GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) – For nearly three decades, Mrs. Erica Hulett has been a steady and caring presence at Riverside Middle School, where she serves as a MoCi (Moderately Cognitively Impaired) teacher. For her, the classroom is more than a workplace, it’s family.
“Riverside Middle School has been my second home for 28 years,” Hulett said. “When I started, I was a 23-year-old newlywed with no kids, and now I’m a grandma. My daughters literally grew up in the school and with my co-workers.”
Hulett’s two daughters have followed in her footsteps, with one already teaching in Wyoming and the other preparing to graduate with her teaching degree. Over time, she has witnessed her scholars grow up, start families, and even send their own children to Riverside.
“I’m beginning to see the second generation come through as I’m seeing my former students as parents now,” she said. “I love being a part of the families and the community.”
Hulett chose Grand Rapids Public Schools early in her career and never looked back.
“I felt called to work in the city and stay in the city no matter what,” she explained. “I love Grand Rapids and the diversity within the schools and city. I feel strongly about the dedicated people who choose to be in GRPS and stay in GRPS.”
She hopes her legacy is one of empowering scholars with disabilities to build independence and confidence.
“My impact, I hope, is that students with disabilities will build skills that allow them to communicate, interact, learn, and live with greater independence,” she said. “I want to be their voice to ensure they receive appropriate accommodations, services, and respect - helping to build a more inclusive and fair educational system.”
Her influence doesn’t stop at her classroom door. She works to uplift her colleagues as well.
“I hope to impact the school environment and staff by being a positive voice,” Hulett said.
Her impact continues every day as a true GRPS Champion!
