Please help our Middle/High School Student Council with another Christmas service project!
Congratulations to Grace and her parents!
Thanksgiving Week at Mather!
Lions vs. Packers Spirit Day – Wednesday, Nov. 26
Wear your favorite team’s merch! One student from each grade will be recognized for their outstanding effort.
Jump-Off Finals – Wednesday at 10:45 AM(Closed to the public)
Finalists:
K: Ilylah Crosby, Aubrey Hughes
1st: Orin Lewis, Gina Bowerman
2nd: Ivy Grahovac, Ezamae Lee-Bliss
3rd: Eleanor Exelby, Quinn Murray
4th: Nolan Graves, Petra Bogater
5th: Athena Paquette, Jake Johnson
~Thank you to Mr. Mattson for running the prelims in gym!
Thanksgiving Wishes
Wishing all our Mather families a safe, restful, joy-filled Thanksgiving.
We are so thankful for our wonderful school community and the happiness your children bring each day.
Lions vs. Packers Spirit Day – Wednesday, Nov. 26
Wear your favorite team’s merch! One student from each grade will be recognized for their outstanding effort.
Jump-Off Finals – Wednesday at 10:45 AM(Closed to the public)
Finalists:
K: Ilylah Crosby, Aubrey Hughes
1st: Orin Lewis, Gina Bowerman
2nd: Ivy Grahovac, Ezamae Lee-Bliss
3rd: Eleanor Exelby, Quinn Murray
4th: Nolan Graves, Petra Bogater
5th: Athena Paquette, Jake Johnson
~Thank you to Mr. Mattson for running the prelims in gym!
Thanksgiving Wishes
Wishing all our Mather families a safe, restful, joy-filled Thanksgiving.
We are so thankful for our wonderful school community and the happiness your children bring each day.
Student of the Week: Filimena Dolaskie!
Fili, nominated by Mrs. Nebel, is a proud STANG role model. She is kind, helpful, and a positive leader in the classroom.
Her favorite subjects are math and reading, and she enjoys gymnastics, skating, and art outside of school.
Congratulations, Filimena—well deserved!
Quarter 1 Awards Assembly Highlights!
Our Mustangs had an amazing start to the year! Tuesday we celebrated academic growth, positive behavior, reading achievements, and plenty of STANG pride. Take a look at all the incredible accomplishments from our Quarter 1 Awards Assembly!
⭐ STANG Citizens of the Quarter
Kindergarten – Stay Safe: Leo Fostun
Leo always follows expectations, comes ready to learn, and treats others with kindness and respect.
1st Grade – Take Responsibility: Olivia Marrow
Olivia models responsibility through her hard work, positive choices, and constant effort to improve.
2nd Grade – Act With Kindness: Delia Phillipson
Delia is kind to everyone and always steps up to help. She is a wonderful STANG role model.
3rd Grade – Never Give Up: Clare Chamberlin
Clare shows perseverance, kindness, and consistent participation every day.
4th Grade – Give Respect: Annika Hand
Annika is respectful, thoughtful, and a strong leader in demonstrating STANG expectations.
5th Grade – All 5 STANGs: Liam Lewis
Liam is a model of safety, responsibility, kindness, perseverance, and respect. His positive attitude and strong character inspire others.
📚 i-Ready Lesson Leaders
Kindergarten: Filimena D. (Reading), Gavin P. ( Math)
1st Grade: Orin L. (Math), Evelyn B. (Reading)
2nd Grade: Rebekah P. ( Reading), Micah T. (Math)
3rd Grade: Torin M. ( Reading, Math)
4th Grade: Petra B. (Math), Evin K. ( Reading)
5th Grade: Kelsey B. (Math), Jonathan M. (Reading)
🔢 Reflex & Fact Fluency Achievements
Reflex Gains:
5th Grade: 79.3% Green Lights
1st Grade: 79.9% Facts Gained
Fact Fluency Top Scores:
1st: Odin E. – 77%
2nd: Joshua M. – 99%
3rd: Leila E. – 80%
4th: Warren B. – 98%
5th: Jake J. – 99%, Remle S. – 94%, Kelsey B. – 94%
🌟 Green Light Mastery (100%)
5th: Gracie G., Jake J., Simon K., Liam L., Caden P., Chase T., Logan D., Ari U.
4th: Petra B., Gabby P.
3rd: Jack C. (87.1%)
2nd: Finley M. (79.2%)
1st: Cole C. (73.2%)
📖 AR Reading Awards
🎉 1,000 Point Club: Jake Johnson
Prize: Movie Theater Pass + Principal for Half a Day (plus one wish!)
🐻 750 Points: Simon Kelto – Reading Bear Award
🍰 250 Points: Hadley Lasak & Stella Bishop – Dessert Reward
We had tons of AR winners this quarter—amazing reading, Mustangs!
Assembly Fun
Jump Rope Teacher Demo:
Mrs. Johnson, Ms. Schalow, and Mr. Ethan rocked their jump-in skills while Mrs. DeFrancesco and Ms. Berube twirled the rope! A great kick-off for next week’s Schoolwide Jump Off Competition.
Teacher Musical Chairs:
Our staff battled it out on stage…
🏆 Mrs. Gramm won the final round!
📚 STANG Card Milestone
Our students have earned 596 STANG cards so far—already more than halfway to unlocking our Book Vending Machine!
Our Mustangs had an amazing start to the year! Tuesday we celebrated academic growth, positive behavior, reading achievements, and plenty of STANG pride. Take a look at all the incredible accomplishments from our Quarter 1 Awards Assembly!
⭐ STANG Citizens of the Quarter
Kindergarten – Stay Safe: Leo Fostun
Leo always follows expectations, comes ready to learn, and treats others with kindness and respect.
1st Grade – Take Responsibility: Olivia Marrow
Olivia models responsibility through her hard work, positive choices, and constant effort to improve.
2nd Grade – Act With Kindness: Delia Phillipson
Delia is kind to everyone and always steps up to help. She is a wonderful STANG role model.
3rd Grade – Never Give Up: Clare Chamberlin
Clare shows perseverance, kindness, and consistent participation every day.
4th Grade – Give Respect: Annika Hand
Annika is respectful, thoughtful, and a strong leader in demonstrating STANG expectations.
5th Grade – All 5 STANGs: Liam Lewis
Liam is a model of safety, responsibility, kindness, perseverance, and respect. His positive attitude and strong character inspire others.
📚 i-Ready Lesson Leaders
Kindergarten: Filimena D. (Reading), Gavin P. ( Math)
1st Grade: Orin L. (Math), Evelyn B. (Reading)
2nd Grade: Rebekah P. ( Reading), Micah T. (Math)
3rd Grade: Torin M. ( Reading, Math)
4th Grade: Petra B. (Math), Evin K. ( Reading)
5th Grade: Kelsey B. (Math), Jonathan M. (Reading)
🔢 Reflex & Fact Fluency Achievements
Reflex Gains:
5th Grade: 79.3% Green Lights
1st Grade: 79.9% Facts Gained
Fact Fluency Top Scores:
1st: Odin E. – 77%
2nd: Joshua M. – 99%
3rd: Leila E. – 80%
4th: Warren B. – 98%
5th: Jake J. – 99%, Remle S. – 94%, Kelsey B. – 94%
🌟 Green Light Mastery (100%)
5th: Gracie G., Jake J., Simon K., Liam L., Caden P., Chase T., Logan D., Ari U.
4th: Petra B., Gabby P.
3rd: Jack C. (87.1%)
2nd: Finley M. (79.2%)
1st: Cole C. (73.2%)
📖 AR Reading Awards
🎉 1,000 Point Club: Jake Johnson
Prize: Movie Theater Pass + Principal for Half a Day (plus one wish!)
🐻 750 Points: Simon Kelto – Reading Bear Award
🍰 250 Points: Hadley Lasak & Stella Bishop – Dessert Reward
We had tons of AR winners this quarter—amazing reading, Mustangs!
Assembly Fun
Jump Rope Teacher Demo:
Mrs. Johnson, Ms. Schalow, and Mr. Ethan rocked their jump-in skills while Mrs. DeFrancesco and Ms. Berube twirled the rope! A great kick-off for next week’s Schoolwide Jump Off Competition.
Teacher Musical Chairs:
Our staff battled it out on stage…
🏆 Mrs. Gramm won the final round!
📚 STANG Card Milestone
Our students have earned 596 STANG cards so far—already more than halfway to unlocking our Book Vending Machine!
Please join us tonight as we welcome in our Winter Sports Athletes for the 2025-26 season!
Congratulations Maggie!
Congratulations to Ray and his parents!
Mather Elementary is thrilled to announce Kaiden Majurin as our Student of the Week! Kaiden, the son of Alyssa and Eric Majurin, was nominated by Mrs. Mattson for his outstanding dedication and leadership.
Say Cheese! Photobooth Fun at Math, Science & Book Fair Night
Our Math, Science & Book Fair Night wasn’t just about exploring, learning, and reading—it was also about making memories! Families, students, and staff had a blast at the photobooth, striking fun poses, showing off their smiles, and capturing the joy of the evening.
Check out some of the amazing photos from the night!
Our Math, Science & Book Fair Night wasn’t just about exploring, learning, and reading—it was also about making memories! Families, students, and staff had a blast at the photobooth, striking fun poses, showing off their smiles, and capturing the joy of the evening.
Check out some of the amazing photos from the night!
Math, Science & Book Fair Night – Event Recap & A Huge Thank You!
What an incredible night at Mather! Families packed the building for an evening full of hands-on exploration, creativity, and STEM excitement this past Thursday. Students had the opportunity to dive into a wide variety of activities, including a photo booth, fingerprinting, a glowing blacklight science room, robotics demonstrations, balloon animals, a number walk, sensory play, a slime-themed book reading, and so much more. The energy, curiosity, and joy from our students and families made it a night to remember!
None of this would have been possible without the planning and leadership of Jessica Kelto, Ashley LaFlamme, and Melissa Berube, along with the tremendous support from our staff, community members, and student volunteers. This event truly showcased the strength of our Mather community.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Volunteers
Mather Staff Volunteers:
Sarah Schalow • David Bowerman • Emily Rumisel • Jamie Johnson • Kalee Martin • Brett Rushford • Amy Filz • Ethan Nachazel • Kiera McDonnald • Kyley DeFrancesco • Kadynce DeFrancesco • Johanna Bogater • Susie Palomaki • Amy Johnson
Community Members:
Tyreen Prunick (4-H) • Erin Dolaskie & Girl Scouts
Andrew Bishop, Nick Bogater & MMS Robotics Team
Pastor Ethan
Josh, Michael, & Audrey Maloney
Jeff DeFrancesco • Jason Brisson • Josie Bowerman
JrNHS Members:
Heather Nayback • Maggie Gage • Juliana Smith • Trey Mattson • Destiny Andrews • Natalie Brock • Ella Johnson • Ava Prunick
NHS Members:
Tori Butler • Natalia St. Amour • Kylie Syers
MPS Student Volunteers:
Brett DeFrancesco • Amber DeFrancesco • Trey DeFrancesco • Petra Bogater • Rebekah Palomaki • Jake Johnson
Thank you for your time, energy, and commitment to supporting our students. Events like this are possible because of the collaboration and generosity of so many, and we are truly grateful for each of you.
What an incredible night at Mather! Families packed the building for an evening full of hands-on exploration, creativity, and STEM excitement this past Thursday. Students had the opportunity to dive into a wide variety of activities, including a photo booth, fingerprinting, a glowing blacklight science room, robotics demonstrations, balloon animals, a number walk, sensory play, a slime-themed book reading, and so much more. The energy, curiosity, and joy from our students and families made it a night to remember!
None of this would have been possible without the planning and leadership of Jessica Kelto, Ashley LaFlamme, and Melissa Berube, along with the tremendous support from our staff, community members, and student volunteers. This event truly showcased the strength of our Mather community.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Volunteers
Mather Staff Volunteers:
Sarah Schalow • David Bowerman • Emily Rumisel • Jamie Johnson • Kalee Martin • Brett Rushford • Amy Filz • Ethan Nachazel • Kiera McDonnald • Kyley DeFrancesco • Kadynce DeFrancesco • Johanna Bogater • Susie Palomaki • Amy Johnson
Community Members:
Tyreen Prunick (4-H) • Erin Dolaskie & Girl Scouts
Andrew Bishop, Nick Bogater & MMS Robotics Team
Pastor Ethan
Josh, Michael, & Audrey Maloney
Jeff DeFrancesco • Jason Brisson • Josie Bowerman
JrNHS Members:
Heather Nayback • Maggie Gage • Juliana Smith • Trey Mattson • Destiny Andrews • Natalie Brock • Ella Johnson • Ava Prunick
NHS Members:
Tori Butler • Natalia St. Amour • Kylie Syers
MPS Student Volunteers:
Brett DeFrancesco • Amber DeFrancesco • Trey DeFrancesco • Petra Bogater • Rebekah Palomaki • Jake Johnson
Thank you for your time, energy, and commitment to supporting our students. Events like this are possible because of the collaboration and generosity of so many, and we are truly grateful for each of you.
Math, Science, & Book Fair Night is TONIGHT @ Mather!
Join us from 5:00–7:00 PM for an evening of hands-on learning, family fun, and great books!
Come out and explore exciting math and science stations, shop the Book Fair, and enjoy time learning together as a family. There’s something for every age—and we can’t wait to see you there!
Join us from 5:00–7:00 PM for an evening of hands-on learning, family fun, and great books!
Come out and explore exciting math and science stations, shop the Book Fair, and enjoy time learning together as a family. There’s something for every age—and we can’t wait to see you there!
Congratulations to our MITCA Academic All State Cross Country Award Winners ! MHS had 5 individual academic award winners and the boys varsity team is an Academic All State team! Way to go!
Congratulations to our MICVA All Region Award Winners!
Honoring Our Veterans at Mather Elementary
Today, we pause to honor and thank all who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Your courage, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting our freedoms mean more than words can express.
At Mather Elementary, we are especially proud to recognize members of our own school family who have served our country:
Mrs. Butler – United States Air Force
Mr. Pavase – United States Navy & United States Army
Mr. Albright – United States Army
Officer Jake – United States Marine Corps
Thank you for your service to our nation—and for the continued service you give to our students, staff, and community each day.
To all veterans in our Mather families and the Munising community:
We are grateful. We honor you. We thank you.
Happy Veterans Day.
Today, we pause to honor and thank all who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Your courage, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting our freedoms mean more than words can express.
At Mather Elementary, we are especially proud to recognize members of our own school family who have served our country:
Mrs. Butler – United States Air Force
Mr. Pavase – United States Navy & United States Army
Mr. Albright – United States Army
Officer Jake – United States Marine Corps
Thank you for your service to our nation—and for the continued service you give to our students, staff, and community each day.
To all veterans in our Mather families and the Munising community:
We are grateful. We honor you. We thank you.
Happy Veterans Day.
November-Mather Pony Express
Congratulations to Jenna and her parents!
Impromptu 4th Grade Adventure!
Friday, November 7
Mrs. Kelto’s and Mrs. Martin’s 4th graders had an unexpected and unforgettable learning experience this past Friday! Our students took a quick impromptu field trip to watch a Great Lakes freighter in action — a perfect real-world connection to their studies on Michigan, shipping, and the maritime industry.
The excitement was high as students observed the size, power, and operations of a working freighter up close. What an amazing opportunity to connect classroom learning with the incredible natural and economic resources right here in our community!
Friday, November 7
Mrs. Kelto’s and Mrs. Martin’s 4th graders had an unexpected and unforgettable learning experience this past Friday! Our students took a quick impromptu field trip to watch a Great Lakes freighter in action — a perfect real-world connection to their studies on Michigan, shipping, and the maritime industry.
The excitement was high as students observed the size, power, and operations of a working freighter up close. What an amazing opportunity to connect classroom learning with the incredible natural and economic resources right here in our community!
Student of the Week: Thomas Nolta-Maki!
We are excited to recognize Thomas Nolta-Maki as Mather Elementary’s Student of the Week! Thomas was nominated by Mrs. Gramm, who shared that he comes to school each day with a smile, is ready to learn, acts with kindness, and never gives up.
Thomas loves math, and in his free time he enjoys playing with his toys, watching TV, and playing games on the weekend.
Congratulations, Thomas! We are so proud of your hard work, positive attitude, and Mustang spirit!
We are excited to recognize Thomas Nolta-Maki as Mather Elementary’s Student of the Week! Thomas was nominated by Mrs. Gramm, who shared that he comes to school each day with a smile, is ready to learn, acts with kindness, and never gives up.
Thomas loves math, and in his free time he enjoys playing with his toys, watching TV, and playing games on the weekend.
Congratulations, Thomas! We are so proud of your hard work, positive attitude, and Mustang spirit!
Due to driver availability, we will be running 3 bus routes this afternoon. Please see the route schedule below.
