MacDonald Early Childhood

We’re thrilled to start sharing some of the exciting changes in store for the upcoming school year!  Stay tuned as we highlight key updates and improvements designed to enhance learning, engagement, and our school community. Our goal is to keep our families and community informed every step of the way. 

• Anchor Bay School District will begin the 2025-2026 school year before Labor Day, with the first day of school on August 27, 2025. We understand this is a significant change for some families, so we encourage everyone to mark their calendars and plan summer vacations accordingly. 2025-26 Calendar  (For those who plan ahead, here is the 2026-27 Calendar too!)
• Preschool Information
• Elementary Updates including New Screenings for Kindergarten Students
• Middle School Reconfiguration
• Trimester and Secondary Eligibility Policy Update
  • More information on Trimesters
• SC4 Enhanced Dual Enrollment at ABHS
• Away for the Day Device Policy
  • Additional Information on the Device Policy
• Middle School South Tar Orientation Dates
• Middle School Building Times

Stay Tuned for Updates!

The Anchor Bay Science Special has been recognized with a 2025 Education Excellence Award, a prestigious honor given to only 10 programs statewide by the SET SEG Foundation in partnership with the Michigan Association of School Boards. This award highlights innovative programs that make a significant impact on student learning.

Traditional Full-Day Kindergarten

• Children must be 5 years old by September 1st of the school year in which they plan on attending Kindergarten. 
• Curriculum is based on the Michigan Standards for Kindergarten.

Young Fives

• Young Fives is a full day program designed for children turning 5 years old between June 1st and December 1st. 
• Gives children an extra year before attending Kindergarten.
• The Young Fives curriculum is based on the Michigan Standards for Kindergarten modified to meet the foundational academic, social/ emotional, and developmental needs for younger children.
• Schools of Choice is available for both programs.