My name is Alisia Chmielewski and I’m the new K-5 Music Teacher for Grosse Ile Schools. I’m very excited for this upcoming school year.

I graduated from Adrian College in 2020 where I studied Music Education and Percussion. Along with teaching, I also enjoy performing in pit orchestras for various theater companies.  I’m looking forward to meeting more of the GI family and helping the music department grow! 

Michael Riffe is excited to share his love and passion for music with Grosse Ile Middle School Music students. Mr. Riffe is a recent graduate of Eastern Michigan University where he was a member of the Symphonic Band, Marching Band, and Emerald Flute ensemble. Mr. Riffe is currently a member of the Southeast Michigan Wind Ensemble, Detroit Civic Community Band, and Ann Arbor Civic Band. Mr. Riffe is serving as a Section Tech with the GIHS Marching Band this year.

Sam Ramirez is very excited to be joining the GI Music team as the Choir Director. A Wyandotte native with a BM in Vocal Music Education (WSU) and a BFA in Music Theatre Performance (WMU). Before GI, Sam has taught Elementary music with Monroe Public Schools and Middle/High school Choirs with Van Dyke Public Schools. Sam is also involved in several community theatre programs throughout Southern Michigan and also has had the privilege and opportunity to tour the country performing. He is ready to share his experience, knowledge, and love for all things musical with our students. 

The Grosse Ile Music Boosters would like to welcome Ms. Elise Berner, our new high school band director! Ms. Berner is a recent graduate from Michigan State University, with degrees in both music education and jazz studies.

Ms. Berner plays her trumpet with multiple ensembles throughout Michigan and has experience with concert band, brass quintets, marching band, drum corps, jazz ensembles, salsa bands, pit orchestras, and cover bands. Clearly she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our students!

We are excited for her to bring a wealth of knowledge and a top-quality education to our students! 

Nick Battishill has been a Social Studies teacher and low brass instructor at Grosse Ile High School since 2015, and the assistant (to the) marching band director since 2017. Mr. Battishill graduated from the University of Michigan with a BA in History and Secondary Education, and was also a member of the Michigan Marching Band and Hockey Band where he (mediocrely) played the trombone.