Ribbon Cut at Link Learning Center

HARRISON – Just about one year ago, Kristi Teall, then executive director of Link Learning for Berrien Springs Public Schools, made a presentation to the Harrison Community Schools Board of Education about that alternative education online blended learning program. She explained that the Link Learning program offers certified teachers, relationship managers, student support services, as well as the special education teachers. Also, students are able to drop in as frequently or infrequently as suits. Her proposal was well-received, and the wheels continued to turn.

In January of this year, the Link Learning Center was established at 426 N. First St., the former site of The Gathering Church. The Harrison Chamber of Commerce then helped make the completed dream official Feb. 2 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony – a ceremony including a live Facebook feed of the ribbon being cut and a short interview with the center’s new director. The Harrison Linked Learning Center joins 16 others across the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan.

Teall, who has been an educator her whole working life, served as a middle school teacher for nine years; an adult education teacher; a building principal for preschool through second grade plus a year for middle school; a curriculum director for three years; and a superintendent for seven years – a position she left four years ago to take on her role with Link Learning. Having seen through to fruition her goal of establishing a Link Learning site in Harrison, Teall retired in January and passed on the reins to new hands.

As part of the Feb. 2 ribbon-cutting event, Teall’s colleagues cited her achievements, lauded her career, and marked the occasion with a special cake in her honor.

Then, with festivities concluded, the staff and students quickly got right back to the tasks of teaching and learning.