Alcona Community Schools is excited to welcome new educators and student teachers who bring a wide range of experience, passion, and talent to our classrooms. This year, we are pleased to introduce Harrison Bacchus, Jennifer Bush, Gerry Sciacca, Nathaniel Louisignau, Tim Slezsak, and Karen Schisler to the Tiger family.
Harrison Bacchus – Student Teacher, Middle/High English & History
Harrison Bacchus is a student teacher in Middle and High School English and History at Alcona Schools. Originally from Alpena, Michigan, Harrison’s path to teaching was unique. He was a member of the Early College program at Alpena High School, earning both his high school diploma and an associate degree in psychology. Initially, he studied nursing at Alpena Community College, inspired by his mother, a Nurse Practitioner, but realized he preferred a career that combined his interests and allowed him to help others. After switching to psychology, he discovered his true passion: teaching. Harrison is drawn to education because it allows him to inspire students, help them grow, and face new challenges every day. He enjoys creating engaging learning experiences and seeing the excitement when students make connections or discover new skills. Outside the classroom, Harrison loves biking local trails and exploring the natural beauty of northeast Michigan, watching his favorite TV shows, and his favorite food is Butter Chicken.
Jennifer Bush – Student Teacher, Middle/High Science
Jennifer Bush moved to the Alcona community ten years ago from Belleville, Michigan, and is excited to serve as a student teacher in middle and high school science. With a background in the medical field, Jennifer discovered her passion for education while substitute teaching and coaching as her two daughters were growing up. This experience inspired her to pursue a career in teaching, and she will graduate this December with a bachelor’s degree in integrated sciences and secondary education. Jennifer is passionate about creating engaging and meaningful classroom experiences that spark curiosity and help students connect with science in practical ways. Outside of school, she enjoys camping, swimming, and making s’mores around the campfire with her family and their dog. Each year, her family also delights the community with elaborate holiday light displays at Halloween and Christmas. Jennifer is looking forward to a wonderful year with Alcona students and to contributing to the vibrant school community.
Gerry Sciacca – 4th Grade Teacher, Alcona Elementary
Gerry Sciacca brings over 36 years of teaching experience to Alcona Elementary. Born and raised in Saginaw, Michigan, she earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Western Michigan University and completed postgraduate work at Michigan State University. Gerry has taught in Saginaw, Petoskey, Tampa, and Sault Ste. Marie, gaining valuable experience in diverse school settings. She and her husband are thrilled to return to northern Michigan, living near Lake Huron and close to their children and five grandchildren. A lifelong “water person,” she enjoys the area’s natural beauty and community atmosphere. Gerry knew from the age of nine that she wanted to be a teacher, and her passion for education has never wavered. She is excited to inspire her fourth graders, share her love of learning, and become an active member of the Alcona community.
Nathaniel Louisignau – Middle/High Band & Music Teacher
Nathaniel joins Alcona Schools as the new Middle/High Band and Music Teacher. Originally from Redford, Michigan, he graduated from Concordia University in 2019 and spent six years teaching K-12 music in a small Montana town. Though he loved his time out west, northeast Michigan has always felt like home. He has spent more than 15 summers volunteering at a children’s camp in Oscoda, where his passion for working with youth and music truly grew. Nathaniel originally dreamed of being a performing musician but soon discovered how rewarding it was to teach. He loves seeing students light up when they realize they can play an instrument or sing in ways they never thought possible. He believes every child has the potential to be musical and enjoys creating opportunities for students to grow through performance, travel, and teamwork. Outside the classroom, Nathaniel enjoys fishing, spending time on the lake, and taking in the slower pace of small-town life. His favorite TV show is The Rookie, his favorite musician is Louis Armstrong, and his favorite food is Chicken Shawarma.
Karen Schisler - Meal Preparation
Karen is excited to be part of the Alcona Tiger Family and to serve students each day. She brings valuable experience from her background in the food service industry, where she developed a strong commitment to providing quality meals and fostering welcoming environments. Over the years, she has been affectionately known by many names, including “Big Momma” by her daughter’s childhood friends and now “Binga” by her grandchildren and their friends. Each name is a special reminder of the meaningful relationships she has built with children and families throughout the district. Karen takes pride in being a positive presence in students’ lives and looks forward to continuing to support them in their educational journey.
Tim Selzsak - Meal Preparation/Transportation
Tim comes to Alcona Schools after experience in many industries, including food service. Tim has also worked with students and schools in the past, assisting students with transportation to and from school. We are excited for Tim to bring his expertise to the district.
Alcona Community Schools looks forward to a successful school year with these talented new staff members and student teachers. Superintendent, Dan O’Connor shared, “We are thrilled to welcome these dedicated educators and support staff to Alcona Schools. Their diverse experiences and genuine passion for students will make a lasting impact in our classrooms and community.”