Marcie is a Valuable Asset

Marcie Grabruck is a valuable asset to the Communities In Schools mission. “Marcie is our butterfly,” said executive director Amy Burk. “She has filled many roles for us over the years and is currently the Afterschool Program Coordinator at Mancelona Elementary School.”

Marcie enjoys her new role. “I work with a wonderful team of caring adults who provide educational and enrichment activities for 40 or more children,” she said. “If you ask the children they will say ‘We Love CIS’ and so will the parents because they know their children have a safe and caring place to be after school… and the children enjoy the program.”  Marcie feels the communication link with the parents is crucial.  “We go over what their children have accomplished and in some cases – when the student has a rough day – how we can have help them have a better day tomorrow.”

During the school day, Marcie works with students giving them an extra support in math and literacy.  “I love it because of the one-on-one time I spend with the students,” she said. “We review their sight words and math skills. Their faces light up when they find success with their math flash cards. It’s a quick way for me to connect and it also boosts their learning and confidence.”

This is Marcie’s 5th different role during her 16 years with CIS.  She has been secretary, family support coordinator, community health worker, special program manager and now her current job.

Marcie and her husband Dan both are from Detroit and have four children and 10 grandchildren. They also have a “very sassy” 2-year-old German Shepherd. “Family, friends and dogs have always been my priority,” she said. “I also enjoy cooking and baking bread and cookies.” She and Dan also love road trips around the area. “We live in such a beautiful area,” she said, “there is always something new to experience.”