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
How do you walk into a room and own it? That’s the question students at Wilson Talent Center are answering through Boss Mode Boot Camp—a hands-on series designed to help them show up, speak up, and shine in any professional setting.
From classroom prep to city excursions, students from the Wilson Talent Center spent two unforgettable weeks at Wayne State University exploring what it means to be an educator—and a leader.
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.
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 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.
Students and staff at the Beekman Center ended the week on a high note with a playful field day full of bubbles, parachutes, and inclusive activities that highlighted community, creativity, and connection.
General Education
GENERAL EDUCATION 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.
Michigan schools, including those supported by Ingham ISD, are rolling out Behavioral Threat Assessment Management (BTAM) Teams. These new safety teams are designed to identify and address concerning behaviors early—keeping schools safe by preventing violence before it occurs.
When schools and families work together, students thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally. Michigan education leaders, including Ingham ISD’s Dr. Sandee Donald, are shining a spotlight on the power of authentic family engagement and its role in improving student outcomes.
A new federal partnership is revolutionizing how students connect education to employment. By creating a shared “skills currency,” the U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Labor are making it easier for learners to showcase their competencies and find pathways to meaningful careers.
As the first bell of the new year approaches, families can do more than shop for supplies—building healthy routines, fueling minds and bodies, and easing into schedules can help students shine from day one.
Career Prep
CAREER PREP STORIES
More Stories
How do you walk into a room and own it? That’s the question students at Wilson Talent Center are answering through Boss Mode Boot Camp—a hands-on series designed to help them show up, speak up, and shine in any professional setting.
From classroom prep to city excursions, students from the Wilson Talent Center spent two unforgettable weeks at Wayne State University exploring what it means to be an educator—and a leader.
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.
As the first bell of the new year approaches, families can do more than shop for supplies—building healthy routines, fueling minds and bodies, and easing into schedules can help students shine from day one.
