What makes Imlay City Schools special?

Staff share their observations

 

Editor’s note: The following article was submitted by Dr. Dina Tallis, Imlay City Schools Executive Director-Curriculum and Instruction. We appreciate the district keeping our readers informed of the good things happening in the schools.

IMLAY CITY — February is often associated with appreciation, gratitude and heart. When reflecting on what makes Imlay City Schools special, one word rises to the top: heart.

What sets ICS apart is not just its programs, goals or initiatives. It is the people.

When staff members were asked why they love working at Imlay City Schools, their responses revealed a powerful and consistent theme – connection.

Jeff Gartrell, ICHS science teacher, shared, “We have really kind students.” That kindness is visible in classrooms, hallways, performances and everyday interactions.

Coordinator for the Performing Arts, Rebekah Brewer, described her experience this way: “I consider it a gift to work with our awesome Performing Arts kids. Every day, I get a new chance to share my passion for the performing arts with some of the most creative and beautiful souls. It is my greatest joy to create opportunities for our students to hone their skills and develop a lifelong appreciation for dance and musical theatre.”

Lori Keeley, who works in the Weston cafeteria, reminds us that sometimes heart looks like lunch trays and daily hugs: “I love my job because I get to feed the kids and watch the smiles when they get to try new items of deliciousness, not to mention the daily hugs from the littles!”

Across roles and buildings, one message is clear: the staff cares deeply.

Coordinator of Custodial Services, Shane Collison, shared, “The Imlay City staff truly cares about the students and their well-being. I love being a part of a team that truly cares about our future.”

Chelsea Arlington, Weston Social Worker, reflected on the strength of the community: “It’s small, but it feels alive, warm, welcoming and deeply connected. There’s a real sense that students, families, staff and community members are all here for each other and in this together.”

Shelby Stoddard, 2nd-grade teacher, highlighted the relationships built over nearly a decade, describing students as “curious, determined, and excited to learn,” and noting that the friendships, support and joy experienced at ICS make coming to work every day truly special.

ICHS English teacher, Jessica Dipzinski, shared, “I love the people who work here with me! I also love working with my students; they are funny, sweet and endearing. It is a joy to share my love of literature with them!”

At Spartan Bridge, Tim Wolford spoke about family: “We have prided ourselves as being a FAMILY here at Spartan Bridge. The most rewarding moments are those at our graduation ceremonies, watching a student who no one thought would graduate receive their diploma – that makes it all worth it!”

The commitment to students shows up in both visible and behind-the-scenes ways.

Jenna Shaw, from the ICS custodial team, shared her pride in helping make the school a safe place for students and staff, noting that “a clean school makes me feel good about my work.”

Heather Wagester, who teaches Elementary Specials, treasures seeing students grow from BK through 5th grade and the joy of receiving hugs and smiles when running into them in the community.

Christine Hibbler, ICMS teacher, summed it up beautifully: “Relationships truly matter. The support from my colleagues, the enthusiasm of my students, and the partnership with parents create a positive and encouraging environment every day.”

Beyond classrooms, Imlay City Schools is strengthened by a generous and engaged community. Families partner with schools. Local businesses show up in meaningful ways.

Community members attend performances, athletic events, and celebrations. From everyday encouragement to generous contributions of time and resources, the district thrives because the community believes in its children.

Imlay City Schools is more than a school district. It is a community united around student success.

In a month focused on appreciation, gratitude is extended to the staff, students, families and community members who make ICS such a special place.

At Imlay City Schools, success is seen in every student, every day – and that shared commitment is what truly makes ICS a place you want to be a part of.