On May 5, 2026, voters throughout Charlevoix, Emmet and northern Antrim counties will be asked to consider Char-Em ISD’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) millage proposal. This millage has funded vocational programs throughout the ISD’s 11 public school districts for 30 years, with the original millage approved by voters in 1996.

The 1.0 mill request, if approved, would keep the current 23 high school career tech programs operating across the ISD’s 11 public school districts, while maintaining numerous kindergarten-12th grade initiatives such as: Char-Em Street STEM delivering science, technology, engineering, and math tools; seven summer camps; career counseling; work-based learning; and tours of businesses, colleges, and trade schools, among many other efforts and innovations.

The millage would generate approximately $8.1 million annually from 2026-2029.

This request comes before voters every four years, with the last approval in May 2022 of 1.0 total mill. Because that millage expired on Dec. 31, 2025, by law the ballot language cannot be worded as a “renewal,” explained Char-Em ISD Superintendent Scott Koziol.

“This is the millage that has provided amazing opportunities for local students over the past 30 years,” said Koziol. “I believe recognition of the importance of vocational education has never been greater. This region knows the critical role of the skilled trades. We see it every day in these classrooms, where students are gaining real-world skills and knowledge to succeed in these important careers.”

Read the complete media release about the millage on the Career and Technical Education website

All young students have one thing in common: They love to have fun on playgrounds. For some students who are nonverbal, expressing their interests and feelings while on the playground can present challenges to their caregivers and teachers. A recent project will help all students be able to get the most enjoyment out of their playground time. Several entities came together to create and install two new Augmentative and Assisted Communication (AAC) playground signs in Central Lake, at the elementary school and also in the village’s Thurston Park.

“It is so important that we provide every opportunity for each student to be able to communicate their needs, desires, and interests,” said Kelli Knight, a speech and language pathologist who was part of the playground sign planning team.

The Central Lake signs are the result of a partnership between the Great Start Collaborative and Family Coalition of Charlevoix, Emmet and Northern Antrim Counties (GSC), Char-Em ISD, and Central Lake Early Opportunities (CLEO), along with the village of Central Lake and Central Lake Public Schools. Read more about the new playground signage

If you are interested in working for Char-Em ISD but don’t see a current job listing that fits your skills or interest, you can submit a general application with your information for future consideration when a position opens up that is match. Create an account in our application portal and submit a general employment application

View complete details about open positions

Char-Em ISD is hiring!

Bus Drivers and substitutes
Bus Riders (who assist drivers) and substitutes
System Engineer Level 2
Teacher Assistants

View complete details about open positions

Char-Em ISD road testers are scheduling driving tests for those seeking auto, motorcycle and CDL licenses. Students and adults are encouraged to contact the test administrators directly; their contact information can be found on the Driver’s License Road Testing page.

Preschool Pre-Application
Parents and guardians may begin the preschool program enrollment process by completing a pre-application for children ages 0-5. Fill out the pre-application