Huron Forward Podcast

Dr. Kaleb Patrick, faculty member in the Department of Educational Leadership at Central Michigan University, visits the Au Gres-Sims School District campus for a discussion centered on successful practices for K-12 student preparation and transitional readiness to higher education environments. While focusing on the need for students to be self-directed learners who are grounded "academically, emotionally, and situationally," Au Gres-Sims is featured as a "Destination District" that provides quality academic programming, robust extended learning opportunities, and experiential digital proficiency for long-term learner success at colleges or universities. The greater Au Gres area is vibrantly poised to support and attract a professional workforce of life-long learners throughout the North Bay Region.

Jamie Kraatz, the new Instructional Services Director for Au Gres-Sims School District, is featured in this podcast. Discussion focuses on the role and duties of an Instructional Services Director within a public school setting, transitioning to Au Gres, goals and vision for a destination school district, and the continuing positive dialogue of "Why not Au Gres."

Lisa Barna, the Business Solutions Professional from Michigan Works! Association Region 7B and Director of the Arenac County Economic Development Corporation (EDC), joins the "J and J in Au Gres" Podcast as a guest to discuss the flourishing business connections being created throughout the greater Au Gres area, Arenac County, and beyond. This Podcast focuses on the facilitated resources available in the community for economic advancement and human capital growth through workforce development of talent recruitment along with employee training and hiring supports.

Michael Kelly, Director of the Great Lakes Office of the Conservation Fund's Saginaw Bay Watershed Initiative Network (WIN) joins Jeff and John, via Google Hangouts, to share reflections about the Conservation Fund's annual "Balancing Nature and Commerce in Rural Communities and Landscapes" national conference which was hosted at the Conservation Fund's training facility in Shepherdstown, West Virginia from January 31 - February 2, 2017. The trio discuss the shared intentions behind creating an identity and voice for the North Bay Region of the Saginaw Bay, while enhancing local cities to enrich the greater Au Gres area.

Allison Wiltse, owner of Ali's UpNorth restaurant and recently elected president of the Au Gres Area Chamber of Commerce, joins Jeff and John to discuss area celebrations and a long-term, sustainable vision of success for the greater Au Gres area.