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.
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In a field where accuracy matters, these students didn’t just compete—they delivered.
Competing against the best in Michigan, these students didn’t just show up—they stood out.
Two students. Two podium finishes. And one opportunity to take their skills to the national stage.
MORE TO EXPLORE
Early Childhood
EARLY CHILDHOOD STORIES
Early childhood leaders from across Ingham County gathered at Lansing Community College for a PreK Data Day focused on improving outcomes for young learners. The collaborative event explored strategies for strengthening family engagement, analyzing student data, and expanding access to high-quality preschool through Michigan’s growing PreK for All initiative.
Early On supports infants, toddlers, and their families with early evaluations, home-based coaching, and strategies that fit right into daily life. In Ingham County, it’s a quiet but powerful system of support that starts early and grows with each child.
With a room full of educators and a message full of meaning, Ingham ISD’s Early Childhood team inspired reflection and action at the 20th Annual MiMTSS Conference with a thoughtful session on using data to better serve young learners.
A trip to the hospital just got more interactive for little ones, thanks to a creative partnership between Ingham ISD and McLaren Greater Lansing. The Talking is Teaching campaign now includes diaper-changing table stickers that turn everyday routines into early learning moments.
Haslett Public Schools’ Wilkshire Early Childhood Center is setting an example for what’s possible when a school team dedicates itself to building strong systems for students and families. Their staff has invested countless hours into this work, reviewing data, collaborating on goals, and engaging in professional development alongside Ingham ISD’s PBIS and School Improvement coaches. This partnership ensures Wilkshire’s efforts are intentional, sustainable, and always centered on student success. The result is a program worth celebrating and one we hope inspires other schools across the region.
Special Education
SPECIAL EDUCATION STORIES
At Beekman Center, performance isn’t just about what you hear—it’s about what students feel, express, and discover about themselves along the way.
Sometimes the most meaningful learning doesn’t look like a lesson—it looks like laughter, music, and a room full of students simply being themselves.
From a glowing sendoff into spring break to a school-wide basketball celebration, Beekman Center students experienced the power of movement, inclusion, and joy—reminders of what’s possible when environments are designed for every learner to thrive.
During a recent monitoring visit, the Michigan Department of Education’s Office of Special Education recognized the strength of Ingham County’s inclusive programs and the dedication of educators who support students with disabilities across the region.
Interns in the Spartan Project SEARCH program spent March strengthening both workplace and life skills through internship experiences, classroom learning, and hands-on activities designed to prepare them for competitive employment.
General Education
GENERAL EDUCATION STORIES
In a world where screens are everywhere, this event isn’t about fear—it’s about understanding, balance, and giving families tools that actually help.
From handwriting to self-regulation, occupational therapy plays a vital role in helping students succeed in school and beyond—one meaningful skill at a time
Ingham ISD has partnered with local districts to launch the Improving Attendance and Engagement Initiative. Through shared resources, consistent messaging, and targeted strategies, the effort aims to ensure every student has the support they need to be present and thrive.
Students at Holt Public Schools’ Midway Early Learning Center welcomed Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II for a special Reading Month visit. Through shared stories and smiles, the visit reinforced the importance of early literacy and community connection.
The Michigan Department of Education is inviting families to participate in a Teacher Appreciation Month Video Project by submitting short videos of students recognizing impactful teachers. Selected videos may be featured statewide throughout May.
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.
What happens when business leaders step into the shoes of school leaders? At Waverly High School, “Principal for a Day” is more than just a title—it’s a powerful way to bridge classrooms and careers.
Students in Ms. Angela Wanger’s class put heart and hustle into every dish of their early Thanksgiving feast—chopping, baking, serving, and celebrating the joy of learning together.
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.
