Welcome Back, Manistee ISD Team!
Kicking Off the 2025–2026 School Year with Energy, Inspiration, and Connection
The Manistee Intermediate School District is thrilled to welcome back our incredible team of teachers, paraprofessionals, itinerants, and support staff for the 2025–2026 school year! Each fall brings new opportunities, new challenges, and new ways to grow — and thanks to the dedication and passion of our staff, we’re ready to make this year one of our best yet.
From day one, the excitement was contagious as familiar faces reunited, new staff members joined the team, and the energy across our buildings reminded us why we do what we do. At Manistee ISD, we know that our people make the difference — every student’s success is fueled by the caring, creativity, and hard work of the professionals who show up every day ready to make an impact.
Day One: Safety, Preparedness & Purpose
We kicked off our first day back with a renewed focus on collaboration, growth, and safety — three pillars that guide everything we do at Manistee ISD. A special thank-you goes to Sheriff Brian Gutowski and the Manistee County Sheriff’s Office for leading our staff through CRASE training (Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events).
This training provided our team with valuable tools and strategies to ensure we are prepared for emergencies, keeping safety at the forefront of our school year. We are incredibly grateful for this partnership and for the commitment of our local law enforcement to the well-being of our students and staff.
As the day unfolded, teams came together to reconnect, reflect, and gear up for the year ahead. Laughter and conversation filled the halls as colleagues shared stories, exchanged ideas, and reignited their passion for serving our students, families, and community.
Day Two: Inspiration, Laughter & Connection
The momentum carried into Day Two, and the day couldn’t have started on a more uplifting note! Our staff had the privilege of spending the morning with Joe Beckman from Till 360, a nationally recognized speaker known for his ability to inspire audiences through heartfelt storytelling, humor, and music.
Joe’s message was simple but powerful: human connection matters. Through laughter, song, and authentic moments of reflection, he reminded us of the incredible impact we have when we lead with compassion, empathy, and joy. His energy was contagious, and his words resonated deeply with our team — setting the perfect tone as we begin a year filled with new opportunities to connect with our students and each other. (And yes, Joe — we love your face, too!)
Following the session, our team came together to enjoy a delicious lunch hosted by Laura & Jamil Alam and the amazing staff at The Golden Stag. Their warm hospitality and incredible food created a perfect space for our staff to relax, recharge, and continue building connections before diving back into the busy days ahead. We are so grateful for their ongoing support of our educators and our mission.
Looking Ahead: A Year of Growth and Possibility
The start of a school year is always filled with hope, excitement, and possibility — and this year is no exception. At Manistee ISD, we remain deeply committed to supporting our students, families, and community through innovation, collaboration, and excellence in education.
This year, we look forward to:
Empowering students through meaningful learning experiences
Fostering connections between educators, families, and community partners
Expanding opportunities for students of all abilities to thrive
Continuing to prioritize safety, well-being, and inclusion
To our incredible team: thank you for the passion, energy, and dedication you bring to this work every single day. Because of you, our students are supported, inspired, and prepared to reach their full potential.
Here’s to making the 2025–2026 school year one filled with growth, connection, and countless moments of success — together, we are stronger, and together, we will achieve amazing things! 🌟