Accessible Text-Only Version

Northport Notes

Volume 31, Issue 12
November 13, 2026

This page contains the text-only version of this issue of Northport Notes. It includes the same information as the visual newsletter in a format designed for improved readability and compatibility with assistive technologies.

Remarkable Post-Season Run

Congratulations to our Norsemen Varsity Volleyball team on an incredible postseason! The girls kicked things off last week by sweeping Leland in three straight sets to claim the District Championship—sealed by a game-winning kill from Olive Craker. They kept the momentum rolling Tuesday night with a thrilling five-set victory over Buckley in the Regional Semi-finals before a hard-fought battle against Onekama in Thursday’s Regional Finals brought their impressive run to a close. Way to make us proud, Norsemen!

Photo Description

Olivia Craker and teammate Anna Porter celebrate a win.

Upcoming Events

Saturday, Nov. 14

8:00 AM–12:00 PM – Elementary Girls Basketball @ Grand Traverse Academy
4:00–6:00 PM – Elementary Winter Dance

Monday, Nov. 16

4:30 PM – MS Boys Basketball v. Onekama @ SB

Tuesday, Nov. 17

Wednesday, Nov. 18

4:30 PM – MS Boys Basketball v. Glen Lake @ SB

Thursday, Nov. 19

Friday, Nov. 20

11:30 AM–1:30 PM – Community Thanksgiving!
4:30 PM – MS Boys Basketball v. TC Bulldogs @ SB

Saturday, Nov. 21

8:00 AM–12:00 PM – Elementary Girls Basketball @ NPS

Upcoming Highlights

Wednesday, Nov. 25

Half Day

November 25–26

Thanksgiving Break

Lunch Next Week

Monday: Chicken Parmesan
Tuesday: Beef Soft Tacos
Wednesday: Bang-Bang Chicken Bowl
Thursday: BBQ Pulled Pork
Friday: Community Thanksgiving!

November Is National Homeless Awareness Month

Ensuring equal educational rights and support for every student.

What Is the McKinney-Vento Act?

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law designed to ensure that children and youth experiencing homelessness have immediate access to a free, appropriate public education.

Who May Qualify?

Children and youth who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This includes students who are:

Sharing housing with others due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or couchsurfing.
Living in hotels, motels, trailer parks, or emergency shelters.
Sleeping in cars, parks, abandoned buildings, or campgrounds.

Student Rights Under McKinney-Vento

Immediate School Enrollment: Enroll in school right away, even without typically required documents.
School Stability: Remain in their school of origin if it is in their best interest.
Transportation Assistance: Receive transportation to and from their school of origin.
Equal Access: Access all educational programs, services, and extracurricular activities.

District McKinney-Vento Liaison Contact

Elizabeth Schwind
Northport Public School
Phone: 231-386-5153
Email: eschwind@northportps.org

Community Thanksgiving Lunch

Happy Thanksgiving! Let's celebrate together.

Join us on Friday, November 20 for a Thanksgiving lunch. Community members are welcome!

Lunch Times

Elementary School: 11:25 AM–12:05 PM
Middle School: 12:15–12:50 PM
High School: 12:50–1:28 PM

Inventor Spotlight: Grant

Meet Grant, a Young Inventor at Northport Public School!

Grant developed an innovative solution to an environmental problem. “Save Air, Show You Care!” was created as part of Dr. Susan Sobehrad’s science class. Grant explored heat transfer! When it is very hot or very cold outside, a lot of heat could transfer into or out of your home. His invention has a series of flashing LED lights that will be triggered when the door isn't closed all the way.

Grant showcased his invention at the 2026 Invention Convention Regional Competition in Kalkaska. His project earned a spot at the Invention Convention Michigan State Finals at The Henry Ford Museum! Grant’s creativity, determination, and innovative thinking are a great example of how young inventors can turn ideas into solutions that make a difference!

Great job, Grant!

Photo Descriptions

Grant discusses his invention with an adult at the competition.
Grant smiles for a portrait.
Grant demonstrates his invention to an adult at his display.

NHS Welcomes New Members

Last Friday, our school's National Honor Society (NHS) gathered to celebrate academic excellence, leadership, service, and character during its official induction ceremony.

NHS President Nahwahquaw Laske led the event, which opened with special recognition for our current National Junior Honor Society members on stage.

The highlight of the ceremony was formally inducting our newest members: sophomores Lilly Gmoser-Duhamel and Mackenzie Scott. Both 10th graders earned their spots through their dedicated adherence to the high standards and requirements of the NHS.

Congratulations to Lilly and Mackenzie on this well-deserved achievement, and thank you to all who supported our student leaders!

Photo Descriptions

Top left: Mr. Fryer officially welcomes Lilly Gmoser-Duhamel to NHS.
Top right: NHS President Nahwahquaw Laske speaks about what it means to be an NHS member.
Bottom left: Mackenzie Scott shakes hands with Mr. Fryer as she is inducted.

Students of the Month

Holden

Holden is an enthusiastic and capable learner who consistently demonstrates strong academic skills and positive Habits of Character. He approaches learning with curiosity and confidence, demonstrates a strong understanding of new concepts, and is able to explain his thinking. He is an active and attentive participant who willingly takes risks and contributes thoughtfully to class discussions. Holden demonstrates responsibility and perseverance by working hard, embracing challenges, and setting goals for himself, even when something is difficult (just ask him about the playground rings). He is a kind and helpful friend who shows respect for others and brings a smile and positive attitude to our classroom each day. Holden is a wonderful example of a curious, confident, and hardworking learner!

Jazmyne Bressette

Jazmyne Bressette brings an energetic and positive presence to our halls and classrooms and actively participates in class while consistently striving to do her best. She is always looking for opportunities to help her peers and contribute to the success of those around her.

This year, Jazmyne has really taken ownership of her involvement in radio. She was one of the first students to participate and help set up interviews, and she has generously supported her peers by helping them understand the broadcasting arts. It has been wonderful to see Jazmyne explore the opportunities available to her while finding ways to grow and develop her interests.

Her positive attitude, strong work ethic, willingness to help others, and commitment to learning make her an outstanding role model for our younger students. We are proud of the growth Jazmyne has demonstrated and excited to see what she accomplishes next.

Photo Descriptions

School portrait of Holden.
School portrait of Jazmyne Bressette.

Wildcat Award

Mayna Kahgegab

Mayna Kahgegab has truly impressed her teachers and classmates during her first few months at Northport. Being the new kid is never easy, especially when joining a school where classmates have known one another for years. Mayna has risen to that challenge with grace, enthusiasm, and a wonderful positive attitude.

She is always smiling and has transitioned seamlessly into becoming a Wildcat. In just a few short months, she has become an important part of the eighth-grade class and regularly contributes to the positive experience of those around her. Her willingness to participate, connect with others, and embrace her new school has been wonderful to see.

Mayna, we are so proud of you and look forward to seeing all the great things you will accomplish in the months ahead. You have truly embraced what it means to be a Wildcat!

Isabel Espinoza

Isabel Espinoza is making meaningful growth this school year. She comes to school on time and is ready to learn. She consistently puts forth effort, even when the learning becomes challenging, such as estimating and multiplying two-digit numbers in math with determination. Isabel doesn’t let mistakes trip her up; she uses them as an opportunity to try again.

She is becoming more confident in her ability to work through challenges and is taking true ownership of her learning. She is also a kind and supportive friend who is always willing to lend a hand to others. Whether she is inviting a classmate to join her at lunch, offering an encouraging word during group work, or helping a peer clean up after a lesson, she is always looking out for others. Her growth, effort, and perseverance make her a wonderful example of a Northport Wildcat.

Photo Descriptions

School portrait of Mayna Kahgegab.
School portrait of Isabel Espinoza.

Leelanau Holiday Program 2026

Do you need help with gifts this holiday season for your children?

Are you receiving assistance from a social services agency (DHS, WIC, Social Security, etc.)?

Please register with Audrey at:

Leelanau Christian Neighbors

7322 E Duck Lake Rd, Lake Leelanau

Registration Dates and Times

Monday, November 23 – 2:00–5:30 PM
Monday, November 30 – 2:00–5:30 PM
Monday, December 7 – 2:00–5:30 PM
Monday, December 14 – 2:00–5:30 PM

To register, you MUST have a form of identification for ALL family members. Acceptable identification includes a state ID, birth certificate, Social Security card, etc.

You must register to receive gifts!