If you have attended a Clarkston School Board meeting in the last two months, you would have seen a new person sitting up front, taking notes on the meeting. That would be Heidi McClain, the district’s new administrative assistant to the superintendent.
Approximately two months ago, McClain, 35, took over for Helen Whitehead, who took up a new position in Community Education. McClain graduated from Western Michigan University with a bachelors degree in public relations and journalism. Before coming to Clarkston, McClain worked in the Oakland School district in special education and most recently as the Federal Grants Coordinator. McClain said the move to Clarkston was a career decision.
‘I wanted a career, not just a job change and this position offers that,? McClain wrote in an e-mail to The Clarkston News. ‘I also have a deep appreciation for public education and have always wanted to be a part of something that exists to help our children be successful.?
As an administrative assistant, McClain handles a variety of communications for Superintendent Dr. Al Roberts and the Board of Education. Her responsibilities include taking calls, typing corresponding, maintaining calendars and attending and taking minutes at a variety of meetings including school board meetings.
‘Like anything, it has been a learning process. I feel very comfortable with my responsibilities, and I’m enjoying getting to know all the names and faces. Ellen worked with me for a couple days and was wonderful in helping me get to know people and the main functions of the job,? McClain wrote.
McClain currently resides in Grand Blanc with her husband Bill and two children ? Kylie, 6 and Griffin, 2. McClain said she and her husband lived in Clarkston briefly after getting married, and since returning to work in the district she has been nothing but impressed.
‘The people are truly dedicated and compassionate, and there is a strong feeling of commitment for the work that they do. I could see right away that the district, board and staff are here to serve children, and everyone puts forth 110 percent to do just that!? McClain wrote. ‘We are in the business of educating children and helping them achieve success, and I’m happy to be a part of that.?