Check out the awesome things happening at Warrendale!
Active Member of Congress Meets with Students
Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib visited Warrendale, speaking with scholars about a variety of topics, and reading to kindergarteners.
Tlaib, who represents Michigan’s 12th Congressional District in the House of Representatives, spoke with fourth-grade students about the three branches of government. It was a special moment for the class when Tlaib signed their social contract, a reminder of students’ commitment to the classroom’s norms and values.
Warrendale’s Student Council candidates, who are set to campaign for their spot on the Student Council, learned about campaigning strategies. Tlaib also stressed how important academics are and why students should take standardized tests seriously.
Thanks to Sixth-grade Teacher Jordan Davison for setting up this amazing visit!
Scholars Share Thanks with Parents at Gratitude Luncheon
Warrendale hosted its third annual Gratitude Luncheon this November. The day offered students a chance to connect with their families and share what they’re grateful for with peers.
Participants, who were selected based on their gratitude-centric writing submissions, gathered with their families and fellow students in a cozy atmosphere to read their essay aloud. While students felt nervous to share at first, the jazz music and support from the crowd eased anxiety, allowing for productive conversation and connection with everyone in the room.
Academic Specialist Annie Golick helped organize the event and said she saw so many heartwarming moments. These came when kindergarteners shared thanks with their parents for the simple joys in life and middle-school students expressed they wouldn’t be who they are without the support of their families.
“This event strengthens the bridge between school and home,” Golick said. “It gives students a meaningful platform to practice writing and public speaking, while also acknowledging the love and support they receive from their families. It also creates a shared moment of appreciation and connection that families remember.”
As families enjoyed their fajitas, chips, and salsa, they built on that connection. Providing this opportunity for families is not only helping form strong bonds and share gratitude, it’s also inspiring students to success.
“I hope students leave with a deeper appreciation for their hard work and the pride that comes with sharing it,” Golick said. “I also hope this encourages them to continue striving for excellence. For families, the goal is that they feel recognized, appreciated, and connected to the school community. I want everyone to walk away feeling uplifted, valued, and grateful for one another.”
She also shared the event wasn’t possible without the teamwork of her fellow educators and support from her school’s leadership team.
What a great month! Keep up the great work, Warrendale!
About Warrendale Charter Academy
Warrendale Charter Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Detroit, Michigan, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies (NHA®) network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through high school across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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