Student success doesn’t happen in isolation — it happens when schools and families join forces. Research consistently shows that when families are actively engaged in education, students see improved grades, better attendance, and higher graduation rates.
Ingham ISD Deputy Superintendent Dr. Sandee Donald is helping lead this conversation statewide. In a recent video, she and other Michigan education leaders underscored a critical truth: family engagement is not an add-on, it’s essential.
“When families are part of the equation, outcomes improve,” Dr. Donald shared. The challenge, she explained, is making sure family and community partnerships are deeply embedded in schools, not treated as just another initiative.
The message is clear — strong family-school connections benefit everyone. From early learning through graduation, authentic engagement creates a foundation where students feel supported, schools thrive, and communities grow stronger.
Recent Stories:
Ingham ISD’s regional approach brings together 12 local districts, community partners, and professional learning opportunities to ensure students have access to consistent support and diverse postsecondary pathways. From special education coordination across the service area to Military Professional Development for educators, collaboration remains at the center of student success.
Through a partnership with the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, Ingham ISD welcomed local business leader Rocco Rucinski to Waverly High School as part of the “Principal for a Day” initiative. The experience strengthened connections between schools and the business community while highlighting opportunities for collaboration that support students and the future workforce.
