It seems the winter of 2013-14 will be remembered for its duration and impact on Dowagiac Union Schools.  Today, I can humorously reminisce about the 5:30 a.m. phone messages (a total of 10) to parents, students, and staff that school has been cancelled (I hope there will be no more this year!).  Needless to say, this has been the winter that continues to give.

With that in mind, Dowagiac Union Schools is required to make up four days beginning on April 7 to meet 176 days of student attendance and 1098 hours.  Dowagiac students will have school on Monday, April 7 (all day); Thursday, June 5 (all day); Friday, June 6 (all day); Monday, June 9 (all day); Tuesday, June 10 (half day), and Wednesday, June 11 (half day).  As most know, the Michigan Department of Education requires 75 percent attendance for the day to be counted.

In advance, your understanding and cooperation is appreciated.  As one of our teachers stated, “Look at it this way, at least we didn’t have to make up all 10 days!”

The next building tour will be May 5 at 6 p.m. beginning in the Sister Lakes Elementary Media Center.  The attendance has been around 50-plus and the community input has been greatly appreciated.

The Dowagiac Union Schools Board of Education is asking for your input to help develop a facilities plan our community will support.  Please plan to attend and see first-hand the condition of our buildings.  We promise to listen to your suggestions and perhaps you will be willing to serve on a facilities committee to help steer our district facilities plan.

We want a plan that is good for our youth and community, and a plan our community will support.

Dr. Mark Daniel is the superintendent at Dowagiac Union Schools. Email him at mdaniel@dowagiacschools.org.