It’s hard to keep my 9-year-old son occupied while he is home from school during holiday break. I am constantly trying to juggle working while still making his time at home enjoyable
These holiday break camps are the perfect solution. Not only will they keep your son or daughter busy during the holiday break, they also may even teach them something new. Choose from our list of camps we’ve found in metro Detroit.
Make sure to register for these holiday break camps in advance because they do fill up fast!
This article was published on Nov. 20, 2024, by Metro Parent’s Audience Development Coordinator, Kari Zaffarano. It features this year’s Holiday Break Camps in metro Detroit. For questions, contact kari@metroparent.com.
Learn some of the best soccer training techniques provided by Miki Djerisilo and other coaches and former professional soccer players. The camp focuses on a player’s ball control, speed and agility, passing and shooting. The camp is from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with lunch served at noon. Kids can bring their own drink, lunch and snacks or can purchase snacks and drinks from the vending machines. They may also purchase a pizza lunch, but those should be ordered ahead of time.
This one-day winter camp is broken up into grades one-three and grades four-six. The camp is from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The themes for the camps are: Dec. 23 and Jan. 2 are LEGO Masters: Star Wars. Dec. 26 and Jan. 3 are Video Game Design. Dec. 27 and Dec. 30 are Minecraft. Campers will bring a water bottle, lunch and two snacks with them.
Cost: $65-$80/single days; $196-$260/Dec. 23-27 & Dec. 30-Jan. 3 (no camp on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1; Camp ends at 3 p.m. on Dec. 24 and Dec. 31)
Campers at Saline Parks and Recreation will make crafts, go swimming and more. Make sure to bring outdoor items like hats, gloves, boots and snow pants as well as a bathing suit, towel, athletic shoes, lunch and a snack. For ages 5-12.
The school break camp is from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with lunch served at noon. Children will play multiple sports at this camp. Kids can bring their own drink, lunch and snacks or can purchase snacks and drinks from the vending machines. They may also purchase a pizza lunch, but those should be ordered ahead of time.
The full-day camp option is from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and the half-day camp option is from 8:30 a.m.-noon or 12:30-4 p.m. This winter break camp is for ages 4-12. Campers are asked to bring a cold lunch, two snacks, a water bottle, a quiet time activity (no electronics), outdoor weather clothes, a change of clothes and closed toe shoes.
Address: Kirksey Recreation Center, 15100 Hubbard, Livonia
Cost: $45/day for resident, $59/day for non-resident
Ages 5-12 can enjoy a camp that features arts and crafts, science experiments, group games, swimming, climbing the rock wall and more. The camp is from 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Address: 4297 Orchard Lake Road, Unit 235, West Bloomfield
Cost: $85
This mini-camp is from 9 a.m.-noon on Thursday and Friday. Kids will create their own winter-themed masterpieces with the help from an instructor. Bring a nut free lunch, snack and drink each day. For ages 6-12.
Locations in Birmingham, Detroit, Farmington, Macomb, Milford, Royal Oak and Southgate
Cost: $48-plus/day
Children ages 5-12 can enjoy a school break camp for the holidays at their local YMCA in metro Detroit. The camps run from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Campers will make crafts, play games and more.
Address: 4297 Orchard Lake Road, Unit 235, West Bloomfield
Cost: $90
This camp is from 9 a.m.-noon on Thursday and Friday. Kids will craft their own light-up anglerfish and fireflies with LEDs. Bring a nut free lunch, snack and drink each day. For ages 6-12.
Address: 4297 Orchard Lake Road, Unit 235, West Bloomfield
Cost: $85
This mini camp is from 1-4 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. Kids will create their own masterpieces on canvas with the help from an instructor. Bring a nut free lunch, snack and drink each day. For ages 6-12.
Josh Banks has lived in Macomb County for 10 years and loves its diversity.
“In my opinion, Macomb County is a diverse county and there’s a plethora of diverse things here from businesses and shops to races and religions,” says Banks. “That’s one of the reasons I love raising my daughter here,” he says.
Banks lives in Macomb County with his wife, Alicia and his 8-year-old daughter Maison.
“I was born and raised on the east side of Detroit, but around 2012, my mom, sister and I decided to move to Clinton Township,” says Banks. “Outside of two years where I lived in Southfield, I’ve been in Clinton Township ever since.”
Not only does Banks live in Macomb County, he also works for Frito Lay, which is based in Sterling Heights. And, he is the head girls varsity basketball coach at Center Line High School.
Photo courtesy of Josh Banks
“I chose to coach girls basketball because I have a daughter and I believe in women’s sports, especially basketball because it doesn’t get the attention it deserves,” says Banks. “There are talented women who love to play ball and sometimes they just need coaches who are willing to take on the challenge and be the change.”
Banks has been the head coach at Center Line for the past four years and prior to that was the head girls basketball coach at Lake Shore High School. He has been in different school environments in Macomb County and can attest to how good the schools are academically and athletically.
“I know many schools in Macomb County are ranked highly, mainly due to their academic standing,” he says. “Athletically, it has some of the best athletic programs in the state — football, basketball, swimming, wrestling, cheer; You name a sport, there’s a school that can compete on a state level in that sport.”
He also joined his daughter’s elementary school’s Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) this year and holds the vice president title.
“I’m enjoying the work and time spent in the school cultivating relationships with the faculty, as well as the children,” says Banks. “They think I’m pretty cool!”
Photo courtesy of Josh Banks
He is the ultimate girl dad, and loves taking his daughter, Maison, to art class at The Art Shack in St. Clair Shores and to play at George George Memorial Park and Waldenburg Park.
“Maison’s favorite activity, though, in the community is trick-or-treating,” he says. “Our neighborhood doesn’t have a lot of participation, so since 2020, we’ve traveled to another neighborhood. She mentions how fun it is every year.”
His wife and daughter enjoy going to the movie theaters in Macomb County while he is at work. He also enjoys bowling at Imperial Lanes and takes the family there whenever he can.
“The community feel here in Macomb County is welcoming for the most part, especially during the holidays and big events like the Gratiot Cruise,” states Banks. “Those events always bring out the best in people and there seem to be very friendly people wherever I go.”
Holiday shopping season is upon us, and the pressure is on, or at least it feels that way for some parents. A new NerdWallet survey, conducted by The Harris Poll, finds that 48% of parents with children under 18 feel pressure to spend more money on holiday gifts than they’re comfortable spending.
According to NerdWallet’s annual holiday spending report, Americans are spending quite a bit more on holiday travel and gift shopping than last year. And parents plan to spend more than those who are not parents of kids under 18. Parents of minor children who plan to purchase gifts this holiday season say they’ll spend $1,070, on average, compared to $860, on average, among those who are not parents of minors. And parents of kids under 18 who plan to spend on flights or hotels this holiday season will spend a whopping $2,610, on average, for these travel expenses, compared to those who are not parents of minors who plan to spend $2,131, on average.
Having kids can be expensive any time of year, but the holidays may up the ante. Here are five tips for parents trying to keep costs in check this holiday season.
1. Create a budget with stability in mind
According to the survey, 13% of minor parents who plan to buy gifts this year will likely need to use some of their emergency savings to pay for them, and 12% will prioritize gift buying over paying some of their regular bills this holiday season. Also, 38% of parents of minor children who plan to buy gifts this year say they will probably go into more debt than usual to make these purchases.
There can be a lot of pressure to make the holidays magical for your kids. However, if you do so at the expense of stability — money set aside for emergencies, bills paid on time, a manageable debt load — it can set you up for future money stress. This doesn’t only impact parents: kids may sense the unease or anxiety that financial precarity is causing the family. Instead, aim to make a gift shopping budget that’s realistic for you and provides consistency for your household, instead of financial highs and lows.
2. Consider shopping secondhand
The survey found that 15% of parents of minor kids who plan to buy gifts this year will purchase some gifts secondhand.
Buying previously loved gifts for children is a savvy way to shop, particularly since kids often outgrow things fast — clothing and toys alike. Though some parents may be uneasy about shopping secondhand, young children very likely won’t know the difference between a new toy or a thrift store treasure. Check out your local secondhand shops, Buy Nothing groups and Facebook Marketplace, or swap like-new toys with friends who have kids around the same age as yours.
3. Declutter your holiday gift list
Nearly 3 in 10 parents of children under 18 who plan to buy holiday gifts this year (29%) say they’ll purchase gifts for fewer people than they did in years past.
Consider paring down the number of people you get gifts for. Maybe you want to buy presents just for the kids in your family or friend group this year, or perhaps you can organize a Secret Santa swap with the adults. Talk to your loved ones about possibly not exchanging gifts — or exchanging less expensive gifts — to free up funds to cover your immediate family’s gift and travel expenses this holiday season.
4. Don’t forget caregivers in your budget
This is less of a money-saving strategy and more of a planning one, but if you plan to give gifts to teachers or caregivers, make sure to factor that into your holiday spending budget. That gives you an opportunity to snap up deals when they arise and also gives you a clearer picture of how much you need to set aside for gift spending.
5. Travel off season
Nearly 2 in 5 parents of minor children who plan to pay for flights or hotels this holiday season (38%) say they’ll keep their usual holiday travel plans this year, regardless of expense. But if you can be flexible, you may be able to save money by avoiding the busiest travel days around the holidays.
This isn’t possible for everyone, as work and school schedules may mean your only travel window is limited to the busiest — and priciest — of the year. But if you can spend quality time with loved ones during a less peak travel time, you’ll likely enter the new year with more of a financial cushion.
The complete survey methodology is available in the original article, published at NerdWallet.
The Motor City is home to a stunning riverfront, Motown music, a vibrant culinary scene and many historic sites for families to explore. Foodies, sports fans, musicians and travelers love metro Detroit for reasons that are diverse as its residents.
Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, getting to play tourist in Detroit is always exciting. On your next family day out, use this list of 100 kid-friendly things to do in metro Detroit to check off iconic bucket list items or discover a new-to-you hidden gem.
Check something off your Detroit bucket list
Photo credit: The Heidelberg Project
Whether you’re a suburbanite or a city dweller, you’re not a true Detroiter until you’ve checked a few of these quintessential attractions off your bucket list.
ExploreEastern Market.Browse local vendors and purchase healthy food and farm-fresh goodies, all while enjoying live music and other free family programming.
2. Visit theFisher Building.This historical landmark is perhaps the most distinctive building in Detroit’s skyline. Public access is limited to the lobby and retail shops, buttours are offered on Saturdays.
3. Ride theDetroit People Mover.Families can zoom all over downtown forfreeon Detroit’s elevated light rail.
4. Tour the Shinola factory.Families with kids 12 and up can take a 90 minute tour of the company’s production facility, which makes leather goods and other luxury lifestyle items.
5. Eat atMom’s Spaghetti.Kids will love the simple comfort food on the menu. Parents will love that the restaurant is owned by iconic rapper Eminem and showcases memorabilia from the metro Detroit native’s career.
6. Play at theMonroe Street Midway.One of my personal favorite outdoor attractions in Detroit, the Midway is a summer playground located in the heart of downtown. Hoop it up on the colorful basketball courts, hit the roller rink or relax and take in the scenery and live music from local DJs.
7. Visit theHeidelberg Project.Instantly recognizable by its iconic polka dots, the house at The Heidelberg Project attracts artists and curiosity seekers. The non-profit art space never charges an admission fee, making it one ofmetro Detroit’s great free attractions for families.
8. Get inspired atDabls Mbad African Bead Museum.See 21 art installations made out of handmade African beads and other unique materials. Admission is alwaysfree.
9. Explore the city’s neighborhoods.While tourist attractions are part of what makes Detroit such an exciting city, so much of the city’s vibrancy and culture lies in its neighborhoods. Go beyond downtown and explore a new neighborhood using one of ourfamily neighborhood guides. Plus, we have tons of guides for exploring the suburbs, too!
Indulge in a food tour
Photo credit: Lipuma’s Coney Island
Detroit has a diverse and vibrant food scene. From classics likeconey dogsandDetroit-style pizzatoincredible dessertsand yummy allergy-friendly options, it would take you a lifetime to eat your way through this city!
10. Pan pizza or thin crust?That’s for you to decide! (Personally, I’ll take those crispy edges on Detroit pan-style any day!) Check out theselocal pizza joints for familiesthat are serving up everything from Detroit-style pies to and bold BBQ pizza to vegan and allergy-friendly slices.
11. Trya coney dog.Topped with chili, onion and mustard, coney dogs are a staple in Detroit’s culinary scene.These family-friendly hot dog spotscarry classic coney dogs, as well as plain options for picky eaters.
12. Indulgein a grilled cheese.Speaking of picky eaters, every parent knows you can’t go wrong with grilled cheese. Visit these local spots for thebest grilled cheese sandwiches in metro Detroit, including options to add bacon or even lobster to your sammy.
13. Satisfyyour sweet tooth.Whether you’re visiting for a vacation or just for the day, no trip is complete without dessert! Like me, Detroit has a serious sweet tooth and the city takes its dessert seriously. Find milkshakes topped with sugary treats, loaded cookies, waffles and cheesecake, vegan treats and even moreover-the-top desserts at these metro Detroit sweet shops.
14. Eatat a themed restaurant.Turn your next family meal into an exciting experience with a visit to one of thesethemed restaurants for metro Detroit families. Dine in a miniature museum, or enjoy a meal in old school digs that honor the Motor City’s industrial history.
Visit a cultural gem with your kids
Photo credit: EE Berger
Metro Detroit is home to amazing cultural experiences, including art, history and science museums. Here are just a few of the city’s great cultural centers and events to visit with kids.
15. Educateyour family on the city’s historyat theDetroit Historical Museum. Residents of Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park can visit for free with a Detroiter membership.
16. VisitThe Henry Ford.TheHenry FordMuseum of American Innovationis an exciting way to learn how Detroit got its nickname as The Motor City. The museum is also home to the Rosa Parks bus, the Kennedy Limousine, over a hundred antique cars and exciting rotating exhibits.
17. Travel back in timewith a visit toGreenfield Village. This outdoor adventure includes nearly 100 historic buildings. Explore seven historic districts, catch a ride in a real Model T and much more.
19. Getfunkyat theMotown Museum. The museum is located in the original Motown Studios headquarters and recording studio. Photographs, artifacts, costumes and other memorabilia will transport your family back to a time when the city was known as Hitsville, USA.
20. Discover dinosaurs, unseen worlds and more natural wonders at the University of Micihgan’sMuseum of Natural History.
21. Takea trip to theDetroit Institute of Arts.Recently named the top museum in the country by USA Today, the DIA’s collection has more than 65,000 works of art. Plus, we love the views from the museum’s cafeteria-style Cafe DIA.
22. Seemodern and contemporary artat theCranbrook Art Museum. The museum’s campus is home to world-renowned architecture, sculpture and beautiful gardens.
23. Takeadvantage of free admission at theMuseum of Contemporary Art Detroit.Tweens and teens will love the unique rotating exhibits and contemporary art. After your visit, grown ups can stop at the museum’s cafe for coffee drinks or cocktails — plus yummy treats for all ages!
25. Michigan Science Centeroffers hands-on activities and exciting science experiments for curious kiddos.
26. Cranbrook Institute of Scienceis home to interactive exhibits, a planetarium and observatory, world-class collections and even a T.rex and a meteorite!
Consider adding one of these annual events to your Detroit Bucket List for an experience that is quintessential Detroit.
32. From dinosaur and dragon strolls to charming holiday events,Canterbury Villagehas a full events calendar of exciting activities for families. Even when there’s not an event, the village’s shops, restaurants and beautiful grounds make the historic village a great destination for a family day out.
33. Celebratethe seasonatBlake Farms. From lavender and sunflower festivals to Cider Dayze and pumpkin patches, there’s a fun outdoor festival for every season.
Midwest weather is notorious for being, well, a bit unstable. It’s not unusual to see people out enjoying the sunshine one day and bundled up to brave the snow the next. Winters here can be frigid, and summers can be hot hot hot!
No matter what the forecast calls for, southeast Michigan offers a variety of ways to enjoy the outdoors in all seasons. Check out these nature spots and places for outdoor play the next time your family wants to enjoy a breath of fresh air.
37. Enjoy riverfront views, public art, fun playgrounds and peaceful parks along theDetroit Riverfront.
38. Explore theDequindre Cut Greenway, an urban recreation path built on an old railway. The two-mile path offers paved lanes for pedestrians and cyclists. Along the route you’ll find outdoor stages, plazas and the Dequindre Cut Freight Yard bar.
44. VisitWilliam G. Milliken State Park and Harbor. Located on the Riverfront, this state park is a popular place for family picnics. The park is divided into three areas: the harbor, the picnic area and a bern area that offers two spotting scopes to see across the river to Canada.
45. Play at theHuron-Clinton Metroparks.These 13 parks offer playgrounds,m bike trails, fishing, ice skating, camping and biking more outdoor fun for metro Detroit families.
Lions, tigers and bears — and so much more! Your family can visit and learn about their favorite animals, enjoy nature-based activities and get up close and personal with wildlife at these aquariums, nature centers and more.
49. Visit a nature center.Southeast Michigan has manyfree nature centersthat offer educational programming, nature activities,kid-friendly hiking trailsand more for outdoorsy families. Check their upcoming events to find out when you can visit for an animal encounter.
50. Take a trip to alocal farmand interact with friendly farm animals like horses, cows, donkeys, chickens and even reindeer!
53. Keep an eye out for when the newLegasea Aquariumopens this spring.
54. Enjoy free admissionat theBelle Isle Aquarium,the oldest original aquarium in the nation.
55. Get hands-on atThe Reptarium. Reptile enthusiasts will love the variety of snakes, lizards, tortoises and other scaly creatures that are on display. Even visitors that are scared of reptiles can learn to conquer their fears and learn something new about these incredible creatures.
Don’t let the rain dampen your family fun! Whether the weather isn’t cooperating or you just need a new place to play, kids can spend all day at these exciting indoor spots in southeast Michigan.
57. Play the day awayat one of thebest indoor play places in southeast Michigan. You’ll discover family fun centers, play places with exciting themes and even some spots that offer coffee shops and Wi-Fi for parents.
58. Build a brick-tastic creationatLegoland Discovery Center. Plus, enjoy Lego-themed movies, rides and activities.
60. Explore the natural worldatAnn Arbor Hands-On Museum. This museum has 10 exhibit areas with hands-on activities for kids of all ages.
61. Experience the Great Indoors.Located on Detroit’s Riverfront, theOutdoor Adventure Centerbrings all the outdoor fun inside, with activities like archery, a fishing simulator, nature exhibits and even an indoor waterfall!
64. Go fowling.This unique combo of bowling and football is a blast for older kiddos and families that love sports. Try it yourself atFowling Warehouse in Hamtramck.
65. Tryaxe throwingat one of these family-friendly axe throwing spots in metro Detroit. The sport is best for older kids, so be sure to check out any age requirements before you go.
66. Get your game onatMarvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum, a free admission arcade with vintage coin-operated machines, new video games and tons of oddities and unique memorabilia.
70. Spend the day at the library.Theseamazing children’s librariesin the city and suburbs offer free activities, a great selection of children’s books, toys and games and other learning resources for families.
Embark on a thrilling adventure
Photo credit: Cedar Point
If your family loves an adrenaline-filled adventure, these amusement parks and thrilling adventure parks are sure to deliver tons of family fun.
71. Get your thrills atCedar Point,an amusement park just two hours away from Detroit. Ride more than 70 rides, including 17 record-breaking roller coasters.
72. Climb through the treetopsatTreeRunner Adventure Parks. Navigate an aerial ropes course in the forest, or enjoy on-the-ground activities like gemstone mining and mini golf.
74. Rock climbingis a great activity for adventurous kids, especially when the Midwest weather isn’t cooperating with an outdoor adventure.
Go on a magical quest
Photo credit: Jurassic Gardens
Embark on a family quest to discover magical realms and mythological creatures, right here in Michigan! Magic is all around metro Detroit — if you know where to look!
75. Go searching for dinosaurs.From fossil digs to animatronic dinos, there are dinosaurs hidden in plain sight all over town. On your next family adventure, check out one of theseplaces to see dinosaurs in metro Detroit.
77. Transport your family back in timewith a trip to theMichigan Renaissance Festival. Meet artisans, jousters, fairies and more whimsical folk at this exciting Renaissance faire.
Take a day trip
Photo credit: Experience Grand Rapids
When you need a change of scenery, Detroit is just a drive away from these exciting destinations.
78. Ann Arboris less than an hour from Detroit, making it the perfect city for your family’s next day trip adventure! Visit the University of Michigan’s campus, museums and arboretum; stroll through a charming downtown; discover kid-friendly dining and much more.
79. Head to Shores & Islands Ohio, a.k.aSandusky, Ohio. The thrilling attractions at Cedar Point and the natural beach scenery of Put-In-Bay are two of the area’s main draws for families.
80. Grand Rapidsis home to craft breweries, a gorgeous sculpture park, fun festivals and a great children’s museum. Plus, it’s just two-and-a-half hours away!
81. Hollandis a popular destination for its annual Tulip Time Festival in May, but the lakefront town offers beautiful scenery and exciting activities for families all year round.
82. Drive two hours toKalamazoo,a college town that offers something for every family. Catch a sporting event, dine at a farm-to-table eatery, sample craft brews, visit an aerospace museum, book a unique crafting experience and more.
83. Visit the state’s capital city.Lansingoffers affordable fun for families on a budget. Check out the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum and the Impression 5 Science Center, which has a Scooby-Doo exhibit through May 12, 2024.
84. Take a beach trip toNew Buffalo.Although it’s a bit of a hike for a day trip — just under 4 hours — this charming town is the perfect beach escape for making you forget you’re in the Midwest.
Enjoy seasonal activities
Photo credit: Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill
No matter what time of year you choose to explore Detroit, there are exciting seasonal activities and traditions to experience with your kids. Discover some of these traditions and events that are unique to this city.
87. Indulge in paczki.Fat Tuesday is the day before Lent begins, and Detroiters celebrate by eatingpaczki,indulgent Polish pastries that are traditionally filled with cream, custard or other yummy goodies. Here iswhere to find paczki in metro Detroit, but be warned — these delicacies sell out quickly!
89. Browsing afarmers marketis a great way to shop for produce and farm fresh goodies. You’ll also find live music, kids’ activities, cooking demonstrations and much more at thesesoutheast Michigan farmers markets.
Shelby Township is a dessert lover’s paradise, offering a delightful mix of bakeries and sweet treat spots that cater to all cravings.
Whether you’re in the mood for freshly baked goods, creamy frozen custard, or creative dessert cups, these local dessert destinations deliver deliciousness with every bite. Here are four must-try spots in Shelby Township to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Momma’s Dessert Bar offers a variety of desserts, including ice cream, sundaes, and baked goods. Known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious treats.
For over 30 years, this beloved bakery has been a community favorite, offering a delightful assortment of cakes, pastries, and baked goods. It’s the perfect stop for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth.
This bakery features a tempting variety of mini dessert cups in flavors such as Red Velvet, Nutella, Biscoff, Strawberry Shortcake, Cookies n’ Cream, Carrot, and Pistachio. You can also indulge in chocolate-covered strawberries, Rice Krispies treats, Oreos, and pretzels. In addition, they offer cake pops, cakesicles, and hot cocoa bombs.
Erma’s Original Frozen Custard is a local favorite and historic landmark in Shelby Township, known for its rich and creamy frozen custard made fresh daily. Guests can customize their treats with a wide variety of toppings, from fresh fruit and candy to sauces and nuts.Note:This business is closed for the season, but check back on their site when they open for the 2025 season.
Utica Community Schools is a growing district with a commitment to offering students education options they couldn’t find elsewhere in southeast Michigan.
Students at Utica schools can choose to learn in a classic school environment or in a specialty center focused on an interest in subjects like math, science and engineering.
This story was updated on Nov. 14, 2024 by Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. She added writer Amanda Rahn’s reports on the latest news for Utica Community Schools. Questions? Email katina@metroparent.com.
Here’s a breakdown on everything parents should know about UCS
Claim to fame: Utica Community Schools is known for its student achievement. Their students consistently score above state averages. Students in this school district have access to a diverse selection of clubs, sports and specialty programs. Plus, the school district’s graduation rates are among the best in all of southeast Michigan.
2. Historic upgrades to facilities
Utica Community School began the largest and most transformative facility improvement project in the history of the district over the summer. The bond, totaling $550 million, marks a major investment in the repair and upkeep of the district’s buildings.
The reconstruction of DeKeyser Elementary is at the top of the list and will serve as a blueprint for other district redesigns.
Other upcoming changes include new turf fields at the high schools, furniture upgrades, modernization of cafeteria spaces, better plumbing and more.
Each school has a detailed list of improvements and timelines for the updates. Interested parents can find moreinformation from the district here.
3. Safety improvements to schools
A major aspect of the historic bond and its impact will be focused on improving safety for students and staff.
Some of the changes include enhancing door handles and impact and shatterproof glass at the high schools, extra security at entrance and exit points, upgraded security cameras and more.
Another concern from community stakeholders and school leadership is the open layout design of some district buildings, especially in cases where classrooms are unable to be completely locked. Those outdated designs will be changed as part of the facility upgrades,reports C & G News.
4. District introduces wellness fair
Utica Community Schools launched a newWellness Fairlast month focused on improving the community’s mental and physical wellbeing.
The free event featured more than 35 community resource vendors as well as a Kids Zone and speakers warning of the dangers of nicotine and vaping. Another presentation topic was how to focus in a digital world.
The fair will now be held annually–next year’s UCS Wellness Fair will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025.
5. New Health and Human Services Academy for students
Utica Community Schools introduceda new academyto prepare students for a role in the health and human services industry.
The Academy is housed at Utica High School and instructs students on core subjects like English, social studies, math and science courses that align with state academic guides but are delivered through a medical lens.
Instruction also focuses on three career pathways: rehabilitation services, public safety and therapeutic services.
Alongside the comprehensive health instruction, the program offers students a medical career expo in their sophomore year, a medical career-related job shadowing during their junior year and an extended internship during their senior year, says the district.
Winter break offers a wonderful opportunity for families to unwind and spend quality time during the holiday season.
Here are the winter break dates for Utica Community Schools for the 2024-2025 school year, plus a few fun ideas to make this holiday season extra special for your family.
Here are some great activities to keep your kids entertained and make this winter break extra special. For even more inspiration, check out our full guide to winter break activities in metro Detroit!
Enjoy a holiday lights tour. Take a drive or stroll through metro Detroit’s brightest holiday lights displays! From charming neighborhood setups to larger shows — you definitely have to see the Big Bright Light Show in downtown Rochester!
Visit a museum. Make the most of your time off with a family museum day. Stop by Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village if you’re feeling festive.
Give back to the community. Embrace the spirit of the season by volunteering as a family. Many local organizations welcome families to lend a hand, whether it’s preparing meals at local shelters, helping at food banks, or assembling care packages.
Have a cozy day at home.Plan a cozy day indoors with holiday crafts, movie marathons, and hot cocoa. Get creative with winter-themed activities, bake seasonal treats, or set up a blanket fort for a memorable day at home.
