News Summary
The Tahquamenon Area Schools (TAS) Board of Education welcomes new members passionate about enhancing the educational environment in Newberry, Michigan. With backgrounds in education, community service, and healthcare, these individuals are determined to address challenges like declining enrollment and community relations. Their collaborative approach aims to ensure that schools remain the heart of the community, fostering a supportive atmosphere for families and students alike.
Exciting Changes at Tahquamenon Area Schools Board of Education!
Newberry, Michigan – Big changes are happening in the world of education right here in Newberry, where several _new faces have joined the Tahquamenon Area Schools (TAS) Board of Education_ following the November 2024 elections. This fresh batch of board members comes bundled with passion, experience, and a deep-rooted commitment to improving the educational environment for our beloved community.
Meet the New Members!
First up, we have Amanda Kitzman, a _Newberry High School (NHS) graduate from the Class of 1999_. After spending some time in places like Colorado Springs and Charleston, where she honed her skills as a wedding planner and veterinary nurse, Kitzman is back in Newberry and ready to make a difference. With her experience mentoring students and working at the public library, she’s in a prime position to advocate for _both students’_ and _community voices in school decisions_. Her return to the area is a reminder of the values held dear by locals and an opportunity to reinforce a supportive community framework around education.
Next, we have Jeff Puckett, who is no stranger to the TAS family. A proud 1981 NHS graduate, Puckett is a longtime teacher and coach within the district. He holds a _Bachelor of Science in Chemistry_ and is also a trustee on the Newberry Village Council. His experience provides a seamless connection between educational and community affairs, and he’s focused on improving _community relations, upgrading facilities, enhancing curriculum_, and finding an effective superintendent to lead the school district into the future.
Then we have Colleen Duflo, who graduated from NHS in 1993. With deep roots in community service, Colleen is excited about guiding the district through *upcoming changes*, especially since she has children currently enrolled in TAS. Duflo believes that schools should be recognized as the _heart of the community_, a place where families come together to celebrate milestones and support one another. Her background in volunteering and coaching since her kids were young gives her valuable insight into what families really need from their schools.
Michael Havens rounds out the new board members. Appointed to the TAS board earlier in August 2024, he ran for a two-year term fueled by his dedication to the district. As a physician’s assistant, Havens brings a unique perspective to the table, especially with a wife who teaches second grade. He has identified _critical challenges like declining student enrollment and educator recruitment_ in rural areas as significant topics of concern for the district. Havens wholeheartedly supports the district’s move to close the old high school and renovate more modern facilities so students can access _improved educational opportunities_.
Working Together for a Bright Future
The TAS Board of Education members, united in their mission, are looking forward to enhancing teamwork with the community, teachers, and administrative staff as they embark on this new chapter. Their commitment to tackle challenges facing the district is inspiring, and the hopeful tone is _a ray of sunshine for the future of our educational landscape_.
In a time where so many communities are facing distinct challenges, having dedicated individuals like these on the TAS Board of Education promises a brighter future for Newberry’s youth. It’s heartening to see a blend of experience, fresh ideas, and community devotion coming together in a collective effort to ensure that our schools remain a _stronghold of education and community spirit_. Together, they are ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work!
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