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

Mario Lemons stands in hallway with arms at his side, smiling at camera.


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. MORE

LINDSAY CIESLAK – HOWELL

Lindsay Cieslak stands in classroom smiling at camera with arms crossed.

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

CANDICE JACKSON – DETROIT

Candice Jackson stands in hallway smiling at camera with arms crossed.

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. MORE

BROOKE LARM – BLOOMFIELD HILLS

Brooke Larm stands in outdoors smiling at camera with arms crossed.

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. MORE

NATHAN KUKLA – GRAND RAPIDS

Nathan Kukla stands in art room wearing bib. Helping a student with a project.

Now 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. MORE

CARLOS ARAOZ – LANSING

Carlos Araoz stands in classroom smiling at camera with arms crossed.

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. MORE