education

Governor Whitmer Ensures Free Meals For Michigan’s 1.4 Million Public School Students

Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the newly passed FY25 education budget, which will continue to provide universally free breakfast and lunch to Michigan’s 1.4 million public school students. 

“Free school meals save parents $850 per year per kid and valuable time every morning,” Whitmer said. This initiative, benefiting students year-round, aims to reduce the burden on families and improve students’ focus in class. Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II emphasized the importance of this support for students’ learning and growth. 

The budget will ensure the continuation of free meals, projecting 76.3 million breakfasts and 135.6 million lunches will be served in the 2023-2024 school year. This move underscores Whitmer’s commitment to supporting Michigan families and enhancing educational outcomes.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County TEC Shines At National SkillsUSA Competition In Atlanta

Five students from St. Clair County TEC represented Michigan at the national SkillsUSA Competition in Atlanta from June 24-28. 

Competing against peers nationwide, TEC students demonstrated their expertise in various fields. Samantha Halsey (Virtual Learning Academy) and Janiah Curry (Port Huron Northern High School) placed 16th in Nail Care, while Hannah Plucinski (St. Clair High School) secured 24th in Cosmetology Overall. Allane Stamplis (St. Clair High School) finished 33rd in Welding Sculpture, and Gavin Ward (Marysville High School) achieved 14th in CNC Programming.

“We are incredibly proud of our students who competed at the national SkillsUSA competition,” said TEC Principal Lesley Murphy. “Their commitment, hard work, and passion for their respective fields have truly shone through.”

SkillsUSA is the premier showcase of America’s most highly skilled career and technical education students, featuring over 6,000 state champions from across the United States competing in 115 skilled and leadership contests.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Champions Educator Investments In Historic State Budget

Governor Gretchen Whitmer highlighted significant investments in the newly passed state budget to support educators past, present, and future. “This year’s budget builds on our historic efforts to invest in educators and ensure they have the resources they need to succeed,” she stated. 

The budget includes $181 million to support veteran teachers, scholarships to reduce higher education costs for future educators, and continued student loan repayment programs. Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II emphasized the budget’s role in creating an environment where educators can thrive, while Michigan Education Association President Chandra Madafferi applauded the pre-funding of the school employee retiree health system. 

This budget marks the largest investment in Michigan’s education history for the sixth consecutive year.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

The Best Medicine: How A Good Laugh Can Keep You Young And Healthy

Enjoying a good comedy or hanging out with your funny friends could be more beneficial to your health than you may think, according to mcpress.mayoclinic.org 

Laughter can alleviate stress by reducing stress hormones like epinephrine and cortisol, according to Mayo Clinic expert and oncologist Edward T. Creagan, M.D. These hormones are linked to depression, anxiety, and insomnia. 

“When we laugh, there’s a decrease in cortisol and an increase in endorphins,” he explains. Laughter, whether with friends or through funny videos, floods the body with feel-good hormones like dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins. Studies show laughter can reverse the body’s stress response and may reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, boost self-esteem, improve social skills, and enhance memory. 

Dr. Creagan emphasizes laughter’s broad benefits, including better heart health and a stronger immune system. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County RESA’s Next STEP Transition Program Empowers Young Adults With Disabilities

The Next STEP Transition Program by St. Clair County RESA offers vital support for young adults aged 18 to 26 with documented disabilities. 

In the classroom, students learn essential “soft” skills that are fundamental to both personal and professional success. These skills include basic living abilities such as cooking, budgeting, and managing finances. Additionally, students are taught employability skills, such as operating a cash register, making change, and adhering to a structured schedule. 

Students gain practical work experience through placements at real-world job sites, learning customer service, stocking, or assembly tasks. To join, candidates must be eligible for special education services, have attended high school for at least four years, and demonstrate potential for independence. 

For more information, contact Next STEP Coordinator Scott Ceglarek, at (810) 989-5719.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Celebrate The Fourth Of July And The Origins Of America’s Holiday

The Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, can be traced back to its roots in the 18th century and the American Revolutionary War which granted independence and the birth of the United States that we know today. 

On July 2nd, 1776, the Continental Congress voted for independence from Great Britain, and on July 4th, delegates adopted the Declaration of Independence, drafted by Thomas Jefferson. Initially commemorated with patriotic celebrations, such as bonfires and the firing of cannons and muskets, the holiday gained further significance post-War of 1812. 

In 1870, Congress declared it a federal holiday, and in 1941, it became a paid holiday for federal employees. Today, the Fourth of July is celebrated with fireworks, parades, concerts, and family gatherings, symbolizing American freedom and patriotism. 

Source: history.com

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell