Great Lakes Bay Early College

GLBEC GAZETTE

August/September 2025 Monthly Newsletter of Great Lakes Bay Early College

Mr. Woods' Corner:

Welcome Back to School!

As the new academic year approaches, the GLBEC team is excited to welcome students and families back for what promises to be a year full of meaningful learning, inspiring projects, and personal growth. The 2025–2026 school year will offer fresh opportunities to explore, lead, and thrive.

To help families and students prepare for a successful start, here are a few important reminders:

  1. School Supplies
    The suggested school supplies list was shared in June and July and is attached below for easy reference. All required textbooks for GLBEC courses will be provided by GLBEC teachers. Click Here

    for the suggested school supply list.

  2. Important Dates
    The first day of school is Tuesday, August 19th for all new students and those enrolled in GLBEC classes. For a full list of key events and academic dates, please Click Here.

  3. Coming Soon: A Better Way to Stay Connected:
    Staying connected is easier than ever with the launch of the new Rooms App. This communication platform allows students and families to receive real-time updates, weather-related closings, event reminders, and monthly newsletters. The app also provides direct access to mentors and administration—all in one convenient location. Click Here to learn more and when the Rooms App will launch!

  4. Student & Parent Handbook
    Families are encouraged to review the Student & Parent Handbook prior to orientation. Many of the topics covered will be discussed during orientation sessions. Click Here

  5. Extracurricular Activities
    Students are strongly encouraged to participate in sports and extracurricular activities offered at their home high schools. GLBEC believes in developing well-rounded learners who engage fully in both academic and personal development experiences.

  6. Support & Resources
    The GLBEC team is here to support students and families every step of the way. If there are any questions or needs, please do not hesitate to reach out.

  7. Click here for the daily school schedule.

The GLBEC community is looking forward to a dynamic and successful school year ahead. Here’s to a year of connection, achievement, and growth!

Yours In Education,

Mr. Woods, Program Director

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Orientation Dates

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The GLBEC team is excited to announce orientation dates for both returning and new students. These sessions are designed to provide essential information and support a smooth, successful transition into the new school year.


Returning Students Orientation:

  • Date: Thursday, August 14, 2025

  • Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

  • Location: SVSU. Gilbertson Hall-Alan W. Ott Auditorium

Returning GLBEC students will receive a helpful refresher on policies, procedures, and expectations for the upcoming academic year. Students will also have the opportunity to schedule time with their mentor teacher, offering a valuable head start on academic planning and personal goal setting.

New Student Orientation:

  • Date: Friday, August 15, 202

  • Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

  • Location: SVSU. Gilbertson Hall-Alan W. Ott Auditorium


New students and their families are warmly invited to attend this comprehensive and engaging orientation session. Representatives from the dual enrollment offices of both partnering institutions will provide an overview of their departments and highlight how their collaboration with GLBEC supports student success.

The GLBEC teaching staff will also present an introduction to the curriculum and share learning expectations for the year ahead.

During the second portion of orientation, students will complete placement assessments in English Language Arts (ELA), Math, and Science with the GLBEC instructional team. While students are testing, parents and guardians will meet with Mr. Woods for a detailed presentation on GLBEC expectations and program structure.

At the conclusion of placement testing, students will receive their GLBEC course schedule and be introduced to their assigned mentor teacher.

Families are also invited to take a self-guided tour of the beautiful SVSU campus following orientation. This is a great opportunity to explore the facilities and become familiar with the many resources available to GLBEC students.

The GLBEC team looks forward to welcoming all students and families for what promises to be a successful and inspiring school year!

First Day of School

The first day of school for students enrolled in GLBEC courses will be Tuesday, August 19, 2025, with classes running from 8:30 AM to 2:20 PM.

For students attending courses at Delta College or Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU), the first day of college classes will be Monday, August 25, 2025. Students are encouraged to check their college portal for specific course schedules and classroom information.

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School Calendar & Important Dates

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Attached below is a summary of Important Dates to help students and families stay informed about key events such as textbook pickup, orientation, FAFSA Nights, and more. The GLBEC team encourages families to review this document carefully and mark their calendars to ensure a smooth and well-prepared school year.

Student Handbook

Please see below the attached Student/Parent Handbook for your reference. This handbook covers important policies, procedures, and program information essential for the upcoming school year.

We will be discussing key sections of the handbook during our orientation dates. We encourage you to review the handbook prior to our time together. Click Here

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Textbook Pickup

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Attention Returning Students:
Students enrolled in college courses are asked to pick up their textbooks during the designated times listed below. Upon arrival at the college bookstore, guidance will be provided by either Mr. Woods or Mrs. Gloss to ensure a smooth pickup process.

Textbook Pickup:

  • Delta College:

    • Date: Tuesday, August 12, 2025

    • Time: 9am-11am and 12pm-3:30pm

    • Location: Delta Bookstore

  • Saginaw Valley State University:

    • Date: Wednesday, August 13, 2024

    • Time: 9am-11am and 12pm-3pm

    • Location: SVSU Bookstore

No School Labor Day!

There will be No School September 1st-2nd. School will resume September 3rd for all students.

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Meet The GLBEC Team

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It is with great pleasure that GLBEC introduces its dedicated and talented team. The GLBEC staff is excited to support each student’s educational journey and looks forward to a meaningful, engaging, and informative year ahead in partnership with students and families.

Science with Mr. Conklin

Greetings! My name is Mr. Norman Conklin, and I’m thrilled to welcome you to the GLBEC science experience. This year marks my 15th year teaching and mentoring students in science at GLBEC, and I’m just as energized as ever to begin this new chapter with Cohort 15. My goal is to challenge and expand your understanding of science while helping you develop essential laboratory, analytical, and critical thinking skills that will serve you well in college and beyond. You can expect this course to be both rigorous and rewarding—often at the same time—and I’m here to support you every step of the way. I look forward to exploring the fascinating world of science with you this year. Until then, enjoy the rest of your summer!


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Literature and Writing with Mrs. Kojak

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My name is Therese Kojak, and I’m excited to begin my Sixth year teaching English Language Arts at GLBEC. I have a deep passion for writing, communication, and empowering students to express themselves—both on paper and through public speaking. Whether we’re crafting persuasive essays, analyzing literature, or building confidence in our communication skills, I aim to create a classroom environment where every voice is heard and valued. I’m truly looking forward to meeting each of you at orientation in August as we begin this exciting new chapter together!  

Math with Mr. Christensen

I’m thrilled to welcome our new Cohort 15 students, as well as our returning students and their families, to another exciting academic year! I look forward to meeting each of you next month as we begin this incredible journey together. For the past ten years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching the art of logical thinking—commonly known as mathematics—here at GLBEC, following previous teaching experiences across Michigan and in Hawaii. My passion lies in helping students shift their mindset about math and discover its real-world relevance and universal power. Just as important to me is the opportunity to mentor and support students as they navigate the transition into college life. This program is more than academics—it’s a launchpad for your future. I’m honored to be part of your journey and excited for the amazing paths you’ll take!  


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Career Navigation with Mrs. Gloss

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My name is Sharmee Gloss, and I’m proud to serve as the Career Navigator for GLBEC. This year marks my 11th year supporting students and families as part of the GLBEC team. In my role, I assist with a wide range of topics including college applications, financial aid, job shadowing, volunteer hours, transcripts, and more. My goal is to help you confidently navigate your academic and career journey by providing personalized support every step of the way. I’m excited to partner with you and your family throughout your time at GLBEC and look forward to meeting you soon! 

Important Dates To Remember

  • August 12th: Delta Textbook Pick-Up

  • August 13th: SVSU Textbook Pick-up

  • August 14th: Returning Students Orientation

  • August 15th: New Student Orientation

  • August 19th: First Day of School for GLBEC Students

  • August 25th: First Day of College Classes at Delta & SVSU

  • September 1st-2nd: No School Labor Day

  • September 3rd: School Resumes

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GLBEC Contact Information

  • Rodney Woods, Program Director: 989-686-9146 (Delta College) or 989-964-6374 (SVSU). Email: rwoods1@sisd.cc.

  • Sharmee Gloss, Career Navigator. 989-686-9165 (Delta College) or 989-964-6373 (SVSU). Email: sgloss@sisd.ccc.