Test scores turning a corner thanks to curriculum, policies, and especially teachers
by Melissa McPherson Student literacy and math test scores have been under scrutiny for several years now, especially here in Michigan where math and reading scores generally rank in the lower half nationally. Recent data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP 2024) places Michigan around 44th in 4th-grade reading and 31st in 8th-grade math. […]
Staff Spotlight: Music is a joyful experience for Jenny Laveirge’s K through 4 students
by Mary Jo David Imagine teaching and never having to struggle to get your students to engage. For that matter, imagine being a student in a class where pretty much every student wants to be there. From the sound of it—and sound is the operative word here—that’s what it’s like to be in Jenny Laveirge’s […]
Obituary: Genevieve M. “Marie” Stanfield
Genevieve M. “Marie” Stanfield, age 87, of National City, MI, formerly of Gregory, MI, passed away on January 26, 2026 at Faith Haven Senior Care Centre in Jackson, Michigan. Marie was born on October 15, 1938 in Unadilla Twp., Michigan to Duane and Ellen (Johnson) Jacobs. She married Richard L. “Dick” Stanfield on April 26, […]
Positive Parenting: A love note to parents
by Kelsey Rasmussen In July, sun-kissed children ride bikes, splash in pools and lakes, and run with the fireflies until it finally gets dark. In July, we don’t bother with a Hallmark holiday to remind us of warmth and love. But this is February, and February is different. We’re doing our best. Sometimes our best […]
Bridge to Wellness: Village and Wellness Coalition bring area folks together this winter for fun and connection
By Matt Pegouskie Looking for ways to move your body and expand your horizons this winter? The Village of Stockbridge and the Stockbridge Area Wellness Coalition (SAWC) have you covered! In November, SAWC allocated $5,800 to the Village to provide recreation programming at no cost or low cost for the community. As a result of […]
Active Aging: The everyday practice of adoration: At the senior center and in the community
by Alexa M. Ten Eyck Cards paired with flowers or sweet treats have long been a part of Valentine’s Day celebrations. These symbols offer a visible expression of a deeper idea: adoration. Adoration is the intentional practice of noticing people and responding with care and appreciation. While it is often framed as a personal or […]
Dear Gabbie…
“Dear Gabbie” is written with the simple hope of bringing a few smiles to your day and is not meant to replace the advice of professionals…especially your mom! Dear Gabbie: I occasionally post on a community-wide Facebook page, but it always seems as though someone sends the discussion off the rails by turning it hateful. […]
Rural Perspectives: Great horned owls begin nesting here in early February
by Diane Constable The great horned owl is found throughout North America and is the largest owl in our area.Its scientific name, Bubo virginianusis, means “large owl first found in Virginia.” Like most owls, they are nocturnal birds, and are rarely seen. But during February evenings and nights, you can sometimes hear great horned owls […]
Faces of Addiction: From ashes to action, when pain becomes purpose
by Tina Cole-Mullins (Editor’s Note: Faces of Addiction is a continuing series about people who experience drug addiction and the difficulty of recovery. By telling their stories, they hope to help others who are struggling and encourage them to seek treatment and healing.) Michigan has been quietly reshaping how communities understand addiction and support long-term […]
Clyde’s Corner: Clyde shares a love story for Valentine’s Day
by Clyde Whitaker I know this is not my typical story, but since Valentine’s Day is Feb. 14, I thought I would mix it up a little bit. I’m sure all of you have stories of your own, but here is a story that has transformed my life. In 1978, I was working for Rockwell […]