Did you know that the VBISD Technology Services department helps keep Van Buren ISD and supported districts connected, protected, and powered for learning every single day? The team ensures that the technology students and staff rely on, from Chromebooks and classroom displays to Wi-Fi and security systems, works the way it should.
Behind the scenes, the team manages the district’s network, devices, software, cybersecurity, and technical support so teachers can teach and students can learn without interruption. VBISD Technology Services also supports the PowerSchool Student Information System for 27 school districts across Southwest Michigan!
Thank you to the VBISD Technology Services team for all you do!
Behind the scenes, the team manages the district’s network, devices, software, cybersecurity, and technical support so teachers can teach and students can learn without interruption. VBISD Technology Services also supports the PowerSchool Student Information System for 27 school districts across Southwest Michigan!
Thank you to the VBISD Technology Services team for all you do!
Behind the Screens: VBISD Technology Services
Technology keeps our schools running and behind it all is our incredible IT team. VBISD Technology Services supports the PowerSchool Special Education Student Information System for 43 districts across Allegan, Kalamazoo, and Van Buren counties, along with eight districts in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Their work helps ensure that educators have the tools and information they need to support students every day.
From troubleshooting and system support to maintaining critical student data systems, their expertise makes a real difference for schools, staff, and students across the state. Thank you to our VBISD Technology Services team for the dedication, problem-solving, and behind-the-scenes work that keeps everything running smoothly.
Technology keeps our schools running and behind it all is our incredible IT team. VBISD Technology Services supports the PowerSchool Special Education Student Information System for 43 districts across Allegan, Kalamazoo, and Van Buren counties, along with eight districts in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Their work helps ensure that educators have the tools and information they need to support students every day.
From troubleshooting and system support to maintaining critical student data systems, their expertise makes a real difference for schools, staff, and students across the state. Thank you to our VBISD Technology Services team for the dedication, problem-solving, and behind-the-scenes work that keeps everything running smoothly.
Mark your calendars! On May 7, 2026, VBISD Instructional Services will be hosting Van Buren Stronger Together, a community event focused on suicide and self-harm awareness. This workshop is designed for professionals, students, and caregivers who want to strengthen their understanding and ability to support mental health and well-being in our community.
Doors will open at 4:30 PM at the Conference Center, where attendees can enjoy light refreshments and connect with local vendors and community resources. The program will begin at 5:00 PM with a keynote speaker addressing suicidality and awareness. Following a brief break, participants will have the opportunity to attend one of two breakout sessions. The event will conclude at 7:45 PM.
This evening is intended to provide a safe, supportive space for learning, connection, and collaboration as we work together to support the well-being of those in Van Buren County.
Doors will open at 4:30 PM at the Conference Center, where attendees can enjoy light refreshments and connect with local vendors and community resources. The program will begin at 5:00 PM with a keynote speaker addressing suicidality and awareness. Following a brief break, participants will have the opportunity to attend one of two breakout sessions. The event will conclude at 7:45 PM.
This evening is intended to provide a safe, supportive space for learning, connection, and collaboration as we work together to support the well-being of those in Van Buren County.
The third session in the Pathway to PA 146 Series was held at Van Buren ISD’s Conference Center. This series of professional learning and cross-county collaboration supports our local districts and VBISD buildings as they prepare to meet the requirements of PA 146, also known as Michigan’s K–12 Literacy and Dyslexia Law, which will be fully implemented at the start of the 2027–2028 school year.
Previous sessions focused on the language of the law, assessment, and the definition and characteristics of dyslexia. On the 25th, the main topic was increasing understanding of the Science of Reading and alignment to Tier 1 instruction within an MTSS structure. Districts were also introduced to the professional learning requirements of PA 146, which must be completed before the start of the 2027–2028 school year.
The energy in the room from representatives of our nine local districts, two ISD buildings, and two ISD departments was palpable, and we cannot wait for Session 4, which will be held on March 26.
Previous sessions focused on the language of the law, assessment, and the definition and characteristics of dyslexia. On the 25th, the main topic was increasing understanding of the Science of Reading and alignment to Tier 1 instruction within an MTSS structure. Districts were also introduced to the professional learning requirements of PA 146, which must be completed before the start of the 2027–2028 school year.
The energy in the room from representatives of our nine local districts, two ISD buildings, and two ISD departments was palpable, and we cannot wait for Session 4, which will be held on March 26.
At Van Buren ISD, our Instructional Services Department is dedicated to creating opportunities that change lives. Through our Adult Education Program, adults in our community can improve their English skills, earn their GED, prepare for careers, and even pursue U.S. citizenship. This work strengthens families, builds confidence, and creates pathways to brighter futures.
Aaron Crider, Adult Multilingual Education Teacher at Bangor, recently reflected on the program’s growth in an article submitted to MiTESOL:
“I joined the team in the fall of 2024. Since then, I’ve witnessed an extraordinary growth in our program. Our students have set goals that go beyond learning English as a second language. They are looking to better their lives and using our classes to springboard toward those goals. Currently, we have eight students enrolled in GED programs. One of my GED recipients is on her way to becoming a phlebotomist. She is scheduled to begin classes this spring. A third student passed her American citizenship exam in November. When she started taking English classes, her goal was to be able to read her children’s homework assignments so she could help them. She has met the goal and more now! Joining the Van Buren ISD program has been one of the best experiences of my life. I get excited to teach each week. I’m excited for my students when they discover a new word or finally understand a colloquialism they’ve struggled with for months. I celebrate them when they meet their goals. I will cry tears of joy when they leave- not because they are gone but because I’ll feel like a proud parent sending their baby into the world. And even though I say “I” in all these things, I really mean “we,” because I cannot achieve anything without my team.”
We are proud of the incredible work happening through Van Buren ISD Instructional Services and the lasting impact it continues to make across our community!
Aaron Crider, Adult Multilingual Education Teacher at Bangor, recently reflected on the program’s growth in an article submitted to MiTESOL:
“I joined the team in the fall of 2024. Since then, I’ve witnessed an extraordinary growth in our program. Our students have set goals that go beyond learning English as a second language. They are looking to better their lives and using our classes to springboard toward those goals. Currently, we have eight students enrolled in GED programs. One of my GED recipients is on her way to becoming a phlebotomist. She is scheduled to begin classes this spring. A third student passed her American citizenship exam in November. When she started taking English classes, her goal was to be able to read her children’s homework assignments so she could help them. She has met the goal and more now! Joining the Van Buren ISD program has been one of the best experiences of my life. I get excited to teach each week. I’m excited for my students when they discover a new word or finally understand a colloquialism they’ve struggled with for months. I celebrate them when they meet their goals. I will cry tears of joy when they leave- not because they are gone but because I’ll feel like a proud parent sending their baby into the world. And even though I say “I” in all these things, I really mean “we,” because I cannot achieve anything without my team.”
We are proud of the incredible work happening through Van Buren ISD Instructional Services and the lasting impact it continues to make across our community!
DID YOU KNOW: VBISD Technology Services responds to more than 12,000 tickets each year- with a team of just 22 dedicated staff members! Every day, the IT team works behind the scenes to keep classrooms connected, devices running, systems secure, and staff supported. From troubleshooting quick fixes to managing large-scale infrastructure, Technology Services plays a vital role in ensuring learning can happen without interruption across VBISD. Their commitment, responsiveness, and expertise help keep our district moving forward.
The Van Buren County Association of School Boards is sponsoring a day of in-person Certified Boardmember Award (CBA) courses on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Van Buren ISD Conference Center, located at 490 S. Paw Paw Street in Lawrence.
The professional learning event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and will include morning refreshments and lunch for attendees. Sessions are designed for school board members seeking training and certification credits.
Morning Sessions (9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
CBA 104: Basic School Law
CBA 248: Building Board Effectiveness
Afternoon Sessions (1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
CBA 106: Community Relations
CBA 214: Open Meetings Act
Participants may register and find additional:
https://www.masb.org/learning/upcoming-events/detail/2026/03/07/default-calendar/van-buren-cba-day-2026
Note: These classes qualify for reimbursement through the Michigan Department of Education.
The professional learning event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and will include morning refreshments and lunch for attendees. Sessions are designed for school board members seeking training and certification credits.
Morning Sessions (9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
CBA 104: Basic School Law
CBA 248: Building Board Effectiveness
Afternoon Sessions (1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
CBA 106: Community Relations
CBA 214: Open Meetings Act
Participants may register and find additional:
https://www.masb.org/learning/upcoming-events/detail/2026/03/07/default-calendar/van-buren-cba-day-2026
Note: These classes qualify for reimbursement through the Michigan Department of Education.
What do you love about VBT?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6PmEQU0hmE
This is CTE at VBISD! Students from Van Buren Tech share what they love most about being part of a program that turns passion into purpose. This year, Van Buren Intermediate School District proudly celebrates 50 years of Career & Technical Education in Van Buren County- five decades of equipping students with real-world skills, industry experience, and confident pathways beyond high school.
Located in Lawrence, Michigan, Van Buren Tech continues to lead as a premier CTE center, honoring a legacy of opportunity while shaping the future of workforce-ready learning.
Did you know? Students who participate in CTE programs often perform better in college because they develop strong time management, problem-solving, and career-focused skills before they even graduate high school.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6PmEQU0hmE
This is CTE at VBISD! Students from Van Buren Tech share what they love most about being part of a program that turns passion into purpose. This year, Van Buren Intermediate School District proudly celebrates 50 years of Career & Technical Education in Van Buren County- five decades of equipping students with real-world skills, industry experience, and confident pathways beyond high school.
Located in Lawrence, Michigan, Van Buren Tech continues to lead as a premier CTE center, honoring a legacy of opportunity while shaping the future of workforce-ready learning.
Did you know? Students who participate in CTE programs often perform better in college because they develop strong time management, problem-solving, and career-focused skills before they even graduate high school.
Attend the Van Buren County Transition Fair on Monday, March 9, 2026, from 8:30 AM-3:00 PM at the VBISD Conference Center! This free event is open to students with IEPs or 504 Plans, their families, guardians, teachers, and school staff.
Explore opportunities in:
• Career & Employment Resources
• Continued Education & Training Programs
• Independent Living Supports
• Networking with Community Agencies & Colleges
No registration needed: come connect, learn, and plan for the future!
490 S. Paw Paw St., Lawrence, MI 49064
Explore opportunities in:
• Career & Employment Resources
• Continued Education & Training Programs
• Independent Living Supports
• Networking with Community Agencies & Colleges
No registration needed: come connect, learn, and plan for the future!
490 S. Paw Paw St., Lawrence, MI 49064
Join the Parent Advisory Council for their monthly meeting on Thursday, February 26 from 6:00-6:45 PM for a special “Friends in February” gathering!
Families are encouraged to bring a guest who also has a child with an IEP in Van Buren County and connect with others during a Meet the Directors gathering.
Attend in person at the VBISD Conference Center or join virtually (see link below). Light dinner will be provided for in-person guests, and activities will be available for children who attend. We hope to see you there!
In-person:
490 S. Paw Paw St. Lawrence, MI 49064
Virtual:
Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/wzv-nexw-jwq
Or dial: (US) +1 318-536-1033 PIN: 114 836 640#
Families are encouraged to bring a guest who also has a child with an IEP in Van Buren County and connect with others during a Meet the Directors gathering.
Attend in person at the VBISD Conference Center or join virtually (see link below). Light dinner will be provided for in-person guests, and activities will be available for children who attend. We hope to see you there!
In-person:
490 S. Paw Paw St. Lawrence, MI 49064
Virtual:
Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/wzv-nexw-jwq
Or dial: (US) +1 318-536-1033 PIN: 114 836 640#
Nominate an outstanding educator for the PAC 2026 Excellence in Education Award!
Do you know a teacher, staff member, administrator, team, or volunteer who goes above and beyond to support students with disabilities? VBISD's Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) wants to celebrate them! Winners get a surprise awards ceremony, goodies, and a photo shoot.
NOMINATE HERE:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeW78ZiDl17gFMfm0G-kJC0p0aynzKoNO3mZMmP__Hsmk6q6w/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawPp_f5leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFuQzVabnoxY09PWXBtd0I5c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHlYl6Vn50-0YfHbjScZVkBJxxeVSohCGhg1Di1GHhUcYZzkAudQtIgQ-lNH-_aem_sNZu_1a9KDJps7S7VaXutA
Want to do more? Join the PAC and make a difference in your community.
-Monthly virtual meetings
-Share ideas, review policies, and help shape special education across Van Buren County
-Connect with other parents and build a supportive community
-Volunteer at IEPs or learn to be a parent surrogate
-Make a difference, honor excellence, and be part of a parent-led movement that supports students and families!
Faces of VBISD: Meet the people behind the purpose.
Meet Karla Vandenberg, a Special Education Consultant at VBISD. In her role, Karla supports districts across Van Buren County with behavioral and instructional strategies, special education compliance, IEP development, transition planning, crisis response, and professional learning. She works closely with teachers, administrators, and support staff to strengthen practices that ensure students with disabilities receive high-quality, appropriate services.
Karla has been with VBISD since 2001, beginning her career as a School Social Worker before moving into a consulting role. In addition to her work at VBISD, she has been actively involved with the Michigan Association of School Social Workers since 2006, serving in leadership roles including conference chair, inter-university representative, regional president, and now state association president. Supporting school social workers across Michigan has been an important and meaningful part of her professional journey.
What Karla loves most about her work is helping educators and teams feel confident, supported, and equipped to do what’s best for students. She values collaboration and the strong relationships built through this work. One accomplishment she is especially proud of is helping create VBISD’s countywide crisis response team. After experiencing the loss of a student to suicide in 2012, while serving as the only mental health professional in her district, Karla worked with then Director Dave Manson and Superintendent Jeff Mills to develop a system so districts would never have to face crises alone. What began with just a handful of school social workers has grown into a team of more than 60 trained professionals who have supported dozens of incidents across the county! Karla believes her department is unique because it exists to support districts, educators, and students with complex needs, no matter the size of the challenge. The team problem-solves, coaches, trains, and responds in real time to ensure students receive the services they need.
Her advice to her younger self is to trust her instincts, give herself grace, and remember that growth takes time. Outside of work, Karla recharges by spending time outdoors. She enjoys long walks with her dog, reading on the deck, and paddleboarding whenever possible. A fun fact many people don’t know is that she grew up on a farm and is a nature-loving country girl at heart. Her life philosophy centers on leading with integrity and doing what’s right, even when it isn’t easy. In life and leadership, Karla hopes others understand that empathy and clarity can coexist and that both are essential for strong teams and meaningful work. On difficult days, she stays motivated by remembering the impact this work has on students and families.
Karla describes VBISD in one word as committed, noting that the district consistently shows up for students, staff, and families through collaboration, training, and problem-solving, always focused on doing what’s right for kids.
Meet Karla Vandenberg, a Special Education Consultant at VBISD. In her role, Karla supports districts across Van Buren County with behavioral and instructional strategies, special education compliance, IEP development, transition planning, crisis response, and professional learning. She works closely with teachers, administrators, and support staff to strengthen practices that ensure students with disabilities receive high-quality, appropriate services.
Karla has been with VBISD since 2001, beginning her career as a School Social Worker before moving into a consulting role. In addition to her work at VBISD, she has been actively involved with the Michigan Association of School Social Workers since 2006, serving in leadership roles including conference chair, inter-university representative, regional president, and now state association president. Supporting school social workers across Michigan has been an important and meaningful part of her professional journey.
What Karla loves most about her work is helping educators and teams feel confident, supported, and equipped to do what’s best for students. She values collaboration and the strong relationships built through this work. One accomplishment she is especially proud of is helping create VBISD’s countywide crisis response team. After experiencing the loss of a student to suicide in 2012, while serving as the only mental health professional in her district, Karla worked with then Director Dave Manson and Superintendent Jeff Mills to develop a system so districts would never have to face crises alone. What began with just a handful of school social workers has grown into a team of more than 60 trained professionals who have supported dozens of incidents across the county! Karla believes her department is unique because it exists to support districts, educators, and students with complex needs, no matter the size of the challenge. The team problem-solves, coaches, trains, and responds in real time to ensure students receive the services they need.
Her advice to her younger self is to trust her instincts, give herself grace, and remember that growth takes time. Outside of work, Karla recharges by spending time outdoors. She enjoys long walks with her dog, reading on the deck, and paddleboarding whenever possible. A fun fact many people don’t know is that she grew up on a farm and is a nature-loving country girl at heart. Her life philosophy centers on leading with integrity and doing what’s right, even when it isn’t easy. In life and leadership, Karla hopes others understand that empathy and clarity can coexist and that both are essential for strong teams and meaningful work. On difficult days, she stays motivated by remembering the impact this work has on students and families.
Karla describes VBISD in one word as committed, noting that the district consistently shows up for students, staff, and families through collaboration, training, and problem-solving, always focused on doing what’s right for kids.
Learning grows where encouragement lives. VBISD is committed to nurturing every student’s journey!
VBISD is dedicated to providing exceptional educational services, empowering students with the knowledge and skills they need to build a brighter future!
Faces of VBISD: Meet the people behind the purpose
Meet Angie Gutierrez, Administrator of Multilingual and Migrant Services at VBISD. Angie oversees multilingual programs across seven districts, supporting teachers and leading the countywide Multilingual Collaboration Network, which brings educators together each month to strengthen language instruction.
She also directs the school-year and Summer Migrant Program, serving eight districts. The summer program supports students from preschool through 12th grade whose families work in agriculture, while her team provides HOME services and English classes for youth in migrant camps. VBISD is also one of only two identification and recruitment centers in Michigan, with staff reaching across more than 20 counties to connect migrant students with educational support.
Angie has been with VBISD for 3.5 years and brings 25 years of experience in Migrant and Multilingual education. What she loves most about her work is seeing the impact on students and families and how access and advocacy can change lives. One accomplishment she’s proud of is expanding services for multilingual and migrant families.
Angie describes her department as uniquely focused on elevating the voices and needs of students and families navigating new languages and systems. Beyond academics, her team provides advocacy, resources, and a sense of belonging, often meeting families in camps, homes, or workplaces to ensure every child is supported.
A fun fact about Angie: she worked on a cherry farm as a teenager and spent time in a blueberry packing house, giving her firsthand understanding of the migrant lifestyle and the importance of strong educational support. Outside of work, Angie enjoys camping with her family.
She lives by the belief: “Every language spoken. Every culture honored. Every student valued. Language is not a barrier- it’s a bridge to connection, culture, and community.” She hopes others remember that leadership is about service and creating pathways for others to succeed.
For Angie, VBISD is special because of the people and the spirit of collaboration. “I may not always have every answer, but I can always count on someone in our organization for support.”
If she had to describe VBISD in one word, she’d choose collaborative, reflecting the shared purpose that defines her experience.
Meet Angie Gutierrez, Administrator of Multilingual and Migrant Services at VBISD. Angie oversees multilingual programs across seven districts, supporting teachers and leading the countywide Multilingual Collaboration Network, which brings educators together each month to strengthen language instruction.
She also directs the school-year and Summer Migrant Program, serving eight districts. The summer program supports students from preschool through 12th grade whose families work in agriculture, while her team provides HOME services and English classes for youth in migrant camps. VBISD is also one of only two identification and recruitment centers in Michigan, with staff reaching across more than 20 counties to connect migrant students with educational support.
Angie has been with VBISD for 3.5 years and brings 25 years of experience in Migrant and Multilingual education. What she loves most about her work is seeing the impact on students and families and how access and advocacy can change lives. One accomplishment she’s proud of is expanding services for multilingual and migrant families.
Angie describes her department as uniquely focused on elevating the voices and needs of students and families navigating new languages and systems. Beyond academics, her team provides advocacy, resources, and a sense of belonging, often meeting families in camps, homes, or workplaces to ensure every child is supported.
A fun fact about Angie: she worked on a cherry farm as a teenager and spent time in a blueberry packing house, giving her firsthand understanding of the migrant lifestyle and the importance of strong educational support. Outside of work, Angie enjoys camping with her family.
She lives by the belief: “Every language spoken. Every culture honored. Every student valued. Language is not a barrier- it’s a bridge to connection, culture, and community.” She hopes others remember that leadership is about service and creating pathways for others to succeed.
For Angie, VBISD is special because of the people and the spirit of collaboration. “I may not always have every answer, but I can always count on someone in our organization for support.”
If she had to describe VBISD in one word, she’d choose collaborative, reflecting the shared purpose that defines her experience.
VBISD is proud to partner with Project AWARE, a program dedicated to promoting student mental health and wellness. Through training for educators, early identification of mental health concerns, and connections to supportive services, we are helping students build resilience and thrive both in and out of the classroom.
The state of Michigan’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs were honored with the Pathway Award by the Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) during its annual College Access Impact Awards ceremony on November 4 in Lansing.
The Pathway Award recognizes partners that connect K–12 education, higher education, and industry to advance Michigan’s Sixty by 30 goal and provide students with clear pathways to success. This year’s award highlights the impact of CTE programs, which enrolled nearly 115,000 students. Over the past decade, CTE completions have more than doubled to over 55,000 statewide. Through hands-on learning, work-based learning experiences, and opportunities to earn industry credentials and college credit, CTE programs help students build skills for both college and careers, making CTE programs vital to Michigan’s future workforce.
Accepting the award on behalf of Michigan’s CTE programs was Robert Smith, Director of Career and Technical Education at Van Buren Intermediate School District/Van Buren Tech, alongside Celena Mills, Director of Career and Technical Education at the Michigan Department of Education.
“Unlike the old vocational model of Career and Technical Education, which was primarily seen as an alternative to college, today’s CTE programs serve college and university-bound students, utilizing a multi-faceted training experience that includes a combination of project-based learning, targeted academic instruction, work-based learning, industry-recognized credentials, and college credit,” said Robert Smith. “In line with Michigan’s Sixty by 30 initiative, today’s CTE programs aim to close the skills gap by providing an environment where students can apply the skills and academics they learn, utilizing high-tech equipment and training as they explore career options, prepare for college, and develop skills for the workplace.”
Van Buren Tech is proud that Robert Smith represented our program and Michigan’s Career and Technical Education community in accepting the MCAN Pathway Award, which recognized the collective impact of CTE programs statewide. His leadership and perspective continue to highlight the vital role CTE plays in preparing students for both college and careers across Michigan.
The Pathway Award recognizes partners that connect K–12 education, higher education, and industry to advance Michigan’s Sixty by 30 goal and provide students with clear pathways to success. This year’s award highlights the impact of CTE programs, which enrolled nearly 115,000 students. Over the past decade, CTE completions have more than doubled to over 55,000 statewide. Through hands-on learning, work-based learning experiences, and opportunities to earn industry credentials and college credit, CTE programs help students build skills for both college and careers, making CTE programs vital to Michigan’s future workforce.
Accepting the award on behalf of Michigan’s CTE programs was Robert Smith, Director of Career and Technical Education at Van Buren Intermediate School District/Van Buren Tech, alongside Celena Mills, Director of Career and Technical Education at the Michigan Department of Education.
“Unlike the old vocational model of Career and Technical Education, which was primarily seen as an alternative to college, today’s CTE programs serve college and university-bound students, utilizing a multi-faceted training experience that includes a combination of project-based learning, targeted academic instruction, work-based learning, industry-recognized credentials, and college credit,” said Robert Smith. “In line with Michigan’s Sixty by 30 initiative, today’s CTE programs aim to close the skills gap by providing an environment where students can apply the skills and academics they learn, utilizing high-tech equipment and training as they explore career options, prepare for college, and develop skills for the workplace.”
Van Buren Tech is proud that Robert Smith represented our program and Michigan’s Career and Technical Education community in accepting the MCAN Pathway Award, which recognized the collective impact of CTE programs statewide. His leadership and perspective continue to highlight the vital role CTE plays in preparing students for both college and careers across Michigan.
Why VBISD Invests in Early Childhood
Van Buren ISD believes that giving children a strong start is both the right thing to do and a smart use of resources. Research shows that high-quality early childhood programs provide a 7-10% annual return through improved education, health, and long-term outcomes.
For over 20 years, the VBISD Board of Education has consistently invested in home visiting, early intervention, preschool access, and family engagement, providing stability even as state and federal funding has shifted, including recent cuts to key early childhood grants in the FY 2026 budget.
Because of this sustained commitment, Van Buren County has a strong early childhood system. Through the Great Start Collaborative and partnerships with 40+ community organizations, families receive coordinated supports such as home visiting, Early On services, family resource navigation, and school readiness programs. Last year, VBISD distributed thousands of books, literacy tools, and learning materials, and hosted 19 community trainings.
VBISD also helps lead the state’s Help Me Grow pilot, aligning schools, healthcare, and community services to ensure families get the support they need.
The goal remains the same: every child in Van Buren County deserves the foundation to learn, grow, and thrive.
Van Buren ISD believes that giving children a strong start is both the right thing to do and a smart use of resources. Research shows that high-quality early childhood programs provide a 7-10% annual return through improved education, health, and long-term outcomes.
For over 20 years, the VBISD Board of Education has consistently invested in home visiting, early intervention, preschool access, and family engagement, providing stability even as state and federal funding has shifted, including recent cuts to key early childhood grants in the FY 2026 budget.
Because of this sustained commitment, Van Buren County has a strong early childhood system. Through the Great Start Collaborative and partnerships with 40+ community organizations, families receive coordinated supports such as home visiting, Early On services, family resource navigation, and school readiness programs. Last year, VBISD distributed thousands of books, literacy tools, and learning materials, and hosted 19 community trainings.
VBISD also helps lead the state’s Help Me Grow pilot, aligning schools, healthcare, and community services to ensure families get the support they need.
The goal remains the same: every child in Van Buren County deserves the foundation to learn, grow, and thrive.
VBISD’s Early Childhood programs are continuing to strengthen inclusive practices across our schools. Through collaboration, coaching, and creative problem-solving, classrooms are finding new ways to ensure every child can learn and belong. Family engagement remains central to our work. From home visits to playgroups, our teams support families, keeping them informed and connected to their child’s growth and community. This fall, professional learning sessions have sparked meaningful conversations about inclusion, collaboration, and child-centered practices.
“We are grateful to everyone who brings curiosity and heart to every training, visit, and classroom interaction.” -Susan Reynolds, Early Childhood Director
“We are grateful to everyone who brings curiosity and heart to every training, visit, and classroom interaction.” -Susan Reynolds, Early Childhood Director
NOTICE OF VACANCY: Thursday, December 18, 2025- Deadline for submitting applications.
The Van Buren Intermediate School District is seeking applications/letter of interest for the current vacant position on the Board of Education. An individual will be appointed to fill the vacant position until the June 30, 2029, Biennial election.
Individuals must submit an application expressing interest in the Board position no later than 11:59 pm on Thursday, December 18, 2025. The Application can be found at www.vbisd.org under EMPLOYMENT on the home page.
Following a review of the submitted materials, the Board will schedule interviews with selected candidates for Monday, January 5, 2026. Not all applicants for the board vacancy may be interviewed. If you have any questions concerning the role of the Board of Education and the responsibilities of a Board member, please contact David Manson, Superintendent of Van Buren ISD.
TIMELINE
Thursday, December 4, 2025 Notice of vacancy advertised.
Thursday, December 18, 2025 Deadline for submitting applications.
Monday, January 5, 2026 Board meets to review applications and hold interviews.
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 Board makes an appointment of the new Board member.
To be eligible, a person must be a registered voter and resident in the schools served by Van Buren Intermediate School District, at least 18 years of age, a citizen of the U.S., a resident of the State of Michigan for at least 30 days,
490 South Paw Paw Street * Lawrence, Michigan 49064 * 269.674.8091/ Fax: 269.674.8030 * vbisd.org
The Van Buren Intermediate School District is seeking applications/letter of interest for the current vacant position on the Board of Education. An individual will be appointed to fill the vacant position until the June 30, 2029, Biennial election.
Individuals must submit an application expressing interest in the Board position no later than 11:59 pm on Thursday, December 18, 2025. The Application can be found at www.vbisd.org under EMPLOYMENT on the home page.
Following a review of the submitted materials, the Board will schedule interviews with selected candidates for Monday, January 5, 2026. Not all applicants for the board vacancy may be interviewed. If you have any questions concerning the role of the Board of Education and the responsibilities of a Board member, please contact David Manson, Superintendent of Van Buren ISD.
TIMELINE
Thursday, December 4, 2025 Notice of vacancy advertised.
Thursday, December 18, 2025 Deadline for submitting applications.
Monday, January 5, 2026 Board meets to review applications and hold interviews.
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 Board makes an appointment of the new Board member.
To be eligible, a person must be a registered voter and resident in the schools served by Van Buren Intermediate School District, at least 18 years of age, a citizen of the U.S., a resident of the State of Michigan for at least 30 days,
490 South Paw Paw Street * Lawrence, Michigan 49064 * 269.674.8091/ Fax: 269.674.8030 * vbisd.org