In the bustling world of school governance, few bring as much financial expertise and community spirit as Jamie Rivette. A dedicated mother, seasoned professional, and committed community member, Jamie's journey has led her to play a vital role in the Hemlock Public School District. Her story is one of blending professional skills with a passion for education, all while maintaining a focus on what truly matters: the students.
A Life Built on Education and Dedication: Jamie Rivette's dedication to education and community service is deeply rooted in her own experiences. A graduate of Shepherd High School’s class of 1995, Jamie pursued higher education at Northwood University on a cross-country and track scholarship. It was there that she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Accounting, a degree that would serve as the foundation for her successful career as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
Married to Tony, Jamie is the proud mother of two children, Alyssa and Dominic, both of whom attend Hemlock Public School District. Her connection to the district is both personal and professional, as she channels her financial expertise into supporting the schools her children attend.
Leveraging Financial Expertise for the Greater Good: With a strong background in auditing school districts, Jamie brings a unique and valuable perspective to the governance of Hemlock Public Schools. Her expertise in school finances allows her to contribute in ways that directly impact the district’s ability to manage resources effectively and ensure that financial decisions are made with the best interests of students in mind.
Jamie views her role as more than just a job—it's a way to give back to the community that has given her so much. "This is one way I could share my knowledge of school finances," Jamie says, reflecting on her contributions to the district. Her commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility is a cornerstone of her approach to governance, ensuring that the district remains financially sound while continuing to prioritize educational excellence.
Focusing on the Real Challenges: For Jamie, the single greatest challenge facing the district is uniting all employees around a common goal: preparing students for the “real” world and helping them become good citizens. She recognizes that this goal encompasses a diverse array of students—those who will attend college, those who will enter trade schools, and those who will go directly into the workforce.
While financial concerns are always present, Jamie believes that the district’s primary mission must remain focused on education. "I know there are financial concerns, and those need to be looked at too, but our primary goal is to educate children," she emphasizes. Jamie's clear-eyed focus on the district's core mission underscores her belief that, when everyone is working towards the same goal, the possibilities for student success are limitless.
Proudly Putting "Kids First:" Among the many accomplishments of the Hemlock Public School District, Jamie is most proud of the district's unwavering commitment to providing more opportunities for students. Whether it’s through innovative programs, expanded extracurricular activities, or enhanced learning environments, the district’s "Kids First" philosophy resonates deeply with Jamie.
The District really does believe in 'Kids First,'" Jamie notes, highlighting the collective effort to ensure that every decision made by the district ultimately benefits the students. This focus on creating opportunities is what drives Jamie in her governance role, inspiring her to continue advocating for the resources and support that will help all students succeed.
A Vision for the Future: As Jamie Rivette continues her work in school governance, her vision for the future of Hemlock Public Schools remains clear. By fostering a collaborative environment where all employees are united in their commitment to students, and by leveraging her financial expertise to ensure the district's stability, Jamie is helping to shape a future where every child in the district is prepared for whatever path they choose.
Her story is a testament to the power of combining professional skills with a heart for service. Jamie Rivette is not just a face of governance—she is a beacon of dedication, integrity, and a relentless focus on putting "Kids First." As she continues to contribute to the district's success, Jamie’s impact will be felt by students, educators, and the entire community for years to come.
Q: What do you enjoy about being on the Board of Education most?
A: I take great pride in applying my professional expertise as a CPA and auditor to benefit the school district and the broader community. It’s rewarding to witness the tangible progress we’re making across the district.
Q: What do you enjoy least about being on the Board of Education?
A: The most challenging aspect is dealing with misinformation. It’s frustrating when people operate based on limited or false information and seem uninterested in understanding the facts, preferring narratives that align with preconceived notions.
Q: What is something we are doing well right now?
A: Our transparency and communication stand out. We consistently provide updates, even when the message is, “pardon our mess.” We’re strong advocates for our students, staff, and community at the local, state, and national levels.
Q: If you have 'one wish' for the district, what would it be?
A: My wish is for us to reach a point where we can offer even more opportunities for our students, particularly in expanding academic and career pathways.
Q: If you have 'one wish' for the board, what would it be?
A: I would wish for continuity and stability within the board, along with maintaining a high level of engagement, knowledge, and awareness of the district's ongoing developments.
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