BackPack Press
Welcome to BackPack Press — your go-to source for uplifting stories from local schools. We’re here to celebrate education by sharing the voices of students, teachers, and staff, highlighting achievements, and connecting schools with the communities they serve. Through engaging storytelling, valuable resources, and a fresh perspective, BackPack Press shines a light on the great work happening in education every day.
Featured Stories
Subscribe to RSS Feed
Hands-on learning hit high gear as the WTC Motorsports Team participated in the Battle of the Schools at Darana Dragway. With a strong showing from Precision Machining student Kaden R., the team proved that learning, teamwork, and horsepower go hand in hand.
Students in the Wilson Talent Center’s Educational Careers program recently stepped into the teacher role—creating and delivering innovative lessons that promote creativity, collaboration, and communication in the classroom.
MORE TO EXPLORE
Early Childhood
EARLY CHILDHOOD STORIES
When Abi Worthington enrolled her son in the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP), she discovered more than a preschool—she found a place where her child could thrive.
Parents are discovering innovative ways to entertain and educate children by transforming recycled materials into creative projects.
Play & Learn Groups offer free, hands-on learning sessions for young children and their caregivers—creating a nurturing space for early growth, discovery, and connection across Ingham County.
With the expansion of PreK for All, more local families now have access to high-quality preschool—giving young learners the tools they need to succeed in kindergarten and beyond.
Ingham ISD and McLaren Greater Lansing have partnered to bring Book Nooks to waiting areas—providing families with comforting access to books, support, and lifelong literacy skills.
Special Education
SPECIAL EDUCATION STORIES
Families from across the region came together for an unforgettable night of accessible Halloween fun during the Sensory Friendly FALCONERS event at Potter Park Zoo. Designed with individuals who have unique sensory needs in mind, this quiet, after-hours celebration was a howling success.
With green gear and glowing smiles, Spartan Project SEARCH students, grads, families, and staff proudly walked in the Michigan State University Homecoming Parade—showcasing inclusion, community, and Spartan pride.
October is AAC Awareness Month—a time to highlight the power of communication tools that give every learner a voice. Learn how Ingham ISD is supporting students and staff through innovative solutions and expert guidance.
Fire hats, flashing lights, and friendly faces made for a memorable day at Heartwood School, where students had a hands-on opportunity to engage with real emergency vehicles in a supportive sensory learning environment.
Each fall, Ingham ISD’s Fall Fun Fest brings together families of students with IEPs for a day of shared support and celebration. This year’s gathering at Potter Park Zoo highlighted how love and collaboration help every student thrive.
General Education
GENERAL EDUCATION STORIES
From school safety to workforce readiness, districts across mid-Michigan are working together to ensure students are supported, protected, and prepared. A recent series of gatherings spotlighted the power of community-wide collaboration.
From classroom culture to crosswalks, schools across Ingham County are joining forces this October to prioritize inclusion, student safety, and bullying prevention through districtwide campaigns and collaborations.
Ingham ISD staff and principals from across the county kicked off the school year with a powerful day of learning and leadership at MSU—featuring words of wisdom from Coach Tom Izzo, networking opportunities, and a visit from Sparty himself.
BackPack Press is proud to introduce the UnPacked Podcast, a weekly series that breaks down the big issues in education with clarity and transparency. Featuring student voices and the “feet on the ground” perspectives of those working in schools every day, UnPacked explores how education impacts not just families, but entire communities.
With a theme focused on the power of asking “What If?”, the 2025–26 school year launched with messages of possibility, perseverance, and partnership—from keynote speakers to inspiring educators across the region.
Career Prep
CAREER PREP STORIES
More Stories
With a theme focused on the power of asking “What If?”, the 2025–26 school year launched with messages of possibility, perseverance, and partnership—from keynote speakers to inspiring educators across the region.
When Ava crossed the graduation stage at East Lansing High School, she was met with a familiar face—WTC Welding Technology Assistant Craig Barnes, who had the honor of presenting her diploma.
The Heartwood School community gathered to cheer on two remarkable graduates—sending them into the future with pride, joy, and lots of applause.
In honor of the late Joe Dimmick, Wilson Talent Center students received a scholarship check from his son, Brian Dimmick, celebrating a successful fundraising event and strengthening real-world ties between education and the insurance industry.
