This September, Ingham Intermediate School District leaders gathered at Michigan State University’s Clara Bell Smith Student Athlete Academic Center for a high-energy day of networking, learning, and motivation.
The event brought together principals and staff from across Ingham County to connect, collaborate, and start the school year strong. The day’s highlights included a visit from MSU’s beloved mascot, Sparty and insightful reflections from two of MSU’s most respected coaches: Basketball’s Tom Izzo and Baseball’s Jake Boss. Their messages emphasized resilience, leadership, and the power of believing in your people—on the court and in the classroom.
In addition to engaging conversations and team-building moments, participants toured the Clara Bell Smith Academic Center and explored the newly constructed Tom Izzo Football Building.
The event marked a meaningful kickoff to the school year—reminding attendees of the importance of inspiration, connection, and community leadership.
Recent Stories:
Ingham ISD staff came together for Opening Day with a question: “What if?” As the district begins year two of its "Power of What If?" theme, the focus is shifting to student voice—and creating meaningful learning experiences by listening to the students at the center of the work.
At Heartwood School, there’s no expectation that learning should look the same for every student. Teacher Samantha Mulder takes us inside her classroom to show how communication tools, flexible spaces, movement and individualized supports help middle school students with severe cognitive impairments learn in ways that work for them.




