TCAPS Superintendent Monthly Office Hours – Tuesday, May 12 📅⏰

Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) Superintendent, Dr. John VanWagoner, provides a monthly opportunity for community members to attend “office hours.” The next office hours will be held Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. via Google Meet.

For more information and to access the virtual meeting, visit www.tcaps.net/about/superintendent.

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools

6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
Superintendent Dr. John VanWagoner
We invite you to support TCAPS students this spring! 🌸

Giving to the Student Support Network (SSN) and the Learning, Enrichment, Activities, & Performance (LEAP) programs helps ensure all students have access to the resources and opportunities they need to grow and succeed. Your gift goes directly to supporting TCAPS students.

Give today: www.tcaps.net/give

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools
6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
TCAPS Foundation Changing Futures One Gift at a time visit www.tcaps.net/give
Attendance is an important life skill. Being present today helps prepare students for the expectations of the workforce and adulthood. We are working together to build a strong foundation for their future success.

#SuccessStartsWithShowingUp #GreatCommunityGreatSchools
6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A person in a graduation gown and cap throws their cap into the air against a blue sky.

The TCAPS Board of Education is holding its next meeting on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. Join us in person at Glenn Loomis (1009 S. Oak Street, Traverse City).

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

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools

6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
TCAPS Administration Building
TCAPS Celebrates Bike to School Day!
6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A boy with a helmet holds a bicycle, standing near a metal fence. A school banner reads "TCAPS Celebrates Bike to School Day."

Meet TCAPS Compass Winner: Barry Havens, Bus Driver, Transportation🏆

His nomination highlights his commitment to our school community.

Barry played a vital role in making the Downtown Traverse City Light Parade this past year a magical experience for our students. Barry went above and beyond to make this a successful event, with a smile on his face the entire night!

He was an awesome driver and made sure to get to all of the stops safely and early. The kids from Courtade had an absolute blast. From helping decorate the bus with lights before the parade to assisting with the cleanup long after it ended, Barry’s commitment to our students and community truly shines. 👏✨

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

6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A blue background features a man in glasses and a logo for the TCAPS Compass Award.
A stronger area begins with present students. When our students are in class and engaged, they are preparing to be the future leaders and neighbors of our community. We appreciate your support in this shared effort.

#SuccessStartsWithShowingUp #GreatCommunityGreatSchools
6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A child raising hand in classroom. Text reads "SUCCESS STARTS WITH SHOWING UP". Background shows a classroom with desks and lights.
TCAPS Celebrates Cinco de Mayo!
6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A blue background with colorful circular patterns displays a text that reads "TCAPS Celebrates Cinco de Mayo."
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, May 6, from 3:00-5:00 p.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
6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
TCAPS Open Interviews
Staff Appreciation Special Recognition: May 4 – May 8, 2026

In alignment with National Teacher Appreciation Week, the Traverse City Area Public Schools Board of Education publicly acknowledges and recognizes all staff members of Traverse City Area Public Schools. 🍎

Schools are the hub of a community and TCAPS is no exception. Our community takes great pride in the ongoing successes of our students and our programming, all of which rely on the professionals working inside our buildings. It is said it takes a village to raise a child, and this week we honor every staff member who makes our village a vibrant, safe, and rewarding place for children to learn and grow. We thank you for your commitment to excellence and for the vital role you play in our community's future. ✨

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools
6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
Drawing of a heart with the text "Education is a work of heart, Thank You, TCAPS Staff".
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
6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
Poster with blue background featuring a building and field, and text about a groundbreaking ceremony.

It's High 5 Friday! 🙌🖐

This week, high fives go out to:

1. TCAPS Montessori's newest inductees into the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS)! These outstanding students were recognized for demonstrating excellence in scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship. It is an honor to see our adolescent learners embrace these core values as they grow into compassionate, socially aware leaders. We are excited to see all the ways they will put their talents to work for our community! 🌟

2. West Middle School’s National History Day (NHD) regional finalists who competed in Michigan History Day! Siella Steele was nominated as a National Alternate, and Cami Miller received a prestigious award for "Best Use of Economic History or Impact." Congratulations to our students for their incredible research and dedication. 👏

3. Courtade Elementary’s incredibly successful fundraisers! With their can drive fundraiser, plant sale, and other fundraising efforts, their 5th-grade class has reached its goal. This means every fifth grader will be able to enjoy the camp experience at no cost to their families. A huge thank you to our community for all the support in making this possible! 🙌

4. Traverse City High School, which celebrated student achievement at its Quarter 3 Assembly! Students were recognized for their excellence and dedication throughout the quarter. Adding to the inspiration, a TCHS alumnus returned to share his personal journey and reflect on his time at the school. It was a wonderful opportunity to honor our current learners while connecting them with the success of those who walked the halls before them. 🥳

5. Central High School’s Esports, who are heading off to U of M-Flint to test their gaming skills and compete for a championship trophy. A big Trojan congratulations to Kayden Bush, Aden Harris, Parker Rytkonen, and Mr. Livingston on an amazing season so far! We are incredibly proud of the strategy, teamwork, and dedication this group has shown. Good luck at the competition! 🎮

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools #High5Friday

6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A group of students stands in a room with a wooden table, chairs, and a whiteboard in the background.
Two women stand next to a large sign with a helmet and star. They wear casual clothing.
Four individuals hold signs with the words "CAN DRIVE" and carry plastic bags. They stand on a sidewalk. In the background, a school bus is parked, and there are trees and parked cars.
A group of students stands on a gym floor.
Four people in dark clothing stand in front of a yellow wall with a black and yellow logo.
It was an incredible morning at Traverse Heights Elementary! Thank you to all the families who attended the student and parent events to connect, build friendships, and strengthen the partnership between our schools and all of our community. ☕️🥐

Michigan State Representative John Roth was also in attendance and was able to witness the school’s energy firsthand. The excitement grew as everyone attended the House Assembly, having front-row seats to the welcoming atmosphere and sense of belonging that makes Traverse Heights so special. ❤️

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools

6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
Two women stand close, smiling for a photo. The woman on the left wears a black sweatshirt with a bird design. The woman on the right wears a white shirt with a belt.
Two children at a table eating. One with a banana and the other with cheese.
Three young girls sitting at a table in a cafeteria, smiling, with plates of food and drinks.
Three women in a room with white walls and ceiling lights, smiling. Two wear glasses. The one in the middle wears a blue shirt and ID.
A women and two girls seated at a table with food, fruit, and flowers. Background shows tables and people.
Three boys sit at a table with plates of food and drinks. A plate contains fruit salad, and another has a banana.
A group of children and an adult sit in a circle on a basketball court.
Several students sit in a gymnasium, facing a large spinning wheel. A projector screen displays behind the wheel.
Michigan State Representative John Roth in a gymnasium with others clapping.

Get the kids moving this summer! 🏃‍♂️⚽ Registration is now open for the TCAPS Kids Camp: Play-Based Movement at West Middle School.

Designed for students in grades 3-8, this camp is led by certified teachers and offers everything from flag football and soccer to dodgeball and board games.

Camp Details:
- Session 1: June 22–25 (9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
- Session 2: July 20–23 (9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
- Where: West Middle School
- Cost: $200 per session (Sibling discount available!)

Don't forget to pack a lunch, water, and sunscreen! ☀️

Register today: https://tcaps.ce.eleyo.com/course/654/summer-2026/movement-based-kids-camp

Questions? Email quineer@tcaps.net.
6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A flyer with a blue sky and clouds background advertises a play-based movement camp for grades 1-3. It offers sessions on various activities.
TCAPS District Art Show: Opening Night Success 🌟

What a night! Thank you to everyone who made our opening reception a huge success. The energy was incredible, and seeing the community celebrate our young creators was truly inspiring.

The show is officially live through May 7 in the halls of the Mercato. We invite you to stop by Monday–Saturday (10am–5pm) or Sunday (10am–3pm) to view student work from all grade levels.

This event was made possible by District Art Leaders Tara Gang, Sarah Dekett, and Lisa Peoples, along with our dedicated Art Teachers who worked tirelessly to hang and prepare the displays. Special thanks to our venue sponsor, The Mercato in The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, Kate Angove for her vital assistance, and the Mercato merchants for staying open late to welcome our guests.

Opening night was perfected by our generous refreshment partners: catering by Oryana Food Co-op, coffee by Mundos Coffee, cookies from Tom’s Food Markets provided by Harvitt Agency - Meemic Insurance, and lemonade, punch, and paper products from Tom’s Food Markets. 🍪 ☕

We are so proud of our student artists, stop by and see their hard work for yourself!

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools
6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A hallway with brick walls, featuring displayed artworks and a circular sign reading "Underground Toys."
A white wall with a sign pointing to various locations and an art display with multiple colorful paintings.
Art pieces in frames adorn a brick wall. Brightly colored paintings are displayed. A stool is on the left.
Display table with cookies, cups, napkins, and a black coffee machine. A sign reads, "Special thanks to the following businesses for sponsoring this evening's Opening Reception!"
A table with a variety of foods, including salads and dips, displayed in bowls and containers. Two framed pictures hang above.
Artworks displayed on three black panels, each with diverse images and colors, against a brick wall.
Hallway with brick walls. A bulletin board displays various artworks. One sign reads "Central Grade."

Meet TCAPS Compass Winner: Jen Ciolek, Principal, TCH🏆

Her nomination highlights her exceptional leadership and commitment to her students.

Jen Ciolek exemplifies the purpose and spirit of the Compass Award through her unwavering commitment to a safe, supportive, and student-centered environment. Her calm and steady demeanor sets the tone for the entire school community, ensuring every learner is treated as a unique individual with strengths to build upon.

Jen was instrumental in developing the Compass Learning Center, which has transformed the educational experience for hundreds of students by providing flexible, personalized pathways to graduation. Her innovative leadership also extended these opportunities to East Middle School, helping colleagues across the district engage students in meaningful online learning. Under her guidance, students gain durable, transferable skills that prepare them to contribute positively to our local community long after they leave TC High 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.


6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A smiling woman's head on a blue hexagon background, next to a blue logo for TCAPS Compass Award.
School is a place where students build a sense of belonging. When they attend regularly, they develop the friendships and connections that help them feel safe and supported. We want every student to know their seat is waiting for them.

#GreatCommunityGreatSchools #SuccessStartsWithShowingUp
6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
Four children seated at a table, smiling and engaged in an activity. A girl holds scissors and paper.

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

6 months 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

6 months 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
6 months ago, Traverse City Area Public Schools
A child with their hand raised in a classroom. The text reads, "Success starts with showing up."