education

U.S. Education Battles Persistent Student Absenteeism Post-Pandemic

A troubling trend has established itself within U.S. education as chronic absenteeism continues to plague schools, despite efforts to regain normalcy post-pandemic, according to an article by The New York Times. 

Initial hopes for a swift return to regular attendance following the disruptions of 2020 were slammed as absentee rates stubbornly persisted. Research reveals a nationwide surge, with absenteeism soaring from 15% pre-pandemic to 26% in the 2021-22 school year. Shockingly, this trend has transcended socio-economic boundaries, impacting districts rich and poor alike. 

The duration of pandemic-induced closures proved to be an unreliable predictor, with districts experiencing varied absenteeism rates irrespective of closure length. Educators express concern as the issue persists into the current academic year, emphasizing the pressing need for comprehensive solutions to re-engage students and restore attendance norms.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

SC4 Men’s Basketball Season Ends With Grit And Sportsmanship At NJCAA Nationals

The journey of the St. Clair County Community College (SC4) Skippers men’s basketball team finished in a valiant effort at the NJCAA National Championship tournament in Danville, Illinois, concluding on Saturday, March 23rd. 

Despite a hard-fought match against Macomb, ending in a 94-84 defeat, the Skippers showcased resilience throughout the week-long tournament, facing formidable opponents from across the nation.

Tyler Hamilton led the charge for the Skippers, delivering an impressive 30-point performance, supported by Zaveon Little with 15 points. Notably, Head Coach Richard Field and his team were honored with the Best Sportsmanship Award, highlighting their exemplary conduct on and off the court. 

Finishing 8th in the nation, the Skippers concluded their memorable season with a commendable 27-8 overall record, leaving a lasting mark on collegiate basketball.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Port Huron Area Schools Celebrate National Reading Month With Guest Readers And Fun Activities

In honor of National Reading Month, the Port Huron Area School District (PHASD) is stepping up its efforts to promote literacy among young students. Throughout March, teachers and community members are visiting local elementary schools to read aloud and engage children in exciting activities that foster a love for reading.

Indian Woods Elementary recently welcomed Port Huron residents Harold “Choze” Powell and Heather Fagan as guest readers. Both took time from their schedules to inspire students and emphasize the importance of reading.

Despite some finding reading tedious, the benefits are undeniable, including mental fortitude, enhanced comprehension, and imaginative growth. PHASD’s initiative aims to instill these values early on.

As the month draws to a close, families are encouraged to continue celebrating the joys of reading at home, understanding that the benefits extend far beyond March.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Woodland Developmental Center Seeks Local Student Volunteers for Summer LINK Program

St. Clair County RESA’s Woodland Developmental Center is calling upon local students to participate in its annual Summer LINK Program, offering a unique opportunity for grades 8 through 12 to engage with students with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

Led by School Social Worker Chelsey Hull, the program aims to foster empathy and community connections while providing valuable support to students. 

Emphasizing personal and professional growth, the program offers hands-on experience in special education practices and communication skills development. Participants will assist educators, guiding students through skill-building activities and social engagements.

Applications for the Summer LINK Program are now open until May 10th, available at Woodland’s Main Office or through contact with Chelsey Hull at (810) 455-4366 or email: hull.chelsey@sccresa.org. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

SC4 To Host Annual Job Fair, Connecting The Community With Employment Opportunities

St. Clair County Community College (SC4) is gearing up to host its annual Job Fair, set to take place on Thursday, April 4th, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the SC4 Fieldhouse. The event, which has been a tradition for over 30 years, is free and open to all SC4 students and community members in search of employment opportunities.

With a diverse array of industries represented including manufacturing, sales, medical, and criminal justice, the Job Fair offers a chance for attendees to engage directly with potential employers. The event, held in collaboration with various community organizations, aims to foster connections and facilitate recruitment.

Companies interested in participating can register online for $175, which includes a table and chairs for up to two representatives. 

For more information, visit sc4.edu/jobfair.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Go Green! The Origin And Evolution Of St. Patrick’s Day

The legacy of Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint, transcends centuries and continents, evolving from ancient traditions to modern-day festivities. Born in Roman Britain, Patrick’s journey from slavery to sainthood reshaped Ireland’s spiritual landscape.

Since the 9th or 10th century, March 17th has marked the Roman Catholic feast day in his honor. Surprisingly, the first St. Patrick’s Day parade didn’t grace Irish soil but emerged in a Spanish colony, now St. Augustine, Florida, in 1601. Fast forward to 1772, Irish soldiers in New York City began a tradition, marching to honor their patron saint, according to history.com.

Today, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations abound, characterized by parades, pub crawls, traditional recipes like Irish soda bread and corned beef, and the ubiquitous donning of green attire, uniting people worldwide in homage to Irish heritage.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell