Amy Rokosz has lived most of her life in the tri-city area and has called Midland home for the past ten years. She’s a mom of two and works full time as a teacher in the Meridian Public School district. Rokosz enjoys living in a community that has so much to offer and loves that she gets to learn about and experience even more through her work writing for Catalyst Midland.
Q: Catalyst is a side-job for many of us. What can you tell us about your day job?
A: My full-time job is an educator at Meridian Public Schools. I’ve been a teacher for 11 years and have taught grades between the 2nd-6th grade age range. I currently teach 5th grade and love this age group! There’s a lot of fun to be had in a school setting and I find myself inspired, amazed, touched and thoroughly entertained on a daily basis from working with my students!
I’ve also recently signed on as a volleyball coach in the school district and I’m really grateful for the opportunities this position has provided. The sense of belonging, team building, encouragement and the growth I see in the players is pretty cool. It’s working with kids in a setting other than the classroom and helping them grow and learn in new ways.
Q: How does writing for Catalyst compare?
A: Writing for Catalyst is completely different than teaching! I’ve always loved a good conversation and getting to know about someone, and Catalyst gives me the chance to get out in the community and talk with the amazing people that are out there making Midland such an awesome place call home.
I’ve learned a lot about Midland’s up and coming people, organizations, and businesses while writing for Catalyst. I find myself very inspired by the passion and vision behind the organizations we feature. I love learning about the backstories and motivation that creates the foundation for something new in the community.
Q: What has been your favorite feature to write so far?
A: Each feature I’ve written has been unique from the others and interesting in its own way. I really enjoyed the feature on public art because there is so much to be said for the art on display in our community that I had difficulty narrowing down the content!
But I’d have to say my favorite so far has been a feature on the equine therapy ranch located in Midland County, Remnant Fields. I really learned a lot while writing that feature and felt moved by the story behind the ranch, from the selection of the name, to the owner's individual stories, to accounts of the healing power of animals. All of this really inspired me and I was glad that I had the opportunity to work on that particular piece.
Q: You spend a lot of time frequenting places in the community. What are some of your go-to spots?
A: I have two young daughters, so the majority of my time away from home is spent doing things that they can also enjoy. We love the opportunities for outdoor entertainment in Midland and the abundance of neighborhood parks and playgrounds within walking or biking distance from our home. The Tridge, the Pere Marquette Rail Trail, Chippewa Nature Center and Plymouth Park & Pool are definitely some favorites of ours. Dow Gardens, Whiting Forest and Midland City Forest also rank high on our list. In the spring, summer, and fall months you’ll find us outdoors!
Q: What kind of things do you like to do in your spare time? Any hobbies?
A: Most of my interests and hobbies involve being active and spending time outdoors. I enjoy running, walking, and biking. I like camping and I really enjoy a day at the beach! I even like working in the yard. I’m happiest outside in the fresh air.
I love to read, love to cook, and love a good weekend getaway. I feel so lucky to live in Mid-Michigan where you can take a road trip for an hour or two and feel like you’ve hopped a plane to vacation destination.
The absolute best is spare time spent with my kids or catching up with friends though!
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