Making the Grade is hosted by Big Rapids Public Schools Superintendent Tim Haist, joined by special guests Andy Strickler, Early On Coordinator at MOISD; Brian Akin, Facilities Director for Big Rapids Public Schools; and Emma Knopf, a Big Rapids High School junior in the Educator Academy at the Mecosta-Osceola Career Center. In this episode, they dive into the exciting reopening of Hillcrest Elementary, which, along with Eastwood Elementary, had been closed for over a decade due to budget constraints. With the Big Rapids community growing, Hillcrest’s revival marks a major milestone in expanding learning spaces for young students. The discussion highlights community collaboration, early education transitions, and hands-on teaching experiences from the Educator Academy. Tune in to Making the Grade to hear how education is thriving once again in Big Rapids!
