Newsletters

A wave of excitement swept through Van Buren County this week as students received a meaningful surprise—winter weather totes filled with warm essentials—all thanks to MASA Impact, a new initiative from the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators (MASA) dedicated to directly supporting school communities across the state. The Van Buren Intermediate School District (VBISD)…

The educational landscape for English Language Learners (ELLs) in Michigan is undergoing a significant and exciting transformation! New requirements from the state are underscoring the vital need for highly qualified educators, particularly those with an English as a Second Language (ESL) endorsement. This isn’t just about compliance; it’s about ensuring every ELL student receives the…

Daphne Avalos is a true success story of perseverance and determination in earning her diploma. She is the daughter of Angelica Hernandez and Luis Avalos and has two younger brothers, Luis and Ernesto, who are currently in high school. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Daphne put her own education on hold to ensure her brothers stayed…

As the Michigan air cools and leaves begin to turn, fall offers a wonderful backdrop for families to connect, explore, and create lasting memories. Below are local spots and ideas to help you make the most of the season! 🎃 Visit a Local Pumpkin Patch or Orchard Head to Harvest Moon Acres in Gobles for…

Each year, from September 15 to October 15, the United States observes Hispanic Heritage Month — a time set aside to celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans whose ancestors trace back to Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. While many people are familiar in a general sense with this observance,…

Did you know that all schools in Van Buren County use PowerSchool as their student information system? For parents of middle and high school students, this tool is a game-changer. PowerSchool makes it simple to track grades, missing assignments, and attendance—keeping you connected and informed about your child’s progress. Listen to our Deep Dive Podcast:…

As a brand-new school year takes flight for students across Van Buren County, we’re here with a fresh guide to help families feel prepared, confident, and supported. From tech tips to wellness strategies, here’s everything you need to start the year strong. Listen to our Deep Dive Podcast: Prep Guide (English) Guía de preparación (Español)…

The Van Buren ISD Migrant/Multilingual Department plays a vital role in ensuring educational access and equity for students and families with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds—especially those who experience frequent transitions due to seasonal agricultural work. As part of the federally funded Title I-C Migrant Education Program, the department serves children and youth ages 3…

Last week’s Parent Advisory Council (PAC) meetings, held on Monday and Tuesday, centered around one powerful theme: gratitude. We came together to honor and thank our migrant families — for their strength, their sacrifice, and their unwavering dedication to building a better future for their children and for our community. Their hard work, perseverance, and…

As the long days of summer begin to shorten and the scent of fresh notebooks fills the air, it’s time to prepare for a new school year. Whether your child is eagerly counting down the days or feeling a bit nervous, a little planning can make the transition back to school smoother for everyone. Here’s…

On July 16, 2025, The Detroit Free Press reported that Michigan is among 24 states and D.C. suing the Trump administration for withholding roughly $6.8 billion in federal education grants—funds Congress had approved as of July 1. The federal funding freeze affects six significant programs, including support for migrant students, English learners, teacher training, after-school/summer programs,…

Building strong relationships in schools begins with understanding and appreciating the diverse backgrounds of our students. One country many students proudly call home is Guatemala—a nation rich in history, color, tradition, and resilience. Listen to our Deep Dive Podcast:  Guatemala A Land of Diversity Located in Central America, Guatemala is known for its vibrant culture…