National African American Parent Involvement Day (NAAPID) was celebrated throughout the Ann Arbor Public Schools district on Monday, with each school hosting opportunities for families to engage in their children’s education.

The day was founded in 1995 by the late AAPS administrator Joe Dulin, founding principal of the Roberto Clemente Student Development Center, to encourage Black families to be more involved in their children’s schools. Dulin stressed the central role that engaged parents play in students’ success.

Art provides students with an outlet to express and share their world through their lens, so others can understand their experiences. Art is essential for our students. In a world that seems so busy and focused on technology, it is essential for students to slow down and take the time to use their hands and senses. They are able to make connections in the visual arts to their world and others. Through our art programming, enthusiastic and imaginative kindergarten artists become sophisticated, talented, and expressive high school art students!

Three AAPS students recently had their musical compositions featured at the prestigious 2026 Young Composers of Michigan Premier Concert in Grand Rapids—a remarkable achievement made possible by an innovative music program that puts creativity in students’ hands.

Amyra Singla, Kai Zammit, and Lucas DelProposto, now sixth graders at Tappan Middle School, were recognized for compositions they created while at Pattengill Elementary. Though winter weather prevented two of the three students from attending the concert in person—along with many other young composers—their work was still celebrated through video performances of their pieces. All three received plaques honoring their accomplishment.

As National School Counseling Week arrives, Ann Arbor Public Schools celebrates the vital work of counselors who serve as advocates, coordinators, and confidential supporters for every middle and high school student in the district.

An unconventional staging features five different actors playing the title role at Pioneer on Feb. 6, 7 & 8

Reserved seating tickets on sale now: www.cur8.com/projects/ptg