MACOMB, Mich. – Students and staff from L’Anse Creuse High School and L’Anse Creuse High School – North joined together to raise awareness for suicide prevention and remind students throughout the district that they are never alone and that support is always available. The initiative encouraged students from both schools to look out for one another and promote a culture of care and connection.

On Friday, September 18, the Crusaders hosted the Lancers for their annual rivalry football game to earn the coveted John Armstrong Jug. At the end of the third quarter, student leaders and football players from both sides of the field met in the middle of the football field, set aside their friendly rivalry, and read a message to the entire crowd about being a light in the dark for each other. 

“Our students demonstrated that while schools may compete on the field, they stand united when it comes to supporting one another and promoting mental health,” said Superintendent Keith Howell.

On Sunday, September 20, the L’Anse Creuse High School – North National Honor Society (NHS) and DECA Club hosted their second annual Be the Light Suicide Prevention Walk, with all proceeds from the event benefitting Kevin’s Song, a nonprofit organization dedicated to generating public awareness about the causes of suicide, its prevalence in our society and possible preventive measures. In total, the walk had 366 attendees from across the district and raised $8,668.72 for Kevin’s Song.

“To me, the Be the Light Suicide Prevention Walk is about bringing awareness, spreading compassion and allowing our community to come together as a reminder that you are not alone during hard times,” said Mia Spasich, a student leader for the walk. “It is more than an event; it is an opportunity to show up for those who are struggling and create a support system out of our community where people feel supported and appreciated.”

The district is incredibly proud of our students, staff, and community for raising awareness for such an important cause. L'Anse Creuse Public Schools encourages any student or family in need of mental health support to contact their school's counseling office or student support team. Additional assistance is available 24 hours a day through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

MACOMB, Mich. – In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Week, students and staff from L’Anse Creuse High School – North’s National Honor Society (NHS) and DECA Club will be hosting their second annual Be the Light Suicide Prevention Walk on Sunday, September 20, 2026 from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm. All proceeds from the event will benefit Kevin’s Song, a nonprofit organization dedicated to generating public awareness about the causes of suicide, its prevalence in our society and possible preventive measures.

The planned route for the walk will start on the high school’s track and loop through the surrounding neighborhood. In addition, attendees can expect several interactive stations, mental health resources and a short presentation during the event. Registration is $25 per person and can be completed online at: https://schoolpay.com/parent/mip/Mf4z. The Be the Light Walk is open to all community members and includes an event t-shirt while supplies last.

“To me, the Be the Light Suicide Prevention Walk is about bringing awareness, spreading compassion and allowing our community to come together as a reminder that you are not alone during hard times,” said Mia Spasich, a student leader for the event. “It is more than an event; it is an opportunity to show up for those who are struggling and create a support system out of our community where people feel supported and appreciated. Choosing to bring this event back this school year was an easy decision. Although it’s taking a lot of teamwork, along with planning, the impact it can make in our community makes it all worth it.”

In the fall of 2024, students and staff from High School – North’s NHS attended a local high school’s Be Aware suicide prevention walk and were inspired to organize an event of their own. Last year, North’s NHS Chapter held their first Be the Light walk around the neighborhood and raised $5,728.53 for Kevin’s Song. 

CLINTON TWP, Mich. – The district welcomed all teachers and staff back for the 2026-2027 school year with our Annual Opening Day Kickoff event at the John Armstrong Performing Arts Center (JAPAC) on August 26. This special professional development event featured presentations from Superintendent Keith Howell and keynote speaker Brian Mendler, as well as a student panel called Mr. Howell and Friends.

              Staff were introduced to this year’s theme, ‘The Power of Moments,’ with each presentation aimed at solidifying that theme for the school year. During the Mr. Howell and Friends panel, L’Anse Creuse students spoke about how simple moments, actions, or words from their teachers made an impact on them, with several students giving a personal shoutout to staff members in the audience. Afterwards, Brian Mendler gave his presentation to inspire teachers and staff to reflect on the ways they react and respond to different things throughout the school year. He provided advice, real-life scenarios, and techniques teachers can use to help themselves and their students thrive this school year.

              Superintendent Keith Howell extends his thanks to keynote speaker Brian Mendler, the community and vendor partners who supported the event, the L’Anse Creuse Food and Nutrition department, and all our student leaders for the role they played in making the Opening Day Kickoff a success.