer a dedicated space for families and community members to engage in open dialogue and strengthen our partnership.

Featured Trustee: Ty Schmidt
Date & Time: June 10, 2026, 5:30pm-6:30pm
Location: Traverse City Senior Center, 801 East Front Street, Traverse City

We look forward to connecting with you and working together for our students.

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools
3 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A smiling man with short hair stands against a dark background. He wears a black shirt with a yellow graphic and a gray blazer.

Reminder: TCAPS Board of Education Meeting – Monday, June 8 📅🏫

The TCAPS Board of Education is holding a meeting today, Monday, June 8, 2026. The closed session will begin at 4:30 p.m., with regular meeting business beginning at 6:00 p.m.

This meeting will be held in the Auditorium at Traverse City West Senior High School (5376 N Long Lake Rd, Traverse City, MI 49685).

Find out more at www.tcaps.net/board.

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools

3 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A school with a grassy lawn, trees, and a paved path leading to the entrance.


It's High 5 Friday! 🙌🖐

This week, high fives go out to:

1. Our newly graduated seniors from Central High School, West Senior High, and Traverse City High School. A massive congratulations to our incredible TCAPS Class of 2026! You have worked so hard to reach this incredible milestone, and we could not be prouder of the dedication, resilience, and talent you have shown throughout your time in our district. As you head out into the world, remember that you always have a community here rooting for you. Go out and shine bright, graduates! 🎓🌟

2. East Middle School and West Middle School 6th-grade science teachers, Mrs. Garrett and Miss Harma, who teamed up to host a student and family Beach Clean-Up event at Clinch Park! The turnout was fantastic, with 55 dedicated TCAPS volunteers joining forces. Together, they collected over 2,000 pieces of garbage and hauled in 43.2 pounds of plastic waste! Thank you to all the students, families, and teachers who stepped up to keep our beaches clean and beautiful! 👏🏖️

3. Mrs. Jesse-McPherson at Westwoods Elementary, who is helping her students grow a deeper love for nature and environmental stewardship! She has created a wonderful, engaging lesson plan focused on planting milkweed to support our local butterfly populations directly. After purchasing the seeds, her students were thrilled to officially get their hands in the dirt and begin planting! Through this hands-on project, students aren't just learning about ecosystems—they are actively building a brighter, more sustainable future for local wildlife. 🦋💞

4. Montessori’s Adolescent Community, who bring their micro-economy to life every Friday by making and serving fresh popcorn for the entire building! Through this hands-on business, these students aren't just making a delicious snack; they are learning real-world skills in customer service and teamwork. Thank you to these amazing entrepreneurs for keeping the school smelling great and kicking off the weekend on such a high note! 🍿🙌

5. Our incredible TCAPS Elementary Schools that soaked up the gorgeous sunshine during their annual Field Days! Our students, staff, and volunteers made the absolute most of the perfect weather, teaming up for a fantastic day of outdoor games, relay races, and high-energy fun. It was the absolute perfect way to celebrate a year of hard work and officially kick off the countdown to the end of the school year. A huge thank you to everyone who stepped up to volunteer, cheer, and make these days so uniquely memorable! 🏃🌞

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools #High5Friday

3 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
Multiple photos of students in green gowns, some in a group, some in pairs, and some with a tassel.
Graduates in black caps and gowns stand in a line, some with caps on, outside a building.
A group of people wearing purple graduation gowns and caps, posing for a photo in front of a building.
Two individuals are sitting at a table outside, with items like a helmet and a sign that says Titans Go West.
A group of children in various colored shirts and pants poses in a wooded area.
Three female students in a room, one by a popcorn machine, another by a table, and a third by a window.
students standing and kneeling outside with a building and tress in the background
A boy sits on a tarp with "Dupont" and "Tyvek Wrap" written on it, against a grassy background.
A boy pours water from a yellow cup over another boy's head. They sit in an outdoor field with other kids.
Several children are lying on blankets in an outdoor area in front of a brick building.

TCAPS Superintendent Monthly Office Hours – Tuesday, June 9 📅⏰

Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) Superintendent, Dr. John VanWagoner, invites community members to attend his upcoming monthly office hours. The next session will be held in person on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Community members are welcome to stop by the second floor (Mezzanine level) of Horizon Books, located at 243 E. Front Street, Traverse City, MI 49684.

For more information, visit www.tcaps.net/page/superintendent.

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools

3 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
Superintendent Dr. John VanWagoner
We would like to thank our families for their partnership. By prioritizing attendance, you have provided your children with a strong foundation for success and equal learning opportunities. We appreciate your efforts throughout this school year.

#SuccessStartsWithShowingUp #GreatCommunityGreatSchools
3 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
Four children sit at a table, smiling. One holds scissors, another holds a paper. Text reads "Success starts with showing up".

TCAPS Board of Education Meeting – Monday, June 8 📅🏫

The TCAPS Board of Education is holding its next meeting on Monday, June 8, 2026. The closed session will begin at 4:30 p.m., with regular meeting business beginning at 6:00 p.m.

This meeting will be held in the Auditorium at Traverse City West Senior High School (5376 N Long Lake Rd, Traverse City, MI 49685).

Find out more at www.tcaps.net/board.

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools

3 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A school with a grassy lawn, trees, and a paved path leading to the entrance.
Yesterday, we visited Traverse Heights Elementary for the 6th Annual Amazing Shake. 🤝

The gym was filled with community partners and TCAPS staff who came together to interview 5th-grade students. Every interaction began with a confident handshake, highlighting the professional skills these students have been working hard to master. A big congratulations to the students for all their hard work and dedication to learning these important life skills because their effort truly shined!

It was wonderful to see our community show up in such a meaningful way to support the growth and confidence of these students. Thank you to everyone who volunteered their time. 💙
3 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A group of people, some holding items, pose for a picture in a lobby. Behind them, a wall displays the words "We Are Respectful."
A young girl and a man sit in chairs shaking hands in a basketball court. Other people are sitting at tables.
Woman in a gym holding a board with text and sticky notes. A chair and wooden wall in the background.
A man and a woman converse in a room with chairs, a woman with a clipboard, and others seated.
Two women in gym, one holding a gong, with a table and chair nearby, a whiteboard on the wall.
Two women in chairs, one holding a clipboard, converse in a gym with a wooden floor and black walls.
People sit in chairs with numbered signs, conversing in an indoor gym setting. The floor has wooden panels and markings.
A boy pets a dog on a blue mat in a gym.
Two people sit in chairs inside a gym, labeled with numbers. A basketball hoop is in the background.
Student interviews with community member in gym for Amazing shake event

Meet TCAPS Compass Winner: Debbi McMaster, Special Education Teacher, Blair Elementary🏆

Her nomination highlights her positive attitude and commitment to our students and staff.

Debbi’s thoughtful, calm, and caring demeanor makes her a true pillar of strength for both students and staff. She is a vital resource for her colleagues, an exceptional advocate for families, and a trusted mentor for our most trauma-impacted and behaviorally challenging students.

She consistently goes above and beyond to support the holistic needs of our building, embodying a truly exceptional educator. Her classroom serves as a vital safe space for students who may not always feel secure at school. Furthermore, she works creatively to build connections with our toughest students, often advocating for maximized opportunities for them to connect.

Thank you, Debbi, for your fierce advocacy, your creative approach to connection, and for providing a safe harbor for the students who need it most. You represent the absolute best of TCAPS! 🙌💫

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.




3 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
Woman with glasses on blue background with hexagons. Text: "TCAP's Compass Award" in center.
As we look back on the school year, we see how much our students have achieved. Their dedication to showing up has led to significant growth, and we are proud of the work they have accomplished as confident learners.

#SuccessStartsWithShowingUp #GreatCommunityGreatSchools
3 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
Silhouette of a person throwing a cap up in the air. Text overlay reads "Success Starts with Showing Up".
It's High 5 Friday! 🙌🖐

This week, high fives go out to:

1. The Spanish National Honor Society students at West Senior High who recently organized a powerful community event to support the local Migrant Education Program through Northwest Ed. These dedicated Titan leaders hosted a special screening of the documentary La Cosecha at the State Theatre. Through their hard work, they raised vital funds, increased awareness, and collected essential school supplies to benefit our local migrant students. 👏🌟

2. Blair Elementary Bobcats who turned pages into planting this spring! Thanks to the incredible reading students did back in March, five beautiful new maple trees now shade the Blair playground, along with a brand-new cherry tree out front! Great job to all of our dedicated readers who worked hard to green up their school. A huge thank you also goes out to Grand Traverse Nursery for helping get these trees safely planted. 🍁✨

3. Silver Lake Elementary, who had the absolute best time at their Fun Field Day! The weather was perfect for students to get outside and celebrate the end of the school year. A huge thank you to all the staff and volunteers for making the event such a massive success! 😎🏃

4. West Middle School ESL students and their NJHS tutors who gathered at China Fair Restaurant to celebrate a year filled with delicious food, fun, and lifelong friendship! This special event honored their departing 8th graders for their incredible contributions to the program. As a parting gift, each graduate received a beautiful, hand-painted canvas crafted by their younger classmates. Thank you to China Fair for their wonderful generosity in hosting this celebration of community! 🥳🙌

5. Courtade Elementary students who showed off their green thumbs this week! Several classes headed outside to work in the school garden, taking the opportunity to plant seeds. Thanks to the hard work of these young gardeners, the beds will soon be bursting with delicious vegetables and fresh herbs to harvest and share with our community. Way to grow, Courtade! 🥕👍

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools #High5Friday

3 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
Three people sit on a red couch with boxes of food in front of them. One holds a blue bag.
Two women stand on stage, one holding a microphone, with a large screen behind them displaying a field.
A group of children in a park pose around a young tree with raised hands. Trees in the background.
Kids in pink shirts gather around a multicolored parachute on a grassy field. People are in the background.
Child with blonde hair, yellow tie-dye shirt, sunglasses, and a white hat stands on a grassy field.
Group of children pulling on ropes during a tug-of-war in a grassy field. Trees and a building are in the background.
A group of people sit around a long table in a restaurant, smiling, with fish paintings on the wall.
Children plant seeds in a garden area. Some wear gloves and hold tools. Background shows a fenced garden with plants.
Children and adults in a dirt area behind a fence, engaging in outdoor activities, some seated and others standing.
Last night was incredibly special. ✨ The TCAPS Board of Education held our All-Employee Retirement Recognition, bringing together a room filled with staff, students, and families to celebrate our 2025-2026 retirees.

This group represents a remarkable 956 years of combined service to our district, and we were proud to honor their legacy last night.

We want to extend a big thank you to our generous community sponsors for making this event possible, the staff members who worked hard behind the scenes to ensure its success, and everyone in attendance who helped us celebrate.

To our retirees, thank you for your years of dedication and for the lasting difference you have made in our schools. We wish you all a fantastic and well-earned retirement! 💙

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools
3 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A group of adults stands in a line in a room with a white wall. They wear various colors and styles of clothing.
Five people in light clothing pose together in a room with white walls and chairs behind them.
Table with a blue-white checked tablecloth holds bowls of popcorn, candy, fruit, and snacks. A black tray holds a sign for Shorts Event.
Five people sit around a table with food and drinks. Two women wear glasses. One woman has sunglasses on her head.
Three women stand smiling with a person in a tan shirt in the background. The background contains a wooden piano.
Two women smile and stand close together, one wearing a teal blouse, the other a brown floral dress. A flag and several people sit behind them.
Two women pose together for a photo. One wears a straw hat and orange shirt. The other wears a black sweater.
Two people stand in a kitchen area, one with a scoop of ice cream and the other holding a package.
Three women stand together in a room with white walls and green accents. One wears a denim jacket, one a white blouse, and the other a striped shirt.
Two women stand smiling next to each other in a room with tiled walls and a white countertop.