Ingrained

Ingrained captures the journeys of Spartan educators who have become catalysts for positive change in K-12 classrooms across the state of Michigan. These inspiring educators are deeply rooted in their communities, bringing passion, innovation and a commitment to education.

Join us as we share their stories and showcase the diverse ways in which our alumni make a profound impact! These alumni represent just a glimpse of the college’s influential community, who have made a transformative impact on a local, national and international scale.

Mario Lemons - Detroit

Two-time alum Mario Lemons plays a crucial role in fostering a strong sense of community as the head of school at Detroit Achievement Academy. See more

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Lindsay Cieslak - Howell

One can’t help but feel the warmth when entering Special Education Teacher Lindsay Cieslak’s classroom at Three Fires Elementary in Howell, Michigan. See more

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Candice Jackson - Detroit

With over two decades of teaching experience in Detroit Public Schools Community District, two-time alum Candice Jackson was recently recognized for her unwavering commitment to student success. See more 

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Brooke Larm - Bloomfield Hills 

For alum Brooke Larm, TreeSchool is the realization of years of intentional study and a childhood literally grounded in summers spent running barefoot along the Au Sable River in Grayling, Michigan. See more

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Nathan Kukla - Grand Rapids

In his 25th year of teaching in a K-12 setting, Michigan Art Educator of the Year and two-time alum Nathan Kukla believes his ability to create a sense of belonging in the classroom has been the main ingredient to his success. See more

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Carlos Araoz - Lansing

Lansing native and multilingual Instructor Carlos Araoz employs a firm and friendly teaching style with his students, many of whom are adapting to life in a new country. See more

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