Dear Swartz Creek Community,

We want to provide further clarification regarding the HOLD that occurred earlier this week at Swartz Creek High School.

During that time, contraband was discovered in a restroom, and law enforcement was immediately contacted to investigate. The precautionary hold was put in place while the situation was assessed. At no time was there a weapon, drugs, or any direct threat to students or staff.

We understand that families value timely and transparent communication whenever safety protocols are enacted. Our priority is always to share accurate information as soon as possible while also supporting law enforcement and maintaining a safe school environment. In this case, we limited certain details to protect the ongoing investigation and to help prevent potential copycat behavior.

The situation was resolved quickly, and our safety procedures worked as intended. We appreciate your continued trust, support, and partnership in helping us keep our schools safe and focused on learning.

Sincerely,
Jim Kitchen
Interim Superintendent
Swartz Creek Community Schools
10 months ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools
Dear Swartz Creek Community,
I am writing to provide you with an update regarding the recent implementation of a HOLD protocol at our high school and to express our deepest appreciation for your patience and understanding during these incidents. As Interim Superintendent, I want to assure you that such measures are enacted only as a necessary precaution to safeguard the health, safety, and well-being of every student and staff member in our community. Buildings implementing a HOLD or similar safety precaution will always follow up with their building community.
Earlier this week, the hold was required to facilitate an investigation into a school-related matter. By temporarily restricting student movement between classes, our high school staff were able to effectively isolate and monitor any potentially involved individuals. This approach minimized disruptions to the learning environment, prevented the spread of misinformation, and ensured the security of all students and personnel while our administrative and security teams resolved the situation promptly. During a HOLD, teaching and learning continue; only access to the hallways is limited.
Today, the hold was implemented in response to a serious health emergency involving a student at the high school, for which an ambulance was immediately called. This protocol allowed emergency medical services to access the building swiftly and safely, without the added risk of student movement in hallways or common areas. As a result, we were able to provide the necessary care without delay, underscoring our unwavering priority on student health and rapid response to critical needs.
We fully recognize that these situations can cause concern and inconvenience, and we sincerely apologize for any anxiety they may have caused. Thank you once again for your continued partnership and support. Together, we will continue to foster a safe, secure, and nurturing environment where every student can thrive.
Sincerely,
Jim Kitchen
Interim Superintendent
Swartz Creek Community Schools
10 months ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools

The Swartz Creek Board of Education is seeking feedback from families and staff about the current elementary configuration, in which two schools serve grades K–2 and two schools serve grades 3–5.

Your input will help the Board determine whether to maintain this configuration or consider returning to K–5 buildings. The survey is anonymous, and your honest feedback is greatly appreciated.

Please complete this survey by 3:00 PM, Friday, October 24th, 2025.

https://forms.gle/yy8EBWqjwqcDSBhTA

Thank you for your feedback.

10 months ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools

Keeping in line with our commitment to community and staff engagement, the Swartz Creek Board of Education is dedicated to ensuring that staff and community voices are part of the process to select our next Superintendent.

The search for a Superintendent is one of the most important responsibilities of the Board of Education—it represents a major investment in our students, families, staff, and the entire Swartz Creek community.

Our Board has hired Ray and Associates to guide us through this process. As part of their work, they will be meeting with various stakeholder groups on October 21 and October 22, 2025, to gather input and perspectives that will help shape the candidate profile and priorities for our district.

All parents and community members are invited to participate in one of the following three opportunities to share feedback. (You do not need to attend all three sessions.)

Option 1 – Virtual
Date: October 21, 2025
Time: 11:30 AM – 12:15 PM EST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89350544168?pwd=SpalJmNRVxad6rrW5gRWblY2T64zNR.1
Meeting ID: 893 5054 4168
Passcode: 338006

Option 2 – Virtual
Date: October 21, 2025
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM EST
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82283132255?pwd=cRTa5v6x5zpHbwuEbIdePssATluaH3.1
Meeting ID: 822 8313 2255
Passcode: 225184

Option 3 – In Person
Date: October 22, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Location: Lobby of the Swartz Creek Performing Arts Center

Thank you in advance for helping us ensure that a broad range of voices are represented in this important process.

Your input and participation are greatly valued.

11 months ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools

Dear Swartz Creek Community,


I hope the first quarter of the school year is going well for you and your family. As we continue into the fall, I am sharing several important updates and resources that may be of interest to you.


Superintendent Search
Our Board of Education has begun the process of selecting the next Superintendent for Swartz Creek Community Schools. We are committed to maintaining an open and transparent process. Details about the timeline, process, and opportunities for community input can be found here:
👉 https://www.swartzcreek.org/page/new-superintendent-search


Morrish Proposal
We have also received an official proposal from the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance regarding the Morrish property. The Board is considering a response and will confirm it on Wednesday, October 8. The full proposal can be reviewed at the following link:
👉 https://www.swartzcreek.org/page/morrish-proposal


Bond Project Updates
We are excited to share the progress on our bond renewal projects. You can stay informed about all upcoming facility and technology improvements here:
👉 https://www.swartzcreek.org/page/bond


As a reminder, our facility study identified approximately $72 million in overall needs in our District. Our community’s bond renewal secured just under $40 million, which is being strategically allocated toward specific upgrades and renovations. These projects are designed to enhance learning environments, update facilities, and improve access to technology for students. The only circumstance that could prevent a project from being completed is if bids exceed budgeted estimates. With the 2018 bond, we were able to add renovations to every building and provide secure vestibules in all buildings. The 2024 renewal will be executed responsibly and strategically to continue honoring the trust you have placed in us. Swartz Creek has had only one bond and one renewal in more than 50 years. We are committed to using these funds responsibly to ensure our students continue to learn in safe, modern, and inspiring spaces.


Thank you for your continued trust and support of Swartz Creek Community Schools. Together, we are building a bright future for our students and community.


With appreciation,

Jim Kitchen
Interim Superintendent
Swartz Creek Community Schools

11 months ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools
Exciting News for Swartz Creek Community Schools! We are proud to share that Swartz Creek Community Schools is one of the districts awarded funding through Michigan’s READ Grant Program! This grant will allow us to launch an innovative reading intervention program at Swartz Creek Middle School — designed to help our students strengthen their reading skills and set them up for long-term success. A huge shoutout to our Curriculum Director, Michelle Paul, who secured this grant — her second successful grant in just a few short months! You can read more about the grant and see the full list of awarded districts here: 🔗 Michigan Department of Education Press Release [https://www.michigan.gov/mde/news-and-information/press-releases/2025/09/15/districts-awarded-read-funds] This is another step toward helping every Dragon reach their full potential — in the classroom and beyond.
11 months ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools
🚨 Board Meeting Canceled 🚨 Tonight’s Special Board Meeting has been canceled due to confusion between a committee meeting and a special board meeting on the district calendar. We want to ensure it is properly advertised and noticed to the public before it takes place. We will share the new date as soon as it is confirmed. Thank you for your understanding!
11 months ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools

Dear Swartz Creek Families,

On this anniversary of the September 11 attacks—and following the tragic shootings that shook our nation yesterday—we are reminded of the importance of safety, vigilance, and community.


This morning, Morrish Elementary and Elms Elementary went into a shelter-in-place out of an abundance of caution due to a nearby police matter. The shelter-in-place lasted approximately 15 minutes. During that time, staff followed every safety procedure to protect and reassure students. Chief Bade from the Metro Police Authority confirmed that our schools were secure and later advised us it was safe to lift the shelter-in-place after the situation was fully contained by the Michigan State Police.



I want to reassure you what a shelter-in-place means. It is not the same as an active-threat or active-shooter situation. The purpose is simply to ensure all students remain safely inside the building while instruction continues as usual.



Students stay indoors and do not go outside for activities such as recess or dismissal.
Teachers and staff remain alert and follow established safety protocols.
Classroom routines continue so children feel calm, safe, and secure.

Because this precaution is not related to an immediate danger inside the school, we do not share detailed information with students at the time. This helps them maintain their sense of normalcy and avoids unnecessary worry.



I could not be more proud of our educators and support staff. In a moment of uncertainty, they did what they always do—put children first.



Sincerely,

Jim Kitchen

Interim Superintendent, Swartz Creek Community Schools

11 months ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools
UPDATE: The situation near Miller and Dye roads has been fully contained by the Michigan State Police. The shelter-in-place at Morrish Elementary and Elms Elementary has been lifted. All students and staff are safe, and normal school operations have resumed.
12 months ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools
Morrish Elementary and Elms Elementary are currently in a shelter-in-place due to an active shooter situation near Miller and Dye roads. All students and staff are safe inside the buildings. We will update you as soon as more information is available.
12 months ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools

Dear Dragon Families,

We want to make you aware of an important letter from the Genesee County Superintendents regarding the uncertainty around Michigan’s state budget and how it may affect our schools.

Click HERE to read the letter:

The letter explains the potential impacts on students, staff, and programs if lawmakers do not approve a K–12 budget soon. It also shares how you can help by contacting your state representatives and urging them to protect the School Aid Fund for its original purpose — educating Michigan’s children.

Please take a few minutes to read the letter and consider reaching out to your elected officials.
• Michigan Senate: https://senate.michigan.gov/
• Michigan House of Representatives: https://www.house.mi.gov/Index

Together, we can ensure that our students continue to receive the resources and support they deserve without interruption.

Sincerely,

Jim Kitchen
Interim Superintendent

12 months ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools
It’s opening night for Fearless Theatre’s Finding Nemo KIDS—and these students are ready to make a splash! Our cast has been working hard, and after an incredible dress rehearsal, they’re excited to take the stage tonight at 7PM! Can you even imagine being in elementary or middle school and having the courage to get on stage and perform in front of a full audience? That’s exactly what these brave and talented kids are doing—and they deserve a crowd cheering them on! July 25 at 7 PM July 26 at 7 PM July 27 at 2 PM Tickets are $10 each. Buy at the door or skip the line and grab yours now: https://fearlesstheatreproductions.ludus.com/index.php?show_id=200488435 Let’s pack the house and show these young performers how proud we are.
about 1 year ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools
SUMMER MEAL DISTRIBUTION Thursdays June 26 & July 10 - Aug 7 Dieck Elementary School 2239 Van Vleet Rd., Swartz Creek 48473 2 - 5 PM Gaines Station Library 103 W. Walker St., Gaines 48436 2 - 3 PM Meal Packages: 7-Day Meals → for children not attending summer school 3-Day Meals → for children attending summer school Available for all children up to 18 years old!
about 1 year ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools
We’re Hiring!
Join the Dragon team! Swartz Creek Community Schools is currently seeking passionate, dedicated individuals to help us lead, learn, and grow.
If you’re ready to make a difference, apply today!
https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/SCCS
about 1 year ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools
Image shows We're Hiring with a list of openings. GSRP Teacher, Elementary Special Ed Teacher, Special Ed Teacher Consultant, Coaches, Student Support Professionals, Aides, Bus Drivers, Food Service
Swartz Creek Community Schools – Town Hall Invitation We invite all Swartz Creek families and community members to join us for an important Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, July 17 at 6:30 PM at the Performing Arts Center (PAC), One Dragon Dr. Topic of Discussion: Proposal to sell Morrish Elementary, located next to a developing manufacturing site. This is your opportunity to: ✔️ Learn more about the proposal ✔️ Hear from district leaders ✔️ Ask questions & share your input Can’t attend in person? Join us via livestream: https://www.youtube.com/live/RQpbRmFcrtU Or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SwartzCreekCommunitySchools/live We hope you’ll join us as we explore what’s next for our schools and our community.
about 1 year ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools
Dear Swartz Creek Families and Community Members, As you may be aware, Flint & Genesee Economic Development has presented a proposal to purchase Morrish Elementary for $40 million. If accepted, the sale would fully fund the construction of a new school building elsewhere in the district, without additional cost to taxpayers. The transition to a new building would not occur before Fall 2028. It’s important to know that the Morrish Elementary site sits adjacent to land that may soon become a large-scale manufacturing zone. This proposal would allow the district to relocate the school before significant development takes place in that area. We know this is an important decision for our district, and we want to hear your thoughts. Please take a few minutes to complete our brief survey by July 14, 2025. Your input will help guide the Board of Education as they consider the future of Morrish Elementary and the broader impact on our community. Link to survey: https://forms.gle/GRJUh1dg5bUhGkyi6 Additionally, we are planning a community Town Hall meeting on July 17 at the Swartz Creek Performing Arts Center at 6:30 PM. More details will be shared soon. We hope you’ll join us. Thank you for partnering with us as we plan for the future of Swartz Creek Community Schools. With appreciation, Jim Kitchen Interim Superintendent
about 1 year ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools
At last night’s Board of Education meeting, Deputy Superintendent Jim Kitchen was officially appointed as Interim Superintendent of Swartz Creek Community Schools while the Board considers next steps for the District’s long-term leadership. Mr. Kitchen shared during the meeting, “This wasn’t on my bingo card, but life has a way of surprising us. I’m truly honored and grateful for the opportunity to help lead our District forward and build on the incredible work already underway.” The District is also pleased to share that Dave Simonsen will serve as Interim Deputy Superintendent while continuing his leadership of the Human Resources department. Please join us in congratulating both Mr. Kitchen and Mr. Simonsen as they step into these important roles with integrity, dedication, and a deep commitment to our students, staff, and community.
about 1 year ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools
SUMMER MEAL DISTRIBUTION Thursdays June 26 & July 10 - Aug 7 📍 Dieck Elementary School 2239 Van Vleet Rd., Swartz Creek 48473 🕑 2 - 5 PM 📍 Gaines Station Library 103 W. Walker St., Gaines 48436 🕑 2 - 3 PM Meal Packages: ✅ 7-Day Meals → for children not attending summer school ✅ 3-Day Meals → for children attending summer school Available for all children up to 18 years old!
about 1 year ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools
SUMMER MEAL DISTRIBUTION Thursdays June 26 & July 10 - Aug 7 📍 Dieck Elementary School 2239 Van Vleet Rd., Swartz Creek 48473 🕑 2 - 5 PM 📍 Gaines Station Library 103 W. Walker St., Gaines 48436 🕑 2 - 3 PM Meal Packages: ✅ 7-Day Meals → for children not attending summer school ✅ 3-Day Meals → for children attending summer school Available for all children up to 18 years old!
about 1 year ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools
If you have business to conduct at our administration building during the summer, please note the summer office hours. This schedule will start on June 26th and end on August 3rd. The office will be open from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, Mondays through Thursdays. The office will be closed the week of July 4th.
about 1 year ago, Swartz Creek Community Schools