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
Subscribe to RSS FeedHost Micki O’Neil talks with Wilson Talent Center coordinators Monique Colizzie and Jamie George about work-based learning for juniors and seniors: career awareness, exploration, preparation, and training. Hear how Boss Mode Boot Camp builds soft skills, why 22+ industry partners participate, and how paid/unpaid placements (with 20 students working already) create a real talent pipeline. Learn what employers want and how students get job-ready.
Armed with creativity—and dry-erase markers—a New Media student brought a burst of autumn color to WTC with an original, large-scale mural.
In honor of giving season, Beekman students selected Ronald McDonald House of Mid-Michigan as their November charity—raising funds and awareness while learning about compassion and care.
MORE TO EXPLORE
Early Childhood
EARLY CHILDHOOD STORIES
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.
Education, health, and community leaders gathered at Ingham ISD to focus on what matters most—our youngest learners. Together, they’re finding bold, collaborative solutions to build a better start for every child.
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.
Special Education
SPECIAL EDUCATION STORIES
In honor of giving season, Beekman students selected Ronald McDonald House of Mid-Michigan as their November charity—raising funds and awareness while learning about compassion and care.
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.
Ingham ISD's Project SEARCH interns at MSU shared their journeys with Kristi James, Chief of Staff for State Senator Sarah Anthony, highlighting the real-world skills and confidence they’re gaining on the path to employment.
Host Micki O'Neil talks with Michael McDonald, Director of Transition Programming at Ingham ISD, about post‑high school services for students aged 18–26. They explain Project SEARCH (a one‑year internship program in partnership with Michigan State University and Michigan Rehabilitation Services) and SAIL (Skills for Adult Independent Living), covering hands‑on work experience, life skills, and community training.
Heartwood students recently turned curiosity into confidence during their school’s very first Science Fair. Focused on scientific inquiry, the event gave students the opportunity to explore, experiment, and explain the world around them in creative and hands-on ways.
General Education
GENERAL EDUCATION STORIES
From AI-powered tools to student-centered problem-solving, local math teachers gathered to share fresh strategies and strengthen connections during the latest Secondary Math Network session.
Ingham ISD literacy coaches recently brought teams together for a hands-on professional learning session that focused on coaching strategies, connection, and shared impact.
Tenth-grade students from across the region got a hands-on look at future career pathways during guided tours at the Wilson Talent Center.
Ingham ISD educators gathered this month to deepen their craft and spark student success through a Writing Foundations professional development event.
Ingham ISD hosted its first-ever Veterans Day Parade, welcoming local veterans and their families for a day of reflection, celebration, and student connection across three school campuses.
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.
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.
The Heartwood School community gathered to cheer on two remarkable graduates—sending them into the future with pride, joy, and lots of applause.
