Image of Monica Genta presenting to full auditorium .

Van Buren ISD hosted over 600 educators at this year's Mix and Mingle event on August 23, 2023. In it's 5th year, Mix and Mingle has steadily grown in attendance since 2019, offering educators across Van Buren County the opportunity to start their school year with high-energy, high-quality professional learning and collaboration. This year featured over 100 sessions and motivational keynote speaker Monica Genta. 

Special thanks to Paw Paw Public Schools for sharing their high school for this event!

Mix and Mingle 2023 Event Photos

Cheryl-Marie Manson, Director of Instructional Services, gives opening remarks. On the screen reads the quote, "In a gentle way, you can shake the world." 

A conference participant passes a VBISD Instructional Services sign. 

Presenter Karen Ryder speaks during her sessions.

Presenter Karen Ryder speaks during her sessions. 

Two sessions at the conference discussed the benefits of animal-assisted therapy and schools; participants had the opportunity to meet therapy dogs,, like the one pictured above.

Participants had the opportunity to meet therapy dogs, like the one pictured above.

Presenters Greg Greenfield and Melissa Galvin gathered their participants in a circle for discussion.

Presenters Greg Greenfield and Melissa Galvin gathered their participants in a circle for discussion.

Attendees were greeted by piano music in the lobby.

Attendees were greeted by piano music in the lobby. 

Presenter Lissette MIra-Amaya speaks with her group.

Presenter Lissette MIra-Amaya speaks with her group.

Mix and Mingle is hosted by the Van Buren ISD Instructional Services Department. For questions or inquiries, contact Cheryl-Marie Manson, Director of Instructional Services at cmanson@vbisd.org.