Ingham Insights August 3, 2026
Heartwood School & Beekman Center
Heartwood School and the Beekman Center recently celebrated their 2026 graduates, recognizing years of learning, perseverance and personal growth.
These center-based schools provide specialized learning environments designed to meet students where they are and support their individual needs. From building academic, social and life skills to fostering confidence and independence, every student has limitless potential. Graduation is a testament to the strength, resilience and determination these students have demonstrated throughout their educational journey.
Spartan Project SEARCH
Students in Spartan Project SEARCH celebrated an exciting milestone as they completed their internship rotations at Michigan State University and graduated from the program. Even more exciting, every graduate has accepted employment and will continue working after graduation.
Project SEARCH is a one-year transition-to-work program that provides immersive workplace experiences for young adults with disabilities. Through hands-on internships, classroom instruction and individualized support, interns develop the skills and confidence needed for competitive employment.
SAIL Transition Program
Students, families and staff also celebrated the graduates of the Skills for Adult Independent Living (SAIL) Transition Program.
SAIL helps young adults prepare for life after high school by focusing on independent living, community participation, employment and daily life skills. Each student follows individualized goals designed to help them build confidence and achieve greater independence.
We are incredibly proud of everything these graduates have accomplished. As they move forward into employment, community involvement and new opportunities, we wish them continued success and happiness in all that lies ahead.
Ingham Academy
Ingham Academy recently celebrated the accomplishments of its 2026 graduates, recognizing the resilience, determination and perseverance that brought each student to this milestone.
Ingham Academy provides an alternative educational environment where students receive individualized support to stay on track toward earning their high school diploma. Through strong relationships, personalized learning and a focus on each student's strengths and goals, the program empowers students to overcome challenges and prepare for future success.
High-quality preschool gives children a strong foundation for success in kindergarten and beyond. Thanks to the expansion of PreK for All, more 4-year-olds than ever before are eligible to attend a high-quality preschool program at no cost to their families. With classrooms located throughout Ingham County in local school districts and community-based providers, families have more opportunities to find a program that meets their needs.
As access continues to grow, Ingham ISD has launched a new interactive map that makes it easy to explore participating PreK for All locations across the county. Community members, educators and families can view all participating sites in one place, helping highlight the growing network of early childhood opportunities available close to home.
BackPack Press shares authentic stories that highlight the people, programs and partnerships strengthening public education across our region. Recent features include:
- Spartan Project SEARCH earns statewide recognition for employment success
- Summer Starts Here: Free and Low-Cost Learning Opportunities
- Ingham ISD Play & Learn Groups Return for Families with Young Children
Together, these stories and more showcase how schools and community partners are working to support students at every stage. Got a great idea? Submit a story suggestion today!
Never Miss a Beat
Subscribe for weekly updates from BackPack Press, and get school stories straight to your inbox and phone!
Education Unpacked Podcast
With 10 episodes available, our Education Unpacked podcast explores timely topics impacting education and the workforce. Conversations range from work-based learning and AI in education to special education law and student transition programs. Each episode features real-world perspectives from educators, employers and community partners, highlighting how collaboration helps create meaningful opportunities for students.