Our students used sidewalk chalk to share powerful messages of encouragement and hope across our school communities. Their creativity turned simple pavement into a platform for connection and care.
“Every step forward, no matter how small, still counts.” #CGRESD #ourstory
Clare-Gladwin RESD Board Names Mike Simon as Interim Superintendent -
The Clare-Gladwin RESD Board of Education has appointed Mike Simon as Interim Superintendent, effective July 1, 2025. Simon, who currently serves as Assistant Superintendent of Special Education, brings 13 years of service to the organization. He will take on the role following the departure of Superintendent Tara Mager, who is set to lead Northwest Education Services in Traverse City.
“Mike brings an understanding of our organization, our values, and the needs of our local districts,” said Board President Sue Murawski. “His steady leadership and strong relationships across the region make him well-suited to lead during this transition.”
Simon expressed appreciation for the Board’s confidence, stating, “We have a great team at CGRESD, and our focus remains on supporting our local districts and families. I’m looking forward to building on the strong foundation in place.”
The Board plans to begin a search for a permanent superintendent later this fall.
Earlier this week, we celebrated Speech-Language Pathologists Day (May 18)—a special opportunity to recognize the incredible work of our SLPs here at Clare-Gladwin RESD. These dedicated professionals help students build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and find their voice every day. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Alison Cataldo, Lisa Cooper, Shanna Graham, Paige Homan, Gerrit Knopf, Brianna Lybeer, Kathleen Nordrum, Jennifer Topham, Barb Tyler, Jennifer Walraven, Summer Ward, and Jenna Zelkowski for their expertise and commitment to student success. #CGRESD #SLP #ourstory
Thank you to our local fire departments and EMS teams for embracing the CGRESD Sensory Support Kits and sharing powerful stories about the needs in your communities. These kits are designed to support individuals with autism during emergency situations.
Together, we’re making our communities safer and inclusive for everyone, one department at a time!
These kits are now on firetrucks in Beaverton, Gladwin, Butman Township, Harrison, Garfield Township, and Lincoln Township—and on ambulances throughout Gladwin County. #CGRESD #ourstory #autism
Clare occupational therapy students celebrate their hard work and the amazing gains they made this year in therapy at our 2nd Annual End of Year Snack and Cinema session. OT students get to enjoy a variety of snacks while they relax and watch a funny show! This year, they enjoyed some classic Looney Tunes! #CGRESD #ourstory
Harrison RESD therapists and families came together for one final day of community, learning, and laughter before summer break. #CGRESD #ourstory
Bring-In OT and Speech services are wrapping up for the 2024-2025 school year at Beaverton Elementary. The last session is all about hug therapy! #CGRESD #OurStory
Gladwin County Play and Learn groups are out exploring this summer! Please take a moment to enjoy the beautiful Michigan weather at three diverse parks with us. This week, we traversed the Buckeye Trailhead, climbing hills, painting nature, and listening to the river. Join us next Tuesday, May 27th, at the Beaverton Park, from 10-11. #CGRESD #ourstory
Clare-Gladwin RESD Speech-Language Pathologists Alison Cataldo and Summer Ward have launched a new project with the CAN Council to support local fire departments in Clare and Gladwin counties.
Inspired by Indiana’s “Ben’s Blue Bags,” they created CGRESD Sensory Support Kits—filled with visual aids, communication boards, and sensory tools—to help first responders better assist individuals with autism.
The kits are now being placed on fire trucks across the area, and Alison and Summer have been invited to present on best practices to local departments. #CGRESD #ourstory
We wish Todd Bothwell all the best in his next chapter!
Todd served as a School Social Worker through the RESD, most recently supporting Harrison Middle and High School. Thank you, Todd, for your dedication to our students. #CGRESD #ourstory
REMC 5 Director Joe Trommater was invited to present at the annual UP MACUL Conference in Ironwood, Michigan. He was able to bring back some useful materials and tools to use for teaching computer science, project-based learning, and place-based outdoor education.
He met the keynote speaker, Alexis Dahl, whose videos are a great addition to science and social studies classrooms of any grade level. https://www.youtube.com/alexisdahl #REMC #CGRESD #ourstory
Community Mental Health for Central Michigan is accepting applications for a Full-Time School Based Therapist - Beaverton Elementary School. Job posting details: https://cmhcm.e3applicants.com/careers/School-Based-Therapist--Beaverton-Elementary-School-303
Sara Dipzinski, Great Start Collaborative Coordinator; Sarah McCurdy, and Jessica Dankert, Family Liaisons, attended the 2025 GSC/GSFC Convening at Crystal Mountain. This convening was about reconnection, reflection, and forward movement. They are excited to bring back all the information they learned and implement it into their work with the families and community of Clare and Gladwin Counties. #GSC #CGRESD #ourstory
The CGRESD Harrison playgroup explored the preschool playground today, where the children shared extra words and plenty of laughter! #CGRESD #ourstory #Harrisonplaygroup
Happy Birthday to Jen Topham, our amazing speech-language pathologist! Thank you for being a ray of sunshine and always going above and beyond for our preschoolers. We’re so lucky to have you! #CGRESD #OurStory
Messes mean fun! Speech and OT encourage hands-on play, big movements, and getting a little wild to help build fine motor and speech skills. Play with purpose! #CGRESD #OurStory
The Gladwin Playgroup had a great time at the community garden—enjoying painting, gardening, and spending time outdoors. Special thanks to Jessica Dankert, Family Liaison Coordinator, for her creativity and out-of-the-box thinking in finding meaningful ways to engage young learners. #EarlyOn #OurStory #CGRESD
Early Childhood provides assistance to all babies! This fawn was stuck down in a window well outside of our office and the Early Childhood staff came to its rescue.
It's a beautiful day and the students are outside in the sunshine! If only everyone could have a window near the playground to watch and listen to these amazing kids! Good for the soul! #CGRESD #ourstory
Happy Mother's Day to all the moms who share their most precious gifts with us and partner with us to support their children's growth! #mothersday #CGRESD #ourstory
