🚨 Weather Alert – Complete Shutdown🚨
Due to inclement weather, Allegan Area ESA will be CLOSED, January 19. No one is to report.
For further updates, stay tuned to our social media channels.
Due to inclement weather, Allegan Area ESA will be CLOSED, January 19. No one is to report.
For further updates, stay tuned to our social media channels.
🌟 Did You Know?
Hillside Learning Center began implementing Ukeru this school year! Ukeru is a trauma-informed, restraint-free crisis management approach that supports students in a safe, respectful, and empowering way.
Since launching the program in November, we’ve already seen a notable decline in seclusion and restraint incidents — a powerful reflection of the positive impact Ukeru is having on our students and staff.
We’re grateful for our teams who are embracing this approach and creating environments where every student can feel safe and supported. 💙✨
Hillside Learning Center began implementing Ukeru this school year! Ukeru is a trauma-informed, restraint-free crisis management approach that supports students in a safe, respectful, and empowering way.
Since launching the program in November, we’ve already seen a notable decline in seclusion and restraint incidents — a powerful reflection of the positive impact Ukeru is having on our students and staff.
We’re grateful for our teams who are embracing this approach and creating environments where every student can feel safe and supported. 💙✨
It’s Board Appreciation Month! 💙 This January, we’re celebrating Stephanie Calhoun, Trustee. Stephanie brings more than 30 years of experience in the nonprofit and volunteer sectors, along with a strong background in community-building, strategic partnerships, and educational advocacy. She holds a Master of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University and has dedicated much of her career to supporting organizations that strengthen families, schools, and communities.
Stephanie’s professional and volunteer work includes supporting Navy Family Readiness Groups, serving in PTO leadership, working in higher education advancement, and guiding nonprofit initiatives. As a parent with children in the district and a former board member in another community, she brings both personal investment and a proven track record of service to her role.
She is deeply committed to meeting the diverse needs of all learners through inclusive, well-resourced educational systems. Stephanie believes public education is a vital foundation for a strong and equitable society, and she is passionate about community engagement, supporting educators, and ensuring that all students have the tools they need to thrive academically and personally.
Stephanie’s professional and volunteer work includes supporting Navy Family Readiness Groups, serving in PTO leadership, working in higher education advancement, and guiding nonprofit initiatives. As a parent with children in the district and a former board member in another community, she brings both personal investment and a proven track record of service to her role.
She is deeply committed to meeting the diverse needs of all learners through inclusive, well-resourced educational systems. Stephanie believes public education is a vital foundation for a strong and equitable society, and she is passionate about community engagement, supporting educators, and ensuring that all students have the tools they need to thrive academically and personally.
It’s Board Appreciation Month! 💙 This January, we’re celebrating our board Treasurer, Leslie Ballard. Leslie brings decades of experience in education, school improvement, and leadership to her role. During her 16-year career with AdvancED—where she served as Director—she supported schools across Indiana and internationally through accreditation and continuous improvement work. Her background also includes 26 years teaching high school and college English, earning National Board Certification, and receiving recognition as a Hoosier Hero for her contributions to education. Leslie is also a published author, conference presenter, and certified trainer in school improvement strategies.
Leslie is deeply committed to advancing the Allegan Area ESA’s mission. She is passionate about promoting early education, strengthening opportunities through the Tech Center and Early College programs, and ensuring students have pathways that lead to productive and fulfilling lives. She believes that strong community engagement is essential for programs like the Transition Center and Tech Center to thrive. When she’s not serving on the board, Leslie enjoys traveling, volunteering, attending music events, reading, and pursuing lifelong learning.
Leslie is deeply committed to advancing the Allegan Area ESA’s mission. She is passionate about promoting early education, strengthening opportunities through the Tech Center and Early College programs, and ensuring students have pathways that lead to productive and fulfilling lives. She believes that strong community engagement is essential for programs like the Transition Center and Tech Center to thrive. When she’s not serving on the board, Leslie enjoys traveling, volunteering, attending music events, reading, and pursuing lifelong learning.
Meet Kammy Leep, Director of Early Childhood at Allegan Area ESA! She loves collaborating with colleagues and finds it most rewarding to know that her teams are making a big impact with some of our youngest learners every single day. Her advice for those starting in education? “When you think you know all the answers, start over. 😉” Kammy enjoys learning from the work of Brené Brown and is inspired by leaders who set goals as a team and walk alongside others in reaching them. Fun fact: she once owned 13 bridesmaid dresses! 👗✨
It’s Board Appreciation Month! 💙 This January, we’re celebrating our Board Secretary, Mary Howard who has been a dedicated board member since 2021. With 38 years of experience in both public and private education, including 28 years as a teacher and elementary principal in Hopkins, Mary brings a lifetime of knowledge, leadership, and heart to her role. After retiring, she joined the board to stay connected to her passion for public education and to continue advocating for equitable, high-quality opportunities for all students.
Mary deeply values the ESA’s innovative work, from early childhood programming to the Tech Center and Early College, and she envisions continued growth that opens even more exciting pathways for students. She believes success comes from strong collaboration among families, teachers, and districts, and she sees the board as a key partner in ensuring resources and support are in place for students with diverse needs. Outside her board service, Mary enjoys traveling, reading, volunteering at the Hopkins Food Pantry, and staying active in her church community.
Mary deeply values the ESA’s innovative work, from early childhood programming to the Tech Center and Early College, and she envisions continued growth that opens even more exciting pathways for students. She believes success comes from strong collaboration among families, teachers, and districts, and she sees the board as a key partner in ensuring resources and support are in place for students with diverse needs. Outside her board service, Mary enjoys traveling, reading, volunteering at the Hopkins Food Pantry, and staying active in her church community.
It’s Board Appreciation Month! 💙 This January, we’re celebrating our Board Vice President, Rick Day, and his years of service to Allegan Area ESA and the community. 🌟 Rick has been a dedicated Board Member since 2019, bringing with him extensive experience in leadership and public service. As a State Fire Marshal Inspector, he has devoted much of his adult life to serving others.
Beyond his role on the ESA Board, Rick is actively involved in the community—he has served as Vice President of the Allegan County Fair Board, as well as Mayor of the City of Allegan for two terms and Mayor Pro-Tem for three terms. His passion for public safety and his common-sense approach to problem-solving make him a valuable leader in supporting the success of students and families throughout the district. Rick is married to Lori and together they have two children, Blake and Brandon. 👨👩👦👦
Beyond his role on the ESA Board, Rick is actively involved in the community—he has served as Vice President of the Allegan County Fair Board, as well as Mayor of the City of Allegan for two terms and Mayor Pro-Tem for three terms. His passion for public safety and his common-sense approach to problem-solving make him a valuable leader in supporting the success of students and families throughout the district. Rick is married to Lori and together they have two children, Blake and Brandon. 👨👩👦👦
It’s Board Appreciation Month! 💙 This January, we’re celebrating our Board President, Larry Collier, and his many years of service. 🌟 Larry has served on the Allegan Area ESA Board since 2003 and previously dedicated 12 years to the Otsego Board of Education. With over 20 years of commitment to Allegan County students, Larry brings incredible experience and passion to his role. A retired GM employee of 27 years, he also holds a Secondary Teaching Certificate and has earned the MASB Master Platinum Award.
Motivated by a desire to give back to the community, Larry believes in creating safe, supportive environments where students and staff can take risks, thrive, and reach their full potential. He values strong community engagement and sees citizens as vital partners in the success of local schools 🤝. Outside of his board service, Larry enjoys landscaping, volunteering with the Otsego Public Schools Foundation, and spending time with his grandchildren. A Vietnam Veteran, proud UAW member, and married to his wife Betty since 1971, Larry is a true consensus builder who works to unite the community for the benefit of all students. 🇺🇸💙
Motivated by a desire to give back to the community, Larry believes in creating safe, supportive environments where students and staff can take risks, thrive, and reach their full potential. He values strong community engagement and sees citizens as vital partners in the success of local schools 🤝. Outside of his board service, Larry enjoys landscaping, volunteering with the Otsego Public Schools Foundation, and spending time with his grandchildren. A Vietnam Veteran, proud UAW member, and married to his wife Betty since 1971, Larry is a true consensus builder who works to unite the community for the benefit of all students. 🇺🇸💙
🎉 January is Board Appreciation Month! 🎉
Join us in celebrating our incredible Allegan Area ESA Board of Education! 💙
Our Board members volunteer countless hours to support students, staff, families, and districts across Allegan County. Their leadership ensures:
✅ Strong, student-centered decision-making
✅ Safe, innovative, and inclusive learning environments
✅ Fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability
✅ Support for educators, programs, and community partnerships
✅ Opportunities that empower ALL learners to thrive
Their work often happens behind the scenes, but its impact is felt every single day. ✨
👏 Thank you to our dedicated Board of Education members for your service, commitment, and unwavering belief in our students. We are grateful for all you do!
#BoardAppreciationMonth #ThankYouBoard #AlleganAreaESA #PublicEducationMatters
Join us in celebrating our incredible Allegan Area ESA Board of Education! 💙
Our Board members volunteer countless hours to support students, staff, families, and districts across Allegan County. Their leadership ensures:
✅ Strong, student-centered decision-making
✅ Safe, innovative, and inclusive learning environments
✅ Fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability
✅ Support for educators, programs, and community partnerships
✅ Opportunities that empower ALL learners to thrive
Their work often happens behind the scenes, but its impact is felt every single day. ✨
👏 Thank you to our dedicated Board of Education members for your service, commitment, and unwavering belief in our students. We are grateful for all you do!
#BoardAppreciationMonth #ThankYouBoard #AlleganAreaESA #PublicEducationMatters
As we turn the page to a new year, we’re filled with gratitude for the moments that shaped us and excitement for all that’s ahead. Here’s to continued learning, growth, and connection in 2026! ✨
Happy Holidays from all of us at Allegan Area ESA! 💛
We hope your days are merry, bright, and full of joy.
🎁 The Administration building will be closed December 24–26 and December 31 - January 2, 2026.
We hope your days are merry, bright, and full of joy.
🎁 The Administration building will be closed December 24–26 and December 31 - January 2, 2026.
👶 Did You Know?
Allegan Area ESA provides early childhood programs that help our youngest learners build a strong foundation for school and life success. From preschool to parent resources, we’re here to support families every step of the way. 💙
#DidYouKnow #EarlyChildhood #AlleganAreaESA
Allegan Area ESA provides early childhood programs that help our youngest learners build a strong foundation for school and life success. From preschool to parent resources, we’re here to support families every step of the way. 💙
#DidYouKnow #EarlyChildhood #AlleganAreaESA
⚙️ Did You Know?
Through the Tech Center, Allegan Area ESA offers Career & Technical Education programs that prepare high school students for college, apprenticeships, and the workforce. Students gain hands-on experience in fields like health care, construction, agriculture, and more!
#DidYouKnow #CareerReady #AlleganTechCenter
Through the Tech Center, Allegan Area ESA offers Career & Technical Education programs that prepare high school students for college, apprenticeships, and the workforce. Students gain hands-on experience in fields like health care, construction, agriculture, and more!
#DidYouKnow #CareerReady #AlleganTechCenter
🎉 Huge congratulations to our Audiology Assistant, Karen Steffens! 🎉
Last month, Karen presented at the Michigan Department of Education’s Resources for Deaf or Hard of Hearing Statewide Conference, sharing her expertise on Assistive Technology supports for students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
She spoke about her journey, the services she provides in our region, and the wide range of supports available to students. Her personal experience shines through in everything she does, making her incredibly relatable to both families and students.
Karen also loved connecting with DHH specialists from across the state, swapping ideas, learning about the latest technology, and exploring new ways to better serve students in rural communities. Her commitment to growing her practice is inspiring.
💛 It’s clear that true expertise comes from the heart. 💛
Last month, Karen presented at the Michigan Department of Education’s Resources for Deaf or Hard of Hearing Statewide Conference, sharing her expertise on Assistive Technology supports for students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
She spoke about her journey, the services she provides in our region, and the wide range of supports available to students. Her personal experience shines through in everything she does, making her incredibly relatable to both families and students.
Karen also loved connecting with DHH specialists from across the state, swapping ideas, learning about the latest technology, and exploring new ways to better serve students in rural communities. Her commitment to growing her practice is inspiring.
💛 It’s clear that true expertise comes from the heart. 💛
Meet Rebecca Reed, Director of Specialized Instruction at Allegan Area ESA! 🌟 Rebecca’s “why” for being a special educator is deeply rooted in her passion for equity and inclusion. She strives toward the aspirational goal of ensuring all marginalized populations can meaningfully engage in their communities and in our wider democracy. 💙 Seeing even small steps of growth toward that vision is what makes her work so rewarding.
If she could give advice to her younger self, Rebecca would say, “It’s okay to be imperfect—vulnerability is actually courageous.” 💬 She finds inspiration and grounding in quotes, including: “Adopt the pace of nature; her secret is patience,” and “The mind has exactly the same power as the hands, not merely to grasp the world, but to change it.” The quote that inspired the tattoo on her right forearm reads, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” 🌿
And here’s a fun fact: Rebecca was once caught in a black bear stampede (yes, really!) while in a nature sanctuary in Minnesota and had to hide behind a tree to avoid being trampled! 🐻😅
If she could give advice to her younger self, Rebecca would say, “It’s okay to be imperfect—vulnerability is actually courageous.” 💬 She finds inspiration and grounding in quotes, including: “Adopt the pace of nature; her secret is patience,” and “The mind has exactly the same power as the hands, not merely to grasp the world, but to change it.” The quote that inspired the tattoo on her right forearm reads, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” 🌿
And here’s a fun fact: Rebecca was once caught in a black bear stampede (yes, really!) while in a nature sanctuary in Minnesota and had to hide behind a tree to avoid being trampled! 🐻😅
This season reminds us how much we have to be thankful for — the curiosity of our students, the dedication of our staff, and the encouragement of our families and community. Wishing everyone a restful and joyful break! 🍂
The Administration Building will be closed Thursday and Friday.
The Administration Building will be closed Thursday and Friday.
🚌 Did you know? 🚌
Transportation is more than just a ride—it’s a vital part of learning. At Allegan Area ESA, our transportation team ensures students can safely and reliably access specialized programs, career and technical education, and community-based learning experiences across the Allegan Service Area.
We’re grateful for our drivers and attendants who make every mile matter for our students! 💙
#DidYouKnow #StudentSuccessStartsHere #AlleganAreaESA #TransportationTeam
Transportation is more than just a ride—it’s a vital part of learning. At Allegan Area ESA, our transportation team ensures students can safely and reliably access specialized programs, career and technical education, and community-based learning experiences across the Allegan Service Area.
We’re grateful for our drivers and attendants who make every mile matter for our students! 💙
#DidYouKnow #StudentSuccessStartsHere #AlleganAreaESA #TransportationTeam
Meet Abby Lloyd, Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations at Allegan Area ESA! 💼 Abby loves the people she gets to work with every day and the impact their efforts have on students, the community, and local districts. While her role in finance and operations often happens behind the scenes, she finds it most rewarding to see the smiles on people’s faces when construction projects are completed and facilities are put to use 🏫✨.
Her advice to those starting out? “Building a career in schools without a teaching degree is absolutely possible—it takes so many people to create a successful district, from bus drivers to custodians to paraeducators.” Abby lives by the philosophy “Work hard to live life. Do the experiences and build memories.” For her, leadership means growing herself while also mentoring and supporting others so they can become their best selves 🌟.
Fun fact: while in college, Abby studied abroad and visited 10 European countries over 12 weeks! 🌍✈️
Her advice to those starting out? “Building a career in schools without a teaching degree is absolutely possible—it takes so many people to create a successful district, from bus drivers to custodians to paraeducators.” Abby lives by the philosophy “Work hard to live life. Do the experiences and build memories.” For her, leadership means growing herself while also mentoring and supporting others so they can become their best selves 🌟.
Fun fact: while in college, Abby studied abroad and visited 10 European countries over 12 weeks! 🌍✈️
🌟 Did You Know?
Students at the Allegan Area ESA Transition Center participate in community-based instruction each week—learning how to safely navigate stores, restaurants, and events while building independence. 🛒🍽️🎟️
#DidYouKnow #TransitionCenter #CommunityLearning
Students at the Allegan Area ESA Transition Center participate in community-based instruction each week—learning how to safely navigate stores, restaurants, and events while building independence. 🛒🍽️🎟️
#DidYouKnow #TransitionCenter #CommunityLearning
🎨 A huge thank-you to Brad Schreiber from By Design Graphic Arts & Marketing for visiting Hillside Learning Center and the Transition Center last week to host Adventures in Cartooning! Students learned how to draw cartoons, saw Brad’s incredible artwork, and even got their own personalized cartoon drawings! ✏️😄 We appreciate Brad for sharing his talent, creativity, and plenty of laughs with us.
