🎒 Preschool is just around the corner!

If you live in Allegan County and have a child between ages 3–5, our team is ready to help you find the perfect program. 💬👶

Get started today: https://miearlychildhood.org/index.php?county=3&p=3

#PreschoolReady #AlleganESA #EarlyEducation #StartStrong #PreKForAll #PreK4All
3 days ago, Allegan Area ESA
preschool starts here

Join Our Team: Early Childhood Speech Language Pathologist

Allegan Area ESA is seeking an Early Childhood Speech Language Pathologist to help preschool-aged children strengthen their communication skills and reach key developmental milestones.

In this role, you’ll enjoy:
• A school-year calendar with built-in breaks and a predictable schedule
• Strong collaboration with educators and specialists
• Meaningful relationships with students and families
• And much more

If you're passionate about empowering young children and changing lives through communication, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today: https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/AlleganAreaESA/opening/177412

10 days ago, Allegan Area ESA
Child smiling with text that reads: Help kids find their voice and build the communication skills they needed to thrive!

Tech Center Students Receive Skilled Trades Scholarships from VanGoeye Home Improvement
Congratulations to Tech Center students Matthew, Cruz, and Trevor on earning VanGoeye Home Improvement (VGHI) scholarships in recognition of their hard work, dedication, and commitment to the skilled trades.


VGHI, an independent landscaping and construction company based in Plainwell, is committed to supporting the next generation of skilled trades professionals. Cameron VanGoeye recently presented the Tech Center recipients with their scholarships.
• Matthew, a recent graduate of Otsego High School and former Welding student, will continue his training this fall in the Welding program at Kalamazoo Valley Community College.
• Cruz, a recent Hopkins High School graduate and Building Trades II student, is building his career with Redline Concrete in Dorr.
• Trevor, also a recent Hopkins High School graduate and two-year Building Trades student, is already putting his skills to work as an excavator with Scott Pavlak Excavating in Hopkins.

We’re proud of all they’ve accomplished and excited to see where their careers take them next! Congrats, Matthew, Trevor, and Cruz - best wishes as you continue your journey in the skilled trades!

11 days ago, Allegan Area ESA
Tech Center students Matthew, Cruz and Trevor receive scholarships from VanGoeye Home Improvement in recognition of their hard work, dedication, and commitment to the skilled trades.

Hiring: Career Education Planning District (CEPD) Administrator
Help shape the future of career education in Allegan County!
Allegan Area ESA is hiring a Career Education Planning District (CEPD) Administrator to lead and strengthen career education opportunities for local students.
This role helps connect students to career exploration, hands-on learning, work-based experiences, apprenticeships, and high-quality Career and Technical Education programs that prepare them for life after graduation.
Join us in helping students turn their interests into careers! Learn more and apply: https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/AlleganAreaESA/opening/178439

12 days ago, Allegan Area ESA
People shaking hands with  text  that reads "Join our team: Career Education Planning District (CEPD) Administrator"

Michigan Association for Pupil Transport (MAPT): Region 8 Bus Rodeo

School bus drivers do much more than get students safely to and from school each day. They are highly trained professionals who navigate challenging situations while carrying our most precious cargo.

Recently, members of our transportation team participated in the Michigan School Bus Driving Championship, an event designed to sharpen driving skills, test knowledge of school bus regulations, and recognize excellence in pupil transportation.

Through a series of behind-the-wheel challenges, drivers demonstrated their ability to maneuver safely, judge distances and clearances, and apply best practices in real-world driving situations. The competition provides valuable learning opportunities that help drivers strengthen the skills they use every day on the road.

We are proud of our drivers for their commitment to safety, professionalism, and continuous improvement. Thank you for all you do to keep students safe.

16 days ago, Allegan Area ESA
Bus drivers wearing yellow and black matching shirts smile standing in front of an Allegan Area ESA bus.
Team members from the transportation department smile at the camera posed against a brick wall.
A certificate of acheivement for being the best of allegan county to participate in the MAPT Region 8 bus Rodeo
🎉 Get ready for Fall 2025 — Preschool enrollment is OPEN! ✏️
Give your child a strong start with a program designed to meet their unique needs. 💛

🖱️ Apply online today: https://miearlychildhood.org/index.php?county=3&p=3

#PreschoolEnrollment #Fall2025 #AlleganESA #ReadySetLearn #PreKForAll #PreK4All
17 days ago, Allegan Area ESA
Preschool Enrollment for all 4 year olds
The Final Stretch! 🌈

The school year is almost over — don’t let absences slow you down! 🏫
Consistency now helps students complete projects, retain learning, and head into summer ready for success.

💡 Small steps today lead to big achievements tomorrow.
#FinalStretch #AttendanceMatters #FinishStrong #EveryDayCounts #BePresentBePowerful
25 days ago, Allegan Area ESA
Small steps today lead to big achievements tomorrow
📊 The research is clear: high-quality preschool has powerful, long-term benefits for kids!

Children who attend are:
✅ More prepared for school
📖 Stronger in reading & math
🎯 Less likely to be held back or need special education

Registration is NOW OPEN for 3–4-year-olds at locations across the region!
📍 Learn more & sign up here: https://miearlychildhood.org/index.php?county=3&p=3

#PreschoolWorks #EarlyLearning #AlleganESA #PreKForAll #PreK4All
30 days ago, Allegan Area ESA
The foundation for learning
Transition Center Hosting Parking Lot Sale June 11 & 12

The Allegan Area ESA Transition Center is hosting a parking lot sale on June 11 and 12 to support student incentives - rewarding hard work, dedication, and positive behavior. We are looking for clothing, household goods, small furniture, books, toys, tools, and more.

Donation Collection Details
● Drop-off location: 221 Allen St, Otsego, MI 49078. If no one is there, please leave items outside the garage.
● Dates: May 23 – June 9 (these are the only drop-off dates)
● Note: Please ensure all items are clean and in working condition.

Items Needed for Donation
To make this fundraiser a success, we are seeking a wide variety of gently used items, including:
● Clothing and accessories: Men's, women's, and children's apparel, shoes, purses, belts, and jewelry
● Household goods: Dishes, glassware, kitchen utensils, small working appliances (coffee makers, blenders), and home décor such as picture frames and artwork
● Small, lightweight furniture pieces (nightstands, end tables, chairs), lamps, bookshelves, and office supplies
● Media and entertainment: Books (fiction, non-fiction, children's), vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, and video games and consoles
● Toys and games: Board games, puzzles, Legos, and outdoor toys such as bicycles, scooters, or sporting equipment
● Tools and outdoor: Gardening tools, hand tools, working power tools, and camping gear
● Linens: Clean bedding, sheets, blankets, comforters, and towels

Items Not Accepted (for safety and logistical reasons)
● No heavy items or large furniture (such as couches, dressers, recliners)
● Large appliances or non-working electronics
● Hazardous materials (paint, tires, chemicals)
● Items that are broken, stained, or missing essential parts
about 1 month ago, Allegan Area ESA
Five young adults wearing matching navy blue T-shirts stand side by side in front of a wall with a colorful abstract logo. They are smiling and posing casually, with one person making a peace sign. The group appears relaxed and friendly, standing indoors against a neutral background.
One Month to Shine! 🎯

May is the month to finish strong and celebrate growth! 🌟
Even a few missed days can make it harder to stay on track — encourage routines, focus, and consistent attendance.

✅ Show up
✅ Stay engaged
✅ Finish the year proud!
#EveryDayCounts #FinishStrong #AttendanceMatters #BePresentBePowerful
about 1 month ago, Allegan Area ESA
One month to shine, every day counts

Allegan Area Educational Service Agency is pleased to announce Kim Bruwer as the new principal of the Allegan Area ESA Tech Center.

Bruwer brings more than 20 years of experience in education to this role. In this position, she will oversee programming, student support, staff leadership, and community partnerships at the Tech Center.

“We are excited for Kim to step into the principal role at the Tech Center. Her positivity, enthusiasm, and passion for student success are felt by all who have the chance to work with her,” shared Bill Brown, superintendent of Allegan Area Educational Service Agency. “She has served as the assistant principal for the last year and demonstrated the skills and leadership qualities that will help both staff and students thrive. We look forward to seeing her continue to build strong relationships, inspire innovation, and lead the Tech Center into an exciting new chapter.”

Prior to joining the Tech Center, Bruwer served in a variety of roles at Kalamazoo Central High School including teacher, reading specialist, mentor, and School Improvement Chairperson. During her time at Kalamazoo Central she received the Most Influential Educator Award and You Make a Difference Award for her dedication to student growth and success.

“I’m honored to be the principal of the Allegan Area ESA Tech Center and support staff and students as they learn hands-on skills that will prepare them for their future careers and educational opportunities,” said Bruwer. “What excites me most about this opportunity is being able to continue to work alongside students, staff, and the community to create an inclusive, supportive, and forward-thinking learning environment. I’m energized by the chance to grow and develop together, supporting innovative programs, empowering educators, and ensuring every student feels valued, challenged, and prepared for their future.”

about 1 month ago, Allegan Area ESA
Kim Bruwer, Principal of the Allegan Area ESA Tech Center, smiling in a professional headshot while wearing a black Tech Center Allegan Area ESA jacket and maroon shirt against a light background.
Finish Strong! 🏁

May is here — the finish line is in sight! 🎓
Every day counts. Staying consistent now helps students end the year on top, academically and socially.

📚 Show up, stay engaged, and finish strong!
#BePresentBePowerful #AttendanceMatters #FinishStrong #EveryDayCounts
about 1 month ago, Allegan Area ESA
Show up, stay engaged and finish strong

You’re invited to attend an upcoming public hearing to learn more and share your feedback on the Health and Human Development Curriculum for Hillside Learning Center and the Transition Center.

During each hearing, Advisory Board members will provide an overview of the curriculum, share new teaching requirements, review instructional materials, and provide time for community questions, feedback, and discussion. We look forward to hearing from you!

about 1 month ago, Allegan Area ESA
Graphic titled “Notice of Public Hearing: Health and Human Development Curriculum Review” with two upcoming meeting dates and locations. The first hearing is Wednesday, May 13, from 3–4 p.m. at the Transition Center, 219 S. Farmer St., Otsego, MI 49078. The second hearing is Wednesday, May 20, from 10–11 a.m. at Allegan Area ESA, 310 Thomas St., Allegan, MI 49010. The graphic features an orange patterned background with white and black text boxes and calendar, clock, and location icons.
Each year, the Outstanding People for Education Awards honor individuals who make a lasting impact in Allegan County schools. Honorees are selected through a community nomination process involving students, parents, staff, and community members.

From educators and support staff to volunteers and administrators, these recipients represent the very best in education and share a commitment to student success. Congratulations to this year’s Allegan Area Educational Service Agency recipients:

• Tina Kocefas, Teacher, Transition Center
• Alayna Krueger, Early Childhood Social Worker
• Troy Woodwyk, Director of Safety & Security

Join us in congratulating this year’s recipients! Their passion, dedication, and impact help shape positive learning environments and strengthen our communities.
about 1 month ago, Allegan Area ESA
A graphic featuring Tina Kocefas, Teacher at the Transition Center, smiling and holding an award plaque against an orange background. The graphic includes the quote: “Tina has had a remarkable impact on the quality of educational programming within our agency and on the future success of students at the Transition Center.” Tina’s name and title appear in the lower right corner alongside the Allegan Area ESA logo.
A graphic featuring Alayna Krueger, Early Childhood Social Worker, smiling and holding an award plaque against a purple background. The graphic includes the quote: “Alayna’s passion for connecting families and making every opportunity inclusive has created a lasting impact, showing that inclusion truly makes a difference, even for the littlest learners.” Alayna’s name and title appear near the bottom left alongside the Allegan Area ESA logo.
A graphic featuring Troy Woodwyk, Director of Safety & Security, holding an award plaque against a dark red background. The graphic includes the quote: “Troy is organized, transparent and approachable. He has made a tremendous impact on the safety and security of the entire county.” Troy’s name and title appear in the lower right corner alongside the Allegan Area ESA logo.
All Allegan Area ESA buildings and offices will close at noon on Friday, May 8 for our annual all-staff Celebration of Learning! This time allows us to reflect on a great year, recognize years of service, celebrate retirees, and enjoy time together.
about 1 month ago, Allegan Area ESA
Graphic with text reading “All Allegan Area ESA buildings and offices will close at noon Friday, May 8” on a maroon background with a colorful abstract border
📚✨ Research shows that kids who attend high-quality pre-K are more likely to:

✅ Read well by 3rd grade
🎓 Graduate from high school
🎓 Attend college
💼 Earn higher incomes

If your child turns 5 by 12/1/26, it’s time to apply!
👉 https://miearlychildhood.org/index.php?county=3&p=3

Spots are filling fast — don’t wait! 🚀 #PreK4All #PreKForAll #EarlyEd #AlleganESA #FutureReady
about 2 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Preschool Enrollment for all 4 year olds
Keep the Momentum Going! 🌞

Spring is in full swing, but learning doesn’t slow down! 🌷
Maintaining strong attendance habits now ensures students don’t fall behind before summer break.

💪 Every day of school is a step closer to success.
#StayConsistent #AttendanceMatters #SpringSuccess #BePresentBePowerful
about 2 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Every day of school is a step closer to success
Community Input Requested: Help Rename the West Ward Building

We’re inviting the community to help us name our recently purchased building, formerly West Ward Elementary! 🏫

Your voice matters—take a moment to vote for the name you feel best represents our community and future. Voting ends May 7. This building will host a variety of programming that will support students of Allegan county.

👉 Cast your vote here: https://forms.office.com/r/wsnfcMBuPR
about 2 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
QR code to survey to vote
📣 Parents of students with IEPs — we want to hear from you!

Join our upcoming focus group for the Allegan Area ESA Special Education Program Evaluation for Transition Programming. Your voice is essential in helping us strengthen transition services and better prepare students for life after high school.

💬 Share your experiences
💡 Help identify strengths and areas for growth
🌟 Support improvements in career pathways, community connections, and postsecondary planning

Together, we can create more meaningful opportunities and successful futures for all students.

👉 Stay tuned for meeting details and how to participate!
about 2 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Transition Services invite focus group april 29 at 10am

Join us for the next Parent Advisory Committee meeting on April 29 at 5:00 PM. Follow the QR code to join virtually or in person at the Transition Center!

about 2 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Flyer for Allegan Area ESA’s 2025–26 Parent Advisory Committee. The design features teal and white colors with a central photo of a parent and child. It invites families to join in person at the Transition Center, 219 S Farmer St., Otsego, MI, or attend virtually via a QR code. Meeting dates listed: Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at 5:00 PM (Forget Me Not Q&A with Hilda and Oliver); Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 5:00 PM (Accessing services and local agencies); and Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at 5:00 PM (PAC committee and awards planning). Logos of local school districts appear along the bottom.