BIG RAPIDS, MI — Behind every smooth school day, perfectly timed event, and well-maintained facility at Big Rapids Public Schools is a dedicated team working diligently behind the scenes. For years, James "Jim" Ackroyd has been a vital anchor of that team, and as this school year drew to a close, Jim officially transitioned into a well-earned retirement.
Jim’s career path at BRPS is a testament to his versatility and deep commitment to the district. He originally joined the Cardinal family as a substitute bus driver, before transitioning into a full-time route driver. From there, he brought his hard work indoors as a custodian, and ultimately advanced into his latest role as a Facilities Department Clerk.
The Man Behind the Master Calendar
If you have attended a school event, reserved a space in a district building, or submitted a maintenance work request over the last several years, you have benefited directly from Jim's exceptional organizational skills.
When asked what he is most proud of accomplishing during his career, Jim points to his work behind the scenes to keep the entire district running like clockwork: streamlining event scheduling and perfecting the work request system. His efforts transformed a complex logistical puzzle into a seamless, efficient process that made daily life easier for teachers, coaches, administrators, and community members alike.
A Culture of Support and Integrity
Reflecting on his years with BRPS, Jim shared that his standout special memory isn't just one single day, but rather the overarching culture of leadership he experienced. He noted that having the clear, unwavering support from the Board of Education and District Administration made a lasting impression on his career and allowed him to take pride in his work every single day.
For those just beginning their journey with Big Rapids Public Schools, Jim leaves behind a powerful, grounded blueprint for a successful career:
"Honesty, and support other staff members."
It is a timeless piece of advice that mirrors exactly how Jim approached his own work—with quiet integrity, a helpful attitude, and a deep respect for the people around him.
Absolutely No Regrets
As he prepares to log out of the scheduling system one final time, Jim admits that it is the people who will be the hardest to leave behind. "I will miss working with all the talented co-workers and staff," he shared.
When asked to summarize his entire multi-faceted career at BRPS in just three words, Jim's response was as authentic as it gets: "Absolutely no regrets."
As for his immediate plans? Jim is trading in the district's master calendar for a more personal to-do list. His retirement bucket list includes catching up on his own home maintenance, traveling whenever the mood strikes, and—most importantly—spending plenty of cherished time visiting his grandkids.
Thank you, Jim, for keeping our wheels turning, our buildings coordinated, and our operations running seamlessly. Your dedication to the Cardinal family has left a lasting impact, and we wish you the absolute best in your next chapter!