In continuing the introduction of the Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame Class of 2025, Clio Area Schools is proud to recognize an individual whose dedication has made a lasting impact. Congratulations to Gene Hickey, a staff member inductee, whose service and contributions embody Mustang pride.
GENE HICKEY - STAFF MEMBER
Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame- Class of 2025
For over three decades, Gene Hickey served the Clio Area Schools community as an exceptional educator, mentor, and the visionary architect of one of the most successful and enduring extracurricular programs in district history: the Clio Scholastic Chess Program. His leadership, expertise, and unwavering dedication to students helped transform Clio into a statewide, and at times, national chess powerhouse.
Mr Hickey. began coaching Clio chess in 1978, and for the next 35 years, until his retirement in 2013, he built a program that touched the lives of thousands of students. Under his guidance, Clio fielded competitive teams at the the elementary, junior high, and high school levels, competing in the Interscholastic Chess League (ICCL) and in numerous state and national competitions. The program became one of the winningest in Clio history, producing a legacy of excellence that continues today.
During Hickey's coaching career, Clio teams and individuals collected championships, trophies, and honors "too numerous to list," but among the most notable accomplishments:
- Multiple ICCL League championships at both the junior high and high school levels
- Two State Elementary Team Championships
- One State Junior High Team Championship
- High finishes year after year at State and National tournament events
- Numerous individual successes, including:
- Ross Speiran, 2nd place at the National Junior High Championship (St. Paul, MN)
- Samer Sahoury, Clio's only National High School Champion, achieving a perfect 7-0 record (Nashville, TN, 2005)
After Hickey's retirement, a former player and assistant coach Zach Hamilton successfully carried on that tradition, guiding a talented Clio squad to back-to-back State High School Championships -- a testament to the strong foundation Hickey built.
More than the titles and trophies, Gene Hickey's legacy is defined by the students he inspired. With humility, he credits every success to "the students who made the moves and won the games." His sportsmanship, and a lifelong love of strategic learning.
For his extraordinary impact on the Clio community, his national-level coaching achievements, and his unmatched role in the building one of the districts most storied extracurricular programs, Gene Hickey is a deserving inductee into the Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame.
GENE HICKEY - STAFF MEMBER
Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame- Class of 2025
For over three decades, Gene Hickey served the Clio Area Schools community as an exceptional educator, mentor, and the visionary architect of one of the most successful and enduring extracurricular programs in district history: the Clio Scholastic Chess Program. His leadership, expertise, and unwavering dedication to students helped transform Clio into a statewide, and at times, national chess powerhouse.
Mr Hickey. began coaching Clio chess in 1978, and for the next 35 years, until his retirement in 2013, he built a program that touched the lives of thousands of students. Under his guidance, Clio fielded competitive teams at the the elementary, junior high, and high school levels, competing in the Interscholastic Chess League (ICCL) and in numerous state and national competitions. The program became one of the winningest in Clio history, producing a legacy of excellence that continues today.
During Hickey's coaching career, Clio teams and individuals collected championships, trophies, and honors "too numerous to list," but among the most notable accomplishments:
- Multiple ICCL League championships at both the junior high and high school levels
- Two State Elementary Team Championships
- One State Junior High Team Championship
- High finishes year after year at State and National tournament events
- Numerous individual successes, including:
- Ross Speiran, 2nd place at the National Junior High Championship (St. Paul, MN)
- Samer Sahoury, Clio's only National High School Champion, achieving a perfect 7-0 record (Nashville, TN, 2005)
After Hickey's retirement, a former player and assistant coach Zach Hamilton successfully carried on that tradition, guiding a talented Clio squad to back-to-back State High School Championships -- a testament to the strong foundation Hickey built.
More than the titles and trophies, Gene Hickey's legacy is defined by the students he inspired. With humility, he credits every success to "the students who made the moves and won the games." His sportsmanship, and a lifelong love of strategic learning.
For his extraordinary impact on the Clio community, his national-level coaching achievements, and his unmatched role in the building one of the districts most storied extracurricular programs, Gene Hickey is a deserving inductee into the Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame.
As today’s announcements for the Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame Class of 2025 come to a close, recognition is given to the first of two teams being inducted this year. This remarkable group of student-athletes represented Clio Area Schools with excellence, sportsmanship, and true Mustang pride.
Please join in congratulating the 1972 Clio Mustang Football Team, whose accomplishments and lasting legacy have earned a well-deserved place in the Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame.
1972 FOOTBALL - TEAM
Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame- Class of 2025
The 1972 Clio Varsity Football Team etched its name into Mustang history with a season that combined grit, resilience, and a flair for the dramatic. Under the leadership of Head Coach Loren Wiley, a future MHSFCA and Clio Area Schools Hall of Famer, the Mustangs delivered a historic 7-2 record, including a 5-1 mark in the Big Nine Conference, to claim the first outright Big Nine Football Championship in school history.
The season began with a thrilling 14-12 victory over rival Mt. Morris, sparking a six-game winning streak. Clio then showcased its dominance with back-to-back conference shutouts over Grand Blanc and Davison, launching a perfect start to league play. Led by Quarterback Charlie Stratman and Fullback Dave Cunningham, the Mustangs surged to a 6-0 start, capturing the attention of the conference.
The defining moment came in the season finale against Owosso, where Clio secured the championship in unforgettable fashion, In the first overtime game in Big Nine history, the Mustangs made a goal-line stand to win 36-34, sealing their place in school lore and bringing home a long-awaited conference title.
The 1972 team's combination of toughness, teamwork, and trailblazing success laid the foundation for future Mustang football and remains a source of pride for the Clio Community.
Please join in congratulating the 1972 Clio Mustang Football Team, whose accomplishments and lasting legacy have earned a well-deserved place in the Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame.
1972 FOOTBALL - TEAM
Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame- Class of 2025
The 1972 Clio Varsity Football Team etched its name into Mustang history with a season that combined grit, resilience, and a flair for the dramatic. Under the leadership of Head Coach Loren Wiley, a future MHSFCA and Clio Area Schools Hall of Famer, the Mustangs delivered a historic 7-2 record, including a 5-1 mark in the Big Nine Conference, to claim the first outright Big Nine Football Championship in school history.
The season began with a thrilling 14-12 victory over rival Mt. Morris, sparking a six-game winning streak. Clio then showcased its dominance with back-to-back conference shutouts over Grand Blanc and Davison, launching a perfect start to league play. Led by Quarterback Charlie Stratman and Fullback Dave Cunningham, the Mustangs surged to a 6-0 start, capturing the attention of the conference.
The defining moment came in the season finale against Owosso, where Clio secured the championship in unforgettable fashion, In the first overtime game in Big Nine history, the Mustangs made a goal-line stand to win 36-34, sealing their place in school lore and bringing home a long-awaited conference title.
The 1972 team's combination of toughness, teamwork, and trailblazing success laid the foundation for future Mustang football and remains a source of pride for the Clio Community.
As the Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame Class of 2025 continues to be introduced, another inductee is being honored for a lasting impact on Clio Area Schools and the Mustang community. Please join in congratulating Christi Clemens, an athlete inductee whose service, commitment, and contributions truly reflect the spirit of Clio Area Schools.
CHRISTI CLEMENS - ATHLETE
Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame - Class of 2025
One of the most decorated female athletes in Big Nine Conference history, Christi Clemens stands among the all-time greats to wear the Mustang uniform. A remarkable three-sport standout, Christi's career at Clio High School was defined by excellence, versatility, and a relentless competitive spirit. She earned an unprecedented eight First Team All-Big Nine selections, placing her in elite company as one of only three athletes in conference history to achieve First Team All-Conference honors at least twice in basketball, volleyball, and softball.
A four-year letter winner in all three sports, Christi set a standard of sustained success across every season. On the basketball court, she was an All-State performer, finishing her career with 1,062 points and ranking among Clio's most prolific scorers. As a senior, she earned All-State honors while also being named First Team all-Conference during both her junior and senior seasons.
On the softball diamond, Christi was a dominant shortstop and one of the most feared hitters in the Big Nine. She was a two0-time First Team All-State selection and led the conference in 2004 with a remarkable .600 batting average while driving in 13 home runs. Her senior season culminated in additional All-State recognition, further solidifying her place among the elite players in program history.
In volleyball, Christi's leadership and all-around skill earned her multiple First Team All-Conference honors, along with All-Region recognition during her senior year. Her impact extended beyond athletic performance, as she was also a six-time Conference Academic Award recipient, exemplifying excellence in both the classroom and competition.
Following high school, Christi continued her athletic career at St. Clair Community, where she played volleyball and helped lead her team to a National Junior College Athletic Association Division II National Championship. She paced her college team with 406 digs and an outstanding .954 serving percentage. That championship team was later inducted into the Port Huron Sports Hall of Fame.
In recognition of her extraordinary accomplishments at Clio High School, Christi Clemens was also inducted into the Greater Flint Area Sports Hall of Fame. Today, she continues to give back to the game and the classroom as a fifth-grade teacher, basketball coach, and devoted mother of two. Christi Clemens's legacy as a trailblazer, champion, and role model makes her a truly deserving inductee into the Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame.
CHRISTI CLEMENS - ATHLETE
Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame - Class of 2025
One of the most decorated female athletes in Big Nine Conference history, Christi Clemens stands among the all-time greats to wear the Mustang uniform. A remarkable three-sport standout, Christi's career at Clio High School was defined by excellence, versatility, and a relentless competitive spirit. She earned an unprecedented eight First Team All-Big Nine selections, placing her in elite company as one of only three athletes in conference history to achieve First Team All-Conference honors at least twice in basketball, volleyball, and softball.
A four-year letter winner in all three sports, Christi set a standard of sustained success across every season. On the basketball court, she was an All-State performer, finishing her career with 1,062 points and ranking among Clio's most prolific scorers. As a senior, she earned All-State honors while also being named First Team all-Conference during both her junior and senior seasons.
On the softball diamond, Christi was a dominant shortstop and one of the most feared hitters in the Big Nine. She was a two0-time First Team All-State selection and led the conference in 2004 with a remarkable .600 batting average while driving in 13 home runs. Her senior season culminated in additional All-State recognition, further solidifying her place among the elite players in program history.
In volleyball, Christi's leadership and all-around skill earned her multiple First Team All-Conference honors, along with All-Region recognition during her senior year. Her impact extended beyond athletic performance, as she was also a six-time Conference Academic Award recipient, exemplifying excellence in both the classroom and competition.
Following high school, Christi continued her athletic career at St. Clair Community, where she played volleyball and helped lead her team to a National Junior College Athletic Association Division II National Championship. She paced her college team with 406 digs and an outstanding .954 serving percentage. That championship team was later inducted into the Port Huron Sports Hall of Fame.
In recognition of her extraordinary accomplishments at Clio High School, Christi Clemens was also inducted into the Greater Flint Area Sports Hall of Fame. Today, she continues to give back to the game and the classroom as a fifth-grade teacher, basketball coach, and devoted mother of two. Christi Clemens's legacy as a trailblazer, champion, and role model makes her a truly deserving inductee into the Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame.
In continuing the introduction of the Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame Class of 2025, Clio Area Schools is proud to recognize another individual whose dedication has made a meaningful difference. Congratulations to Carrie Ammons, a Community Member inductee whose commitment embodies the spirit of the Mustang community.
CARRIE AMMONS - COMMUNITY MEMBER
Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame- Class of 2025
Carrie Ammons has devoted her life to Clio area Schools as a student, educator, administrator, parent, and community leader. A 1989 graduate of clio High school, she was actively involved in student Council and the National Honor Society, served as a wrestling manager, and worked in both the guidance and principal's offices. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Michigan Technological University in 1993 and began her career with Clio area Schools as a Title I reading aide and science resource specialist. She returned to Michigan Tech to earn her teaching certificate in 1995 and later completed a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from saginaw Valley State University. and an Education Specialist Degree from Oakland University.
From 1995 to 2009, Carrie taught mathematics and science at Clio High School, including Algebra, Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Science. She founded the Science Expo Program, providing elementary students with hands-on science instruction taught by high school mentors. As longtime coach of Clio's Science Olympiad team, she led the program to 11 consecutive state qualifications with two-top 10 finishes and helped establish Michigan's first science Olympiad Invitational tournament. She also shared her expertise through professional development, state conference presentations, and service on the Michigan Science Olympiad State Board and the National Mole Day Foundation Board.
Ammons began her administrative career in 2009 as Assistant Principal and Curriculum Supervisor at Clio Middle School and later served as Assistant Principal at Clio High School from 2010 to 2017, where she focused on improving student behavior, attendance, and academic achievement, while overseeing scheduling and data coordination.
She has served on the Clio Area Schools Board of Education since 2020 and has been a member of the Clio Area Educational Foundation since 2007, currently serving as President. Her leadership has supported teacher mini-grants, student scholarships, and the Excellence in Education recognition program. Her community service includes leadership with the Clio Chamber of Commerce, the Vienna Township Business Development Authority, and "100 People Who Care in Clio," as well as involvement with the Community Bond COmmittee, Band Boosters, PTA, and Summer Kick-Off planning. Through her work as an Associate Broker with RE/MAX Right Choice, she has organized and supported numerous school and community events.
Carrie and her family hosted 14 international exchange students and were long-tim volunteers with Youth for Understanding. Her children , Alex (2019), Sydney (2020), and Ben (2022), are Clio graduates. Following the loss of her son Alex in 2022, she helped lead a $15,000 donation to the Mustang Marching Band and established an annual student award in his memory. Carrie Ammons' lifelong commitment to education, service, and community exemplifies the highest ideals of Mustang Pride.
CARRIE AMMONS - COMMUNITY MEMBER
Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame- Class of 2025
Carrie Ammons has devoted her life to Clio area Schools as a student, educator, administrator, parent, and community leader. A 1989 graduate of clio High school, she was actively involved in student Council and the National Honor Society, served as a wrestling manager, and worked in both the guidance and principal's offices. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Michigan Technological University in 1993 and began her career with Clio area Schools as a Title I reading aide and science resource specialist. She returned to Michigan Tech to earn her teaching certificate in 1995 and later completed a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from saginaw Valley State University. and an Education Specialist Degree from Oakland University.
From 1995 to 2009, Carrie taught mathematics and science at Clio High School, including Algebra, Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Science. She founded the Science Expo Program, providing elementary students with hands-on science instruction taught by high school mentors. As longtime coach of Clio's Science Olympiad team, she led the program to 11 consecutive state qualifications with two-top 10 finishes and helped establish Michigan's first science Olympiad Invitational tournament. She also shared her expertise through professional development, state conference presentations, and service on the Michigan Science Olympiad State Board and the National Mole Day Foundation Board.
Ammons began her administrative career in 2009 as Assistant Principal and Curriculum Supervisor at Clio Middle School and later served as Assistant Principal at Clio High School from 2010 to 2017, where she focused on improving student behavior, attendance, and academic achievement, while overseeing scheduling and data coordination.
She has served on the Clio Area Schools Board of Education since 2020 and has been a member of the Clio Area Educational Foundation since 2007, currently serving as President. Her leadership has supported teacher mini-grants, student scholarships, and the Excellence in Education recognition program. Her community service includes leadership with the Clio Chamber of Commerce, the Vienna Township Business Development Authority, and "100 People Who Care in Clio," as well as involvement with the Community Bond COmmittee, Band Boosters, PTA, and Summer Kick-Off planning. Through her work as an Associate Broker with RE/MAX Right Choice, she has organized and supported numerous school and community events.
Carrie and her family hosted 14 international exchange students and were long-tim volunteers with Youth for Understanding. Her children , Alex (2019), Sydney (2020), and Ben (2022), are Clio graduates. Following the loss of her son Alex in 2022, she helped lead a $15,000 donation to the Mustang Marching Band and established an annual student award in his memory. Carrie Ammons' lifelong commitment to education, service, and community exemplifies the highest ideals of Mustang Pride.
As the Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame Class of 2025 continues to be introduced, another inductee is being recognized for a lifetime of service and dedication to Clio Area Schools and the Mustang community. Please join in congratulating Arron Abbott, a Staff Member inductee, whose commitment and contributions have left a lasting impact and truly embody the spirit of Clio Area Schools.
ARRON ABBOTT - STAFF MEMBER
Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame- Class of 2025
A proud 1965 graduate of Clio High School , Arron abbott dedicated more than three decades of his life to the students and athletes of Clio Area Schools. after earning his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Michigan - Flint and a Master's Degree from Marygrove College, Arron returned to his hometown to inspire generations in the classroom and on the field.
Mr. abbott taught in Clio for 34 years, retiring in 2010, and was a beloved wrestling coach and girls' soccer coach. His athletes remember him for his unwavering encouragement, competitive spirit and life lessons tha textended far beyond wins and losses. A U.S. Army veteran who served during the Vietnam Era, Arron carried that sense of discipline, leadership, and commitment int o his coaching and teaching.
Beyond his career, Arron was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in hunting, fishing, gardening, and, most of all, in spending time with his family and grandchildren. His legacy lives on in the countless students and athletes he mentored, the colleagues he inspired, and the community he served with pride.
ARRON ABBOTT - STAFF MEMBER
Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame- Class of 2025
A proud 1965 graduate of Clio High School , Arron abbott dedicated more than three decades of his life to the students and athletes of Clio Area Schools. after earning his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Michigan - Flint and a Master's Degree from Marygrove College, Arron returned to his hometown to inspire generations in the classroom and on the field.
Mr. abbott taught in Clio for 34 years, retiring in 2010, and was a beloved wrestling coach and girls' soccer coach. His athletes remember him for his unwavering encouragement, competitive spirit and life lessons tha textended far beyond wins and losses. A U.S. Army veteran who served during the Vietnam Era, Arron carried that sense of discipline, leadership, and commitment int o his coaching and teaching.
Beyond his career, Arron was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in hunting, fishing, gardening, and, most of all, in spending time with his family and grandchildren. His legacy lives on in the countless students and athletes he mentored, the colleagues he inspired, and the community he served with pride.
Due to inclement weather conditions, Clio Area Schools will be closed tomorrow, Monday, January 26. Enjoy the day off, stay safe, and stay warm!
Reminder: The Daddy Daughter Dance is still scheduled as planned for tomorrow, January 24, from 12:00–3:00 p.m. in the Clio High School Main Gym. We’re excited to welcome everyone for a fun afternoon together!
Due to extreme temperature conditions, Clio Area Schools will be closed tomorrow, Friday, January 23. Enjoy the day off, and stay safe and warm!
Clio Area Schools is proud to announce the Hall of Fame Class of 2025, honoring a distinguished group of former athletes, former staff members, community members, and teams whose accomplishments and commitment have had a lasting impact on the Clio community.
The Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame was established in 2024, when the district inducted its first class of honorees. The Hall of Fame recognizes individuals and teams who exemplify excellence, leadership, service, and Mustang pride—both on and off the field. This second class of inductees reflects the rich tradition of Clio athletics and the strong community support that continues to shape generations of students.
Hall of Fame Class of 2025 Inductees
---------------------------------------------
Former Athletes:
- Christi Clemens
- Mike Davidson
- Eric Doyle
- Jenna Schroeder
Community Members:
- Carrie Ammons
- Mike Fitzgerald
- Ron Green
- Henry Hatter
Former Staff:
- Arron Abbott
- Alice Boyse
- Gene Hickey
- Connie Tambling
Teams:
- 1972 Football Team
- 1995–1998 Girls Golf Teams
The Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Clio High School, prior to the Boys Varsity Basketball game against Goodrich.
Beginning later this week, Clio Area Schools will individually highlight each Hall of Fame inductee and team, sharing their stories, accomplishments, and lasting contributions through district communication channels and social media.
The Hall of Fame Class of 2025 represents the values, pride, and tradition that define Clio Area Schools, and their legacies continue to inspire students, athletes, and the Clio Community.
The Clio Area Schools Hall of Fame was established in 2024, when the district inducted its first class of honorees. The Hall of Fame recognizes individuals and teams who exemplify excellence, leadership, service, and Mustang pride—both on and off the field. This second class of inductees reflects the rich tradition of Clio athletics and the strong community support that continues to shape generations of students.
Hall of Fame Class of 2025 Inductees
---------------------------------------------
Former Athletes:
- Christi Clemens
- Mike Davidson
- Eric Doyle
- Jenna Schroeder
Community Members:
- Carrie Ammons
- Mike Fitzgerald
- Ron Green
- Henry Hatter
Former Staff:
- Arron Abbott
- Alice Boyse
- Gene Hickey
- Connie Tambling
Teams:
- 1972 Football Team
- 1995–1998 Girls Golf Teams
The Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Clio High School, prior to the Boys Varsity Basketball game against Goodrich.
Beginning later this week, Clio Area Schools will individually highlight each Hall of Fame inductee and team, sharing their stories, accomplishments, and lasting contributions through district communication channels and social media.
The Hall of Fame Class of 2025 represents the values, pride, and tradition that define Clio Area Schools, and their legacies continue to inspire students, athletes, and the Clio Community.
After an incredible career dedicated to education and the Clio community, we congratulate Lisa Hearn on her well-earned retirement!
Lisa graduated from Western Michigan University in 1992 and began her teaching journey in Clio during the 1993–1994 school year as a high school biology and physical science teacher. In 2008, she transitioned to the middle school, where she discovered a true passion for teaching 7th and 8th grade science—a role she proudly held through 2025. She later returned to the high school to meet a science teaching need, bringing her career full circle by finishing where it all began.
Throughout her years in Clio, Lisa’s impact reached far beyond the classroom. She was the first female driver’s education teacher in Genesee County, teaching for more than 20 years, coached middle school volleyball, led Science Olympiad, supported student council at both the middle and high school levels, and brought creativity and curiosity into her classroom—often with LEGO® lessons that students will never forget.
Lisa and her husband Shawn, both Clio graduates, have been married for 30 years and raised two children who also attended Clio Schools—Will (Class of 2016) and Leah (Class of 2018). Outside of school, Lisa enjoys camping, reading, gardening, riding mopeds, cooking and baking, watching college basketball (Boiler Up!), and relaxing on the beach.
Reflecting on her career, Lisa shared that teaching in Clio has shaped her life in ways she never imagined—especially the joy of seeing generations of families who once sat in her classroom. Her gratitude for students, colleagues, parents, and the Clio community speaks to the lasting relationships she built and the love she carries forward.
Lisa’s final day was Friday, January 16, and while retirement may include sleeping in and fewer early mornings, her legacy will continue in the countless lives she touched. Thank you, Lisa, for your dedication, heart, and years of service to Clio. Enjoy this next chapter—you have truly earned it!
Lisa graduated from Western Michigan University in 1992 and began her teaching journey in Clio during the 1993–1994 school year as a high school biology and physical science teacher. In 2008, she transitioned to the middle school, where she discovered a true passion for teaching 7th and 8th grade science—a role she proudly held through 2025. She later returned to the high school to meet a science teaching need, bringing her career full circle by finishing where it all began.
Throughout her years in Clio, Lisa’s impact reached far beyond the classroom. She was the first female driver’s education teacher in Genesee County, teaching for more than 20 years, coached middle school volleyball, led Science Olympiad, supported student council at both the middle and high school levels, and brought creativity and curiosity into her classroom—often with LEGO® lessons that students will never forget.
Lisa and her husband Shawn, both Clio graduates, have been married for 30 years and raised two children who also attended Clio Schools—Will (Class of 2016) and Leah (Class of 2018). Outside of school, Lisa enjoys camping, reading, gardening, riding mopeds, cooking and baking, watching college basketball (Boiler Up!), and relaxing on the beach.
Reflecting on her career, Lisa shared that teaching in Clio has shaped her life in ways she never imagined—especially the joy of seeing generations of families who once sat in her classroom. Her gratitude for students, colleagues, parents, and the Clio community speaks to the lasting relationships she built and the love she carries forward.
Lisa’s final day was Friday, January 16, and while retirement may include sleeping in and fewer early mornings, her legacy will continue in the countless lives she touched. Thank you, Lisa, for your dedication, heart, and years of service to Clio. Enjoy this next chapter—you have truly earned it!
REMINDER: Tomorrow is an Early Release Day. See release times below:
Clio High School and Community High School will release at 12:20
Clio Middle School will release at 12:30
Clio Intermediate School will release at 1:45
Clio Elementary School will release at 1:30
Clio Early Elementary School will release at 1:15
Clio High School and Community High School will release at 12:20
Clio Middle School will release at 12:30
Clio Intermediate School will release at 1:45
Clio Elementary School will release at 1:30
Clio Early Elementary School will release at 1:15
REMINDER: There is NO SCHOOL tomorrow, January 19, 2026, due to Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Enjoy the day off and be safe!
After a remarkable career devoted to students and learning, Melinda Carrabs concluded her journey with Clio Schools before Christmas Break, leaving a lasting legacy felt across the district!
Inspired by her own fifth grade teacher, Melinda began her journey in education through student teaching in Kindergarten at Lake Fenton, substitute teaching at Grand Blanc, and joining Clio Schools in 1999 as a substitute at the Middle School. She went on to teach first grade at Garner Elementary, second grade at Edgerton Elementary, and later returned to Garner, where she spent several years teaching part time while raising her young family. When she returned to full-time teaching, Melinda continued to embrace new opportunities, teaching third grade, first grade, and fourth grade, always finding joy in whichever grade she was serving.
In her final five years, Melinda held the Elementary and Intermediate Art position, a role she describes as the highlight of her career. Teaching art allowed her to connect with more than 1,000 students, encouraging creativity and confidence in every child. One especially meaningful moment came early in her art teaching journey, when a quiet fifth grader shared that she was the first person to ever tell him he was good at something—a moment that forever shaped her approach to teaching and student encouragement.
Melinda is deeply grateful for the experiences, relationships, and memories she made throughout her years in Clio Schools. Her impact will continue to be felt through the students she inspired, the colleagues she worked alongside, and the creativity she brought into every classroom.
Congratulations, Melinda Carrabs, on a well-deserved retirement. Your dedication, heart, and passion for students will always be part of the Clio Area Schools Community!
Inspired by her own fifth grade teacher, Melinda began her journey in education through student teaching in Kindergarten at Lake Fenton, substitute teaching at Grand Blanc, and joining Clio Schools in 1999 as a substitute at the Middle School. She went on to teach first grade at Garner Elementary, second grade at Edgerton Elementary, and later returned to Garner, where she spent several years teaching part time while raising her young family. When she returned to full-time teaching, Melinda continued to embrace new opportunities, teaching third grade, first grade, and fourth grade, always finding joy in whichever grade she was serving.
In her final five years, Melinda held the Elementary and Intermediate Art position, a role she describes as the highlight of her career. Teaching art allowed her to connect with more than 1,000 students, encouraging creativity and confidence in every child. One especially meaningful moment came early in her art teaching journey, when a quiet fifth grader shared that she was the first person to ever tell him he was good at something—a moment that forever shaped her approach to teaching and student encouragement.
Melinda is deeply grateful for the experiences, relationships, and memories she made throughout her years in Clio Schools. Her impact will continue to be felt through the students she inspired, the colleagues she worked alongside, and the creativity she brought into every classroom.
Congratulations, Melinda Carrabs, on a well-deserved retirement. Your dedication, heart, and passion for students will always be part of the Clio Area Schools Community!
We would like to introduce one of our new staff members: Zac Yorke!
Zac Yorke is excited to join the Clio team and brings both classroom experience and a passion for athletics to his role. He is originally from Millington and is a graduate of Millington High School and Grace Christian University.
Zac earned a degree in Secondary Education with a major in Mathematics and a minor in English. This year, he will be teaching Algebra 2 and Geometry at Clio High School, where he looks forward to helping students build confidence and strong problem-solving skills.
Outside the classroom, Zac has an impressive basketball background. He played college basketball for five years at Grace Christian University and now serves as a player development coach with Cramer Basketball.
Zac shares, “I am very excited to continue building on all the great things happening in Clio!”
Welcome to the team Zac! #ThePlaceToBe
Zac Yorke is excited to join the Clio team and brings both classroom experience and a passion for athletics to his role. He is originally from Millington and is a graduate of Millington High School and Grace Christian University.
Zac earned a degree in Secondary Education with a major in Mathematics and a minor in English. This year, he will be teaching Algebra 2 and Geometry at Clio High School, where he looks forward to helping students build confidence and strong problem-solving skills.
Outside the classroom, Zac has an impressive basketball background. He played college basketball for five years at Grace Christian University and now serves as a player development coach with Cramer Basketball.
Zac shares, “I am very excited to continue building on all the great things happening in Clio!”
Welcome to the team Zac! #ThePlaceToBe
REMINDER: Tomorrow, January 16, is a HALF-DAY of school. See release times below:
Clio High School and Community High School will release at 10:20 a.m.
Clio Middle School will release at 10:30 a.m.
Clio Intermediate School will release at 11:45 a.m.
Clio Elementary School will release at 11:30 a.m.
Clio Early Elementary School does not have school
Clio High School and Community High School will release at 10:20 a.m.
Clio Middle School will release at 10:30 a.m.
Clio Intermediate School will release at 11:45 a.m.
Clio Elementary School will release at 11:30 a.m.
Clio Early Elementary School does not have school
Clio Elementary proudly celebrated leadership and excellence during its January Leaders of the Herd assembly yesterday. Students and staff were recognized for going above and beyond in demonstrating responsibility, kindness, and a strong commitment to learning. Our Second and Third Grade Students of the Month were honored for their positive attitudes and the outstanding examples they set in their classrooms each day.
The celebration also included recognition of two exceptional educators, Mrs. Froats and Ms. Dumas, who were named Teachers of the Month for their dedication, creativity, and meaningful impact on students. They will display the Mustang Chains throughout the month as a symbol of their leadership and service. The assembly was a wonderful reminder of the positive culture at Clio Elementary and the many individuals who help make our school such a special place. Congratulations to all of our honorees—your leadership truly makes a difference! #ThePlaceToBe
The celebration also included recognition of two exceptional educators, Mrs. Froats and Ms. Dumas, who were named Teachers of the Month for their dedication, creativity, and meaningful impact on students. They will display the Mustang Chains throughout the month as a symbol of their leadership and service. The assembly was a wonderful reminder of the positive culture at Clio Elementary and the many individuals who help make our school such a special place. Congratulations to all of our honorees—your leadership truly makes a difference! #ThePlaceToBe
Upcoming schedule reminder: Half days TOMORROW, January 15, and Friday, January 16. There is no school on January 19 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and an early release on January 20. Please plan accordingly! Thank you!
NOTICE: There is a change in time for the Board Meeting on January 22, 2026. Please see attached file.
Daddy Daughter Dance – Blast from the Past!
Join us Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 12:00–3:00 PM, for a magical afternoon of music, memories, and moves at our Daddy Daughter Dance, held at Clio High School!
This year’s theme, “Blast from the Past,” invites dads and daughters to step back in time and dance the day away to favorite hits from yesterday and today. Dress in your best retro style, snap timeless photos, and create unforgettable memories together.
👧🎶 Open to girls in Pre-K through 6th grade
🎟️ Ticket Sales Begin Today 1/6/26!
- $20 in advance
- $25 at the door
We can’t wait to celebrate this special tradition with you! 💃🕺✨
Special Board of Education meeting on December 29th, 2025 at 5:15pm. Henery Hatter Board Room, Clio Administration, 1 Mustang Drive, Clio, MI.
