Berkley Beat August 22, 2025

What's Inside

  • #BSD1stDay - Share Your Photos with Us
  • Fill Out the Online Back to School Packet - Due by Sunday, August 24
  • Announcing New Berkley Schools Website + App
  • Berkley Schools Staff Kick Off School Year
  • Bond + Sinking Fund Update - August
  • BEF Alumni Directory Project Underway
  • August Calendar Highlights - Women’s Equality Day
  • How to Subscribe to the District Calendar
  • Join the Berkley Schools Family - Now Hiring

#BSD1stDay - Share Your Photos with Us

The first day of school is Monday, August 25th!

Share your first day of school photos with us. When you post to your social networks, be sure to use #BSD1stDay and make your posts public, so we can see them.

Not sure you want to go public? That's OK, email them to communications@berkleyschools.org instead.

We can’t wait to see all your photos!

Fill Out the Online Back to School Packet - Due by Sunday, August 24

The Annual Back to School Packet is open in the MISTAR App and MISTAR ParentConnection (formerly known as MISTAR Parent Portal).

The Annual Packet must be completed for each child enrolled with the Berkley Schools.

Please allow approximately 15-20 minutes to complete the Packet per child. For optional online payments in the Packet (pictures, PTA Memberships, etc.) you will need your credit card ready.

PACKET DEADLINE: August 24, 2025

Complete your packet by the end of the day on August 24, 2025. Completing the packet is important so we know your preferences for the year and so we know how to reach you in the event of an emergency.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER

  1. Read the directions in each section to ensure each step is completed.
  2. Verify Information: You will verify information brought over from last year’s Packet or from when you registered if you are new to the Berkley Schools.
  3. Phone Type is Important: Make sure to choose the correct phone type per number listed and update your email address to ensure you don’t miss any District and school communications. If your phone number is a cell number, please choose Adult Cell in the packet. If we don’t have the correct phone type we will not be able to text you in case of emergency.
  4. Child’s Phone Number: You have the option to add your child’s phone number in the student section of the Packet, if you wish. Be sure to enter your child’s phone number only in this section and your phone numbers in the parent/guardian section to avoid duplicate entries.
  5. Recommended Platform: It is recommended to use a personal computer (desktop or laptop) rather than a phone or tablet to complete the Packet, unless you are using the Parent Connection App.
  6. Outside Website: Some steps require you to leave the packet and visit an outside website (PTA membership, photo packages, etc). When you click on these links, a new window will open on top of the Packet window.
  7. At this time, the State of Michigan has not completed the 2025-26 budget, which means it is unclear if the State will fund free meals once again for students. The State’s fiscal year starts on October 1, 2025. We believe free meals will be covered through September 30, 2025. Please fill out the Education and Nutrition Benefits Form in case the State does not renew free meals. Consider adding some funds for your child into their food service accounts if you plan on having them participate in the school lunch program.
  8. Remember to mark each step in the Packet as complete.

HOW DO I FIND THE PACKET IN MISTAR PARENT CONNECTION and APP?

Once you are logged-in to ParentConnection, click on the bright red text in the upper right that says: Back to School packet.

You can also find the Packet in the MISTAR App. To download the app, follow these directions:

  • In your mobile device app store, download Q ParentConnection.
  • Inside the App, select the State, County and District.
  • Select Enter ParentConnection.
  • In the upper right, select Log In.
  • Enter your MISTAR Parent Connection Pin and Password.
  • The App can be used to complete the packet as well as add to food service accounts, track attendance and grades.

QUESTIONS?

If you are having problems logging in, have questions about completing information online or are experiencing technical difficulties, please put in a ticket with the Tech Department. Be sure to include your name, the name of your child and a phone number where you can be reached.

Announcing New Berkley Schools Website + App

The Berkley School District has a new website and mobile app.

Website

The new District website features a modern, easy-to-navigate, accessible and mobile-friendly design that will make it easier for you to find the information you need at the same website address you’re used to: www.berkleyschools.org.

In addition to improved navigation and design, there are a number of new features on the site, including new quick link buttons on each homepage, an athletics hub for middle, high school, unified and club sports, an enhanced news section, a simple way to search staff by department and enhanced language translation.

Mobile App

An easy way to stay up-to-date with school information from the convenience of your phone. The app allows you to subscribe to the schools your children attend so you’re getting updates for the buildings that are relevant to you. The push notification feature will be used by the District to alert you of important deadlines, news, or other time-sensitive information. Download the app for free by searching for Berkley Schools in the App Store on both Android and Apple devices.

To only see events and news from certain schools, click on News or Events at the bottom of the app. Then click on the triple lines in the upper right corner and uncheck the schools you wish not to see.

Subscribe to Calendars

Just like in the old website, families can subscribe to our calendars to sync to your mobile device. Follow these instructions to get this set up.

Have any questions about the website or mobile app?

Email our team: communications@berkleyschools.org

Berkley Schools Staff Kick Off School Year

On Tuesday, August 19, Berkley Schools staff gathered for the annual Kick-Off meeting. The day began at Norup International, where staff welcomed new team members, celebrated 25-year employees, received an update on the ongoing Bond work, and were inspired by Superintendent Francis’ vision for the school year.

Berkley Schools welcomed over 25 new staff members this year - teachers, custodians, paraeducators, secretaries, administrators and support staff. During the morning, to add to the fun atmosphere, all staff names were entered into a spin-o-rama raffle to give away a day off to eight staff members (a BBB staff member, teacher, paraeducator, custodian, secretary, administrator and two additional staff members from the All-Staff list). District administrators will take the lucky winners’ jobs for the day.

Employees who have been with the District for 25 years were recognized with a small gift. Thank you to the following staff members for your 25 years of dedication to students in the Berkley School District!

  • Mary Austin
  • Tanya McNamara
  • Jill Burton
  • Michelle Hoerner
  • Christie McVean
  • Kathy Milia

During his message, Superintendent Scott Francis shared some of his personal experiences from the summer, his journey as both a parent and staff member and what he’s hopeful for in the year ahead.

Following Superintendent Francis’ message, staff exited the gymnasium to a special surprise. The Berkley High School Marching Band was playing their fight song as they helped usher in an exciting new school year.

Bond Work & Sinking Fund Project Update: August 2025

With the passing of the August 2023 Bond, Berkley Schools teams are busy planning for upcoming construction projects. In addition to the Bond projects, the District has a list of Sinking Fund projects that are also in the works to improve and update our facilities. The Sinking Fund was approved by voters in 2018. Because both Bond and Sinking Fund projects are ongoing, these monthly updates will include details on both.

The August update includes construction and timeline updates on Burton and Pattengill, Berkley High School’s Performing Arts, Pool and Science Wing construction projects, updates on The BEAR Complex project and updates on Phase II projects.

These monthly Bond & Sinking Fund updates will be maintained on the District’s website. See below for updates on the Phase I projects that are taking place in 2025-2026.

Bond & Sinking Fund Projects - Phase I Timeline

The following is an estimated Phase I timeline. These dates may change due to the nature of construction including weather delays, supply chain delays, etc. Many of these projects will impact parking throughout the high school campus.

  • Nearly Complete: Pool Construction
  • Nearly Complete + Ahead of Schedule: Science Wing Construction
  • Underway: Black Box Theatre Construction
  • Underway: The BEAR Complex Construction
  • Underway: The Den Construction
  • Underway: Auditorium Construction
  • Underway: Burton & Pattengill - New Additions, Gym Remodel, Playgrounds, Parking Lots
  • Fall 2025: Burton & Pattengill Multi-Purpose Addition Opening
  • Spring 2026: Performing Arts Center Grand Opening (Auditorium, Black Box Theatre, Instrument Commons)
  • Fall 2026: The BEAR Complex Grand Opening

Project Updates

Phase I: Burton & Pattengill Multi-Purpose Additions - Bond

Burton & Pattengill multi-purpose/cafeteria additions are underway and nearing completion. Due to some construction delays, the additions will not open prior to school starting.

Burton

Burton’s new multi-purpose/cafeteria addition will be attached to the building at the northeast corner of the playground by the gym. It will house a new lunchroom, a new kitchen, storage rooms, restrooms and will be a wonderful space for collaboration. In addition, Burton’s gym is receiving a makeover, replacing the floor, backboards, padding as well as painting the ceiling.

Construction Update

  • Burton’s new addition walls, brick and slab work is complete.
  • Steel structural work and the roof is also complete.
  • The decorative brick on the front of the addition is nearly complete.
  • The new playground area inside of the track is nearly complete, and will open as soon as additional pieces arrive for installation.
  • Inside the building, the new gym floor, gym paint and sound baffling are in.
  • The new addition is connected to the existing building through the Burton staff lounge. That construction continues and will be ready this fall.
  • The new parking lot is nearing completion and is expected to be completed after Labor Day.

Pattengill

Pattengill’s new multi-purpose/cafeteria addition will be attached to the building at the north doors, in the current concrete area. It will house a new lunchroom, a new kitchen, storage rooms, restrooms and will be a wonderful space for collaboration. In addition, Pattengill’s gym is receiving a makeover, replacing the floor, backboards, padding as well as painting the ceiling.

Construction Update

  • Interior and exterior masonry wall construction is complete.
  • Steel installation is complete and the roof is being installed.
  • Electrical and plumbing work continues.
  • The floor pad is complete.
  • Outside brick work will begin very soon.
  • In addition to the multi-purpose addition, the District is adding parking spaces near the baseball field on Royal as part of the construction. This work has begun and is anticipated to be completed by the first day of school, August 25.
  • The new blacktop area to the south of the playground has been poured.
  • The new Pattengill Gym floor, baffling and paint are complete.

Phase I: BHS Performing Arts Wing - Bond

Timing Update: Due to delays with permitting and surprises discovered during demolition, both the Black Box Theatre and Performing Arts Center are behind schedule. Contractors are working to make up time, but it’s too soon for the District to announce new expected openings.

BHS Parking Update: With the delays on the Performing Arts Center work, the BHS drop off lane is still not open. It is expected to open later this fall. The BEAR Complex lot is also not available for overflow parking. Students can continue to park in the Sunnyknoll lot with the first come, first parked method. Students are encouraged to carpool, walk and be respectful of neighbors when parking on the street.

Black Box Theatre/Choir Room

The Black Box Theatre/Choir Room is being added to complete the Performing Arts Wing. The space will be used during the day for choir classes and after school for performances and rehearsals, to complement the auditorium.

Construction Update

  • Masonry work is nearly complete on the outside of the addition and steel is onsite to be installed next.
  • Work will begin on the water retention systems in the parking lot area as soon as materials are delivered, expected in the next few weeks.

Performing Arts Center

Construction Update

  • Auditorium interior demolition is complete.
  • Electrical work will resume soon, after the science wing is complete.
  • The foundation and concrete framing for the auditorium lobby addition are complete.
  • The masons are attaching the lobby addition to the existing lobby space.
  • Framing is complete in the existing auditorium lobby area and ready for new materials.
  • The new auditorium mezzanine in the shop area is complete.
  • The Orchestra classroom is expected to be complete by the time school starts on August 25.

Phase I: BHS Science Wing - Bond

The BHS Science Wing work includes a complete renovation and redesign for the lab spaces, updates to chemical storage rooms and creating new lab spaces.

Construction Update

  • The science wing is expected to be complete for the first day of school, August 25, for both the classrooms and labs. The lab work is nearly 6-8 weeks ahead of schedule.
  • Crews are working on finishing work - floors, ceilings, paint.
  • All science classrooms will be receiving new furniture, however, with the work being so far ahead of schedule, the new pieces will be delivered as soon as they are able. In the meantime, the Teaching and Learning Department has rented furniture to fill the gap.
  • Some finish work may continue after hours once school starts.

Phase I: BHS BEAR Complex - Bond

The District Field House project is now named The BEAR Complex (The Berkley Education, Athletics and Recreation Complex). The BEAR Complex includes a 60-yard indoor fieldhouse that includes a new weight room, team room and trainer room, an outdoor 120-yard turf performance field with lights, parking lot expansion and new configuration and a grass field north of the turf field.

Construction Update

  • The property has been leveled and stone was brought in to support the heavy equipment through the winter months.
  • All soil abatement is complete.
  • Footings for the Field House are being installed.
  • As a reminder for the public: All construction sites are not for public access.

Phase I: BHS Pool - Bond

The pool scope includes: a new HVAC system, new starting blocks, new diving board, updating tile areas, redoing the pool office and restroom and updates to the chemical system. In addition to this work, the team is adding a new filter system, a new timing system and scoreboard, upgrading lighting and additional plumbing work including replacing the water main leading to the pool. Additional mechanical work (filtration and chemical systems) will be completed in Spring/Summer 2026.

Construction Update

  • HVAC, painting, tile and lighting work is complete.
  • Sounds baffling systems are nearly complete.
  • The new scoreboard and timing system is being installed.
  • The starting blocks are being installed the week of August 25.
  • Electrical work is taking place to support a new, and stronger, pool motor.
  • New lane lines, chairs and flags have also been ordered. Chairs have arrived.
  • Once the last few pieces of the pool are ready, the BHS Girls Swim Team will be given a green light to resume practice in the pool.

The Den - ATP and Robotics - Sinking Fund

The former Cana Lutheran Church has a new name - The Den! The Den will house The Adult Transition Program (ATP) and Robotics programs.

Construction Update

  • The site work continues upstairs in the Robotics space with framing, drywall and painting.
  • The lower level work is being paused to properly address and fix water issues that arose during the summer construction work.
  • Until The Den is ready, the Adult Transition Program has relocated to Berkley High School.

Phase II: 2025-2026

Angell & Rogers Multi-Purpose Additions - Bond

Both multi-purpose additions will resemble the Burton and Pattengill designs and function, and will have playground or outside space adjustments to accommodate the new additions.

Construction Update

  • Over the summer, contractors completed electrical and gas lines for the new additions.
  • Construction fencing is in place for Rogers and being installed at Angell this week.
  • The construction work at both buildings will begin in September, and the team thought it was best for consistency and routine to have the construction fencing up when school starts, rather than change routines a few weeks into the school year.
  • Angell will lose their playground during construction, but students will still have access to the fields. The District has partnered with Playworks to engage students during their outside time.

Norup, AMS & Hurley Field - Bond

The design phase for the Norup, AMS and Hurley Field work has begun. The project includes updating the school gym floors, paint and equipment and renovating the locker rooms and team rooms at all three facilities. Hurley Field work includes updating team rooms, restrooms, field lighting, flow and fence lines, a new scoreboard and expanding the parking lot to improve available spaces as well as traffic flow.

Burton & Tyler Park Fields - Sinking Fund

Burton Field

The District project to improve Burton’s field with its professional partners is complete. The work will include fixing the ponding, replacing the dirt infields with grass infields and preparing the site to have a multi-purpose use as well as include two diamonds to host t-ball games. The plan is to have this work begin in Fall 2025, once the Burton playground is reopened, and be ready for use in late Spring 2026. This project is being funded by Berkley Schools, Huntington Woods Men’s Club as well as the City of Huntington Woods and supported by the Berkley Dads’ Club.

Tyler Park - Softball Field Update

The District Bond/Sinking Fund team is working to finalize the plans for updating Tyler Park with City of Oak Park officials. On the District side, a new Varsity softball field will be built with lights, permanent fence, dugouts, stands, scoreboard, bullpens and batting cages. The District property will also have a practice softball/baseball field for middle school students. On the Oak Park side, a multipurpose field will be updated to improve the drainage issues. A walking path will also be added to both properties to allow for a full path connecting the parking lots to the fields and for the community to enjoy. On the District side of the property a small restroom facility will be built as well. The plan is to have construction begin in Spring of 2026.

Technology

The Technology team is using Sinking Fund dollars to replace 5th, 6th and 9th grade laptops for students early in this school year. In addition, computer labs at Berkley High School for the student production and art classes will be replaced.

All teachers received new laptops and docking stations, funded through the Bond. The technology team worked this summer to replace desktop computers with docking stations and monitors in all classrooms.

BEF Alumni Directory Project Underway

Attention Alumni

The Berkley Education Foundation Alumni Directory Project is underway. The BEF is working with Publishing Concepts to update our alumni information so the BEF/District can be more proactive connecting with our alumni.

Emails and postcards went out this week on the Foundation's behalf, with messages from Superintendent Scott Francis.

If you'd like to update your information, call 866-497-0954.

Questions? Email berkleyfoundation@berkleyschools.org or call 248-837-8018.

Calendar Highlights: August

The Berkley Schools printed calendar highlights heritage months, holidays, days of observances and recognition days. In the Berkley Beat, we’ll highlight these days with more information for community learning to help us achieve the District goal of creating an environment where all staff, students and community members feel a sense of belonging.

August 26: Women’s Equality Day

Adopted by Congress in 1971, Women's Equality Day is celebrated in the United States on August 26 to commemorate the 1920 adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which prohibits the states and the federal government from denying the right to vote to citizens of the United States on the basis of sex. The U.S. Department of the Interior shares, “This historic event was the culmination of the decades-long struggle of courageous suffragists determined to shape the course of our Republic. On Women's Equality Day, we commemorate the efforts of those groundbreaking activists, celebrate the remarkable achievements of women, and reaffirm our commitment to equality under the law.”

Learn more on the Britannica website.

Join the Berkley Schools Family - Now Hiring!

The Berkley School District is hiring! We are looking for talented individuals to fill a variety of positions. Visit our website to apply and share our postings with your networks!

Open Positions

  • Special Education Teacher - Cognitive Impairment (CI) - Anderson Middle School
  • Permanent Building Substitute Teacher - Pattengill Elementary School
  • Special Education Teacher of Students with Autism - Pattengill Elementary School
  • Permanent Building Substitute Teacher - Angell Elementary School
  • Permanent Substitute Custodian - District
  • Afternoon Custodian - Norup International School
  • Afternoon Custodian - Burton Elementary School
  • Lunch Aide - Pattengill Elementary School
  • Lunch Aide - Burton Elementary School

Follow us on Social Media

Did you know the District has Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube pages? Follow us to see the latest news and photos!

CREATED BY
Berkley School District
Visit our website!