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
4 months 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.”

4 months 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
4 months 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!

4 months 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.
4 months 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.
5 months 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
5 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
5 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
5 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!
5 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!

5 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.
🎒✨ Pre-K sets the stage for lifelong learning — boosting academic growth and social skills! We're proud to support our partners in providing high-quality, no-cost early education for all students across Allegan County. Apply today: https://miearlychildhood.org/index.php?county=3&p=3 💙📚 #EarlyLearning #AlleganESA #PreK4All #PreKForAll #NoCostEducation
5 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Preschool Enrollment for all 4 year olds
Earth Day, Every Day — Attendance Edition! 🌎

This Earth Day, let’s take care of our world and our learning! 🌍
Small steps make a big impact — like walking, biking, or carpooling to school. Every effort helps you and the planet grow stronger! 🌱

🚶‍♀️🌳 Learn daily. Grow daily.
#EarthDayEveryDay #AttendanceMatters #SmallStepsBigImpact #BePresentBePowerful
5 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Learn daily. Grow daily.
📣 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!
5 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Transition Services invite focus group april 29 at 10am
📣 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!
5 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Transition Services invite focus group april 29 at 10am
Don’t Let Rainy Days Wash Away Learning! ☔

April showers bring May flowers — and strong attendance brings bright futures! 🌦️
Even on gloomy mornings, showing up makes a big difference. Pack that umbrella and head to class! 🌈

🌟 Rain or shine, every day counts.
#BePresentBePowerful #AttendanceMatters #RainOrShine #KeepShowingUp
5 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Rain or shine, every day counts
📣 Calling All Educators!

Join Savi for a special Michigan K-12 Student Loan Webinar designed just for you!

📅 April 15, 2026
⏰ 4:00 PM ET

Get a clear overview of federal student loans and learn practical steps you can take now to:
✔️ Lower your monthly payments
✔️ Explore loan forgiveness options
✔️ Reduce your total loan cost

Don’t miss this opportunity to take control of your financial future!

👉 Register today by scanning the QR code or clicking the link in the flyer:

#MichiganEducators #K12 #StudentLoans #FinancialWellness #TeacherSupport
5 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Screenshot 2026-03-17 143843
🌱 Did You Know?
In the last year, Allegan County has increased enrollment in GSRP programming by 163 students! This high-quality, no-cost PreK4All Initiative has already saved Michigan families $475 million — and there’s still room to grow.

We’re excited to continue expanding access to early childhood education and supporting families across our community. 💛✨

#DidYouKnow #PreK4All #GSRP #EarlyEd #AlleganCounty
5 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
A teacher sits at table with a student cutting paper
Get registered for the Arc of Allegan self-advocacy conference! You will also experience cartooning with a professional cartoonist...register today!
5 months ago, Bill Brown
arc conference
arc conference
Spring into School! 🌷

The flowers aren’t the only things growing this spring — your learning is too! 🌱
Keep showing up every day to watch your knowledge, friendships, and confidence bloom. 🌼

📚 Every day in school helps you grow!
#SpringIntoSuccess #AttendanceMatters #BloomInSchool #BePresentBePowerful
5 months ago, Allegan Area ESA
Show up every day and watch your success bloom