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Bobcat Innovations offers new hybrid option for Grand Blanc elementary students
Summary
Bobcat Innovations described a new hybrid program for Grand Blanc Community Schools serving grades 2–5 that combines remote learning on Monday, Wednesday and Friday with in-person instruction on Tuesdays and Thursdays; staff and a parent highlighted curriculum, teacher support and access to specials.
Zach Hamilton, director of innovative programs at Bobcat Innovations, said the organization launched a hybrid learning option this year for students in grades 2 through 5 enrolled in Grand Blanc Community Schools. "This allows our second through fifth grade families to choose the flexibility of coming in person on Tuesdays and Thursdays while learning from home on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday," Hamilton said.
The program mixes an online virtual curriculum with in-person sessions for hands-on instruction and enrichment. Hillary Stokowski, who identified herself as a teacher of first-, second- and third-grade virtual students and of second- and third-grade hybrid students, said the hybrid offering is new this year and described the curriculum as "rigorous" and "very parent and kid friendly." "It's easy to follow and then we can supplement on the hybrid days," Stokowski said.
A parent, Cassie Todd, said she has two children in Grand Blanc Community Schools and chose the hybrid program for the school year. Todd introduced her daughter, Kinsley, who said she enjoys the in-person activities: "I like doing lots of fun things with my teacher." Hamilton added that hybrid students participate in specials including STEAM, gym and music, and said families have responded positively to the added flexibility.
Program specifics provided in the presentation: the hybrid option currently serves grades two through five; scheduled in-person days are Tuesdays and Thursdays, with remote learning on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Organizers said the model is designed to support families seeking a virtual or homeschool-like setting while maintaining access to teacher support and in-person enrichment. No funding amounts, enrollment caps or start dates beyond "this year" were specified during the presentation.
The presenters said they expect the program to grow in future years as families seek flexible options. The presentation did not include formal votes, motions, or requests for district action recorded in the transcript.
