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:
Zander Bowles, a former student in Ingham ISD’s SAIL program, has become a passionate and persistent advocate for accessibility in local government—attending city council meetings, advising on public facility updates, and volunteering across the community.
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.
