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.
“I submitted a helpdesk ticket in the off chance I could get help to figure out a formula that would make my life easier in Google Sheets. Not only did Christy Nondorf-Maxam figure it out, but she also taught me how to do it, thereby making me smarter AND more efficient. It was a super positive, unexpectedly quick response, and I'm SO grateful!”
At VBISD, this is what Technology Services is all about.
It’s not just about fixing problems; it’s about building capacity, sharing knowledge, and empowering others to feel confident using the tools they rely on every day. The IT team consistently goes above and beyond to provide not only fast, effective support but meaningful learning experiences that make a lasting impact.
At VBISD, this is what Technology Services is all about.
It’s not just about fixing problems; it’s about building capacity, sharing knowledge, and empowering others to feel confident using the tools they rely on every day. The IT team consistently goes above and beyond to provide not only fast, effective support but meaningful learning experiences that make a lasting impact.
Do you have a passion for early childhood education and making a difference in young lives? VBISD is currently hiring for two positions within our Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP):
• GSRP Associate Teacher- Pullman
• GSRP Lead Teacher– Bloomingdale
These roles play a vital part in preparing our youngest learners for success in school and beyond. View full details about these jobs and other by applying on our website:
https://vbisd.schoolspring.com
• GSRP Associate Teacher- Pullman
• GSRP Lead Teacher– Bloomingdale
These roles play a vital part in preparing our youngest learners for success in school and beyond. View full details about these jobs and other by applying on our website:
https://vbisd.schoolspring.com
Looking for new ways to engage your child beyond screens?
Join VBISD & Van Buren Great Start Parent Coalition for a Virtual Parenting Series on Friday, April 10, from 10:00 AM-11:00 AM for a session on Alternatives to Screen Time.
This session will explore how early social-emotional skills develop, how screen use can impact that development, and offer practical, non-traditional ideas to support your child’s growth without relying on screens.
Participants will receive a helpful resource guide on screentime, along with a Busy Book for each child aged 5 and under.
Join here: Friday, April 10, from 10:00 AM-11:00 AM
https://meet.google.com/gbb-pair-iuz
For more information, please contact Family Liaison Michelle Dudycha or email vanburengreatstart@gmail.com.
Join VBISD & Van Buren Great Start Parent Coalition for a Virtual Parenting Series on Friday, April 10, from 10:00 AM-11:00 AM for a session on Alternatives to Screen Time.
This session will explore how early social-emotional skills develop, how screen use can impact that development, and offer practical, non-traditional ideas to support your child’s growth without relying on screens.
Participants will receive a helpful resource guide on screentime, along with a Busy Book for each child aged 5 and under.
Join here: Friday, April 10, from 10:00 AM-11:00 AM
https://meet.google.com/gbb-pair-iuz
For more information, please contact Family Liaison Michelle Dudycha or email vanburengreatstart@gmail.com.
VBISD is proud to celebrate Tier 3 Support Consultant for Behavior and Engagement, Kim Stathakis, for receiving a $500 Strengthening Schools Grant from Midwest Energy & Communications (MEC)!
With this grant, Kim purchased 18 new task boxes, which are structured teaching tools that help students build independence, confidence, and engagement through hands-on, self-directed work. While originally developed for students with autism, these supports benefit a wide range of learners, including those with language processing and developmental delays, as well as students building attention and independence.
Task boxes break skills into manageable steps, helping students understand expectations while supporting meaningful connections with educators.
Previously limited to a few well-used materials, this expansion greatly increases access to individualized support. “This means so much to be able to take these strategies and supports that I know can make a difference and help kids in that early learning stage,” shared Kim. “It can help adults teach and connect with students, and it helps students develop confidence. I’m happy to bring that support to more people!”
Thank you to Midwest Energy & Communications for investing in our students through the Strengthening Schools Grant program. Congratulations, Kim!
With this grant, Kim purchased 18 new task boxes, which are structured teaching tools that help students build independence, confidence, and engagement through hands-on, self-directed work. While originally developed for students with autism, these supports benefit a wide range of learners, including those with language processing and developmental delays, as well as students building attention and independence.
Task boxes break skills into manageable steps, helping students understand expectations while supporting meaningful connections with educators.
Previously limited to a few well-used materials, this expansion greatly increases access to individualized support. “This means so much to be able to take these strategies and supports that I know can make a difference and help kids in that early learning stage,” shared Kim. “It can help adults teach and connect with students, and it helps students develop confidence. I’m happy to bring that support to more people!”
Thank you to Midwest Energy & Communications for investing in our students through the Strengthening Schools Grant program. Congratulations, Kim!
VBISD Instructional Services’ Literacy Coaches and Consultants have been hosting a free professional learning series to support schools in the implementation of Public Act 146 (PA 146), Michigan’s K-12 Literacy and Dyslexia Law.
Participants engage in learning focused on:
-Using Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to implement PA 146
-Strengthening and intensifying literacy instruction to meet student needs
-Reflecting on current practices and planning for future implementation
-Opportunities to collaborate with other educators and administrators across the county (All local districts in Van Buren County and additional out-of-county districts have attended at least one session this school year!)
This series provides valuable tools and strategies to support student success in literacy and build stronger, more aligned systems across schools!
The final session for this school year is in April: Session 5 (The Pathway to PA 146 will continue next school year!)
April 27th: 1-3 PM
April 28th: 8-10 AM
Participants engage in learning focused on:
-Using Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to implement PA 146
-Strengthening and intensifying literacy instruction to meet student needs
-Reflecting on current practices and planning for future implementation
-Opportunities to collaborate with other educators and administrators across the county (All local districts in Van Buren County and additional out-of-county districts have attended at least one session this school year!)
This series provides valuable tools and strategies to support student success in literacy and build stronger, more aligned systems across schools!
The final session for this school year is in April: Session 5 (The Pathway to PA 146 will continue next school year!)
April 27th: 1-3 PM
April 28th: 8-10 AM
VBISD is proud to recognize Derrick Price and the exceptional work of our Technology Services Department.
Hartford Public Schools - HPS Superintendent, Nick Blackmer, recently shared his appreciation for Derrick’s contributions, noting his high level of skill, strong work ethic, and commitment to continuous improvement. Even while supporting complex bond projects alongside an already demanding schedule, Derrick consistently meets deadlines and executes his responsibilities with excellence. What truly distinguishes Derrick is his reflective approach and dedication to growth, demonstrating a level of humility and leadership that is both rare and impactful.
The VBISD Technology Services Department continues to exemplify professionalism, expertise, and a strong commitment to serving our local districts. We are grateful for the vital role they play in supporting student success!
Hartford Public Schools - HPS Superintendent, Nick Blackmer, recently shared his appreciation for Derrick’s contributions, noting his high level of skill, strong work ethic, and commitment to continuous improvement. Even while supporting complex bond projects alongside an already demanding schedule, Derrick consistently meets deadlines and executes his responsibilities with excellence. What truly distinguishes Derrick is his reflective approach and dedication to growth, demonstrating a level of humility and leadership that is both rare and impactful.
The VBISD Technology Services Department continues to exemplify professionalism, expertise, and a strong commitment to serving our local districts. We are grateful for the vital role they play in supporting student success!
The Van Buren ISD Instructional Services Department provides dedicated math coaches/consultants to our local school districts.
The VBISD Math Department has three goals they focus on throughout the year. They build all professional learning and interactions with teachers and administrators with these goals in mind:
-Increase student achievement in math
-Build efficacy among math teachers
-Promote joy in the teaching and learning of math
VBISD math coaches/consultants are truly amazing! They bring expertise, support, and enthusiasm to every interaction and make a lasting impact in classrooms across the county.
The VBISD Math Department has three goals they focus on throughout the year. They build all professional learning and interactions with teachers and administrators with these goals in mind:
-Increase student achievement in math
-Build efficacy among math teachers
-Promote joy in the teaching and learning of math
VBISD math coaches/consultants are truly amazing! They bring expertise, support, and enthusiasm to every interaction and make a lasting impact in classrooms across the county.
VBISD Literacy Coach/Consultant Geanice Miller and Lawton Community Schools Curriculum Director Tamara Webster recently co-facilitated professional learning for Lawton’s middle and high school teachers.
Teachers collaborated to review literacy plans, create visual strategies, and share “elevator speeches” highlighting how their departments will support literacy growth. The session reflected a strong commitment to improving literacy outcomes for EVERY student!
Teachers collaborated to review literacy plans, create visual strategies, and share “elevator speeches” highlighting how their departments will support literacy growth. The session reflected a strong commitment to improving literacy outcomes for EVERY student!
Through VBISD literacy coaching, schools are strengthening writing instruction so students can develop skills that build on one another from one grade level to the next. On March 6, Literacy Coach/Consultant Kattie Northrup partnered with Lawton Community Schools Elementary teachers to facilitate professional learning focused on writing and Essential Instructional Practice #6.
Teachers collaborated in vertical teams to examine writing standards across grade levels, celebrate strong alignment, and identify gaps in skill progression. This work will help the school’s leadership team and teachers better align curriculum and pacing guides so writing standards are taught intentionally and effectively.
When educators collaborate and reflect together, students benefit from stronger, more connected learning experiences!
Teachers collaborated in vertical teams to examine writing standards across grade levels, celebrate strong alignment, and identify gaps in skill progression. This work will help the school’s leadership team and teachers better align curriculum and pacing guides so writing standards are taught intentionally and effectively.
When educators collaborate and reflect together, students benefit from stronger, more connected learning experiences!
VBISD is excited to thank Midwest Energy & Communications for the generous Strengthening Schools grant! Their support is helping bring the Peaceful Pups program to life- a yoga and mindfulness initiative for early elementary students, featuring school therapy dogs.
Thanks to MEC, mats, books, yoga cards, calming tools, and more have been provided to help students build self-regulation, coping strategies, and social-emotional skills in a fun, supportive way.
The program is led by Jen Krause, LMSW, School Social Worker with Van Buren Intermediate School District at Paw Paw Public School District
We are grateful for MEC’s partnership in promoting emotional wellness and creating a more inclusive school community!
Thanks to MEC, mats, books, yoga cards, calming tools, and more have been provided to help students build self-regulation, coping strategies, and social-emotional skills in a fun, supportive way.
The program is led by Jen Krause, LMSW, School Social Worker with Van Buren Intermediate School District at Paw Paw Public School District
We are grateful for MEC’s partnership in promoting emotional wellness and creating a more inclusive school community!
VBISD’s Instructional Services Department is leading the way in preparing future educators through its Grow Your Own (GYO) program and strong partnerships with institutions like Western Michigan University.
GYO goes beyond supporting enrollment in degree programs; it creates clear, supported pathways for individuals to enter and advance in the education field, helping build a sustainable, local talent pipeline.
This work was recently highlighted on March 6, when Melissa Corona, Director of Instructional Services, and Geanice Miller, Literacy Coach/Consultant and Grow Your Own Success Navigator, participated in Career Building Professional Development Day at WMU’s Sangren Hall. They conducted mock interviews with education students graduating in May 2026, providing valuable real-world experience and professional feedback.
Through initiatives like these, VBISD continues to invest in people and lead the way in developing a future-ready education workforce.
GYO goes beyond supporting enrollment in degree programs; it creates clear, supported pathways for individuals to enter and advance in the education field, helping build a sustainable, local talent pipeline.
This work was recently highlighted on March 6, when Melissa Corona, Director of Instructional Services, and Geanice Miller, Literacy Coach/Consultant and Grow Your Own Success Navigator, participated in Career Building Professional Development Day at WMU’s Sangren Hall. They conducted mock interviews with education students graduating in May 2026, providing valuable real-world experience and professional feedback.
Through initiatives like these, VBISD continues to invest in people and lead the way in developing a future-ready education workforce.
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.