Trending
ALPENA – Alpena Public Schools (APS) is excited to announce the hiring of Amy Brownridge as the new instructor for the Teacher Academy program at Alpena High School. One of 11 distinct programs offered through APS Career and Technical Education (CTE), the Teacher Academy program is designed to give students early exposure and practical experience in the fields of education, social work, and other careers centering youth.
Brownridge brings over 20 years of experience in program development and instructional expertise to the role. Known for her ability to build effective systems for learning, she has been a driving force in educational innovation at Alpena High School since 2000. Her extensive background includes designing curriculum, facilitating project-based learning, and promoting technology integration--including early implementation of student AI use in learning activities.
"I am thrilled to take on this new role with the Teacher Academy," said Brownridge. "Having spent two decades working to create engaging, student-centered learning environments, I am passionate about equipping our next generation of educators. Teacher Academy is a vital program for our community, and I look forward to helping our students discover the profound impact they can make while developing the practical skills they need to succeed."
AHS Teacher Academy offers students a comprehensive look into fields that focus on youth development -education, social work, early childhood development, and more. Through the program, students gain exposure to real-world classroom settings, learn about instructional design, and develop essential leadership skills. The program is affiliated with the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), providing students with opportunities to participate in state and national competitions, further enhancing their leadership development.
Graduates of the Teacher Academy are well-prepared for their next steps, with a clear pathway to pursuing related careers and higher education degrees. For students interested in education,
the State of Michigan currently offers significant support for aspiring teachers, including the MI Future Educator Fellowship, which provides up to $10,000 annually to eligible students enrolled in an educator preparation program at Michigan colleges and universities. Additionally, the MI Future Educator Stipend offers $9,600 to support students during their required student teaching semester.
The success of the AHS Teacher Academy is evident in its alumni. Last year alone, Alpena Public Schools proudly hired three former Teacher Academy graduates to join the district as full-time educators. This homegrown approach to developing teaching talent is a testament to the program’s effectiveness and its value to the local community.
Brownridge steps into the role following the retirement of Paula Gehrke, who dedicated years to building and advising the Teacher Academy and its FCCLA component. Gehrke’s contributions secured a strong foundation for the program, mentoring countless students, and growing the number of future educators and youth-serving professionals.
"We extend our deepest gratitude to Paula Gehrke for her years of service and dedication to the Teacher Academy," APS CTE Director, Dr. Jessie Gillard, stated. "Her impact on our students and our district is immeasurable. As we welcome Amy Brownridge, we are confident that the program will continue to grow and inspire future educators under her leadership."
For more information about the Teacher Academy and APS Career and Technical Education programs, please visit alpenaschools.com.