The Times Family Newsletter

October 17, 2025

October is AAC Awareness Month!

October is AAC Awareness Month. AAC, or Augmentative and Alternative Communication, refers to all the ways people communicate without using spoken words. Laney Emmendorfer is an AAC consultant here at Ingham ISD, and she supports students in our local districts with tools that offer other forms of communication, ensuring that students have access to devices and systems that help them express themselves, connect with others, and participate fully in their learning. 

Communication at any level can lay the foundation for connection, and it’s an important cognitive function to strengthen as our students continue to grow. Supporting communication means empowering students to express themselves and engage fully in their world. 

Check out this video to learn more about AAC.

Honoring Our Veterans — A Community Celebration

Whether you have a family member who served or simply want to show your gratitude, everyone is invited to be part of this special Veterans Day celebration. The freedoms we enjoy, the schools our children learn in and the communities we call home are protected and strengthened by the service of Veterans across generations. Their impact reaches every one of us.

As Veterans Day approaches on November 11, Ingham ISD invites students, families and community members to join us in celebrating and thanking the men and women who have served our country.

This year’s celebration will take place on Friday, November 7, with a reverse Veterans Parade on our campus. During the event, Veterans will drive through as students, staff and families line the route to wave flags and cheer and show appreciation for their service. It’s a heartwarming opportunity for our students to see firsthand the importance of respect, gratitude and community.

We would love your help in honoring more local heroes. If your family knows a Veteran—a relative, friend, neighbor or community member - please take a moment to complete our Veteran Recognition Form so we can include them in our celebration.

To learn more, watch the short video from North Star School teacher Karen Keel, who shares her passion for honoring Veterans and explains what makes this event so special each year.

Please take a second to watch this video to learn more from Karen Keel, Ingham ISD Special Education Teacher. Let’s come together to make sure every Veteran feels the gratitude of our students, staff and families this Veterans Day. 

Anytime. Anywhere. Little Moments Make a Big Difference

Some of the most powerful learning moments happen in everyday life. The Anytime. Anywhere. campaign encourages Michigan families to help their children build literacy skills through small, meaningful interactions anytime and anywhere.

You don’t have to be a reading expert to make a difference. Simple activities like naming fruits at the grocery store, singing songs in the car or talking about your child’s favorite story all help children develop early language and communication skills. These small moments strengthen vocabulary, spark curiosity and prepare children for success in school and beyond.

Families can find fun and easy ideas at ReadwithMi.org. Whether your child is an infant, toddler or early reader, you’ll find creative ways to connect, talk and learn together every day. When families read, talk, sing and play together, little moments truly make a big difference.

OK2SAY

OK2SAY is a student safety organization that allows students to anonymously report tips about potential harm or criminal activity directed at other students or occurring on school property. The program uses an extensive communication system to facilitate tip sharing among students, staff, parents and community members to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, local law enforcement and community mental health services. If you see or hear something that threatens student or school safety, call 8.555.OK2SAY, text 652729 (OK2SAY) or email OK2SAY@mi.gov to submit a confidential tip. 

School Attendance Matters!

There are 180 days in the school year. Missing just two days per month means your child misses 10% of valuable instruction. The best chances of academic success happen when students miss no more than nine days. Regular attendance helps students keep up with lessons, build confidence and stay engaged in their learning. There are a lot of factors that can contribute to absenteeism. Wayne RESA offers tips and resources to help parents and guardians support their child’s attendance. 

Safe Firearm Storage

With firearms being the leading cause of death among children in the United States, the Be SMART campaign was launched in 2015 by the Be Smart for Kids organization to promote responsible gun ownership to reduce the deaths, injuries and trauma that can result when a child or teen is able to access a gun. What does it mean to Be SMART? It means:

Secure (all guns and firearms in your home and vehicle),

Model (responsible behavior with firearms),

Ask (about the presence of unsecured firearms in others homes),

Recognize (the role of firearms in suicide), and

Tell (your peers to be smart about firearms).

The Be SMART campaign also offers some additional best practices adults can do to help keep kids safe and tips on talking to your children about guns.

Encouraging Students to Register to Vote

In Michigan, students who are 16 years old may preregister to vote, and students who are 18 or older may register to vote.

Under Section 9 of Public Act 258 of 2023, the Michigan Department of State and the Michigan Department of Education coordinate each year to make sure young people know about these opportunities. The law also ensures that voter registration and preregistration materials are available to students in every public high school across the state.

Learning how to register to vote helps students prepare to participate in elections as soon as they’re eligible—an important step in becoming engaged, informed citizens.

To learn more about registering to vote in Michigan, watch this short video and visit Michigan.gov/Vote. 

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is one of the most important steps students can take to prepare for education after high school. The FAFSA helps determine eligibility for college scholarships, grants, work-study programs and low-interest student loans — many of which are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Even if families aren’t sure a student will qualify for financial aid, it’s still important to fill out the FAFSA. Many colleges, universities and scholarship programs use the information from the FAFSA to decide who receives additional funding opportunities.

Families can learn more or begin the application at fafsa.gov. Completing the form early ensures students have the widest range of options available when making decisions about their future. Ingham ISD encourages all students to complete the FAFSA to open more doors for their education and career goals. 

As we welcome back the new school year, safety, connection and communication are all top of mind.

BackPack Press - Stories That Matter

Ingham ISD is proud to launch BackPack Press, a storytelling platform dedicated to highlighting the heart, hope and hard work happening in public schools across our region. From small classroom moments to transformative student experiences, BackPack Press celebrates what’s possible in education one story at a time.

To go deeper, we’ve also launched a companion podcast, Unpacked, where educators and experts explore timely topics shaping the future of schools, students and communities.

Explore stories, listen to the Unpacked Podcast and find educational resources. 

Follow us for more stories and updates:

• Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 
• Coming soon: Opt-in text alerts for stories and news straight to your phone!

Listen, learn and share!

Wilson Talent Center Students at ArtPrize

Three former Welding students, Elijah Dingwell (Holt ‘25), Dakota Barnett (Dansville ‘25) and Holden Klem (Williamston ‘25), are featured at this year’s ArtPrize in Grand Rapids, MI, September 18–October 4, 2025. What started as just an idea, now stands proudly after two years of hard work and detailed craftsmanship as a welding masterpiece. This life-sized horse, named Rose, is resting outside of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. Show your support and cast your vote for Rose before Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 10:00 p.m.  

September is Suicide Prevention Month

In light of National Suicide Prevention Month, we want to bring awareness to recognizing the signs of suicide and understanding the importance of prioritizing mental health. There are many resources that provide emotional support in times of crisis. The Suicide Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week across the United States. Text or call 988 if you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide. The Lifeline network has the resources to support all. Partnering with over 200 local crisis centers, their services are intended to bring hope and connection to those in need. 

Fall Fun Fest

This year, families gathered at Potter Park Zoo on Sunday, September 14, for the annual Fall Fun Fest. It was a chance for families to come together, meet community partners and learn more about resources and support available right here in Ingham County. Thanks to our Parent Advisory Committee, this event unites parents and students to build a strong, supportive community.  If you were unable to attend this year, watch for the event next fall. Attendees captured benefits of this annual event in this video. 

 Special Education Parent Advisory Committee Your Voice Matters

Are you the parent of a student with an IEP? Please join us for our next virtual Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting! The PAC meets monthly and is open to all parents who want to connect with other families, learn about resources and share ideas that help shape special education services.

Make your voice heard and join the virtual conversation on October 15 at 6:30 p.m.

Additional details are available on our website. 

October is National Bullying Prevention Month

Since 2006, the month of October has been a time to observe the devastating impact that bullying can have on children and families. Bullying can happen in many ways - whether it be verbal, social, or physical - and now with advancements in technology, bullying can happen anywhere, at any time. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network offers numerous resources to bring awareness to the effects of bullying and helps families navigate the impact it can have on their child. 

Did you know? Opt-In to Receive SMS Texts

Ingham ISD offers text message alerts to keep families informed about important updates, reminders and urgent notifications. However, due to federal regulations, you must opt-in to receive text messages on your phone.

To opt-in, text “Y” or “Yes” to 67587 from the mobile number listed in your child’s school records.

What to Expect:

• Weather-related delays or closures
• Emergency alerts
• District news and announcements

Please note: All emergency or weather-related alerts will always be sent via email, even if you don’t opt-in to receive texts. If you’re unsure whether your number is up to date, contact your child’s program to verify your contact information.

May 1, 2025

Remembering Denise Lycos

In November, our school community experienced the loss of a remarkable educator and fierce advocate for students, Denise Lycos. For 47 years, Denise dedicated her career to serving our school community with unwavering compassion, commitment and care. Her impact on students, families and colleagues continues to be deeply felt.

At the March Ingham ISD Board of Education meeting, Representative Kara Hope’s Office honored Denise’s memory with a formal tribute recognizing her decades of service. Surrounded by her family and former colleagues, the moment served as a powerful reminder of the lasting difference one person can make.

Denise Lycos will be remembered not only for her years of service, but for the heart she brought to her work every single day. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the programs she helped shape.  #InghamImpact 

Ingham County Measles Update: What Parents Need to Know

The  Ingham County Health Department (ICHD)  has confirmed two cases of measles in our community. According to health officials, even a single case is considered a public health emergency due to the highly contagious nature of the disease. The good news is measles is preventable,  and the best protection is vaccination. The following information was provided by the ICHD, we are also including the full guidance for schools release. 

What is Measles? 

Measles is the most contagious vaccine-preventable disease. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can linger in the air for up to two hours. A person with measles can transmit the virus four days before and four days after the rash appears. If exposed, 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people will become infected.

Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Rash (appears 3–5 days after symptoms begin)

If your child shows symptoms, keep them home and call your healthcare provider before visiting a medical facility to prevent spreading the illness to others.

Measles Cases on the Rise 

As of April 11, 2025, more than 700 measles cases have been reported across the country, with outbreaks tied primarily to unvaccinated children in states like Texas and New Mexico. The confirmed case in Ingham County highlights the importance of staying informed and protected.

Michigan School Immunization Requirements 

The  Michigan Department of Health and Human Services  requires all K–12 students to have two doses of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine.

If a measles case is confirmed in a school setting, any student without documentation of two properly administered MMR doses will be excluded from school, regardless of exemption status, until documentation is provided.

How You Can Help Protect Your Family and Community 

1.  Check Your Child’s Vaccine Records 
   • Ensure your child has received both doses of the MMR vaccine.
2.  Know Where to Get Vaccinated 
   • MMR vaccines are available through:
     • Your child’s pediatrician or primary care provider
     • Urgent care centers (call ahead to confirm availability)
     • Pharmacies (check for age restrictions)
     •  Ingham County Health Department  (check website for clinic hours)
3.  Practice Healthy Habits 
   • Teach proper handwashing and cough etiquette
   • Disinfect frequently touched surfaces
   • Keep sick children home
4.  4.   Recognize Symptoms and Act Quickly 
   • If measles is suspected, report it immediately to the Ingham County Health Department:
     • 517.887.4308 (main)
     • 517.342.9987 (after hours)
     • 517.887.4379 (fax)

MMR Vaccine: Safe, Effective, Lifesaving 

The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective:

• One dose: ~93% effective
• Two doses: ~97% effective

Keeping vaccination rates high is essential to protect those who cannot be vaccinated due to age or medical reasons.

Wilson Talent Center Summer Camps Are Back!

The  Wilson Talent Center  will once again offer Summer Career Camps for students entering grades 5-8 in Fall 2025!

These camps will provide students with hands-on experiences in career fields such as digital arts, automotive, healthcare, cosmetology and sports medicine. Each camp will take place on select days within a three-week window, running from 8:30am to 12:30pm, with drop-off beginning at 8:15am. Space is limited, so register early! The cost is $80 per student per camp.

 Summer Camp Schedule 

 Week 1: June 9-12, 2025 

• Healthcare Heroes (grades 5-8)
• Intro to Automotive (grades 7-8)

 Week 2: June 17-19, 2025 

• Intro to the World of Beauty (grades 6-8)  FULL 

 Week 3: June 23-26, 2025 

• Digital Content Creation (grades 5-8)  FULL 
• Injury Prevention & Performance Improvement (grades 5-8)

  Learn more and register Now!  

Heartwood and Beekman Center Students Heading to Special Olympics Event

Students from  Heartwood School  and  Beekman Center  will be participating in the  Special Olympics  Track and Field events at Michigan State University on Thursday, May 15. Students will be participating in events such as the softball throw, 50-meter and 100-meter running events and bocce ball.

For our younger athletes, there is a 25-meter dash, ball throw, frisbee toss and bean bag toss. In addition, the students with severe multiple impairments will participate in modified track and field doing running events in their gait trainers (body-supporting walkers), wheelchair races and a ball toss.

We wish all of these student athletes the best of luck!   #InghamImpact 

WTC Students Headed to National/International Leadership Conferences

Students from various  Wilson Talent Center  programs participated in the  SkillsUSA  State Leadership Conference, April 11-13, 2025 in Grand Rapids. Eleven students placed in the top three in their respective categories with five students advancing to the National Leadership Conference in Atlanta, Georgia in June. Congratulations to all of the students who attended states and special congratulations to Reagan O. (Criminal Justice), A.J. H. (Criminal Justice), Eli R. (Construction Trades), Eliana R. (Cosmetology) and Inaysia M. (Manicurist) for advancing to nationals.

In addition to the SkillsUSA competition, 23 WTC healthcare students attended the  HOSA  State Leadership Conference April 17-18 in Traverse City, Michigan. Students from our Health Foundations, Medical Assisting and Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation programs competed in a variety of categories. Congratulations to Tyler N. from our Medical Assisting program who finished second in the state and has earned the opportunity to advance to HOSA International Leadership Conference in Nashville, Tennessee later in June.   #InghamImpact 

End of the School Year Graduations and Activities

With the end of the school year on the horizon, there are a number of year-end activities in our programs that we want to make families aware of. 

 Graduation Dates 

• SAIL, May 28, Thorburn Education Center, 10am-12pm
• North Star School, End of Year Celebration, May 30, 11am 
• Spartan Project SEARCH, June 4, 11am, Agriculture Hall (MSU) 
• Heartwood School, June 19, 1pm
• Beekman Center, June 20, 1pm
• Ingham Academy, July 23, 2pm, Ingham Co. Family Center Assembly Hall

 Other End of Year Activities 

• WTC Year-End Student Showcase, May 8, 4-7pm, Open to the Public
• SAIL Talent Show, Thorburn Education Center, May 9, 12-2pm
• Special Olympics, Heartwood and Beekman Students, May 15, MSU
• Heartwood Family Picnic, May 28, 11am-1pm
• Beekman Prom, May 30, 5-8pm, Dean Transportation
• WTC Cruise-In, May 30, 4-7pm, WTC Parking Lot 
• SAIL Cookout, June 2, Hawk Island Park, 10am
• Last Day of School for Most Programs – June 4 
• Beekman Center Field Day, June 6,10am-1pm
• Heartwood Glow Dance, June 11, 1pm, HWS Gym 
• Heartwood Prom, June 12, 1pm, HWS Gym 
• Heartwood Elementary Field Day, June 23
• Heartwood Secondary Field Day, June 24
• Last Day of School for Beekman Center & Heartwood School, Half-Day, June 26

Holiday Events Recap

This past week has been filled with holiday spirit and joyful celebrations across our schools. Students and staff came together to make memories through a variety of festive events including talent showcases, sing-a-longs, cookie decorating, creative door designs, movie watching, shopping and winter parties. Here's what some of our programs have been up to:

• Beekman Center - Students and staff at the Beekman Center enjoyed a door decorating contest throughout the week and hosted a sing-a-long for families to enjoy some holiday music.

• Heartwood School - The Heartwood School students and staff hosted their annual Holiday Idol performance featuring a variety of holiday songs.

• North Star School - North Star School students and their family members enjoyed a holiday lunch together and participated in a variety of games and activities.

• Spartan Project SEARCH - Our Project SEARCH Interns did a little holiday shopping for the family they adopted and worked on their budgeting skills as they did so. In addition, they also took a tour of Rainbow Homes to learn more about independent living options.

• Skills for Adult Independent Living (SAIL) - Students from our SAIL classrooms in Mason, Waverly and the Foster Center came together on Friday, December 13 at the Thorburn Education Center for a Winter Dance. Students enjoyed music, dancing, treats and getting to know new friends.

• Wilson Talent Center - Wilson Talent Center National Technical Honor Society students planned an activity day for both the AM and PM sessions that included games such as musical chairs, playing Uno and pin the nose on Santa.

We are deeply grateful to our dedicated teachers and support staff for their hard work and enthusiasm in organizing these special moments for our students. Their efforts create lasting memories and embody the magic of the season.

 Thank you, to our staff for making this week so memorable for everyone involved! 

Post-Winter Break COVID-19 Testing

Ingham ISD will offer COVID-19 rapid/antigen testing for staff and students on Monday, January 6 from 7-8am at the Thorburn Education Center located at 2630 West Howell Road in Mason. Those wishing to be tested should pull up to Door 6 and remain in their vehicle. A staff member will perform the test, and you’ll need to remain in your vehicle until you receive your result.

As a reminder, individuals who feel sick or are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, should stay home and seek testing at a healthcare facility. This service will be offered again after spring break in April.

Wilson Talent Center Hosts Successful Open House

The Wilson Talent Center (WTC) hosted their annual Open House on Wednesday, December 11 for prospective students and their families. Guests were able to visit programs, meet instructors, learn about curriculum and get their enrollment questions answered. 

The application portal for the 2025-26 school year will be open through the end of January. Current WTC juniors who are interested in returning for Fall 2025 should not complete a new application. Instead, we will be meeting with those students in mid-January to present their options to them.

7th Annual Transition College Tour

Mark you calendars for the 7th Annual Transition College Tour on Friday, March 7 from 9:30am - 1:30pm! This exciting event will be held on the west campus of Lansing Community College. Geared towards high school juniors with an IEP or 504 plan,  this event allows students the opportunity to explore careers in technical programs through hands-on experiences helping them discover pathways to post-secondary education and employment. This event is designed to inspire students and support them in planning for their future success. Districts are responsible for providing transportation and chaperones, and lunch will be provided for all participants.

Look for more information in 2025!

Making the Holiday's Brighter for Others

Ingham ISD students, staff and families participated in a number of giving opportunities to make the holiday's a little brighter for others this year. We teamed up with the Home Builders Association of Greater Lansing and participated in the Toys for Tots campaign, collecting new and unwrapped toys for children in our communities. In addition, multiple families were adopted and received needed personal items, fun surprises and food for holiday meals.

Students in the National Technical Honor Society at the Wilson Talent Center collected canned goods and non-perishable items for the City Rescue Mission Food Bank as well as hats and mittens to help keep their guests a little warmer during the winter months.

We want to thank the families, staff and students that helped make the holiday season a little brighter for others. 

As we close out 2024, we want to wish all of our families a Happy Holiday and New Year. Thank you for entrusting us with your students as they continue to learn and grow. We hope you are able to make special memories this holiday season. We look forward to welcoming students back on Monday, January 6, 2025.

PreK 4 All

PreK for All helps ensure every Michigan family seeking preschool can enroll in a Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) or Head Start. GSRP is a state-funded preschool for 4-year-olds that focuses on social, literacy and math skills in a play-based environment to prepare them for kindergarten. With the recent state expansion of GSRP, Ingham County can now serve 80% of all 4-year-olds by providing free preschool to nearly every family in need. Classrooms are staffed with highly qualified teachers and follow a developmentally appropriate curriculum to ensure school readiness.

Anyone interested in enrolling their four-year old into a preschool program or interested in finding support for their children prior to preschool entry, visit the early childhood website.

Honoring Our Veterans

By: Karen Keel, Teacher at North Star School

Last year, I was given permission to create an amazing opportunity for my class at North Star School to practice positive civic participation and honor the Veteran connections we have at Ingham ISD. We planted branch flags for all six branches of the U.S. Military in the green space between the parking lot and the 611 Hagadorn Road building. We were given the honor of celebrating 236 Veterans by placing small, individually-labeled American flags with their names and Ingham ISD connections next to the appropriate branch flag.

I know we have many more Veteran connections. We would like to celebrate as many as we are able. Please register your Veteran connections. We will use this information to label the individual flags.

Veteran's Day is on Monday, November 11. The large branch flags are scheduled to be placed on October 14. We plan to start placing the smaller flags on October 21. We will continue to take submissions through November 14 and plan to dismantle the display on November 18. 

We look forward to learning all about your Veteran connections and the immense impact Veterans have created in the Ingham ISD community. Each of our Veteran connections matter, each of you matter, and it's time to share some hope while we honor these amazing individuals.

Wilson Talent Center Open House – December 11

The Wilson Talent Center (WTC) will host an Open House for prospective students and their families on Wednesday, December 11, from 4:30-7:30pm. This is an opportunity to meet our instructors, learn about the curriculum of our programs and see the facilities. The enrollment team will be on hand to answer any questions and computers will be available to complete an application for next fall. The WTC is located at 611 Hagadorn Road in Mason. Please share this information with anyone who may be interested in taking classes.

Assist MiLEAP by Completing their Statewide Literacy Survey

The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential (MiLEAP) is seeking parents/guardians of children ages 0-10 to complete a short statewide survey about literacy skills and programs.

Those completing the survey have the option to sign up to win a $25 gift card at the end of the survey. One winner will be selected from every county in the state of Michigan. The survey is anonymous - if you choose to participate in the raffle for the gift card, your contact information will be collected (email or phone number). Note - your contact information will be deleted after the winners are drawn.

Heartwood Students Participate in a Touch a Truck Event

Heartwood School students had an exciting, interactive learning experience at the Touch-A-Truck event! They got up close with various trucks and vehicles. They learned about the different careers that operate them and explored how these vehicles help keep our community running smoothly. It was a fun-filled day of discovery and engagement. #InghamImpact

10th Annual Fall Fun Fest

On September 15, Ingham ISD held our 10th Annual Fall Fun Fest. The day offered families an opportunity to connect with community partners like WKAR and the Mid-Michigan Autism Association. Crystal Cutler, Executive Director of Student Support Services & Special Education, and Brian Hagler, Chair of the Ingham ISD Special Education Parent Advisory Committee, highlighted the importance of providing families with essential information to access the right support. Ingham ISD offers services for students with special needs from birth to age 26. To learn more, visit our website: Ingham ISD Special Education. Thank you to everyone who joined us! #InghamImpact

Attendance Matters

When students miss school, they miss an opportunity to learn. Students who miss more than 18 days of school are less proficient in reading, writing and math compared to their peers with good attendance. Attending school on a regular basis is essential to gaining the academic, social and emotional skills to thrive.

If your student is sick and cannot attend school, please make sure you call in their absence to your student's program. For Wilson Talent Center families, please contact the Wilson Talent Center attendance line as well as your home school at 517.244.1306. 

COVID-19 Now a Common Respiratory Viral Illness

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), COVID-19 is now considered a common respiratory viral illness, just like the flu, RSV and the common cold. Respiratory viruses are microorganisms that cause illnesses in the respiratory system. These illnesses share similar symptoms, risk factors and prevention strategies. Symptoms can include fever, chills, fatigue, cough, runny nose, sore throat, headache and vomiting to name a few.  

Students are encouraged to stay home if they feel sick. If you test positive for COVID-19, you can return to normal activities after at least 24 hours when both are true:  

• Your symptoms are getting better overall, and  
• You have not had a fever (and are not using fever-reducing medication)

When you go back to normal activities, take added precaution over the next five days with good hand-washing hygiene, wearing a mask and physical distancing. As in the past couple of years, Ingham ISD will offer antigen COVID-19 testing after Thanksgiving break, winter break and spring break early in the morning before school/work. More details on testing will be shared soon. In addition, the offices of each of our buildings have a supply of at-home COVID-19 tests should you need one.   

MDHHS Pauses MI Backpack Home Test Program Amid High Demand

As the flu season begins, the demand for COVID-19 at-home test kits has increased. In response, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has ordered additional test kits which are expected to be available in November. Until the new supplies arrive, MDHHS has temporarily paused the MI Backpack Home Test Program.

During this time, there are still ways for families to access free COVID-19 testing resources. The U.S. government is offering four free at-home COVID-19 test kits per household which can be ordered online. Additionally, the State of Michigan’s Coronavirus website provides a list of community-based pop-up rapid antigen testing events across the state.

For more information or to order test kits, visit the following resources:

• Get Four Free At-⁠Home COVID-⁠19 Tests
• Community-Based Pop-Up Rapid Antigen Testing Events

While we await the arrival of more test kits through MDHHS, families are encouraged to take advantage of these available resources to keep their homes and schools healthy. Any additional questions can be directed to MDHHS.

Heartwood Students Enjoy Glow Dance & Prom 

Students at Heartwood School enjoyed either a glow dance or prom as the school year winds down for the summer. Elementary aged students had some glow in the dark fun at the Glow Dance on May 30, followed by a Prom celebration on May 31 for the older students. A prom king and queen were named and everyone had a wonderful time dancing and enjoying refreshments. #InghamImpact 

Heartwood School Graduation

On June 13, Heartwood School celebrated its graduation ceremony, honoring the achievements of this year's graduates. Families and friends came together to share this special day. Congratulations Heartwood graduates! #InghamImpact 

Post-Graduation Planning Resources 

For those with a recent high school graduate, there are various post-graduation resources available to families. The Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Opportunity in partnership with the Michigan Department of Education offer a variety of resources on Pathfinder, a custom roadmap to explore careers, schools and programs in Michigan. Check it out! 

Spartan Project SEARCH Students Celebrate Graduation 

Students enrolled in the Spartan Project SEARCH program on the campus of Michigan State University held a graduation ceremony on June 5. As part of the celebration, a graduation video was shared with the students and their families. The students also wrapped up their final work rotations this week, and we want to thank all of the locations who provided students a work experience. #InghamImpact

SAIL Students and Families Enjoy Talent Show 

Students from all three of the Skills for Adult Independent Living (SAIL) classrooms had the opportunity to participate in a talent show on May 31. Students chose talents such as singing, dancing or playing an instrument. Family members of the students as well as staff from the Ingham ISD programs enjoyed the show and seeing the students express themselves. #InghamImpact 

North Star School End of Year Celebration 

On May 31, North Star School hosted the End of Year Celebration & Luncheon where they honored this year's graduates. Congratulations to all the graduates! #InghamImpact

Cruise-In Held to Honor Retiring Educator 

On Wednesday, May 29, the Automotive Technology program at the Wilson Talent Center hosted a Cruise-In Car Show to honor retiring Automotive instructor, Scott Westenberg. Westenberg is retiring after 32 years of service to Ingham ISD. Former students and staff enjoyed a beautiful evening, thanking Scott for all he has done for students. #InghamImpact

Upcoming Events & Activities

June 27 – Last Day for Heartwood Students 

July  24 – Ingham Academy Graduation 

Heartwood Students Heading to Special Olympics Event

Thirty-four students from Heartwood School will be participating in the Special Olympics Track and Field events at Michigan State University on Friday, May 10, beginning at 9:30am. Students will be participating in events such as the softball throw, 50-meter and 100-meter running events.  

For our younger athletes, there is a 25-meter dash, ball throw, frisbee toss and bean bag toss. In addition, the students with severe multiple impairments will participate in modified track, doing running events in their PACERS, wheelchair races and a ball toss. 

We wish all of these student athletes the best of luck tomorrow! 

Summer Learning Opportunities for 2024 

We have compiled a great list of summer learning and/or camp options for students. Research shows that engaging in summer learning activities can help prevent the summer slide, which is the loss of academic skills and knowledge over the summer months. We hope you are able to find something engaging for your student(s) this summer. 

Transition Peers Park Day 

Students enrolled in Ingham ISD's Skills for Adult Independent Living (SAIL) programs will take part in a Transition Peers Park Day on May 28, at Hawk Island Park. Students and staff will participate in outdoor activities including a walking trail and splash pad and will share a picnic lunch. They will also take time to celebrate a great school year with their peers and enjoy nature. 

WTC Students Advance to National SkillsUSA Competition 

Six students from the Wilson Talent Center took first place honors at the SkillsUSA State Leadership Conference earning them a trip to nationals in June. These students and their instructors will travel to Atlanta, GA, June 24-28, to represent Michigan in their respective categories: 

• Zachary Fletcher (Stockbridge), Construction Trades (Plumbing) 
• Brendan Trimmer (Holt), Criminal Justice (Job Skills Open) 
• Olivia Quiroga (Holt), Elijah Straley (Holt), Jayden Rockwell (Dansville) and Katie Carr (Waverly), Criminal Justice (Crime Scene Investigation Team) 

Congratulations and best of luck in Atlanta!

Upcoming Events & Activities

Graduation Dates: 

• Heartwood School, June 13, 1:00-2:00pm 
• Spartan Project SEARCH, June 5, 11:00am, Morrill Hall (MSU) 
• North Star School, End of Year Celebration, May 31, 10:45am 
• Ingham Academy, July 24, 2:00pm

Other end of the year details: 

• WTC Year-End Student Showcase, May 9, 4-7pm 
• SAIL Transition Peers Park Day, May 28 
• WTC Cruise-In, May 29 
• Heartwood Glow Dance, May 30 
• Heartwood Prom, May 31 
• SAIL Talent Show, May 31 
• Heartwood Family Picnic, June 1