This week's alumni spotlight is Bill Mourufas '09!
I have a lot of good memories from my time at Rudyard High School. Most of which are
from the years playing football and participating on the wrestling team, but my favorite
individual memory was participating in a debate in front of the entire school as part of Mr.
DeYoung’s Advanced Placement Government class. During the debate I was tasked with
portraying then candidate for President Barack Obama and debated fellow student Gail
Berkompas who was portraying Senator John McCain. The Vice President Candidates were
Raymond Schue as Joe Biden and Melanie Case as Sarah Palin.
My favorite class was Mr. DeYoung’s Advanced Placement Government class. He always
found ways to facilitate lively thought-provoking discussions among the class while staying
impartial and challenging both sides of the debate. This is the class that inspired me to
pursue a Political Science degree and work in politics/government.
There is a lot of advice I would give to high school students today, but I think the most
important advice would be that you do not need to have everything figured out today or
feel like you need to have a plan for your entire life. Even if you think you have everything
mapped out at your current age, it is very likely that your plans will change multiple times.
Rather than trying to plan out the rest of your life, work on building the skills that will help
you navigate life’s changes. Work ethic, dedication, adaptability, social skills, and the ability
to keep learning will serve you far more than any single plan ever could. Life rarely moves in
a straight line, and success often comes from being able to pivot, grow, and stay resilient
when things don’t go as expected. A common phrase in the Marine Corps when things do
not go right (which is often) is “adapt and overcome”, so focus on becoming the kind of
person who can face uncertainty with confidence. Not because you have all of the answers,
but because you’ve built the tools to figure things out along the way. In the end, the only
thing you can and should plan on is change, instead of fearing it, prepare for it and let it
shape you into someone stronger, wiser, and more capable.
During my senior year I seriously considered military service but ultimately decided to
enroll at Lake Superior State University to pursue a degree in Political Science. However,
after completing just one semester, I couldn’t shake the calling to serve. In 2010, I enlisted
in the United States Marine Corps and began active duty. I served as an aviation mechanic
on Huey and Cobra attack helicopters, with duty stations in California, Florida, and Hawaii
over the course of five years. During that time, I also got married, which marked another
important chapter in my life. My time in the Marines taught me invaluable lessons about
discipline, adaptability, and resilience. These are the same lessons that reflect the advice I
shared earlier: life doesn't always go according to plan, and that's okay. After receiving an
honorable discharge, I returned home to finish the degree I had started before enlisting.
While completing my studies at LSSU, I gained experience working with local, state, and
federal political organizations and nonprofits. After earning my Bachelor of Science degree
in Political Science, I began working for the State of Michigan’s Department of Labor and
Economic Opportunity where I serve as a Veterans’ Career Advisor, helping to reduce
employment barriers for Michigan’s veteran population. I am currently in the process of
pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Administration and I also have the privilege of being a
husband and a father. My wife and I now have a 4-year-old son and a 2-week-old daughter.
Life has taken many unexpected turns, but each experience has shaped who I am today. I
wouldn’t change a thing.
I have a lot of good memories from my time at Rudyard High School. Most of which are
from the years playing football and participating on the wrestling team, but my favorite
individual memory was participating in a debate in front of the entire school as part of Mr.
DeYoung’s Advanced Placement Government class. During the debate I was tasked with
portraying then candidate for President Barack Obama and debated fellow student Gail
Berkompas who was portraying Senator John McCain. The Vice President Candidates were
Raymond Schue as Joe Biden and Melanie Case as Sarah Palin.
My favorite class was Mr. DeYoung’s Advanced Placement Government class. He always
found ways to facilitate lively thought-provoking discussions among the class while staying
impartial and challenging both sides of the debate. This is the class that inspired me to
pursue a Political Science degree and work in politics/government.
There is a lot of advice I would give to high school students today, but I think the most
important advice would be that you do not need to have everything figured out today or
feel like you need to have a plan for your entire life. Even if you think you have everything
mapped out at your current age, it is very likely that your plans will change multiple times.
Rather than trying to plan out the rest of your life, work on building the skills that will help
you navigate life’s changes. Work ethic, dedication, adaptability, social skills, and the ability
to keep learning will serve you far more than any single plan ever could. Life rarely moves in
a straight line, and success often comes from being able to pivot, grow, and stay resilient
when things don’t go as expected. A common phrase in the Marine Corps when things do
not go right (which is often) is “adapt and overcome”, so focus on becoming the kind of
person who can face uncertainty with confidence. Not because you have all of the answers,
but because you’ve built the tools to figure things out along the way. In the end, the only
thing you can and should plan on is change, instead of fearing it, prepare for it and let it
shape you into someone stronger, wiser, and more capable.
During my senior year I seriously considered military service but ultimately decided to
enroll at Lake Superior State University to pursue a degree in Political Science. However,
after completing just one semester, I couldn’t shake the calling to serve. In 2010, I enlisted
in the United States Marine Corps and began active duty. I served as an aviation mechanic
on Huey and Cobra attack helicopters, with duty stations in California, Florida, and Hawaii
over the course of five years. During that time, I also got married, which marked another
important chapter in my life. My time in the Marines taught me invaluable lessons about
discipline, adaptability, and resilience. These are the same lessons that reflect the advice I
shared earlier: life doesn't always go according to plan, and that's okay. After receiving an
honorable discharge, I returned home to finish the degree I had started before enlisting.
While completing my studies at LSSU, I gained experience working with local, state, and
federal political organizations and nonprofits. After earning my Bachelor of Science degree
in Political Science, I began working for the State of Michigan’s Department of Labor and
Economic Opportunity where I serve as a Veterans’ Career Advisor, helping to reduce
employment barriers for Michigan’s veteran population. I am currently in the process of
pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Administration and I also have the privilege of being a
husband and a father. My wife and I now have a 4-year-old son and a 2-week-old daughter.
Life has taken many unexpected turns, but each experience has shaped who I am today. I
wouldn’t change a thing.
Meeting Reminder: Rudyard is going to London in Spring of 2027! Come to the meeting tonight to learn more. RSVP to the meeting to get more information: https://bit.ly/3JRrPKq
Class Showcase: High School Biology with Mr. Darr.
This week, students dove into the basics of biology by exploring the characteristics of living things and focusing on cells, the building blocks of all life. It’s been a very hands-on start to the year. In the last two weeks, students have examined potted plants, searched for life in forest materials, and used microscopes to look at both plant and animal cells.
This work is about more than just memorizing facts. The skills we’re practicing are important for their futures. Here’s why it matters:
Students learn to think for themselves. We’re working on how to tell good information from bad. Students are challenged to question what they see and hear, whether it's from a news story or even from me, their teacher. This skill is critical for navigating a world with so much noise from AI and social media.
Our students learn to work in teams. A lot of our work is done in groups, which helps students practice working with others. These are some of the most important skills in any career today, no matter what they choose to do.
They also gain practical know-how. We’ve been learning how to handle delicate lab equipment and chemicals safely. These are valuable, transferable skills that can be used in many different jobs or in college studies.
This week, students dove into the basics of biology by exploring the characteristics of living things and focusing on cells, the building blocks of all life. It’s been a very hands-on start to the year. In the last two weeks, students have examined potted plants, searched for life in forest materials, and used microscopes to look at both plant and animal cells.
This work is about more than just memorizing facts. The skills we’re practicing are important for their futures. Here’s why it matters:
Students learn to think for themselves. We’re working on how to tell good information from bad. Students are challenged to question what they see and hear, whether it's from a news story or even from me, their teacher. This skill is critical for navigating a world with so much noise from AI and social media.
Our students learn to work in teams. A lot of our work is done in groups, which helps students practice working with others. These are some of the most important skills in any career today, no matter what they choose to do.
They also gain practical know-how. We’ve been learning how to handle delicate lab equipment and chemicals safely. These are valuable, transferable skills that can be used in many different jobs or in college studies.
This week's Alumni Spotlight is Kelly (Leonard) Bunster '01!
What was one of your favorite memories from school? Without a doubt, it was definitely when our volleyball team won at regionals!
My favorite classes were science and math. I loved anatomy and physiology!
My advice to students: get involved! From sports to NHS, to drama to 4h or church. You never know what you’ll enjoy and succeed at.
After high school, I attended Calvin University and Western Michigan University, where I earned my master's degree in Occupational Therapy. I got married right after graduation, and I did traveling therapy all around the country for 2 years. We settled down for 15 years in Raleigh, North Carolina, where I worked at Duke Hospital.
We just relocated outside of Seattle, Washington, to work with Chick-fil-A. My husband, Sebastian, and I have four wonderful kids, ages 3, 5, 10, and 13. I stay home with the younger two while also doing some OT work on the side, as well as an administrative assistant for a few other Chick-fil-A owners/operators.
What was one of your favorite memories from school? Without a doubt, it was definitely when our volleyball team won at regionals!
My favorite classes were science and math. I loved anatomy and physiology!
My advice to students: get involved! From sports to NHS, to drama to 4h or church. You never know what you’ll enjoy and succeed at.
After high school, I attended Calvin University and Western Michigan University, where I earned my master's degree in Occupational Therapy. I got married right after graduation, and I did traveling therapy all around the country for 2 years. We settled down for 15 years in Raleigh, North Carolina, where I worked at Duke Hospital.
We just relocated outside of Seattle, Washington, to work with Chick-fil-A. My husband, Sebastian, and I have four wonderful kids, ages 3, 5, 10, and 13. I stay home with the younger two while also doing some OT work on the side, as well as an administrative assistant for a few other Chick-fil-A owners/operators.
Its our home opener for our JV/Varsity Girls Volleyball Teams! Tonight's match up against Brimely starts at 5:45! The first 100 fans will receive a Bulldog water bottle thanks to Superior Towning & Service of Sault Ste Marie!
We have a group at school that will be taking a trip across the Pond! The group is headed to England in Spring 2027, and they'd love to have you join them.
This is an incredible opportunity to explore new places, experience different cultures, and gain lifelong skills like independence and confidence. We'll be sharing all the details, including what we’ll see and do, hands-on learning activities, academic opportunities, trip costs, and how to secure a spot at our informational meeting. This trip is also open to community members, along with students in current grades 8-11.
Meeting details:
📅 Date: September 18
🕒 Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Room 101 (Ms. Verdoni's room)
👉 RSVP here to join us: https://rsvp.eftours.com/fj7e4u2
We’ll also open enrollment during the meeting—spots are limited, and we would love to help you secure this experience.
If you have more questions, you can reach out to Mrs. Noordhoek or Mrs. Edington.
This is an incredible opportunity to explore new places, experience different cultures, and gain lifelong skills like independence and confidence. We'll be sharing all the details, including what we’ll see and do, hands-on learning activities, academic opportunities, trip costs, and how to secure a spot at our informational meeting. This trip is also open to community members, along with students in current grades 8-11.
Meeting details:
📅 Date: September 18
🕒 Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Room 101 (Ms. Verdoni's room)
👉 RSVP here to join us: https://rsvp.eftours.com/fj7e4u2
We’ll also open enrollment during the meeting—spots are limited, and we would love to help you secure this experience.
If you have more questions, you can reach out to Mrs. Noordhoek or Mrs. Edington.
It's another full week in Bulldog Country!
Our Alumni Spotlight is back for another year! To start things off this year will be Brad Ried '97!
My favorite memory of attending Rudyard was our pre-season baseball trip to Mt. Pleasant, where we played on the CMU field and stayed at the White Wagon Motel in Rosebush. Coach Ron Van Sloten and the team orchestrated a prank, getting me all dressed out to play despite the games being cancelled due to the weather. Everyone had a good laugh at my expense, knowing how excited I was that day.
My activity outside of baseball was lunch, which I spent most days riding around town with Shaun McCurley and Lance Bickel. From Pure Country to Shute's Amoco and back.
The best advice I can give current and future students is to build relationships and make connections. Value friendships and take time to enjoy the small things in life because you will someday realize those were the big things.
After high school I accepted a scholarship to play baseball at North Central Texas College. My Sophomore season I met the love of my life Brandi and earned an All conference selection. Graduated with an associate's degree and with the help of Rob Van Sloten I accepted another baseball scholarship to play at Central Michigan, fulfilling my childhood dream of playing Division 1 baseball. I had a successful junior season, met some great people and played in some amazing parks but just wasn't happy. I missed the south. I finished my baseball career and education at Southeastern Oklahoma State University.
I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in education. I moved to Grapevine Tx to student teach and coach. To make extra money, I started painting and coaching youth baseball teams. My coaching in baseball led to painting jobs . I didn't realize it at the time, but my connections from Rudyard, college baseball teammates, coaches, and friends, and a lot of hard work would create opportunities that would take me across the country and across the ocean to paint. I currently own and operate a commercial and residential painting company with 15 employees. Brandi and I have been married 23 years and have 3 beautiful children, Sadie , Maddie, and Wyatt.
My favorite memory of attending Rudyard was our pre-season baseball trip to Mt. Pleasant, where we played on the CMU field and stayed at the White Wagon Motel in Rosebush. Coach Ron Van Sloten and the team orchestrated a prank, getting me all dressed out to play despite the games being cancelled due to the weather. Everyone had a good laugh at my expense, knowing how excited I was that day.
My activity outside of baseball was lunch, which I spent most days riding around town with Shaun McCurley and Lance Bickel. From Pure Country to Shute's Amoco and back.
The best advice I can give current and future students is to build relationships and make connections. Value friendships and take time to enjoy the small things in life because you will someday realize those were the big things.
After high school I accepted a scholarship to play baseball at North Central Texas College. My Sophomore season I met the love of my life Brandi and earned an All conference selection. Graduated with an associate's degree and with the help of Rob Van Sloten I accepted another baseball scholarship to play at Central Michigan, fulfilling my childhood dream of playing Division 1 baseball. I had a successful junior season, met some great people and played in some amazing parks but just wasn't happy. I missed the south. I finished my baseball career and education at Southeastern Oklahoma State University.
I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in education. I moved to Grapevine Tx to student teach and coach. To make extra money, I started painting and coaching youth baseball teams. My coaching in baseball led to painting jobs . I didn't realize it at the time, but my connections from Rudyard, college baseball teammates, coaches, and friends, and a lot of hard work would create opportunities that would take me across the country and across the ocean to paint. I currently own and operate a commercial and residential painting company with 15 employees. Brandi and I have been married 23 years and have 3 beautiful children, Sadie , Maddie, and Wyatt.
We are excited to officially kick off the school year tomorrow (9/2/25) with the FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL!
As a reminder to all parents/students, the first day of school is a half-day. School will dismiss at 11:45 for the HS and 11:55 for the elementary.
Note: Students who attend the Sault Career Center should report to Rudyard at the start of the day; CTE will start on day 2.
As a reminder to all parents/students, the first day of school is a half-day. School will dismiss at 11:45 for the HS and 11:55 for the elementary.
Note: Students who attend the Sault Career Center should report to Rudyard at the start of the day; CTE will start on day 2.
Students' passwords were changed yesterday by the EUPISD Tech Department. Students can request or come in for their password next week or get it on the first day of school. Schedules are live (students can't log in if they don't have their password).
Parents can view their children's schedules through the parent portal. For new students, schedules can be picked up on Tuesday next week, while all other students can collect their schedules during Open House or on the first day of school.
Parents can view their children's schedules through the parent portal. For new students, schedules can be picked up on Tuesday next week, while all other students can collect their schedules during Open House or on the first day of school.
This a great program, thank you to Trooper Mayer and MSP for offering it again this Fall at the test track in Brimley. To sign up please contact Trooper Mayer - 906-748-0005.
Duel Enrollment Students and Parents, have questions please reach out to the counselors.
We wanted to share that Rudyard Area Schools will continue the free breakfast and lunch program for ALL STUDENTS this school year, no cost to families. Even though the state’s long-term funding for the universal meals program is still being determined, we are fortunate that our budget allows us to continue this important service.
We know that when students have access to healthy meals, they are better prepared to focus, learn, and succeed. This program ensures that every student starts the day with the fuel they need, whether that’s a warm breakfast before class or a healthy lunch in the middle of the day.
A quick reminder: We still ask families to turn in their food service forms when they come in. These forms help our district secure important state and federal funding that supports programs and resources for students.
Thank you for working with us to make this a great school year. Sept 2nd is right around the corner!
We know that when students have access to healthy meals, they are better prepared to focus, learn, and succeed. This program ensures that every student starts the day with the fuel they need, whether that’s a warm breakfast before class or a healthy lunch in the middle of the day.
A quick reminder: We still ask families to turn in their food service forms when they come in. These forms help our district secure important state and federal funding that supports programs and resources for students.
Thank you for working with us to make this a great school year. Sept 2nd is right around the corner!
Student Spotlight: Lila Tuzinowski
Rising freshman Lila Tuzinowski is stepping into high school with poise, talent, and a true passion for the arts. While she enjoys playing volleyball, Lila’s heart belongs to the stage and the spotlight, especially through singing and musical theatre.
For the past three years, she has studied under Karen Beacom at the Soo Theatre, and her summers have been spent learning from opera singers and theatre directors across the country, from New York to Nebraska. This past year, she was even invited to audition for the Youth Honors Program at Carnegie Hall, and she’s hopeful to take part in the future.
Beyond performing, Lila loves to travel, spend time with friends and family, and bring a calm, thoughtful presence to everything she does. Known for being highly focused on her schoolwork, empathetic toward others, and always bringing a fresh perspective to problem-solving, Lila is a standout both in and out of the classroom.
We’re proud to have Lila as part of the Bulldog family and can’t wait to see where her voice and vision take her next!
Rising freshman Lila Tuzinowski is stepping into high school with poise, talent, and a true passion for the arts. While she enjoys playing volleyball, Lila’s heart belongs to the stage and the spotlight, especially through singing and musical theatre.
For the past three years, she has studied under Karen Beacom at the Soo Theatre, and her summers have been spent learning from opera singers and theatre directors across the country, from New York to Nebraska. This past year, she was even invited to audition for the Youth Honors Program at Carnegie Hall, and she’s hopeful to take part in the future.
Beyond performing, Lila loves to travel, spend time with friends and family, and bring a calm, thoughtful presence to everything she does. Known for being highly focused on her schoolwork, empathetic toward others, and always bringing a fresh perspective to problem-solving, Lila is a standout both in and out of the classroom.
We’re proud to have Lila as part of the Bulldog family and can’t wait to see where her voice and vision take her next!
Anyone interested in joining the Rudyard Spirit Team! 7th-12th Meeting/Practice Thursday August 14th 4-5 @ The Pavilion. For more information contact Coach Sarah McMillan 90-298-0290
Jr/Sr High School Class Schedules are little over a week away from being released!
At Rudyard Jr/Sr High School, our electives aren’t just “extra,” they’re designed to prepare students for life. Each new course must meet three goals: teach real-world skills, stay relevant to today’s world, and challenge students with academic rigor. We’re proud to announce several exciting additions this year.
Our Jr High E-Sports course builds on the huge success of last year’s high school program, introducing younger students to teamwork, strategy, and competition in a structured gaming environment.
AMPED on Algebra brings energy and creativity to math, helping students see real-life applications of what they learn.
Sociology of Sports is offered on-site in partnership with BMCC, a college-level class exploring the impact of sports on culture, communities, and individuals.
Investing 101 grew from the enthusiasm of last year’s Personal Finance students, giving learners a head start in building wealth and understanding markets.
Leadership and You empowers students to build the confidence, communication, and decision-making skills they’ll carry into every part of life.
We’re also thrilled to bring back our Swimming and Lifeguarding course, offering skills that are both practical and potentially lifesaving.
In addition to these new opportunities, students can still choose from a wide range of electives that help them explore their passions such as: Links Art and Unified PE, HS Weightlifting, Advanced PE, STEM, Construction Trades, Sculpture Art, Band, Seminar for 7th Grade, Art, Native Culture, Entrepreneurship, Business and Yearbook, Service Learning, and an array of CTE and College programs.
Behind every new course is a teacher who has spent time researching, planning, and designing lessons that connect deeply with students’ needs and futures. Our staff’s creativity and dedication are what make these programs possible, and their commitment ensures that every elective is more than just a class.
At Rudyard, our electives are about more than filling schedules; they’re about building futures.
At Rudyard Jr/Sr High School, our electives aren’t just “extra,” they’re designed to prepare students for life. Each new course must meet three goals: teach real-world skills, stay relevant to today’s world, and challenge students with academic rigor. We’re proud to announce several exciting additions this year.
Our Jr High E-Sports course builds on the huge success of last year’s high school program, introducing younger students to teamwork, strategy, and competition in a structured gaming environment.
AMPED on Algebra brings energy and creativity to math, helping students see real-life applications of what they learn.
Sociology of Sports is offered on-site in partnership with BMCC, a college-level class exploring the impact of sports on culture, communities, and individuals.
Investing 101 grew from the enthusiasm of last year’s Personal Finance students, giving learners a head start in building wealth and understanding markets.
Leadership and You empowers students to build the confidence, communication, and decision-making skills they’ll carry into every part of life.
We’re also thrilled to bring back our Swimming and Lifeguarding course, offering skills that are both practical and potentially lifesaving.
In addition to these new opportunities, students can still choose from a wide range of electives that help them explore their passions such as: Links Art and Unified PE, HS Weightlifting, Advanced PE, STEM, Construction Trades, Sculpture Art, Band, Seminar for 7th Grade, Art, Native Culture, Entrepreneurship, Business and Yearbook, Service Learning, and an array of CTE and College programs.
Behind every new course is a teacher who has spent time researching, planning, and designing lessons that connect deeply with students’ needs and futures. Our staff’s creativity and dedication are what make these programs possible, and their commitment ensures that every elective is more than just a class.
At Rudyard, our electives are about more than filling schedules; they’re about building futures.
"My family and I moved to this area in 2011 on a Coast Guard assignment and enrolled our children in the Rudyard Area School District in 2012. The quality of Rudyard Area Schools is a significant reason why we chose to stay. For the past 13 years, we've been actively involved as parents of three children, including a recent graduate, and I have served on the school board for six years.
Rudyard Area Schools (RAS) has provided our children with incredible opportunities from elementary through middle and high school, consistently pushing them to excel academically, athletically, and personally. The administration, teachers, and staff have always been responsive, helpful, and have shown great care for our kids. We are truly thankful to be part of this community and this excellent school system." - Marv LaLone
Rudyard Area Schools (RAS) has provided our children with incredible opportunities from elementary through middle and high school, consistently pushing them to excel academically, athletically, and personally. The administration, teachers, and staff have always been responsive, helpful, and have shown great care for our kids. We are truly thankful to be part of this community and this excellent school system." - Marv LaLone
School is just around the corner. Here is the August Edition of the Jr/Sr High School Parent Connect!
During the last week of school, the 5th grade students participated in a community wide passport scavenger hunt. Students traveled from business to business learning about the community of Rudyard and what it takes to make a town run. At each stop students listened, took notes, and received a stamp for their passport. In the end, each student visited seven different businesses including Pure Country Restaurant, Central Savings Bank, Rudyard Co-Op, Post Office, Whiskey River Hardware, Township Hall, and the Fire Department.
All students have been released for the day today (Tuesday May 20) The Spring Concert is still on as scheduled for tonight. Please be watching for the school buses!