A Bulldog shoutout to:
Jayce C. for completing the very first Gratitude Gram in the new Bulldog Leadership Center at St. Charles Elementary School!
Gratitude Grams give students and staff a chance to say THANK YOU to someone who positively impacted their day.
Today, Jayce wanted to thank one of his peers for helping him log in to a computer program during an earlier class period.
Thanks for spreading some positivity, Jayce! 🐾❤️
Jayce C. for completing the very first Gratitude Gram in the new Bulldog Leadership Center at St. Charles Elementary School!
Gratitude Grams give students and staff a chance to say THANK YOU to someone who positively impacted their day.
Today, Jayce wanted to thank one of his peers for helping him log in to a computer program during an earlier class period.
Thanks for spreading some positivity, Jayce! 🐾❤️
The prestigious Excellence in Education Award, presented each year in our district by Stacey Robinsons Hughes Robinson Financial, honors an educator whose exemplary leadership, innovation, and steadfast commitment to students set a standard for all. The staff member to receive this award is nominated by fellow staff members and is selected by Horrance Mann. This recognition underscored the district’s core values and inspired all in attendance.
Cameron Hafner is a 1st grade teacher at St. Charles Elementary School and has been selected for the 2026 Excellence in Education Award. The letter of the staff member who nominated Mrs. Hafner states:
Mrs. Hafner's positivity, dedication, and passion for students shines through in everything she does. From the moment you walk into her classroom, it is clear that she has created a space where students feel welcomed, supported, and excited to learn.
As a first-grade teacher, she goes above and beyond to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. She spends countless hours preparing lessons, organizing materials, and creating activities that meet students where they are academically. Her thoughtful approach allows each child to learn at their own pace, build confidence, and experience success.
Students love being in her classroom because she combines kindness, patience, and encouragement in a way that makes every child feel valued. She has a special ability to recognize individual needs and make sure no student is left behind. Her dedication extends far beyond the school day; she often stays late to provide the extra support and preparation her students need to thrive.
She is also a wonderful colleague. Whether helping fellow teachers, sharing ideas, or offering support when needed, she is always willing to lend a hand. Her caring nature, positive attitude, and genuine love for education make a lasting impact on everyone around her. She makes our school a better place simply by being there.
Through her commitment to her students, her dedication to her profession, and her unwavering positivity, she truly represents excellence in education.
Thank you, Mrs. Cameron Hafner, for everything you do for the students and staff of St. Charles Community Schools!!
Cameron Hafner is a 1st grade teacher at St. Charles Elementary School and has been selected for the 2026 Excellence in Education Award. The letter of the staff member who nominated Mrs. Hafner states:
Mrs. Hafner's positivity, dedication, and passion for students shines through in everything she does. From the moment you walk into her classroom, it is clear that she has created a space where students feel welcomed, supported, and excited to learn.
As a first-grade teacher, she goes above and beyond to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. She spends countless hours preparing lessons, organizing materials, and creating activities that meet students where they are academically. Her thoughtful approach allows each child to learn at their own pace, build confidence, and experience success.
Students love being in her classroom because she combines kindness, patience, and encouragement in a way that makes every child feel valued. She has a special ability to recognize individual needs and make sure no student is left behind. Her dedication extends far beyond the school day; she often stays late to provide the extra support and preparation her students need to thrive.
She is also a wonderful colleague. Whether helping fellow teachers, sharing ideas, or offering support when needed, she is always willing to lend a hand. Her caring nature, positive attitude, and genuine love for education make a lasting impact on everyone around her. She makes our school a better place simply by being there.
Through her commitment to her students, her dedication to her profession, and her unwavering positivity, she truly represents excellence in education.
Thank you, Mrs. Cameron Hafner, for everything you do for the students and staff of St. Charles Community Schools!!
Going back in time a little earlier this month...On Tuesday, August 18, 2026
The St. Charles Community Schools Staff Welcome Back Breakfast 2026 set an uplifting tone for the new school year, with staff recognitions celebrating years of service and notable achievements from the past year. Faculty and staff were thanked for their unwavering dedication and meaningful contributions, reinforcing a strong sense of community within the district.
Superintendent Ronald Stanley delivered an enthusiastic welcome-back speech that shared the District’s theme for the 2026-2027 school year: “Keep Making Progress.” He thanked the summer custodial crew for their outstanding work getting our school grounds and buildings ready for staff and students to return, especially the middle school building, which he said he was so proud of and that looked much better than he anticipated. He also thanked the food service program for providing the morning meal.
Marcia Kendall, Board of Education President, addressed the gathering with an inspiring message, highlighting the value of collaboration and reaffirming the district’s dedication to student achievement. Building principals then introduced new staff members, expressing genuine excitement about the fresh perspectives and talents these educators bring to their schools. The morning concluded with the prestigious Excellence in Education Award, presented to an educator whose exemplary leadership, innovation, and steadfast commitment to students set a standard for all. This recognition underscored the district’s core values and inspired all in attendance.
The breakfast fostered unity and a shared sense of purpose as the school year began.
Congratulations to:
5 Years of Service Pin Recipients: Lindsey Webb, Rachel Levan, Sara LaPorte, Craig Levan, Amanda Lorencz, Tonya Keilitz, Sarah Fisher, Stacie Karow, and Jessica Farmer.
10 Years of Service Pin Recipients: Christine Newton (not pictured), Jamie Kinsey, Sara Hilden (not pictured), Nathan Swain, Christie Crawford (not pictured).
20 Years of Service Pin Recipients: Brad Lorencz and Larry Fath(not pictured).
The St. Charles Community Schools Staff Welcome Back Breakfast 2026 set an uplifting tone for the new school year, with staff recognitions celebrating years of service and notable achievements from the past year. Faculty and staff were thanked for their unwavering dedication and meaningful contributions, reinforcing a strong sense of community within the district.
Superintendent Ronald Stanley delivered an enthusiastic welcome-back speech that shared the District’s theme for the 2026-2027 school year: “Keep Making Progress.” He thanked the summer custodial crew for their outstanding work getting our school grounds and buildings ready for staff and students to return, especially the middle school building, which he said he was so proud of and that looked much better than he anticipated. He also thanked the food service program for providing the morning meal.
Marcia Kendall, Board of Education President, addressed the gathering with an inspiring message, highlighting the value of collaboration and reaffirming the district’s dedication to student achievement. Building principals then introduced new staff members, expressing genuine excitement about the fresh perspectives and talents these educators bring to their schools. The morning concluded with the prestigious Excellence in Education Award, presented to an educator whose exemplary leadership, innovation, and steadfast commitment to students set a standard for all. This recognition underscored the district’s core values and inspired all in attendance.
The breakfast fostered unity and a shared sense of purpose as the school year began.
Congratulations to:
5 Years of Service Pin Recipients: Lindsey Webb, Rachel Levan, Sara LaPorte, Craig Levan, Amanda Lorencz, Tonya Keilitz, Sarah Fisher, Stacie Karow, and Jessica Farmer.
10 Years of Service Pin Recipients: Christine Newton (not pictured), Jamie Kinsey, Sara Hilden (not pictured), Nathan Swain, Christie Crawford (not pictured).
20 Years of Service Pin Recipients: Brad Lorencz and Larry Fath(not pictured).
St. Charles Community School students appeared very excited to kick off a fantastic new school year together.
The first day of school on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, was a success! We loved seeing the smiling faces as we started another year of learning, growth, and community.
Let's make this the best year yet!
The first day of school on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, was a success! We loved seeing the smiling faces as we started another year of learning, growth, and community.
Let's make this the best year yet!
Several members of the STC senior class of 2027 gathered Tuesday, August 25th at 5:45 am, before the start of the 2026-2027 school year, to celebrate their senior year with a Senior Sunrise.
A full pancake breakfast, friends, and a stunning sunrise made for a perfect start to their LAST, FIRST day of school!!
This year will pass quickly— the last day of school for seniors will arrive before we know it, and the graduating class of 2027 will be walking across the stage to receive their diplomas! To the Class of 2027, we wish you all the best. Make this year your most unforgettable one yet!
A full pancake breakfast, friends, and a stunning sunrise made for a perfect start to their LAST, FIRST day of school!!
This year will pass quickly— the last day of school for seniors will arrive before we know it, and the graduating class of 2027 will be walking across the stage to receive their diplomas! To the Class of 2027, we wish you all the best. Make this year your most unforgettable one yet!
We look forward to you coming to cheer on our Bulldogs!
Reminders for students planning to attend games.
*2025-2026 student IDs can be used until the 2026-2027 student IDs are issued*
*Students should remain on the St. Charles side of the gym/stadium and cheer positively for our teams*
ST. CHARLES STUDENTS GRADES 7TH-12TH:
Free entrance to all home regular-season sporting events. Students MUST show their student ID to be allowed entrance. You may not leave and re-enter.
STC STUDENTS GRADES PRE-K-6TH GRADE:
Free entrance to all home regular-season sporting events with a student ID. Students MUST be accompanied by a parent/guardian to attend events. Students will not be allowed entrance without a parent/guardian. You may not leave and re-enter.
Reminders for students planning to attend games.
*2025-2026 student IDs can be used until the 2026-2027 student IDs are issued*
*Students should remain on the St. Charles side of the gym/stadium and cheer positively for our teams*
ST. CHARLES STUDENTS GRADES 7TH-12TH:
Free entrance to all home regular-season sporting events. Students MUST show their student ID to be allowed entrance. You may not leave and re-enter.
STC STUDENTS GRADES PRE-K-6TH GRADE:
Free entrance to all home regular-season sporting events with a student ID. Students MUST be accompanied by a parent/guardian to attend events. Students will not be allowed entrance without a parent/guardian. You may not leave and re-enter.
Attention, St. Charles Community Schools Parents!!!
Save these phone numbers in your phone so you can contact the office that needs to hear from you.
Save these phone numbers in your phone so you can contact the office that needs to hear from you.
The St. Charles Elementary Fun Run committee is looking for sponsors for our 4th annual Fun Run! We offer three sponsorship levels, but anything is appreciated!
Please get in touch with Gabrielle Frost with any questions: (989)323-9075 or frostg@stccs.org
Please get in touch with Gabrielle Frost with any questions: (989)323-9075 or frostg@stccs.org
Reminder!!
School starts August 25, 2026
Doors open: Elementary 7:30 am and MS/HS 7:35 am
The school day begins for both school buildings at 7:50 am
The end of the school day for both school buildings is 2:35 pm
Hello!
My name is Caleb McCarrick, and I am thrilled to be joining St. Charles Community Schools as the new Middle School Student Success Specialist!
My career has been dedicated to supporting children and families. I graduated from Great Lakes Christian College and spent a little over seven years working in foster care as a Licensing Supervisor, followed by four years doing clinical behavioral therapy with children on the autism spectrum. I am also currently continuing my education in a Master’s program at Arizona State University focusing on Behavioral Analysis.
I grew up nearby, graduating from Morrice High School in Morrice, Michigan, and I am proud to be working in a wonderful mid-Michigan community. Outside of school, my life is filled with my three amazing children (ages 9, 11, and 12) and my partner, Olivia. When I have free time, you can usually find me outdoors hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping, or catching sports like football, collegiate wrestling, and baseball. I am also an avid reader of horror and fantasy novels and enjoy playing golf, disc golf, and bowling.
I am so excited to start my time as a Bulldog and look forward to a fantastic school year! GO BULLDOGS! 🐾🎉
My name is Caleb McCarrick, and I am thrilled to be joining St. Charles Community Schools as the new Middle School Student Success Specialist!
My career has been dedicated to supporting children and families. I graduated from Great Lakes Christian College and spent a little over seven years working in foster care as a Licensing Supervisor, followed by four years doing clinical behavioral therapy with children on the autism spectrum. I am also currently continuing my education in a Master’s program at Arizona State University focusing on Behavioral Analysis.
I grew up nearby, graduating from Morrice High School in Morrice, Michigan, and I am proud to be working in a wonderful mid-Michigan community. Outside of school, my life is filled with my three amazing children (ages 9, 11, and 12) and my partner, Olivia. When I have free time, you can usually find me outdoors hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping, or catching sports like football, collegiate wrestling, and baseball. I am also an avid reader of horror and fantasy novels and enjoy playing golf, disc golf, and bowling.
I am so excited to start my time as a Bulldog and look forward to a fantastic school year! GO BULLDOGS! 🐾🎉
Important Information for Arrival and Pickup for the 2026-2027 School Year
First Day of School — Tuesday, August 25th
Elementary doors open at 7:30 am; MS/HS doors open at 7:35 am
The school day begins for both school buildings at 7:50 am
The end of the school day for ALL school buildings is 2:35 pm
**We will use the same arrival and dismissal/drop-off and pick-up areas as last school year.**
Elementary walkers/parent drop-off — Elementary students who are driven to school or walk to school can be dropped off at the front of the elementary school and enter through the main entrance. The loop by the building is drop-off only. Parents should remain in their vehicles, and students should exit vehicles on the curbside. Parents who would like to walk children up to the building are welcome to park in the parking lot.
MS walkers and parent drop- off- Middle school students who walk or are driven to school can enter the building through the Central Office by the cafeteria or through the main entrance of the middle school. Regardless of which door you choose to enter, please use the main driveway to access the district and keep traffic flowing to the south, all the way out and around Bulldog Drive.
HS student drivers and parent drop-off — HS drivers and HS student drop-off should enter the main high school entrance closest to the bus-gated area. Parents dropping off students will need to leave the parking lot the same way they entered it, as the east parking lot exit will be blocked off to traffic.
Bus riders for both schools — will be dropped off at the schools using the driveway between the Elementary and MS/HS buildings. Elementary students will be dropped off in the lane closest to the Elementary building beginning at 7:30 am, and MS/HS students will be dropped off at the Central Office near the MS/HS cafeteria between 7:30 and 7:35 am. All students will be dropped off at their buildings and escorted straight to their cafeterias (this is a slight change for elementary students this year. They will be dining in the cafeteria instead of classrooms).
Dismissal — HS student drivers will exit through the HS main entrance near the bus-gated area. MS/HS students being picked up or walking will exit the doors nearest to the student pick-up line located between the elementary and MS/HS buildings.
Elementary, MS, and HS parents who are picking up students should use the entrance to Bulldog Drive (the driveway just past the bus-gated area) and circle around the back of the school.
If you are picking up students in grades PreK- 1st grade, get in the right lane (closest to the Elementary building). If you are picking up a student(s) in grades 2-12, please use the left lane (closest to the MS/HS building).
If you have an MS/HS student and an elementary student, the MS/HS student needs to go to the lane of the youngest child in the family to be picked up. If you have children in elementary school in multiple grades, all children will be picked up in the youngest child's pick-up lane. Staff will be outside and with students to assist everyone.
Hey Bulldogs!
My name is Diane Haley, and I am so excited to be a 2nd grade teacher here at St. Charles Elementary!
I have been teaching early elementary school for over 20 years. For the first 12 years of my career, I taught preschool for SISD Head Start. In 2016, I moved to SPSD, where I taught 1st grade for 7 years and 3rd grade for 3 years. Now I am super excited to move in the middle of these two grades and teach 2nd!
I graduated from Heritage High School, and then earned my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and my Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from SVSU. My favorite subject is ELA. I like reading and love writing! One of my favorite things as an early elementary educator is to watch my students become more confident in their reading and writing skills!
My family is made up of myself, my husband, and my 17 (almost 18)- year-old twin girls, who just started their senior year of high school! I love spending time with my friends & family. My family and I love traveling around our beautiful state, camping, and exploring nature! My favorite place to be is anywhere by the water, especially the beach!
I am so ecstatic to meet all of my students and families as we create an amazing classroom community! I am pumped to see all of the growth my students will have this year! Let’s go Bulldogs! Here’s to the best year yet!
My name is Diane Haley, and I am so excited to be a 2nd grade teacher here at St. Charles Elementary!
I have been teaching early elementary school for over 20 years. For the first 12 years of my career, I taught preschool for SISD Head Start. In 2016, I moved to SPSD, where I taught 1st grade for 7 years and 3rd grade for 3 years. Now I am super excited to move in the middle of these two grades and teach 2nd!
I graduated from Heritage High School, and then earned my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and my Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from SVSU. My favorite subject is ELA. I like reading and love writing! One of my favorite things as an early elementary educator is to watch my students become more confident in their reading and writing skills!
My family is made up of myself, my husband, and my 17 (almost 18)- year-old twin girls, who just started their senior year of high school! I love spending time with my friends & family. My family and I love traveling around our beautiful state, camping, and exploring nature! My favorite place to be is anywhere by the water, especially the beach!
I am so ecstatic to meet all of my students and families as we create an amazing classroom community! I am pumped to see all of the growth my students will have this year! Let’s go Bulldogs! Here’s to the best year yet!
Hello,
My name is Grace Cain, and I am thrilled to join the elementary school as one of its Special Education Resource teachers!
I graduated from Saginaw Valley State University and spent my first year of teaching in a first-grade classroom. My passion and goal are to create a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment for all my students. I can't wait to bring this vision to St. Charles, and I am excited for this next chapter in my life and career!
In my free time, I enjoy reading, painting, drawing, spending time with my dog and cat, and being outdoors. I have visited three national parks so far and plan to explore as many as I can!
Here’s to an amazing year filled with learning, excitement, and growth!
My name is Grace Cain, and I am thrilled to join the elementary school as one of its Special Education Resource teachers!
I graduated from Saginaw Valley State University and spent my first year of teaching in a first-grade classroom. My passion and goal are to create a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment for all my students. I can't wait to bring this vision to St. Charles, and I am excited for this next chapter in my life and career!
In my free time, I enjoy reading, painting, drawing, spending time with my dog and cat, and being outdoors. I have visited three national parks so far and plan to explore as many as I can!
Here’s to an amazing year filled with learning, excitement, and growth!
Hello!
My name is Nathan Hensler, and I am ecstatic to be the new 7/8th grade ELA teacher!
My career has taken me across the field of education. I have taught all subject areas from 5th-8th grade in both private and public school settings in Michigan and Wisconsin.
I was born and raised in Freeland, Michigan, on my family's 176-year-old farm. Hensler Family Farm is still in operation, working with pumpkins and gourds, flowers, and sunflowers. I spend much of my time working on it with my family. Any other free time I have is spent working out, reading, writing, playing video games, or spending time with my family. My wife stays at home taking care of our two daughters and runs an at-home bakery called Putzy Cupcake, where she makes beautifully decorated cakes and cupcakes.
I am excited to start my time as a Bulldog!
My name is Nathan Hensler, and I am ecstatic to be the new 7/8th grade ELA teacher!
My career has taken me across the field of education. I have taught all subject areas from 5th-8th grade in both private and public school settings in Michigan and Wisconsin.
I was born and raised in Freeland, Michigan, on my family's 176-year-old farm. Hensler Family Farm is still in operation, working with pumpkins and gourds, flowers, and sunflowers. I spend much of my time working on it with my family. Any other free time I have is spent working out, reading, writing, playing video games, or spending time with my family. My wife stays at home taking care of our two daughters and runs an at-home bakery called Putzy Cupcake, where she makes beautifully decorated cakes and cupcakes.
I am excited to start my time as a Bulldog!
Hello!
My name is Jillian Distelrath, and I'm excited to join the team as the new high school chemistry and physics teacher.
I recently graduated from Central Michigan University (fire up chips!) with my Bachelor's in Integrated Science for Secondary Education and am currently working towards my Master's in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in special education and health. I grew up in West Branch and graduated from Ogemaw Heights High School.
When I am not in the classroom, I enjoy going on walks with my boyfriend, attending concerts, and watching my younger sister play sports. I also love anything that is hands-on, baking, sewing, painting, etc.
I cannot wait to create an environment where science is fun and engaging for all students, and I am ready to begin my
career as a St. Charles Bulldog!
My name is Jillian Distelrath, and I'm excited to join the team as the new high school chemistry and physics teacher.
I recently graduated from Central Michigan University (fire up chips!) with my Bachelor's in Integrated Science for Secondary Education and am currently working towards my Master's in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in special education and health. I grew up in West Branch and graduated from Ogemaw Heights High School.
When I am not in the classroom, I enjoy going on walks with my boyfriend, attending concerts, and watching my younger sister play sports. I also love anything that is hands-on, baking, sewing, painting, etc.
I cannot wait to create an environment where science is fun and engaging for all students, and I am ready to begin my
career as a St. Charles Bulldog!
Hello, St. Charles Elementary families!
My name is Jennifer Kuntz, and I am excited to be joining St. Charles Elementary as a 4th grade teacher! I have been an educator for over 20 years and have had the opportunity to teach in a variety of settings, including elementary special education, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades, as well as working with students in alternative educational programs. Each experience has strengthened my passion for helping students learn,
grow, and reach their full potential.
I graduated from Freeland High School, earned my bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University, and later completed my master's degree at Saginaw Valley State University.
Outside of the classroom, I have two wonderful children, ages 17 and 19, and a dog who is truly part of our family. When I'm not teaching, you will often find me baking cakes and other sweet treats for family and friends.
Teaching has always been more than a career to me—it's something I truly love. I feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to join the St. Charles community, and I look forward to building meaningful relationships with my students and their families.
Here's to a wonderful year of learning, laughter, and growth together!
My name is Jennifer Kuntz, and I am excited to be joining St. Charles Elementary as a 4th grade teacher! I have been an educator for over 20 years and have had the opportunity to teach in a variety of settings, including elementary special education, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades, as well as working with students in alternative educational programs. Each experience has strengthened my passion for helping students learn,
grow, and reach their full potential.
I graduated from Freeland High School, earned my bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University, and later completed my master's degree at Saginaw Valley State University.
Outside of the classroom, I have two wonderful children, ages 17 and 19, and a dog who is truly part of our family. When I'm not teaching, you will often find me baking cakes and other sweet treats for family and friends.
Teaching has always been more than a career to me—it's something I truly love. I feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to join the St. Charles community, and I look forward to building meaningful relationships with my students and their families.
Here's to a wonderful year of learning, laughter, and growth together!
Hello!
My name is Brandon Knickerbocker, and I will be teaching 7th- and 8th-grade social studies!
I am a Saginaw Valley State graduate and have spent the past 3 years teaching at Bridgeport High School. My wife and I have lived in St. Charles for 2 and a half years. Together, we have a 1-year-old son, and I love spending time with him. I am a huge sports fan, especially of the Michigan Wolverines and the Detroit Lions.
This year, in addition to teaching, I will be helping coach football and wrestling for St. Charles, and I spent this past summer working at Bulldog Kids Care as a childcare provider. I plan to continue spending my summers off from teaching with the childcare team, as I have found that I enjoy staying busy within the district.
My family and I already love this community, and I am excited to serve the students of our fantastic district. I am looking forward to a great year!
My name is Brandon Knickerbocker, and I will be teaching 7th- and 8th-grade social studies!
I am a Saginaw Valley State graduate and have spent the past 3 years teaching at Bridgeport High School. My wife and I have lived in St. Charles for 2 and a half years. Together, we have a 1-year-old son, and I love spending time with him. I am a huge sports fan, especially of the Michigan Wolverines and the Detroit Lions.
This year, in addition to teaching, I will be helping coach football and wrestling for St. Charles, and I spent this past summer working at Bulldog Kids Care as a childcare provider. I plan to continue spending my summers off from teaching with the childcare team, as I have found that I enjoy staying busy within the district.
My family and I already love this community, and I am excited to serve the students of our fantastic district. I am looking forward to a great year!
Hi everyone!
My name is Payton Parrish, and I am thrilled to be joining St. Charles Middle School as a new 6th-grade teacher!
I graduated from St. Charles High School in 2021 and then attended Rochester Christian University, where I also had the opportunity to play college softball. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (PK–6) in December 2025.
This past winter, I was fortunate to return to St. Charles Elementary as an MTSS Para and substitute teacher. Additionally, I am proud to serve as the Head Coach of St. Charles Varsity Softball.
I am incredibly excited to return to my hometown and teach in the school district that helped shape me. There truly is nothing like coming back home and having the opportunity to give back to the community that supported me growing up.
I can’t wait for an amazing school year!❤️🐾
My name is Payton Parrish, and I am thrilled to be joining St. Charles Middle School as a new 6th-grade teacher!
I graduated from St. Charles High School in 2021 and then attended Rochester Christian University, where I also had the opportunity to play college softball. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (PK–6) in December 2025.
This past winter, I was fortunate to return to St. Charles Elementary as an MTSS Para and substitute teacher. Additionally, I am proud to serve as the Head Coach of St. Charles Varsity Softball.
I am incredibly excited to return to my hometown and teach in the school district that helped shape me. There truly is nothing like coming back home and having the opportunity to give back to the community that supported me growing up.
I can’t wait for an amazing school year!❤️🐾
Hi!
My name is Lacey Porter, and I am a new 4th grade teacher for St. Charles Elementary School. I am originally from Battle Creek. I graduated from Albion College in 2022 and moved to the Saginaw area to be with my husband.
I previously taught in a GSRP program for a year before becoming a substitute teacher for St. Charles Community Schools, where I have spent the past three years. I am so excited to begin this new chapter and cannot wait for the school year ahead!
In my free time, I love spending time with my husband, family, and friends. I also enjoy sewing and doing all kinds of crafts. One of my favorite things to do is spend time outdoors riding my horse, Giselle.
I am so excited to meet my students, build a wonderful classroom community, and make this a fun and successful year together!
I can’t wait for this school year! Go Bulldogs! 🐾
My name is Lacey Porter, and I am a new 4th grade teacher for St. Charles Elementary School. I am originally from Battle Creek. I graduated from Albion College in 2022 and moved to the Saginaw area to be with my husband.
I previously taught in a GSRP program for a year before becoming a substitute teacher for St. Charles Community Schools, where I have spent the past three years. I am so excited to begin this new chapter and cannot wait for the school year ahead!
In my free time, I love spending time with my husband, family, and friends. I also enjoy sewing and doing all kinds of crafts. One of my favorite things to do is spend time outdoors riding my horse, Giselle.
I am so excited to meet my students, build a wonderful classroom community, and make this a fun and successful year together!
I can’t wait for this school year! Go Bulldogs! 🐾
Hello Bulldogs!
My name is Michael Kutsch, and I am honored to be the new principal at St. Charles Middle School. I am thrilled to join this incredible community and look forward to meeting each of you.
A bit about my background: I am a graduate of Saginaw Valley State University and the University of Michigan, holding Master’s degrees in Education Studies and Educational Leadership. For the past five years, I worked at Carrollton Middle School in Saginaw—two years teaching social studies and three years as Assistant Principal and Athletic Director. My teaching career also includes time at Clarenceville High School in Livonia and Cass Technical High School in Detroit. Before entering school administration, I spent summers teaching driver's training and worked as a high school referee and NCAA softball umpire.
Though I was born in Saginaw, I grew up in Tampa, Florida. I moved back to Michigan in 2010 and truly wouldn’t want to live anywhere else! Outside of school, I enjoy spending time outdoors. In the spring and summer, you’ll usually find me on the golf course, and in the fall, I spend as much time in the woods as possible. I am also an avid reader with a love for nonfiction and American history.
I start every single morning with a workout, living by the motto: “Win the morning, win the day.” I strongly believe in tackling a hard challenge first thing in the morning to continuously push myself to get better.
Joining St. Charles is deeply personal for me. While I didn't attend school here myself, my grandfather, Bernie Cooper, was the high school principal from the 1970s to the mid-1980s. I have wonderful memories of attending football games with him and visiting his office, and he always spoke with immense pride about the St. Charles students and community. I am excited to create positive new memories with all of you.
I hope you are enjoying these final days of summer. I can’t wait to see everyone on the first day of school, Tuesday, August 25th!
My name is Michael Kutsch, and I am honored to be the new principal at St. Charles Middle School. I am thrilled to join this incredible community and look forward to meeting each of you.
A bit about my background: I am a graduate of Saginaw Valley State University and the University of Michigan, holding Master’s degrees in Education Studies and Educational Leadership. For the past five years, I worked at Carrollton Middle School in Saginaw—two years teaching social studies and three years as Assistant Principal and Athletic Director. My teaching career also includes time at Clarenceville High School in Livonia and Cass Technical High School in Detroit. Before entering school administration, I spent summers teaching driver's training and worked as a high school referee and NCAA softball umpire.
Though I was born in Saginaw, I grew up in Tampa, Florida. I moved back to Michigan in 2010 and truly wouldn’t want to live anywhere else! Outside of school, I enjoy spending time outdoors. In the spring and summer, you’ll usually find me on the golf course, and in the fall, I spend as much time in the woods as possible. I am also an avid reader with a love for nonfiction and American history.
I start every single morning with a workout, living by the motto: “Win the morning, win the day.” I strongly believe in tackling a hard challenge first thing in the morning to continuously push myself to get better.
Joining St. Charles is deeply personal for me. While I didn't attend school here myself, my grandfather, Bernie Cooper, was the high school principal from the 1970s to the mid-1980s. I have wonderful memories of attending football games with him and visiting his office, and he always spoke with immense pride about the St. Charles students and community. I am excited to create positive new memories with all of you.
I hope you are enjoying these final days of summer. I can’t wait to see everyone on the first day of school, Tuesday, August 25th!
