💚🤍 Falcon Alumni Spotlight: Nicole Billette (Lelo), Class of 2015

Meet Nicole Billette (Lelo), a proud Freeland alum who now lives in Midland and is a 1st grade teacher with Midland Public Schools. Nicole has built a life rooted in education, leadership, and family, and she continues to make a positive impact in the community.

One of Nicole’s favorite Freeland memories is winning a state championship with the Varsity Pompon Team in 2013, an experience that reflects her dedication and school pride.

Since graduating, Nicole has accomplished so much. She has been a part of Mid American Pompon Staff, won collegiate championships with the Michigan State University Pompon team, graduated from Michigan State University, began her teaching career with Midland Public Schools, and became a mom. Each milestone represents her commitment to growth both personally and professionally.

One especially meaningful full circle moment in her journey was partnering with her school district to return to Freeland and present on digital learning modules during professional development. Having the opportunity to teach her former teachers was a powerful reminder of how far she had come.

Her advice to current Falcons: Do not be afraid to go big and beyond after high school. Just because you come from a small school does not mean you cannot dream big and go awesome places.

Nicole hopes future Falcons continue to believe in themselves, pursue their passions boldly, and carry their Falcon pride wherever life takes them.

#FalconPride #FalconFamily #ForeverAFalcon #GoFalcons #FalconsFlyFar
3 days ago, Media Team
Alumni spotlight- Nicole Billette (Lelo). Freeland Community School District. Photo of Nicole posing on front of pink cherry blossom tree in pink and white dress.
✨ Staff Spotlight ✨

Jordan Duby, 7th Grade World History Teacher at Freeland Middle School and Varsity Boys Basketball Assistant Coach, is in his second year with Freeland. Inspired by his own experiences as a student-athlete, Jordan was drawn to education as a way to give back and make a positive impact.

“I was fortunate enough to experience the positive influence that teachers and coaches can have on their students and players,” Jordan shared. “I wanted to put myself in a position to pay it forward.”

Jordan hopes students leave school feeling confident and prepared for what comes next. “I want them to know they are equipped with relevant skills that will help them successfully take on the next chapter of their academic and professional careers,” he said.

When he’s not in the classroom or on the court, Jordan enjoys golfing and unwinding with some of his favorites: the Harry Potter book series, The Dark Knight trilogy, and the TV show Stranger Things.

What Jordan appreciates most about working at Freeland Middle School is the people. “I get to work with an amazing team of administrators, teachers, support staff, and students,” he shared, noting the collaborative environment that makes FMS such a great place to learn and grow.

Thank you, Mr. Duby, for your dedication to Freeland students both in the classroom and through athletics, and for helping prepare them for success beyond middle school! 💚🤍

#FreelandFalcons #FreelandMI #GoFalcons
4 days ago, Media Team
Staff Spotlight Jordan Duby, History Teacher Freeland Middle  School & Varsity Boys Basketball Assistant Coach.  Photo of Jordan Smiling with a blue-grey  background.
As part of our Strategic Plan, we are sharing the priorities that support safe and inspiring learning environments.

💚Operations ensure our spaces and systems reflect the pride we have in our community.
From facilities to daily processes, everything we design supports student growth and success.
Environment and experience matter.

#ImagineInnovateThrive #FalconPride #TogetherWeThrive
5 days ago, Media Team
Focus Areas. Operations: Freeland Community School District will design and maintain safe and welcoming learning spaces that reflect community pride and inspire student success. Strategic Plan Updates. Freeland Community School District.
Focus Areas: Operations Guiding Objectives:  Maintain safe, secure, and welcoming learning environments that support the well-being of students and staff. Update learning spaces to support collaboration, flexibility, and instructional practices to align with today’s learners.  Address aging facilities and infrastructure through long-term planning. Continue to optimize district operations by ensuring the transparent, efficient, and responsible stewardship of all district resources.  Strategic Plan Updates. Freeland Community School District.

Brody has been a Falcon since Young 5s and has stayed active through athletics, competing in both football and track during his time at Freeland.

One of the people who has had a strong impact on Brody’s journey is Coach Townsend, who has supported and inspired him along the way.

After graduation, Brody plans to attend Olivet College and hopes to earn a spot starting on the football team as a true freshman.

His advice for younger Falcons:
💬 “Don’t care about what other people think. Just be yourself.”

His favorite quote:
💬 “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

#FalconPride #GoFalcons #FalconFamily #SeniorSpotlight #TogetherWeThrive #BuiltToSoar #ForeverAFalcon

6 days ago, Media Team
Senior Spotlight-Brody Geth Class of 2026. Freeland High School logo with a falcon reading: Imagine, Innovate, Thrive. Photo of Brody posing beside a brick wall wearing Freeland Falcons Football sweatshirt.
As part of our Strategic Plan, we are outlining the focus areas that will guide our work over the next five years.

💚Instruction is at the center of student success.

We are elevating teaching and learning to meet the diverse needs of every student through purposeful professional learning and innovative classroom practices.
Strong instruction builds strong futures.

#ImagineInnovateThrive #FalconPride #TogetherWeThrive
9 days ago, Media Team
Focus Areas. Instruction: Freeland Community School district will elavate teaching and learning by blending creativity, purposeful practices, and high-impact tool to meet the diverse needs of every student. Strategic Plan updates. Freeland community school district.
Focus Areas. Instruction Guiding Objectives: Align instruction, assessment, grading, and learning experiences to clearly defined standards and competency-based practices that prioritize feedback, growth, and mastery. Expand personalized and flexible learning environments that honor student voice, choice, and diverse pathways to success.  Integrate high-impact technology through thoughtful, responsible innovation to enhance instruction, support educators, and prepare students for a changing world. Ensure instructional practices remain rigorous, equitable, and responsive to all learners.. Strategic Plan Updates. Freeland Community School District.

As part of our Strategic Plan, we are sharing the values that strengthen our school culture.

💚Kindness is not just encouraged at Freeland. It is expected.
We aim to shape a positive culture where students feel supported, treating one another with empathy, compassion, and respect.

#ImagineInnovateThrive #FalconPride #TogetherWeThrive

12 days ago, Media Team
Core Values. We believe in kindness: Treating one another with empathy, compassion, and respect. Strategic plan updates. Freeland Community school district.
As we head into Spring Break, we want to make sure our Falcon families know that support is always available 💚

If you or someone you know needs assistance, there are resources ready to help:
• Dial 211 for local support and services
• Food assistance programs
• Mental health resources
• Local shelters and housing support

And as always, if you are experiencing an emergency, please dial 911 immediately.

Taking care of yourself and one another is always important, no matter the time of year. We’re here for our Falcon community, today and every day.

#FalconPride #FalconFamily #GoFalcons #TogetherWeThrive
17 days ago, Media Team
Freeland Community School District. Community Resources.
211. Resources for food, shelter, clothing, bill paying assistance, etc. Available 24/7. CALL Dial 211 on your phone or 888-636-4211 (toll-free).TEXT Text your ZIP to TXT 211 (989 211). You can also chat or search at: https://mi211.org.
Food Assistance: The Caring Closet, Saginaw Open the first and third Saturdays of each month 9am-1pm Food, house, and clothing items   Lions Club 3/28 9am Freeland Elementary School
Mental Health: 988 Call/Text Suicide and Crisis Line  Saginaw County Community Mental Health (CMH)Crisis line available 24/7 - 989-792-9732   If an individual is expressing thoughts of harming themselves or others, this is a mental health emergency. Please take them to the nearest emergency room or call 911 for immediate assistance.
Shelters:Underground Railroad  Women and children  Call 989-755-0411 Text 989-770-8892  Good Samaritan Bay City Adults and adolescents 989-893-5973  Innerlink Runaway & Homeless Youth 989-753-3431
For immediate concerns please always
💚🤍 Falcon Alumni Spotlight: Ethan Howell, Class of 2024

Meet Ethan Howell, a proud Freeland alum who is currently attending Michigan State University, majoring in Marketing at the Eli Broad College of Business and minoring in Sports Business Management. With aspirations of working in sports marketing, Ethan is already building valuable experience as a Student Coordinator for the Residential Business Community at MSU. He currently lives in East Lansing as he continues his college journey.

Some of Ethan’s favorite Freeland memories include talking about the Lions and hunting with Mr. Kostrzewa, taking Mrs. Klida’s art classes, and filming home basketball games. Those experiences reflect the relationships and school spirit that made his time at Freeland meaningful.

Since graduating, Ethan is most proud of securing a corporate marketing internship at Auto Owners Insurance headquarters in Lansing for this summer, an exciting step toward his future career goals.

Beyond academics and internships, Ethan has embraced new adventures. He recently picked up scuba diving and now serves on the executive board for the MSU scuba club, expanding his leadership skills and exploring interests outside the classroom.

Ethan hopes current and future Falcons continue to chase opportunities, build strong relationships, and take advantage of experiences that help shape both their careers and character.

#FalconPride #FalconFamily #ForeverAFalcon #GoFalcons #FalconsFlyFar
17 days ago, Media Team
Alumni Spotlight: Ethan Howell. Photo of Ethan smiling in front of greenery.
We’re collecting items to support the Falcon’s Nest Clothing Closet at the Middle & High School, and we could use your help!

We are currently in need of:
• Women’s clothing (sizes small & medium)
• Leggings (all sizes)
• Undergarments for both men and women (bras, socks, underwear – all sizes, new items only)

Donations like these help ensure all students have access to everyday essentials and feel confident and supported at school.

If you’re able to contribute, thank you for helping take care of our Falcon family. Items can be dropped the High School office. 💚🤍

#FalconPride #GoFalcons #FalconFamily #TogetherWeThrive
18 days ago, Media Team
26 Falcon's Nest Needs

As part of our Strategic Plan, we are focusing on the values that expand possibilities for every learner.

💚Opportunity ensures every Falcon has meaningful experiences that prepare them for what comes next.
From academics to arts, athletics to career pathways, we are creating environments where students can explore passions, develop skills, and open doors to their future.

#ImagineInnovateThrive #FalconPride #TogetherWeThrive

19 days ago, Media Team
Core Values. We believe in Opportunity: Creating personalized and meaningful experiences. Strategic plan updates Freeland Community School District.
🎓 Freeland Falcon Senior Spotlight: Sally Yu

Sally has been a Falcon since Young 5s and has explored her interests through Literary Art Club and Esports, and previously through band until the end of her sophomore year. Throughout high school, she is most proud of stepping outside her comfort zone and growing in confidence when interacting and communicating with others.

Something people might be surprised to learn is that Sally understands three languages: English, Mandarin Chinese, and Fuzhounese, a Chinese dialect.

To Sally, being a Freeland Falcon means getting involved and allowing yourself to grow.

After graduation, she hopes to major in neuroscience with a minor in business. This year, she is especially looking forward to taking a trip to visit her dad’s hometown in China.

Outside of school, Sally enjoys writing and reading poetry that connects to her personally, often typing her own pieces as a way to express her thoughts and feelings.

Her advice for younger Falcons:
💬 “Always look on the positive side and remember that failure isn’t an end, it’s a journey of learning towards success.”
#FalconPride #GoFalcons #FalconFamily #SeniorSpotlight #TogetherWeThrive #BuiltToSoar #ForeverAFalcon
20 days ago, Media Team
Senior Spotlight Sally Yu, Class of 2026. Photo of Sally sitting and looking to her right in front of a lake.
💚 Freeland Alumni—We Want to Hear From You! 💚

Do you want to share your academic journey with past, present and future Falcons? Fill out this form to be featured as we celebrate the incredible stories of Freeland graduates and the many ways they’re making a difference in the world. If you or someone you know is a proud Freeland alum, we’d love to feature you!

📋 Fill out the short form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSficxBfdsonHuGIJBeTM3x1gdnX6obIMN8n9a8xH4D3Y16oaQ/viewform?usp=preview

Tag a Freeland alum in the comments who you think should be featured! Once a Falcon, always a Falcon! 🦅

#FalconPride #ForeverAFalcon #FalconsFlyFar #BuiltToSoar #GoFreeland
24 days ago, Media Team
alumni call with Freelands green falcon logo
✨ Staff Spotlight ✨

Lynn Hoffmann, Spanish Teacher at Freeland High School, has been part of the Freeland community for 23 years, teaching Spanish to students in grades 9–12. She has spent her entire career in Freeland, a testament to the strong connections she has built with students, staff, and the community.

“I have been lucky enough to work in Freeland for my entire career,” Lynn shared. “The students, staff, and community have kept me here!”

Lynn loves teaching a subject that encourages students to look beyond their own “bubbles” and learn about the world through language and culture. One of the most rewarding parts of her work is hearing from former students who reach out to share that they are using Spanish in their professional and personal lives.

Outside the classroom, Lynn enjoys reading, watching movies, cheering on her kids at sporting events, traveling, and spending time up north at her family cottage and in the Upper Peninsula. During the summer and on spring break, you can often find her at the beach whenever she gets the chance.

Travel is a big part of Lynn’s teaching journey. This summer, she is traveling abroad with students to Italy and Greece, a trip she is especially excited about as she has never been to Greece and has family roots there. Over the years, Lynn and fellow educator Mindi Hannon have taken students on many trips, both across the U.S. and internationally, including Chicago, multiple countries in Europe, and Costa Rica. She finds it incredibly meaningful to help bring culture and new experiences to students through travel.

What Lynn loves most about Freeland is its close-knit, supportive nature. “People here take pride in their community,” she said, “and that’s a privilege to be a part of as an educator.”

Thank you, Mrs. Hoffmann, for opening doors to the world through language, culture, and unforgettable experiences for Freeland students! 💚🤍

#FreelandFalcons #FreelandMI #GoFalcons
25 days ago, Media Team
Staff Spotlight: Lynn Hoffman, Spanish Teacher at Freeland High School - Photo of Lynn.

As part of our Strategic Plan, we’re highlighting the values that prepare our students for life beyond our walls.

💚Empowerment is one of our core values. We believe this means encouraging ownership, confidence, opportunity, and growth.

Every student has the potential to achieve something great. When students discover their strengths and build confidence, they begin to see what’s possible for their future.

#ImagineInnovateThrive #FalconPride #TogetherWeThrive

26 days ago, Media Team
Core Values. We Believe in Empowerment: Encouraging ownership, confidence, opportunity, and growth. Strategic plan updates. Freeland Community School district.
🎓 Freeland Falcon Senior Spotlight: Janae Klein

Janae has been a Falcon since Young 5s and has truly embraced being involved. From Girls on the Run in 5th grade to cross country and track (6th–12th), marching band, symphony, concert, and pep band, Cornhole Club, Links volunteer work, and her youth program at Hopevale Church, she has made the most of every opportunity.

She is especially proud of placing 30th in cross country during the 2024–2025 season at her home course. Something people may not know about her is that she was adopted as a baby. Janae shares that her mom, dad, brother, grandparents, and friends have supported her every step of the way.

To her, being a Freeland Falcon means being part of a big family and involved community, showing up for others, and taking pride in knowing that in Freeland, no one flies alone.

After graduation, she plans to attend Delta College for two years before transferring to Michigan State University to pursue veterinary medicine.

Her favorite class has been STEM with Mrs. Clark because of the creative, hands-on projects. Outside of school, she enjoys reading mystery novels.

Her advice for younger Falcons:
💬 “Use your time in every class wisely because when you do, you’ll never have to worry all that much about succeeding.”

#FalconPride #GoFalcons #FalconFamily #SeniorSpotlight #TogetherWeThrive #BuiltToSoar #ForeverAFalcon
27 days ago, Media Team
Senior spotlight Janae Klein, class of 2026. Photo of Janae Smiling in front of lake
As part of our Strategic Plan, we are sharing the core values that define what it means to be a Falcon.

💚Community is at the heart of Freeland and and is an essential core value for our schools.

We believe in building a culture of belonging, connection, and pride. We believe in strong partnerships between students, staff, families, and local organizations.

Together, we create a supportive environment where everyone belongs and everyone contributes.

#ImagineInnovateThrive #FalconPride #TogetherWeThrive
about 1 month ago, Media Team
Core Values - We believe in Community. Building a culture of belonging, connection, and pride. Strategic Plan Updates Freeland Community School District.
We’re almost halfway through Reading Month, and it’s been a great start! This year we’re celebrating with a double header of literacy fun. 📚💚

All classrooms are participating in the Lou E. Loon’s Reading Program, presented by Delta College and the Great Lakes Loons. The program helps turn classroom reading achievements into unforgettable ballpark memories for students.

We also brought back our Reading March Madness bracket. This year’s book selections are extra special because they were chosen as part of Mrs. Quast’s class passion project last year. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate student voice and legacy while our school votes its way to a champion.

Let’s keep the momentum going and make the rest of Reading Month the best one yet. Happy reading, Falcons. 📖⚾

#FalconPride #GoFalcons #FalconFamily #FalconsFlyFar
about 1 month ago, Media Team
March is Reading Month: A Double Header of Literacy! Logo of Lou E. Loon's Reading Program. Freeland Community School District. Imagine. Innovate. Thrive.
💚🤍 Falcon Alumni Spotlight: Bailey Ross, Class of 2016

Meet Bailey Ross, a proud Freeland alum who has built a career centered on compassion and service. After graduating in 2016, Bailey earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and her master’s degree in clinical social work with a specialization in addiction from Michigan State University. She now serves as an Assistant Clinical Director at an inpatient residential treatment center in Kalamazoo, where she supports individuals during some of the most vulnerable and transformative moments of their lives.

Bailey’s favorite memories from Freeland include the lasting impact of the staff who guided and encouraged her, as well as the friendships that continue to shape who she is today.

Since leaving Freeland, she is most proud of earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees and recently being promoted to Assistant Clinical Director. She is especially grateful for the trust placed in her leadership and clinical experience.

Through her work, Bailey has learned the power of patience, empathy, and meeting people exactly where they are. Supporting individuals through recovery has reinforced the importance of consistency, compassion, and believing in someone’s ability to heal.

Her advice to current Falcons: Stay committed to the work, even when it feels hard, and trust the process. Stay curious, build your skills, and lead with compassion. Your dedication will open doors and allow you to make a real difference.
Bailey hopes future Falcons continue to grow into leaders who care deeply for others and use their strengths to positively impact the world around them.

#FalconPride #FalconFamily #ForeverAFalcon #GoFalcons #FalconsFlyFar
about 1 month ago, Media Team
Alumni Spotlight: Bailey Ross, photo of Bailey Standing in light snow in front of a brick building.
As part of our Strategic Plan, we are highlighting the core values that shape our culture and guide our decisions.

💚Integrity is a core value that guides every choice we make.

We define integrity as acting with honesty, responsibility, and consistency in all that we do.

Integrity builds trust. Trust builds strong schools. Strong schools build strong futures.

#ImagineInnovateThrive #FalconPride #TogetherWeThrive
about 1 month ago, Media Team
Core Values - We believe in  Integrity: Acting with honesty, responsibility, and consistency in all that we do. Strategic Plan Updates. Freeland Community School District.

🎓 Freeland Falcon Senior Spotlight: Breahna Brewer

Breahna has been a Falcon since Young 5s and has stayed actively involved throughout her school journey. For the past three years, Bre has served as the manager for the wrestling team while also competing as a varsity softball player.


Her goal this year is to continue earning all A’s and finish strong. After graduation, she plans to attend Michigan State University to pursue her DVM degree and work toward becoming a veterinarian.

Her favorite class at Freeland has been Criminalistics. She loves the hands-on experience and the way Mrs. Short brings each lesson to life through real-world investigations, from analyzing fingerprints to studying blood spatter and piecing together crime scenes.

Outside of school, Bre plays travel softball and serves as IT support for MYWAY Wrestling, balancing athletics and technology in unique ways.

Her advice for younger Falcons:
💬 “When you’re a senior, you don't remember the tests; you remember the small moments.”

#FalconPride #GoFalcons #FalconFamily #SeniorSpotlight #TogetherWeThrive #BuiltToSoar #ForeverAFalcon

about 1 month ago, Media Team
Senior Spotlight: Breahana Brewer, class of 2026. Photo of Breahana Brewer turned to side in white dress. .