Today we celebrated the phenomenal careers of our 2025-2026 retirees. We would like to thank them for their knowledge, experience, dedication, and tireless service to our children and community. They will be missed!
Retirees from Bothwell Middle School:
Bill Wesela, Aide
Jean Spehalski, Aide
Retirees from Marquette Alternative High School:
Cynthia DePetro, English Teacher
Retirees from Marquette Senior High School:
Steven Solinski, Science Teacher
District-Wide Retirees:
Debra Reynolds, Native Ed. Tutor
Retirees from Graveraet Elementary School:
Dr. Kristen Peterson, Principal
Congratulations to all!
Retirees from Bothwell Middle School:
Bill Wesela, Aide
Jean Spehalski, Aide
Retirees from Marquette Alternative High School:
Cynthia DePetro, English Teacher
Retirees from Marquette Senior High School:
Steven Solinski, Science Teacher
District-Wide Retirees:
Debra Reynolds, Native Ed. Tutor
Retirees from Graveraet Elementary School:
Dr. Kristen Peterson, Principal
Congratulations to all!
Today we celebrated our Elementary Teacher of the Year, 6-12 Teacher of the Year, and Support Staff Person of the Year.
Our Support Staff Person of the Year is Dawn Glasgow, a bus driver in our Transportation Department. Her nominator wrote, “Dawn is a front-line support staff member in building families’ trust in our special education department. She demonstrates strong relationships with the students, and parents are able to rely on her to keep their child safe and loved on their way to school. Dawn cares greatly for MAPS’ students and that is easily observed by watching her at any pick-up or drop-off spot. She values both students and staff. Dawn is greatly involved in the communication supports of the schools and transportation department. She has made communication more clear, efficient and collaborative. Dawn makes herself a great example on safety procedures for students. Dawn puts in great time and effort to keep our specialized transportation on track and organized.”
Our MAPS K-5 Teacher of the Year is Andrea Johnston, a Title 1 Teacher at Graveraet Elementary School. Her colleagues wrote, “Andrea is an outstanding educator for Marquette Area Public Schools because she not only excels in teaching in her own classroom, but has helped build an environment throughout the whole building for learning to grow and flourish. Andrea is committed to educational excellence, while keeping a positive attitude that positively impacts both her student and staff… Andrea is not just a teacher. She is a champion for teaching and learning. She is a mentor to colleagues who seek her wisdom and expertise. She is a collaborator who builds better systems and methods for students. She is an educator who works tirelessly to positively impact the lives of each and every student she knows. Most of all, she is a dedicated human being who comes to work every day striving to make a difference in the lives of those around her.”
Our MAPS 6-12 Teacher of the Year is Jessica Boehlke, a Special Education Teacher at Bothwell Middle School. Her colleague wrote, “Jessica’s presence in our school makes us a better place to be. Not only is she a phenomenal special education teacher, knowledgeable and skilled in her craft, but her willingness to jump in to help when she sees any need makes her an irreplaceable colleague… What is amazing about Mrs. Boehlke is that while others are happy to stay in their individual classrooms taking care of their own responsibilities, Jessica is out making all students and all parts of Bothwell better. So many general education students know, appreciate and benefit from Mrs. Boehlke’s hard work along with her special education students, administration and fellow teachers.”
Each awardee received $750, a plaque honoring this recognition, and their name permanently displayed on the MAPS website under “Teacher and Staff Recognition”.
Please join us in congratulating these outstanding MAPS professionals!
On behalf of the Board of Education, MAPS administration, and our students and families, thank you for your dedication and commitment to educating our youth!
Our Support Staff Person of the Year is Dawn Glasgow, a bus driver in our Transportation Department. Her nominator wrote, “Dawn is a front-line support staff member in building families’ trust in our special education department. She demonstrates strong relationships with the students, and parents are able to rely on her to keep their child safe and loved on their way to school. Dawn cares greatly for MAPS’ students and that is easily observed by watching her at any pick-up or drop-off spot. She values both students and staff. Dawn is greatly involved in the communication supports of the schools and transportation department. She has made communication more clear, efficient and collaborative. Dawn makes herself a great example on safety procedures for students. Dawn puts in great time and effort to keep our specialized transportation on track and organized.”
Our MAPS K-5 Teacher of the Year is Andrea Johnston, a Title 1 Teacher at Graveraet Elementary School. Her colleagues wrote, “Andrea is an outstanding educator for Marquette Area Public Schools because she not only excels in teaching in her own classroom, but has helped build an environment throughout the whole building for learning to grow and flourish. Andrea is committed to educational excellence, while keeping a positive attitude that positively impacts both her student and staff… Andrea is not just a teacher. She is a champion for teaching and learning. She is a mentor to colleagues who seek her wisdom and expertise. She is a collaborator who builds better systems and methods for students. She is an educator who works tirelessly to positively impact the lives of each and every student she knows. Most of all, she is a dedicated human being who comes to work every day striving to make a difference in the lives of those around her.”
Our MAPS 6-12 Teacher of the Year is Jessica Boehlke, a Special Education Teacher at Bothwell Middle School. Her colleague wrote, “Jessica’s presence in our school makes us a better place to be. Not only is she a phenomenal special education teacher, knowledgeable and skilled in her craft, but her willingness to jump in to help when she sees any need makes her an irreplaceable colleague… What is amazing about Mrs. Boehlke is that while others are happy to stay in their individual classrooms taking care of their own responsibilities, Jessica is out making all students and all parts of Bothwell better. So many general education students know, appreciate and benefit from Mrs. Boehlke’s hard work along with her special education students, administration and fellow teachers.”
Each awardee received $750, a plaque honoring this recognition, and their name permanently displayed on the MAPS website under “Teacher and Staff Recognition”.
Please join us in congratulating these outstanding MAPS professionals!
On behalf of the Board of Education, MAPS administration, and our students and families, thank you for your dedication and commitment to educating our youth!
Reminder to please note the specific schedule for the final week of school to ensure a smooth transition into summer break:
May 27th, 2026
Dear MAPS Families,
We are happy to once again announce our Summer Food Service Program. We will be providing two options to families this year. We will have a congregate meal service at Marquette Senior High School where children can eat breakfast and lunch on-site. We will also have a seven-day meal pack pick up at Vandenboom.
Marquette Senior High School, 1203 West Fair Avenue
Breakfast and Lunch will be at MSHS Monday through Thursday. This program will be provided at no cost to families, and is for children 18 years of age and under. Breakfast will be available from 8 to 8:45 am. Lunch will be available from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Summer enrichment classes will be in attendance however, a child does not need to be enrolled in summer enrichment to participate in the breakfast and lunch program. Please visit our menu at mapsnet.nutrislice.com, and select Marquette Senior High. Please be aware meals will need to be eaten on site. We will also offer a weekend meal pack handout to families. Please sign up if you wish to receive a 3-day meal pack. These packs will contain breakfast and lunch for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
3-day Weekend Meal Pack Sign Up at MSHS, Follow this Link:
https://forms.gle/QFutdjLGUi2n1z566
Vandenboom, 1175 Erie Street
Our non-congregate meal service will occur on Fridays from 10 a.m. till 12 noon. This program will be provided at no cost to families, and is for children 18 years of age and under. We will provide 7-days of breakfast and lunch. Please don’t forget the milk. We are requesting that all families sign up 24 hours in advance. This will help ensure we have enough meals for all of the children. Our first meal pick-up for the summer will be on June 26th. Please be aware that meals will be taken off location to be consumed.
7-day Meal Pack Sign Up at Vanenboom, Follow this Link:
https://forms.gle/3YiJjfgw1wby6pzA9
We are very excited to offer the Summer Food Service Program. Families are not able to participate in both programs during the same week. If anyone has questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at 906-225-4245 or ccollins@mapsnet.org.
Sincerely,
Chris Collins, Food Service Director
Marquette Area Public Schools
Dear MAPS Families,
We are happy to once again announce our Summer Food Service Program. We will be providing two options to families this year. We will have a congregate meal service at Marquette Senior High School where children can eat breakfast and lunch on-site. We will also have a seven-day meal pack pick up at Vandenboom.
Marquette Senior High School, 1203 West Fair Avenue
Breakfast and Lunch will be at MSHS Monday through Thursday. This program will be provided at no cost to families, and is for children 18 years of age and under. Breakfast will be available from 8 to 8:45 am. Lunch will be available from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Summer enrichment classes will be in attendance however, a child does not need to be enrolled in summer enrichment to participate in the breakfast and lunch program. Please visit our menu at mapsnet.nutrislice.com, and select Marquette Senior High. Please be aware meals will need to be eaten on site. We will also offer a weekend meal pack handout to families. Please sign up if you wish to receive a 3-day meal pack. These packs will contain breakfast and lunch for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
3-day Weekend Meal Pack Sign Up at MSHS, Follow this Link:
https://forms.gle/QFutdjLGUi2n1z566
Vandenboom, 1175 Erie Street
Our non-congregate meal service will occur on Fridays from 10 a.m. till 12 noon. This program will be provided at no cost to families, and is for children 18 years of age and under. We will provide 7-days of breakfast and lunch. Please don’t forget the milk. We are requesting that all families sign up 24 hours in advance. This will help ensure we have enough meals for all of the children. Our first meal pick-up for the summer will be on June 26th. Please be aware that meals will be taken off location to be consumed.
7-day Meal Pack Sign Up at Vanenboom, Follow this Link:
https://forms.gle/3YiJjfgw1wby6pzA9
We are very excited to offer the Summer Food Service Program. Families are not able to participate in both programs during the same week. If anyone has questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at 906-225-4245 or ccollins@mapsnet.org.
Sincerely,
Chris Collins, Food Service Director
Marquette Area Public Schools
May 18th is Speech Pathologist Day! Thank you to our speech pathologists for all you do! #thankyouspeechpathologists
Here is the 2026-2027 PD calendar.
Happy Mother's Day!
May 6th is National School Nurse Day! Thank you to our school nurses for all you do! #thankyouschoolnurses
THANK YOU MAPS COMMUNITY!
Preliminary election results indicate that our MAPS community has approved the $59.995 million bond proposal to impact every building and every student. We are so grateful for your support, and can’t wait to continue to engage and educate everyone on the progress of these projects.
More information will be made available soon at: https://www.mapsnet.org/2026-bond-information
#MAPS #EveryBuildingEveryStudent #ThankYou
Preliminary election results indicate that our MAPS community has approved the $59.995 million bond proposal to impact every building and every student. We are so grateful for your support, and can’t wait to continue to engage and educate everyone on the progress of these projects.
More information will be made available soon at: https://www.mapsnet.org/2026-bond-information
#MAPS #EveryBuildingEveryStudent #ThankYou
TODAY IS THE DAY!
Head to the polls to vote on the $59.995M bond proposal that MAPS is asking our residents to consider.
The bond proposal is designed to address critical facility, safety, and learning environment needs across all MAPS schools. This proposal reflects years of study, engagement, and planning, and will impact EVERY BUILDING and EVERY STUDENT.
Please visit www.michigan.gov/vote to find your polling location and hours.
#MAPS #EveryBuildingEveryStudent #SafetyInfrastructurePlanning #VOTE
Head to the polls to vote on the $59.995M bond proposal that MAPS is asking our residents to consider.
The bond proposal is designed to address critical facility, safety, and learning environment needs across all MAPS schools. This proposal reflects years of study, engagement, and planning, and will impact EVERY BUILDING and EVERY STUDENT.
Please visit www.michigan.gov/vote to find your polling location and hours.
#MAPS #EveryBuildingEveryStudent #SafetyInfrastructurePlanning #VOTE
TOMORROW is Voting Day! On May 5, 2026, MAPS will ask residents to consider a $59.995 million bond proposal designed to address critical facility, safety, and learning environment needs across all MAPS schools. This proposal reflects years of study, engagement, and planning, and would carry an estimated tax impact of 1.55 mills.
For more information on voting procedures, or MAPS bond proposal, please visit: https://www.mapsnet.org/2026-bond-information
#MAPS #EveryBuildingEveryStudent #SafetyInfrastructurePlanning #VOTE
For more information on voting procedures, or MAPS bond proposal, please visit: https://www.mapsnet.org/2026-bond-information
#MAPS #EveryBuildingEveryStudent #SafetyInfrastructurePlanning #VOTE
It's Teacher Appreciation Week! Thank you to our amazing teachers for all you do for our students! #thankyouteachers
May 1st is School Principals Day! Thank you to our principals for all you do! #thankyouprincipals
May 1st is School Lunch Hero Day! Thank you to our school lunch heroes for all you do! #thankyouschoollunchheroes
Marquette Area Public Schools is pleased to announce an opening for the position of Elementary Principal at Graveraet Elementary School for the upcoming 2026/27 school year. We are seeking a visionary leader who is passionate about elementary education and committed to fostering a supportive, high-achieving learning environment for our students.
Why Marquette Area Public Schools? Located on the beautiful and scenic shores of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Marquette offers a unique quality of life. Our district is known for its academic rigor and strong community support. Residents enjoy unparalleled access to outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, skiing, and water sports, all within a vibrant, friendly city.
Interested candidates are invited to submit their application, including a cover letter, resume, and professional references, through our online portal at: https://skyward.iscorp.com/scripts/wsisa.dll/WService=wsfinmarquettemi/rapplmnu03.w?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3sy47HcZiWfoubiiyvW0UxBHbjE502tx-P-6i5xdoBdHHCFtLD1TmqG90_aem_g7Ap4FcM2g-I9MeECMNeLg
Join our team and help shape the future of our students in one of the most beautiful regions of the country. We look forward to hearing from you!
#jobs #jobopportunity #jobopening #hiring
Why Marquette Area Public Schools? Located on the beautiful and scenic shores of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Marquette offers a unique quality of life. Our district is known for its academic rigor and strong community support. Residents enjoy unparalleled access to outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, skiing, and water sports, all within a vibrant, friendly city.
Interested candidates are invited to submit their application, including a cover letter, resume, and professional references, through our online portal at: https://skyward.iscorp.com/scripts/wsisa.dll/WService=wsfinmarquettemi/rapplmnu03.w?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3sy47HcZiWfoubiiyvW0UxBHbjE502tx-P-6i5xdoBdHHCFtLD1TmqG90_aem_g7Ap4FcM2g-I9MeECMNeLg
Join our team and help shape the future of our students in one of the most beautiful regions of the country. We look forward to hearing from you!
#jobs #jobopportunity #jobopening #hiring
April 28th is School Bus Driver Appreciation Day! Thank you to our bus drivers for all you do! #thankyouschoolbusdrivers
FAQ: Why is the bond proposal ballot language so long?
Michigan law requires school bond ballot language to include specific details so voters have clear, complete information before casting a vote. By law, the ballot must disclose items such as the total amount to be borrowed, how long the bonds may be repaid, how the funds may be used, and the estimated tax impact.
In addition to meeting these legal requirements, MAPS chose to clearly list the elements of the proposed plan to be as transparent as possible with the community. The detailed language is intended to help voters understand exactly what is being proposed, how the funds could be used, and how the district plans to address facility needs if the bond is approved.
Check out our FAQ document to get ALL of your May 2026 questions answered: https://www.mapsnet.org/2026-bond-information
#MAPS #EveryBuildingEveryStudent #SafeStrongFutureReady
Michigan law requires school bond ballot language to include specific details so voters have clear, complete information before casting a vote. By law, the ballot must disclose items such as the total amount to be borrowed, how long the bonds may be repaid, how the funds may be used, and the estimated tax impact.
In addition to meeting these legal requirements, MAPS chose to clearly list the elements of the proposed plan to be as transparent as possible with the community. The detailed language is intended to help voters understand exactly what is being proposed, how the funds could be used, and how the district plans to address facility needs if the bond is approved.
Check out our FAQ document to get ALL of your May 2026 questions answered: https://www.mapsnet.org/2026-bond-information
#MAPS #EveryBuildingEveryStudent #SafeStrongFutureReady
April 22nd is Administrative Assistant Day! Thank you to our administrative assistants for all you do! #thankadministrativeassistants
Here is the preliminary site plan for Bothwell Middle School, with the corresponding descriptions of each labeled space that would be impacted by the bond. Every building in the MAPS district would be impacted by the May 2026 Bond proposal.
For more information, please visit the District website at: https://www.mapsnet.org/page/2026-bond-information
#MAPS #EveryBuildingEveryStudent #SafeStrongFutureReady
For more information, please visit the District website at: https://www.mapsnet.org/page/2026-bond-information
#MAPS #EveryBuildingEveryStudent #SafeStrongFutureReady
