Mountaineer Minute - May 11, 2026
Welcome, Noelle!
We are thrilled to welcome Noelle Guay as our new 5–12 School Success Coach!
A recent transplant to the U.P. with passion for STEM & creating environments where students feel seen and valued, Noelle was drawn to IMPS due to the strong sense of community and the commitment to supporting students both academically and personally. Noelle joins Iron Mountain Public Schools with over a decade of experience in youth development and education, most recently serving with the University of Florida’s 4-H Youth Development program.
She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, focusing on the importance of belonging in education. She is a firm believer that mentorship and encouragement are the keys to helping students recognize their own strengths and potential.
Outside the classroom, you’ll find Noelle enjoying the outdoors with her husband and dogs--whether it's fishing, birdwatching, or tending to her plants.
Her favorite book is The Martian because it celebrates resilience, problem-solving, and humor!
Welcome, Emma!
We are thrilled to welcome Emma Marotz as our Social Media Intern for the summer!
A Kingsford native and Breitung Township Schools alumna, Emma is returning home to give back to the community that raised her. Currently a Multimedia Journalism student at Northern Michigan University (Class of 2027) with minors in production and PR, Emma will bring a wealth of knowledge, creativity and technical skill to our digital presence.
Emma’s professional passion lies in impactful storytelling, which is exactly what we look to do here as a district. In her role at IMPS, she aims to blend her creative style with professional social media strategies to tell compelling, unique stories that foster deeper connections with the community.
When she isn’t filming or editing content, you can find Emma weightlifting, enjoying the great outdoors, or spending quality time with friends and family.
Some of her favorites:
Book: The Housemaid
(She loves a good plot twist!)
Movie: Catching Fire *
Podcast: Crime Junkie
Brinley Pickett
Grade: 9th
Parents: Stacey & Mike Pickett
Brinley is a strong academic student with a dynamic personality! Brinley puts in the effort to achieve great grades all while managing lots of extra curricular activities. She competes in Volleyball and Track, as well as participating in multiple clubs - Environmental, Key, Tri-Hi-Y and Varsity Club. She is a pleasure to have in class - always participating and ready for some laughs too!
Early Kindergarten:
Hazel Hartwig (Mrs. Hart)
Hazel works hard every day and always tries her best. She takes pride in her work, is a very good listener and follows directions carefully. She shows respect by being kind to the adults and students in school. Hazel is a joy to have in class!
Kindergarten:
Ellie-Jo Coffen (Miss Gonzales)
Ellie has made incredible strides this year and truly embodies what it means to be the Kindergarten Student of the Month. She comes to school each day determined to do her best, giving her full effort in everything she does. Ellie approaches challenges with a positive attitude and a genuine willingness to try, even when things feel difficult. Ellie also has a huge heart; she is always ready to lend a helping hand to her classmates. Her kindness and caring nature make our classroom a better place every day. On top of that, her bright personality fills our room with energy and joy. We absolutely love having her as part of our classroom community and are so proud of all she has accomplished!
First Grade:
Gabriel Kloppmann (Mrs. Rosenthal)
Gabe is a very hardworking student who consistently tries his best in everything he does. He is kind and respectful to others. Gabe 'goes for the GOLD' every day!
Second Grade:
Finnegan Franz (Mrs. Grenier / Mrs. Erickson)
Finnegan is a wonderful addition to our classroom community and truly represents what it means to be a GOLD student. He puts forth best effort in all his work. He is a kind and respectful friend to everyone, always willing to lend a helping hand. Finnegan’s positive attitude and strong work ethic make him a great role model for his peers
Third Grade:
Evelyn Hallman (Miss Spencer / Mrs. Hazelwood)
Evelyn has shown great growth this school year, both academically and as a leader in our classroom! She consistently works hard in every subject, taking pride in demonstrating her skills and asking thoughtful questions that deepen her understanding. Evelyn has a true love for reading and enjoys engaging in meaningful discussions about stories. She is always willing to lend a helping hand around the classroom and brings a positive attitude each day. Evelyn is friendly and creative, an all-around wonderful student; she is a joy to have in our class!
Fourth Grade:
Sadie Hazelwood (Mrs. Harris)
Sadie is a model student who consistently stays on task and meeting all expectations throughout the school day. She is incredibly kind and helpful to everyone, and I can always count on her to do the right thing. She works hard in every subject and always produces high-quality work!
"A Better Version of Themselves"
Congratulations to Devon Nattiel-Loar & Ryah McNutt for showcasing "A Better Version of Themselves" in April. This recognition celebrates their continued growth and dedication in respect, behavior, character, leadership, accountability, and academics. We’re proud of your hard work and commitment! 👏✨
First Robotics Club (FRC) Fundraiser!
Help the IM robotics team gear up for the 2026-2027 season! 🤖⚙️
They are hosting a Can Drive to fund their next build.
📅 When: May 23rd | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
📍 Where: Industrial Arts Building/Robotics Building
(Downtown school Campus/look for our signs!)
The IM team is made up of seven students who work alongside industry mentors to build large-scale robots for intense 3-on-3 competitions against more than 40 teams across Michigan—and they need your support to keep the momentum going!
Join the Iron Mountain High School Academic Booster Club (ABC Club)
Join ABC to support the next generation of students! It’s a small time commitment that makes a big impact.
- Group meets just twice a year; no fundraising required!
- Open to parents, teachers, and community members.
Contact: Russell Kassin at 906-239-9059 or rkassin@fnbimk.com.
2025-26 school year:
- Food Service- Substitute Lunchroom Servers
- Special Education Teacher - 5/12 Building
2026-27 school year/season:
- 6th grade Teacher
- School Nurse
- Secondary Mathematics Teacher (6-12)
- 2nd Assistant Varsity Football Coach
Looking to Sub? Check out more information at the bottom of this newsletter!
Final week to order your IMHS 2025-2026 Yearbook!
You must pre-order your yearbook, no extras will be available.
Click the graphic to Order! Must order by May 15th
Graduation is included, so the yearbook is distributed in August.
Lemonade Day Volunteers Needed!
The fifth and fourth graders are participating in Lemonade Day Saturday May 16th. TBD (8:00-noon).
4th Graders are looking for Parents/Staff to mentor groups of students. It would consist of meeting a time or two before to prepare for the day.
Please contact Mrs. Harris, if you are interested
@ harrisk@imschools.org
💜 CANCER BENEFIT FOR KATIE (ELLIS) GIBBONS
💜 Her fight is our fight. 💜
An IMHS Alum ('05) needs our support! At just 38 years old, Katie was recently diagnosed with Stage 4 Leiomyosarcoma. In an instant, life changed. What lies ahead is a difficult and uncertain road—one that no family should have to face alone.
Whether you can attend, donate, spread the word… it matters more than you know.
🗓 Sunday, May 31st, 2026 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 The Big 10 Sports Bar in Quinnesec, Michigan
🍔 Food 🎟 Raffles 💰 50/50 Drawing
🎶 Acoustic bands playing: Norton & Chartier, Money Shot & 141 North
If you are unable to attend but would like to donate, please message or post on the Event page linked here or click the graphic.
(Graphic & Information courtesy of Kayla Johnson and Bryonda De Wan)
✨ 5th/6th Grade Spring Concert: May 12 @ 2pm - IMHS Auditorium - Free Entry ✨
We invite you to join us for an afternoon to celebrate our 5th and 6th-grade students. Come hear the beautiful results of their hard work featuring performances by our 5th Grade General Music classes, the 6th Grade Choir, and the 6th Grade Band. Under the baton of Mr. Recla and Ms. Weaver, and featuring the wonderful collaboration of Ms. Sullivan, it’s going to be a performance to remember. Let’s fill the room with support for our rising stars!
✨Glowing Hearts and Hard Truths: Join Us for Radium Girls May 15 & 16 @ 7pm - IMHS Auditorium✨
The IMHS Drama Club is proud to invite you to our upcoming production of Radium Girls. This powerful, moving drama tells the true story of the "shining girls" of the 1920s—young factory workers who fought for justice in the face of corporate greed and a changing world. Come support our talented cast and crew as they take the stage! It’s going to be an evening of incredible storytelling that will stay with you long after the curtain falls.
Our students have poured their hearts, souls, and countless hours of rehearsal into bringing this poignant story to life. Whether you’re a fan of history, a supporter of the arts, or just looking for an unforgettable night of local theater, this is a show you won’t want to miss!
🗓️ Show Details
Dates: May 15 & 16
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: IMHS Auditorium
Attention North Parents! 📢
The Smiles on Wheels mobile dental clinic will be at our school May 18–22nd.
Please complete and return the permission form by accept OR decline services. We need a response for every student to confirm the paperwork made it home! 🏠
✨ Note: Regular dental patients can still benefit from free sealants through this program.
📞 Questions? Contact the North office!
Go For Launch! Summer Program @ LSSU!
Higher Orbits will be back at LSSU in June to host another Go For Launch! program for students who are going into grades 8-12 in the 2026-27 school year! This will be a two day event held on June 16 and 17. Students will work directly with Astronaut Greg H. Johnson as well as former NASA International Space Station Astronaut Instructor and Higher Orbits Founder/CEO Michelle Lucas. Through this experience, students will develop a project and compete to have that project launched to the International Space Station.
Students and families can also go directly to the Event Webpage for information and registration links, or click the graphic.
Queen City Striders Youth Summer Running Program!
Join Queen City Striders for a 5-week youth summer program where they guide kids though fundamental skills & the basics of running.
Ages: 5–12 years old (Separate age group registrations available)
Dates: June 22nd – July 23rd
Schedule: Mondays & Thursdays | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Location: Iron Mountain City Park
Cost: $125 (Includes complimentary entry into local races!)
More Information & Register Here OR by clicking the graphic
Jamie Angeli's 2026 Basketball Camp of Champs
This summer at Kingsford High School!
Session One (GR 3-8) - July 7 - 10:
Cost: $100 (Family Discount available)
Boys (10:00am - 1:00pm)
Girls (2:00pm - 5:00pm)
Session Two (GR 9-12) - July 13-15:
Cost: $100 (Family Discount available)
Boys & Girls (10:00am - 2:00pm)
BACK. ICONIC. UNMISSABLE.
Click here to register, or click the graphic.
U.P. F.H.L.C. Summer Camp
⚕️A camp dedicated to health education and career exploration. 🩺 Join for six immersive days, a firsthand look at what it's like to pursue and work in the healthcare field. Open to incoming high school freshmen and sophomore students considering a health profession. Participants can become CPR and First-Aid Certified during the camp.
Summer Camp Dates: Sunday, July 19th to Friday, July 24th
Cost: Day Camp*: $250; Overnight Camp*: $350
Note: Prices are reflective of a full week of camp.
*Scholarships are available.
Registration & Contact
Visit the website, scan the QR code, OR click the graphic for more information.
Registration is open now and will close on May 15 or when capacity is reached (50 students).
Sportsmen of Tomorrow Youth Day!
Join the Sagola Township Sportsmen's Club for the ultimate outdoor bash! Open to all youth ages, boys and girls to dive into the outdoorsy fun with activities like trout pond fishing, BB guns, .22 rifle and archery. Experience the thrill of firetrucks and explore the lake, all while enjoying games and engaging with local businesses showcasing their outdoor sills.
It's a day filled with fresh air, new friends, and unforgettable fun and prizes. Don't miss out on the memorable outdoor adventure! Food and drinks will be available.
This event is also currently looking for local business sponsors, volunteers, and organizations who would like to get involved and help make this a memorable experience. Find them on Facebook & reach out to learn more!
Kids Bowl Free All Summer!
Kids Bowl Free, the summer bowling program that provides FREE BOWLING at participating bowling centers is now open for registration for THIS SUMMER.
- Go to www.KidsBowlFree.com or click the graphic and find the participating location.
- Create your account.
- Have A Summer Of Fun With Your Family!
Receipts must be turned in by the 10th of each month
We can only accept receipts dated within quarters set by the Community Dollars Program.
Any receipts that are turned in outside the accepted date range cannot be used or exchanged for tokens. *Dates do not apply to Tadych's Marketplace receipts
Q1: Jan-Mar; Q2: Apr-Jun; Q3: Jul-Sept; Q4: Oct-Dec
