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
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Wilson Talent Center Criminal Justice students recently participated in the “Meet the Guard” event at the Jackson Armory, where they explored career pathways, hands-on training, and the benefits of serving in the Michigan National Guard.
Wilson Talent Center students recently had the opportunity to speak with members of the Mason Rotary Club, sharing what they’re learning in their CTE programs and how those experiences are shaping their futures. The visit highlighted the power of student voice and real-world readiness.
An Ingham ISD ASD Teacher Consultant is sharing a powerful tool to help students with autism and sensory sensitivities navigate severe weather and tornado safety. Through simple language, visuals, and step-by-step guidance, the resource makes overwhelming situations feel more predictable and manageable.
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
An Ingham ISD ASD Teacher Consultant is sharing a powerful tool to help students with autism and sensory sensitivities navigate severe weather and tornado safety. Through simple language, visuals, and step-by-step guidance, the resource makes overwhelming situations feel more predictable and manageable.
Students and staff at North Star School hosted their first-ever Book Tasting, pairing books with themed snacks to create a fun, interactive reading experience. The event encouraged students to explore new genres and discover a love of reading in a creative way.
Students in Ingham ISD’s SAIL and Project SEARCH programs are gaining real-world job experience while building confidence and independence. Through hands-on learning and community partnerships, students like Kahlil are discovering their strengths—and their future.
Assistive technology and robotics are opening new doors for students with disabilities across Ingham ISD. Through hands-on, accessible learning experiences, educators partner with families and local districts to ensure every student has the tools and support needed to thrive.
The Beekman Center marked Valentine’s Day with a joyful dance celebration that brought students and staff together for an afternoon of music, movement, and community. The event highlighted the power of connection, inclusion, and shared celebration.
General Education
GENERAL EDUCATION STORIES
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.
Secondary English Language Arts teachers from across the Ingham ISD service area gathered for the latest ELA Network meeting to share strategies, discuss writing instruction, and collaborate on best practices. The session also included a tour of the Wilson Talent Center to explore how classroom writing skills connect to real-world career pathways.
Educators from across the Ingham ISD service area recently gathered for a countywide session focused on improving student attendance. Led by Dr. Jeremy Singer, author of Rethinking Chronic Absenteeism: Why Schools Can’t Do It Alone, the event highlighted research-based strategies and collaborative approaches to addressing absenteeism and strengthening student engagement.
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.
