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
Fire hats, flashing lights, and friendly faces made for a memorable day at Heartwood School, where students had a hands-on opportunity to engage with real emergency vehicles in a supportive sensory learning environment.
Whether designing classroom activities or reflecting on the Bill of Rights, students at Wilson Talent Center took Constitution Day as an opportunity to think critically—and creatively—about civic life in America today.
Each fall, Ingham ISD’s Fall Fun Fest brings together families of students with IEPs for a day of shared support and celebration. This year’s gathering at Potter Park Zoo highlighted how love and collaboration help every student thrive.
MORE TO EXPLORE
Early Childhood
EARLY CHILDHOOD STORIES
When Abi Worthington enrolled her son in the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP), she discovered more than a preschool—she found a place where her child could thrive.
Parents are discovering innovative ways to entertain and educate children by transforming recycled materials into creative projects.
Play & Learn Groups offer free, hands-on learning sessions for young children and their caregivers—creating a nurturing space for early growth, discovery, and connection across Ingham County.
With the expansion of PreK for All, more local families now have access to high-quality preschool—giving young learners the tools they need to succeed in kindergarten and beyond.
Ingham ISD and McLaren Greater Lansing have partnered to bring Book Nooks to waiting areas—providing families with comforting access to books, support, and lifelong literacy skills.
Special Education
SPECIAL EDUCATION STORIES
Fire hats, flashing lights, and friendly faces made for a memorable day at Heartwood School, where students had a hands-on opportunity to engage with real emergency vehicles in a supportive sensory learning environment.
Each fall, Ingham ISD’s Fall Fun Fest brings together families of students with IEPs for a day of shared support and celebration. This year’s gathering at Potter Park Zoo highlighted how love and collaboration help every student thrive.
From bubbles and balloons to bright sun and big laughs, Heartwood’s Field Day was a celebration of summer joy and community connection.
Beekman Center students lit up the dance floor during a joyful Under the Sea Prom, reminding everyone of the power of celebration and connection.
The Beekman Center community came together to celebrate the accomplishments of two remarkable graduates whose joy and determination left a lasting impression.
General Education
GENERAL EDUCATION STORIES
Ingham ISD staff and principals from across the county kicked off the school year with a powerful day of learning and leadership at MSU—featuring words of wisdom from Coach Tom Izzo, networking opportunities, and a visit from Sparty himself.
BackPack Press is proud to introduce the UnPacked Podcast, a weekly series that breaks down the big issues in education with clarity and transparency. Featuring student voices and the “feet on the ground” perspectives of those working in schools every day, UnPacked explores how education impacts not just families, but entire communities.
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.
Michigan schools, including those supported by Ingham ISD, are rolling out Behavioral Threat Assessment Management (BTAM) Teams. These new safety teams are designed to identify and address concerning behaviors early—keeping schools safe by preventing violence before it occurs.
When schools and families work together, students thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally. Michigan education leaders, including Ingham ISD’s Dr. Sandee Donald, are shining a spotlight on the power of authentic family engagement and its role in improving student outcomes.
Career Prep
CAREER PREP STORIES
More Stories
Fire hats, flashing lights, and friendly faces made for a memorable day at Heartwood School, where students had a hands-on opportunity to engage with real emergency vehicles in a supportive sensory learning environment.
Whether designing classroom activities or reflecting on the Bill of Rights, students at Wilson Talent Center took Constitution Day as an opportunity to think critically—and creatively—about civic life in America today.
Each fall, Ingham ISD’s Fall Fun Fest brings together families of students with IEPs for a day of shared support and celebration. This year’s gathering at Potter Park Zoo highlighted how love and collaboration help every student thrive.
In honor of the late Joe Dimmick, Wilson Talent Center students received a scholarship check from his son, Brian Dimmick, celebrating a successful fundraising event and strengthening real-world ties between education and the insurance industry.
