HBAC #110 w/ Mark Tremayne

In this edition of the HBAC, hosts Jordan, Kevin, and Tim welcomed Mark Tremayne for a big conversation about the future of public education, the current role of technology, and the specific programs shaping opportunity for local students.

Years ago, Mark jumped ship from the corporate world of finance, marketing and banking for the classroom. First as a substitute earning his qualifications and then for years as a full time educator and administrator this calling has fueled his work across all 25 buildings in the Hilliard district. He’s built his career by focusing on a consistent approach to development and delivering a massive variety of program offerings for students through his fellow Hilliard educators.

“We want Hilliard City Schools to be a gateway to opportunity.” - Mark Tremayne

From sixth grade through senior year, students in Hilliard have access to unique facilities and programs like the McVey Innovative Learning Center and The Hub. These are building within the district offering everything from early college coursework to immersive STEAM and AI-focused learning. Signature programs such as the Next Gen Changemakers and BETA (Business, Entrepreneurship, Technology, Art) expose middle schoolers to data analytics, coding, and entrepreneurship. High school students can join specialized networks—like the College Jumpstart or Young Professionals Network—to earn college credits and explore career paths in fields such as healthcare, education, and media production (Like our buds from Academy Vibe!)

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We picked Mark’s brain a little bit on AI controversies and he emphasized that while tools like ChatGPT need to be handled responsibly and on an evolving basis, their presence in students’ lives can’t be ignored. Hilliard educators are actively helping students become sharper digital citizens, encouraging AI’s use as a feedback tool - not a substitute for original thinking and not to be accepted unquestioningly.

The conversation also touched on equity: how logistics, transportation, and socioeconomic challenges can limit access to and full utilization of world class opportunities like Hilliard is offering through its public schools. Tremayne detailed efforts from subsidy programs to Uber grants - trying to ensure all students can participate in career exploration events, field trips, and immersive learning days. A recent example had kids out to a district-wide seventh grade event at Tolles focused on career “lifestyle activations,” in partnership with the Find Your Grind program.

As pressure mounts from state legislated voucher expansion, funding threats, and education policy upheavals, Mark says he and Hilliard educators have maintained a steady focus on the mission: student success.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our interviews over the years and we have some more great guests coming right up. There’s never been a better time to join us. For just $5 a month we support Kevin’s 25 year career of connected, trustworthy journalism in Hilliard.

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