Ingham Insights September 2025
Superintendents across the Ingham ISD service area are actively working to protect school funding as the state budget process continues. Lawmakers missed the July 1 deadline to approve the K-12 education budget, and without an agreement by September 30, a state government shutdown could delay critical school aid payments. This funding supports everything from staff salaries and transportation to academic programs and student services. A delay would directly impact students, classrooms and the stability of school operations.
A press conference held this week brought together local superintendents to speak out about the importance of timely, protected funding and the need to keep School Aid Fund dollars focused on education.
Families and staff are encouraged to stay informed and reach out to their legislators.
#InghamImpact
This spring, Ingham ISD proudly launched BackPack Press, a new platform dedicated to sharing real stories from our public schools. The site features moments that show the heart, hope, and hard work happening in classrooms every day.
To take the conversation further, we've also launched a companion podcast, where educators and experts dive into deeper topics shaping education, from student mental health to classroom innovation. Explore stories and listen to the podcast at Unpacked Podcast - BackPack Press.
Explore, listen, share and celebrate the impact of public education with BackPack Press.
For students facing homelessness, school can be one of the few sources of stability, and support is available through the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. This federal program helps students who are living in shelters, cars, motels, campgrounds, or temporarily with others due to hardship. Eligible students may receive help with transportation, school meals, enrollment assistance and access to supplies and services that support their education.
In Ingham County, McKinney-Vento services are available to all students in grades K–12 and those enrolled in federally funded preschool programs. For questions or referrals, contact Angie Jackson, Ingham ISD Homeless Liaison, at 517.883.7000 or Rose Taphouse, Countywide Homeless Liaison, at 517.755.2813.
We encourage school staff and community partners to keep this information handy and refer families who may benefit. Every student deserves consistent support no matter their housing situation.
Join us! The annual Fall Fun Fest will be held on Sunday, September 14, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at Potter Park Zoo. Families with students who have active Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), 504 Plans or may be of transition age are invited to join us for this engaging and inclusive event.
Hosted in the Tiger Den Pavilion, the day will feature interactive activities provided by community partners who specialize in supporting students with special needs. Be sure to save the date for a fun-filled day of learning, connection and community!
Join us for a cozy story time with local author and illustrator Amy Dua at Schuler Books Okemos, sponsored by the Ingham Great Start Collaborative! Amy will read two books from her "Woe is Me: The Seasons" series, "Woe is Me...It’s Autumn!" and "Woe is Me...It’s Winter!" with fun, educational stories about how animals, insects, and humans prepare for the changing seasons. Afterward, families can meet the author and have their free books signed and personalized for their child.
When: Saturday, September 20, 11 a.m.
Where: Schuler Books, Okemos
Cost: Free – includes two books per child!
Please RSVP with the number of children attending to help us prepare.
Join us on September 25 for a screening of "Counted Out", a powerful documentary that explores how math influences everything from politics and media to education and opportunity.
In today’s data-driven world, math plays a hidden role in shaping society and access to it can mean access to power. Through personal stories, "Counted Out" shows what’s at stake if we ignore this influence, and what’s possible when math is used to build a healthier, more equitable future. This free event is open to staff, families and community members.
When: September 25, 12 p.m.
Where: Celebration Cinema, Lansing
Cost: Free
Register to attend the screening of Counted Out.
