VBISD is excited to unveil its newest outdoor experience, the Story Stroll, a magical, family-friendly literacy walk located on the Brush Nature Trail behind the Green House in Lawrence, Michigan. This unique activity blends the joy of reading with the beauty of nature, offering families a chance to connect, move, and learn together.
Designed especially for children 12 and under, the Story Stroll features 20 story stations spread along a peaceful wooded trail. Each station displays a page from a children’s book, encouraging families to read together as they walk. The experience takes about 15 to 30 minutes to complete and includes interactive prompts along the way to spark imagination, discussion, and movement. And while it’s geared toward young readers, visitors of all ages will find something to enjoy.
To support our diverse community, each story is presented in both English and Spanish. Featured books will rotate throughout the year, giving families a reason to return for new adventures. The project is entirely free and open to the public, thanks to a generous grant from the Van Buren Great Start Collaborative, awarded to the Van Buren District Library and VBISD Project SHINE.
The trail is accessible by driving to the Bert Goens Learning Center and following the road to the back of the campus. There, tucked away beside the VBISD Green House, the Brush Creek Nature Trail offers a quiet, shaded space perfect for reading and exploration. While parking is limited near the trail entrance, visitors are welcome to park nearby or walk in from the main lot.
Bringing this project to life was a true community effort. VBISD extends heartfelt thanks to Elissa Zimmer from the Van Buren District Library, the Project SHINE team, Mr. Bobby Anderson’s Polymer Technology students, Mr. Austin Kelly’s Construction Trades students, and Mr. Sean Baker from the VBISD Maintenance Team. Their collaboration, creativity, and hard work helped transform the idea into a lasting resource for families in our region.
VBISD believes in the power of literacy and the importance of outdoor learning experiences that support the whole child. The Story Stroll is a perfect example of how reading, nature, and family time can come together in a meaningful, memorable way.
We invite you to come walk, read, and explore. It’s a story you won’t want to miss.