Ms. Keys' class worked extremely hard and counted all the way to 1000 by 10s, independently and everyone as a whole class, and as a reward, they got a class pet!
Their stuffed polar bear was purchased through a company that gives back to endangered species and allows them to track a LIVE polar bear! They get updates on its movement: how far, how fast, and where it moves. They also get pictures and videos of the polar bear. They met “NaNook” yesterday and started tracking her.
They are learning about the polar bear and its habitat, the food it eats, and where/when hibernation might take place.
They are in love and so excited to track NaNook all year and watch as she moves around Canada!
Prior to joining Grayling, I spent the last three years as a Mental Health Professional housed at Gaylord Community Schools. During that time, I developed a deep appreciation for supporting students in their emotional growth and well-being.
My passion for working with elementary-aged children within the school setting began during my internship while completing my Master’s in Social Work at Spring Arbor University, where I graduated in 2022. Since then, I have been committed to creating safe, supportive, and inclusive spaces where all students can thrive.
When I’m not working, I love spending time outdoors; whether it’s hiking, running, or simply enjoying nature. I also cherish time with my friends, family, and my adorable dog, Mabel.
I look forward to building strong connections with students, families, and staff as we work together to support the whole child. Please don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to help!
🎉👏 We are thrilled to celebrate Instructional Coach Renee Lewicki, one of the recipients of the 2025 Phyllis Ziebell Kesseler Outstanding Educator Award!
Renee was nominated by Leah Allen, with heartfelt support from several colleagues who shared the many ways she goes above and beyond for students and staff. Her dedication, leadership, and passion for learning continue to make a lasting impact across our schools.
She joins Carrie Wilkinson and Jordan Kulhanek, the other two 2025 recipients of this prestigious award.
Please join us in congratulating Renee on this well-deserved honor! 🌟🍎 #OutstandingEducator #ExcellenceInEducation
Due to construction, our TY Open House is scheduled for Monday, August 25, 4-5:30. We can't wait to see our elementary Vikings! Our first day of school for TY is Tuesday, August 26.
I graduated from Ferris State University in 2020 and found myself working with children with an ASD diagnosis for the past 5 years, and have since fallen into the teaching world. I started at GES in April this year, then began accruing credits for my teaching certificate. I’ve had the pleasure of making so many connections within GES and cannot wait to continue making connections and growing as an educator.
When not in front of the classroom, you can find me chasing sunsets, reading, kayaking, hiking, being the best aunt I can be, or simply anything outdoors. Northern Michigan has so much to offer, and I love soaking in every moment of it!
I am beyond motivated and excited to start this school year off and absorb all the joy that comes with it. Here’s to a great 25-26 school year at Grayling Elementary School!
-Miss Keys, 2nd Grade
Hello! My name is Hannah (Smock) Heavner, and I am so excited to join Grayling Elementary School’s team as your new STEM teacher! I love inspiring curiosity and creativity in young minds, and I can’t wait to see what this new chapter offers.
I graduated from Central Michigan University with a degree in Education, specializing in Integrated Science—Fire Up Chips! For the past few years, I’ve had the pleasure of teaching Science and English at Grayling Middle School. My time there was filled with wonderful memories and connections—I will always hold GMS close to my heart.
Teaching in our community is especially meaningful to me because I grew up in Grayling and attended Crawford AuSable Schools myself. It feels incredibly rewarding to teach in the same community that helped shape me into the person I am today.
Outside the classroom, I love being outdoors, hiking trails, exploring new places, and spending time with my family and friends.
I’m thrilled to bring my passion for science and exploration to our Grayling Elementary School students. Here’s to a fantastic year of discovery, creativity, and fun!
