Good evening, families, and Happy Friday!
We have had such a tremendous start of the school year.
Today, every single Husky in attendance was sent to the Principal's office! I told them I would be sending a text message home that said they were sent to the principal’s office and to talk with them about our discussion. I have received SO MANY wonderful text messages, phone calls, and emails about our full-day endeavor. Today, I welcomed over 400 Huskies into my office and every classroom teacher has pictures from the event.
Here’s what we talked about, in case you want to see and discuss with your child.
If you were worried after receiving the text or responded negatively with your Husky, it’s time for reflection and a much-needed change of viewpoint about the principal’s office, in general.
As a dad [of 4 kids, 10 and under], I desperately want my children to love school and be surrounded by adults who are supportive and encourage them to continue loving school and the importance of continuing to learn.
Today, your Husky learned first-hand that they have a supportive, positive, and friendly adult who can help solve problems, but also hold them accountable for their behavior day-in and day-out.
My recommendations, as a parent and school leader of all of our Huskies:
- Assume positive intent. This is critical moving forward. Let’s treat our Huskies like they’re guests in our own home and stay fresh with our conversations and remain positive. Believe 50% of what they say happens at school and we will also believe 50% of what they say happens at home.
- Ask them about their school day. “How was your day at school?” is not enough. We get the “Good” responses already and it’s not enough. “Tell me about the special you had today” or “tell me about a time when you helped a friend” are going to be some of the most informative things you can say.
All-in-all, I am excited to be here and the welcome I have received is felt deeply.
I am looking forward to meeting with EVERYONE on Monday, August 24, 2026 at 6 p.m. at Hutchings Elementary School. Here, you will learn more about me, my education leadership philosophy, and the direction I want to take Hutchings in the years to come. Please come! PTO meeting to follow.
Let's work together to make Hutchings Elementary School the premier destination for education, not only in Howell, but in the state of Michigan. I want it for my own children, so let’s make it a reality right here.
Send me a text about your experience discussing today’s visit to the principal’s office: 517-302-3773. Time of night doesn’t matter.
Best,
Dr. Charles Chalfant, Principal
Hutchings Elementary School
Cell: 517-302-3773
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