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
From earned media tips to campaign collaboration, Michigan school communicators took the national stage at NSPRA 2025 to show how public schools can reach hearts and headlines alike.
Hands-on learning never looked so good! Students in grades 6–8 got an inside look at the beauty industry this week—from facials to flawless manicures.
From editing soundtracks to designing logos, students at Wilson Talent Center’s summer camp got hands-on with digital storytelling tools—and had a blast doing it.
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
From earned media tips to campaign collaboration, Michigan school communicators took the national stage at NSPRA 2025 to show how public schools can reach hearts and headlines alike.
From bubbles and balloons to bright sun and big laughs, Heartwood’s Field Day was a celebration of summer joy and community connection.
Beekman Center students lit up the dance floor during a joyful Under the Sea Prom, reminding everyone of the power of celebration and connection.
The Beekman Center community came together to celebrate the accomplishments of two remarkable graduates whose joy and determination left a lasting impression.
The Heartwood School community gathered to cheer on two remarkable graduates—sending them into the future with pride, joy, and lots of applause.
General Education
GENERAL EDUCATION STORIES
From earned media tips to campaign collaboration, Michigan school communicators took the national stage at NSPRA 2025 to show how public schools can reach hearts and headlines alike.
Hands-on learning never looked so good! Students in grades 6–8 got an inside look at the beauty industry this week—from facials to flawless manicures.
From editing soundtracks to designing logos, students at Wilson Talent Center’s summer camp got hands-on with digital storytelling tools—and had a blast doing it.
From CPR to infection control, Wilson Talent Center’s Healthcare Heroes camp gave students an exciting week of skills, smiles, and inspiration.
What happens when young artists are invited to tell their stories—with total freedom of color, texture, and truth? Something powerful.
Career Prep
CAREER PREP STORIES
More Stories
From earned media tips to campaign collaboration, Michigan school communicators took the national stage at NSPRA 2025 to show how public schools can reach hearts and headlines alike.
Hands-on learning never looked so good! Students in grades 6–8 got an inside look at the beauty industry this week—from facials to flawless manicures.
From editing soundtracks to designing logos, students at Wilson Talent Center’s summer camp got hands-on with digital storytelling tools—and had a blast doing it.
From bubbles and balloons to bright sun and big laughs, Heartwood’s Field Day was a celebration of summer joy and community connection.
