Eaton Rapids Education Foundation

As a lifelong resident of our community, I have always been deeply passionate about the quality of education available to our children. By joining the Education Foundation, I saw an opportunity to contribute directly to the advancement of education in our hometown by working directly with our district’s teachers and staff for the betterment of our community’s students.

I have a very active interest in our community schools being that my husband is the Middle School Principal and our daughters are all part of the Eaton Rapids School District. Seeing my husband’s dedication to his students and staff daily, made me want to find a way to give back as well, even if my career isn’t in the education arena, there is always a way to help volunteer my time to our district staff and students.

I am inspired by the mission and vision of the Education Foundation and am excited about the opportunity to contribute my time and energy to its noble cause. I am confident that, together, we can make a lasting and meaningful impact on the lives of our teachers and students and the vitality of our community.

Supporting education has always been deeply important to me because I believe that when we invest in our schools, we’re investing in the heart of our community. Strong schools empower students, strengthen families, and create a foundation for a thriving community.

As a lifelong learner and community advocate, I’ve focused much of my work on strengthening families and supporting community growth. Since moving to Eaton Rapids in 2016, I’ve been inspired by the incredible dedication of our educators and families. Now, as the parent of two young kids in Eaton Rapids Public Schools, I’m excited to step into the education arena and help champion the foundation’s mission of enriching educational opportunities for all students.

From classroom innovations to scholarships and educational resources, the Eaton Rapids Education Foundation is doing vital work to support our schools. I’m honored to be part of this effort and look forward to collaborating with others who are passionate about making a positive impact.

Let’s continue building a brighter future for our students and our community—together!

Sara Kirkpatrick is serving her third year on the Eaton Rapids Education Foundation Board as Secretary. She is passionate about supporting students, educators, and the Eaton Rapids community by helping create opportunities that enhance learning and provide resources beyond what traditional school funding can offer.

Sara has called Eaton Rapids home for the past 11 years and has two children attending Eaton Rapids Public Schools. She is proud to give back to the community that has become home for her family and is committed to helping ensure every student has access to meaningful educational opportunities.

Katrina Hofstetter has proudly served on the Eaton Rapids Education Foundation Board of Directors for the past three years and currently serves as its Treasurer. As a Mom of three boys in the Eaton Rapids School District, she is passionate about supporting the students, educators, and programs that help the district thrive.

Katrina believes that strong schools are the foundation of a strong community and is honored to give back through her service on the Foundation. She values the opportunity to support local educators, help provide enhanced educational opportunities for students, and invest in the future of Eaton Rapids Public Schools. 

As a former district teacher, parent of three current students, and Eaton Rapids Education Foundation board member for three years, my heart belongs to kids! I support our kids, teachers and schools because every child deserves a creative, well-funded education that empowers them to thrive. 

Chelsie DeLong is honored to serve her first year as a Board Member of the Eaton Rapids Education Foundation. As a lifelong resident of the Eaton Rapids community, she is passionate about giving back to the place she has always called home and helping create opportunities for local students and educators.

For the past 10 years, Chelsie has served the Greater Lansing area as a real estate professional, guiding clients through one of the most important financial decisions of their lives with integrity, compassion, and expertise. She believes in the power of building strong relationships and is committed to making a positive impact both professionally and within her community.

Outside of work, Chelsie enjoys volunteering, raising her two young sons, and playing pickleball whenever she can. She is excited to learn, grow, and collaborate with her fellow board members as she supports the mission of the Eaton Rapids Education Foundation and looks forward to contributing to a successful school year.