Faces of VBISD: Meet the people behind the purpose.
Meet Dave Manson, Superintendent of VBISD. Dave takes on many responsibilities, but he’s most committed to supporting staff and ensuring they have what they need to focus on serving students and school districts effectively.
Dave has been with VBISD for an impressive 31 years. Over that time, he has served as a school psychologist, behavior consultant, supervisor of several special education programs, and Director of Special Education before stepping into his current leadership role.
Dave notes that the community relies on VBISD for a wide range of services, from specialized programs and student support to professional development for educators. He believes VBISD is special because it brings people and resources together to help every district and student in Van Buren County thrive.
His advice to his younger self would be to focus on doing a few things exceptionally well rather than trying to do too many things at once. A fun fact about Dave is that he once worked as a clinical psychologist, performing child custody evaluations, counseling sex offenders, and assessing substance abuse risks.
Outside of work, Dave enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, and anything related to Chicago.
One of his guiding philosophies comes from The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer, which encourages letting difficult emotions, like anxiety, move through you instead of resisting them. Dave has found this approach to be the quickest path through challenging times.
In life and leadership, Dave believes that everyone’s role is equally important and that there’s always something to learn from each other. When asked what makes VBISD special, Dave says it’s the shared dedication of everyone working together for the good of families and students. He describes VBISD in one word: Together, echoing the African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
Faces of VBISD: Meet the people behind the purpose.
Meet Tracy Johnson, an administrator at VBISD’s CTE center, Van Buren Tech. Tracy wears many hats as Dean of Students, supervisor of the Health and Protective Services clusters, and leader of building safety initiatives. In her role, Tracy focuses on supporting students’ growth, overseeing programs, and ensuring a safe and welcoming learning environment.
Tracy has been with VBISD for 15 years. She began as the Early College Coordinator (now known as Middle College) where she helped launch the program and guided it through its early years before stepping into her current position. What Tracy loves most about her job is working directly with students, which is what inspired her to become an educator in the first place. She finds purpose in helping students navigate challenges and make decisions that set them on a successful path. She also deeply values the colleagues she works alongside each day.
Tracy describes her department as unique because of its collaborative, student-focused approach. As Dean of Students, she regularly meets with the Student Achievement Coach, counselors, social worker, and Specialized Instruction Consultant to discuss student needs, design support plans, and help students achieve their goals.
Her advice to her younger self would be to embrace failure as a powerful learning opportunity and to remain humble enough to admit mistakes. Outside of work, Tracy loves running, especially a good trail run, and spending time outdoors. She also enjoys getting lost in a good book. A philosophy she lives by is: “Get comfortable with the uncomfortable- that is where growth happens.”
In leadership, Tracy believes strongly that discipline is about creating positive change for students. “Always be sure to do it with dignity and respect.”
For Tracy, what makes VBISD a special place to work is the people who bring a family-oriented approach to everything they do. At Van Buren Tech, she says, “we love a good laugh!” When asked to describe VBISD in one word, Tracy chose FAMILY because, as she puts it, “We take care of each other.”
Meet Tracy Johnson, an administrator at VBISD’s CTE center, Van Buren Tech. Tracy wears many hats as Dean of Students, supervisor of the Health and Protective Services clusters, and leader of building safety initiatives. In her role, Tracy focuses on supporting students’ growth, overseeing programs, and ensuring a safe and welcoming learning environment.
Tracy has been with VBISD for 15 years. She began as the Early College Coordinator (now known as Middle College) where she helped launch the program and guided it through its early years before stepping into her current position. What Tracy loves most about her job is working directly with students, which is what inspired her to become an educator in the first place. She finds purpose in helping students navigate challenges and make decisions that set them on a successful path. She also deeply values the colleagues she works alongside each day.
Tracy describes her department as unique because of its collaborative, student-focused approach. As Dean of Students, she regularly meets with the Student Achievement Coach, counselors, social worker, and Specialized Instruction Consultant to discuss student needs, design support plans, and help students achieve their goals.
Her advice to her younger self would be to embrace failure as a powerful learning opportunity and to remain humble enough to admit mistakes. Outside of work, Tracy loves running, especially a good trail run, and spending time outdoors. She also enjoys getting lost in a good book. A philosophy she lives by is: “Get comfortable with the uncomfortable- that is where growth happens.”
In leadership, Tracy believes strongly that discipline is about creating positive change for students. “Always be sure to do it with dignity and respect.”
For Tracy, what makes VBISD a special place to work is the people who bring a family-oriented approach to everything they do. At Van Buren Tech, she says, “we love a good laugh!” When asked to describe VBISD in one word, Tracy chose FAMILY because, as she puts it, “We take care of each other.”
Faces of VBISD: Meet the people behind the purpose.
Meet Mechele Brower, the Early Childhood Contact and Grant Administrator at VBISD. In her role, Mechele ensures all state requirements are met, supports classrooms, manages classroom funding, and oversees child care licensing.
Mechele has deep roots in Van Buren County, having lived here most of her life. She has served VBISD in several capacities, starting as a GSRP classroom teacher in Hartford for two years, then as an Early Childhood Specialist and Supervisor for eleven years. She has been in her current role for one year.
What Mechele loves most about her job is the opportunity to support children right in her own community. She is passionate about making sure every child has access to no-cost, high-quality PreK education. Her department is unique because of the genuine family atmosphere among the team. They share a common goal of doing what’s best for the children and families of Van Buren County.
A fun fact about Mechele is that she attended elementary school in four different towns: Bloomingdale, Bangor, Paw Paw, and South Haven. Outside of work, Mechele enjoys spending time with family and friends, going to the movies, and reading inspiring Christian books. Her life philosophy is simple yet powerful: “Pray more, worry less.” She also lives by the belief that “America’s future walks through the doors of our schools every day,” a quote by Mary Jean LeTendre.On difficult days, Mechele is motivated by knowing that her work makes a real difference. Families and children depend on her to do her job well.
She describes VBISD as a special place to work because the staff truly acts like a family, taking care of each other. The leadership reflects the district’s core principles: Respect, Integrity, Compassion, and Excellence.
Meet Mechele Brower, the Early Childhood Contact and Grant Administrator at VBISD. In her role, Mechele ensures all state requirements are met, supports classrooms, manages classroom funding, and oversees child care licensing.
Mechele has deep roots in Van Buren County, having lived here most of her life. She has served VBISD in several capacities, starting as a GSRP classroom teacher in Hartford for two years, then as an Early Childhood Specialist and Supervisor for eleven years. She has been in her current role for one year.
What Mechele loves most about her job is the opportunity to support children right in her own community. She is passionate about making sure every child has access to no-cost, high-quality PreK education. Her department is unique because of the genuine family atmosphere among the team. They share a common goal of doing what’s best for the children and families of Van Buren County.
A fun fact about Mechele is that she attended elementary school in four different towns: Bloomingdale, Bangor, Paw Paw, and South Haven. Outside of work, Mechele enjoys spending time with family and friends, going to the movies, and reading inspiring Christian books. Her life philosophy is simple yet powerful: “Pray more, worry less.” She also lives by the belief that “America’s future walks through the doors of our schools every day,” a quote by Mary Jean LeTendre.On difficult days, Mechele is motivated by knowing that her work makes a real difference. Families and children depend on her to do her job well.
She describes VBISD as a special place to work because the staff truly acts like a family, taking care of each other. The leadership reflects the district’s core principles: Respect, Integrity, Compassion, and Excellence.
Faces of VBISD: Meet the people behind the purpose.
Meet Jayne Bartz, supervisor of VBISD’s Family Links home visiting program. Jayne collaborates with family educators by providing reflective supervision and program management. She also manages grants that support their work and helps maintain the fidelity of the Parents as Teachers program and the Help Me Grow service.
Jayne has been with VBISD for four years. Before that, she worked as a home visitor for the Parents as Teachers program at Berrien RESA.
What Jayne loves most about her job is the incredible group of dedicated staff she works with every day. She takes pride in the team they have built and the strides they’ve made in growing the Family Links program. Their work has earned the Blue Ribbon of Excellence by meeting rigorous quality standards and essential requirements
Her department holds a unique place in the community by partnering with families even before children reach school. They empower parents as their child’s first and most important teacher and support them throughout their parenting journey. Jayne describes this foundation-building work as a truly special place to be.
If she could give her younger self advice, it would be to have confidence in doing hard things and to embrace challenges without fear. A fun fact about Jayne is that she worked on an Alaskan fishing boat the summer after her first year of college. She also lived in Malawi, Africa, for three years with her husband and four children.
Outside of work, Jayne enjoys traveling. She’s always heading somewhere! Her life philosophy is simple: everyone is doing their best given their circumstances and resources. Jayne hopes others understand the power of kindness and gratitude in life and leadership. On difficult days, the respect and caring culture of VBISD motivates her. She describes her department as a loving environment where she feels trusted and free to do her best work.
When asked to describe VBISD in one word, Jayne chose Generous- a reflection of how much VBISD truly cares about its employees and the community, especially in times of need.
Meet Jayne Bartz, supervisor of VBISD’s Family Links home visiting program. Jayne collaborates with family educators by providing reflective supervision and program management. She also manages grants that support their work and helps maintain the fidelity of the Parents as Teachers program and the Help Me Grow service.
Jayne has been with VBISD for four years. Before that, she worked as a home visitor for the Parents as Teachers program at Berrien RESA.
What Jayne loves most about her job is the incredible group of dedicated staff she works with every day. She takes pride in the team they have built and the strides they’ve made in growing the Family Links program. Their work has earned the Blue Ribbon of Excellence by meeting rigorous quality standards and essential requirements
Her department holds a unique place in the community by partnering with families even before children reach school. They empower parents as their child’s first and most important teacher and support them throughout their parenting journey. Jayne describes this foundation-building work as a truly special place to be.
If she could give her younger self advice, it would be to have confidence in doing hard things and to embrace challenges without fear. A fun fact about Jayne is that she worked on an Alaskan fishing boat the summer after her first year of college. She also lived in Malawi, Africa, for three years with her husband and four children.
Outside of work, Jayne enjoys traveling. She’s always heading somewhere! Her life philosophy is simple: everyone is doing their best given their circumstances and resources. Jayne hopes others understand the power of kindness and gratitude in life and leadership. On difficult days, the respect and caring culture of VBISD motivates her. She describes her department as a loving environment where she feels trusted and free to do her best work.
When asked to describe VBISD in one word, Jayne chose Generous- a reflection of how much VBISD truly cares about its employees and the community, especially in times of need.
Faces of VBISD: Meet the people behind the purpose
Meet Robert Smith, Director of Career & Technical Education (CTE) at Van Buren Tech/VBISD. In this role, Robert oversees all state-approved CTE programs across Van Buren County. He ensures programs meet state requirements while aligning them with local business and industry needs, preparing students for real-world careers through hands-on experiences and relevant learning.
Robert recently completed his 19th year at VBISD, having served as Career Guidance Coordinator, CTE Administrator, and now Director of CTE. One of his proudest accomplishments is building a strong, dedicated team: “Hiring great staff who are committed to students and to the foundation of what CTE stands for makes everything easier and more enjoyable.”
What Robert loves most about his work is seeing students and staff deeply engaged in learning. “Seeing students having fun and making real-world connections is heartwarming for me.”
CTE is unique in its strong ties to the community. From industry-led advisory committees and workforce development boards to mandatory work-based learning, CTE is embedded in the fabric of Van Buren County and beyond.
Outside of work, Robert enjoys watching sports, relaxing with family, and living by the mantra “Joy Through Chaos.” He knows that while life can be challenging, there is always room for joy, even in the toughest moments. A fun fact? Robert co-authored an article published in the Journal of Leisure Research in 2005, exploring the link between extracurricular involvement and adolescent outcomes like grades and substance use. His advice to his younger self: Be patient. Be kind. Be humble. Take time to enjoy your family, health, and life.
When asked to describe VBISD in one word, he chooses “Service.” “VBISD is committed to providing support not only to students and families, but also to local school districts and the broader community.”
Faces of VBISD: Meet the people behind the purpose.
Meet Damian Koob, Director of Technology Services at VBISD. Damian leads a team of 21 skilled professionals dedicated to meeting the technology needs of staff and students across VBISD and all local districts in Van Buren County. From supporting the smallest tech issue to large-scale solutions, his department keeps the district’s digital world running smoothly.
Damian will mark 10 years with VBISD on August 5th, 2025. He began as Technology Coordinator and has played a key role in growing the department from just six staff members to the strong team it is today, serving the entire county and beyond.
What Damian loves most about his job is the relationships he’s built and the opportunity to encourage creative problem-solving among staff. His department is known for supporting "anything that plugs into the wall," because technology touches nearly everything in education today.
Outside of work, Damian is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys hunting, fishing, and hiking. A fun fact about him? He’s a huge Marvin the Martian fan. His life philosophy is summed up by the quote: “It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.” He’s also inspired by the book Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable by Tim Grover.
When asked what advice he’d give his younger self, Damian said humility and humor are key in building relationships and facing challenges. He encourages making decisions with purpose and kindness, reminding us all that it costs nothing to be nice. On tough days, Damian draws motivation from the support of his staff, colleagues, and the Superintendent. Knowing they have his back keeps him going!
To Damian, VBISD is truly a family-forward organization where leadership prioritizes family and health, creating a positive and supportive work environment that helps staff thrive.
Meet Damian Koob, Director of Technology Services at VBISD. Damian leads a team of 21 skilled professionals dedicated to meeting the technology needs of staff and students across VBISD and all local districts in Van Buren County. From supporting the smallest tech issue to large-scale solutions, his department keeps the district’s digital world running smoothly.
Damian will mark 10 years with VBISD on August 5th, 2025. He began as Technology Coordinator and has played a key role in growing the department from just six staff members to the strong team it is today, serving the entire county and beyond.
What Damian loves most about his job is the relationships he’s built and the opportunity to encourage creative problem-solving among staff. His department is known for supporting "anything that plugs into the wall," because technology touches nearly everything in education today.
Outside of work, Damian is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys hunting, fishing, and hiking. A fun fact about him? He’s a huge Marvin the Martian fan. His life philosophy is summed up by the quote: “It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.” He’s also inspired by the book Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable by Tim Grover.
When asked what advice he’d give his younger self, Damian said humility and humor are key in building relationships and facing challenges. He encourages making decisions with purpose and kindness, reminding us all that it costs nothing to be nice. On tough days, Damian draws motivation from the support of his staff, colleagues, and the Superintendent. Knowing they have his back keeps him going!
To Damian, VBISD is truly a family-forward organization where leadership prioritizes family and health, creating a positive and supportive work environment that helps staff thrive.
Your route to a rewarding career starts here!
What We Offer:
-Guaranteed 5 hours of pay per day (with opportunities for additional hours!)
-Health Benefits
-Updated fleet of Freightliner buses
-Tablets for easy navigation
-Paid training to set you up for success
-A fun & welcoming team to be part of
Ready to drive your career forward? Apply today! https://vanburenisdmi.sites.thrillshare.com/page/overview1
What We Offer:
-Guaranteed 5 hours of pay per day (with opportunities for additional hours!)
-Health Benefits
-Updated fleet of Freightliner buses
-Tablets for easy navigation
-Paid training to set you up for success
-A fun & welcoming team to be part of
Ready to drive your career forward? Apply today! https://vanburenisdmi.sites.thrillshare.com/page/overview1
Faces of VBISD: Meet the people behind the purpose.
Meet Melissa Corona, Director of Van Buren ISD Instructional Services. Melissa leads a wide range of supports that impact students and educators across Van Buren County. Her department includes instructional coaches, mental health clinicians, Project SHINE, Adult Ed ESL, Grow Your Own, Coordinated School Health, MTSS, school improvement, leadership meetings, and professional development.
Melissa joined VBISD 1.5 years ago, bringing seven years of experience as Principal of Pullman Elementary with her. One of her proudest accomplishments so far is growing the Adult Ed ESL program from one site with 36 learners to three sites serving 63 learners.
What makes her department unique? “We intentionally collaborate to use best practices to support the whole child and build capacity in students and staff. We walk alongside educators, principals, superintendents, and districts to support them wherever they are, helping them be the best they can be.” When asked what she loves most about her job, Melissa says it’s the people she works with every day.
Outside of work, Melissa enjoys running, working out, gardening, reading, and visiting amusement parks- especially for the roller coasters! Her favorite quote? “I can do hard things.” It’s a phrase she lives by, and advice she’d give her younger self, along with this reminder: Believe in yourself.
To Melissa, VBISD is best described with one word: Service.
Meet Melissa Corona, Director of Van Buren ISD Instructional Services. Melissa leads a wide range of supports that impact students and educators across Van Buren County. Her department includes instructional coaches, mental health clinicians, Project SHINE, Adult Ed ESL, Grow Your Own, Coordinated School Health, MTSS, school improvement, leadership meetings, and professional development.
Melissa joined VBISD 1.5 years ago, bringing seven years of experience as Principal of Pullman Elementary with her. One of her proudest accomplishments so far is growing the Adult Ed ESL program from one site with 36 learners to three sites serving 63 learners.
What makes her department unique? “We intentionally collaborate to use best practices to support the whole child and build capacity in students and staff. We walk alongside educators, principals, superintendents, and districts to support them wherever they are, helping them be the best they can be.” When asked what she loves most about her job, Melissa says it’s the people she works with every day.
Outside of work, Melissa enjoys running, working out, gardening, reading, and visiting amusement parks- especially for the roller coasters! Her favorite quote? “I can do hard things.” It’s a phrase she lives by, and advice she’d give her younger self, along with this reminder: Believe in yourself.
To Melissa, VBISD is best described with one word: Service.
Own a home built by Van Buren Tech students. Sealed bids will be accepted up until Friday, June 13, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Van Buren Intermediate School District Business Office.
This 1,040 square foot, three-bedroom, one bath ranch style home is now available for sealed bid, starting at $60,000. The buyer is responsible for transporting the home from the Van Buren ISD campus to their chosen location. Estimated moving costs within Van Buren County range from $12,000 to $14,000, depending on distance and site conditions. All bids must include proof of funds for both the purchase and moving costs. Payment in full is due within 30 days of the bid award. The home must be removed by 3:00 p.m. on Friday, July 11, 2025.
Bids must be submitted in a sealed envelope clearly marked “Construction Trades House - Van Buren Tech Bid.”
For full details and bid instructions, visit:
https://www.vbisd.org/page/current-bids-and-proposals
Questions? Contact Robert Smith at (269) 539-5325 or rsmith@vbisd.org
Van Buren Intermediate School District is committed to supporting students, families, and educators across our communities. Through a wide range of programs and services, we work to ensure every learner has the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. The VBISD team is dedicated to building a strong foundation for lifelong learning and achievement.
Join our team today!:
https://vanburenisdmi.sites.thrillshare.com/page/overview1
“You cannot change your future, but you can change your habits, and surely your habits will change your future.” -Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
As we step into this new week, let’s reflect on the power of our habits. While we can’t always predict the future, we have the incredible ability to shape it- one choice at a time.
The habits we build today are the foundation for the life we’ll live tomorrow. Whether it’s prioritizing health, focusing on personal growth, or dedicating time to our passions, the small, consistent actions we take every day compound to create lasting change. It’s not about making huge, immediate shifts; it’s about making better choices day by day that will lead to the future we envision.
This week, focus on the habits you want to cultivate. What small change can you make today that will set the tone for the days ahead?
The Van Buren Intermediate School District (VBISD) is dedicated to “providing educational services for a better tomorrow.” Our collaborative approach integrates various departments, each playing a vital role in supporting students, educators, and families.
Finance and Operations: This department ensures the efficient management of resources, overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and operational logistics to maintain a conducive learning environment.
Technology Services: Committed to delivering effective leadership in information technology, this team manages IT systems, networking infrastructure, and telecommunications. They provide prompt and professional support to both VBISD and our constituent school districts, ensuring seamless technological integration.
Van Buren Tech: As a hub for Career and Technical Education (CTE), Van Buren Tech collaborates closely with industry professionals to prepare students for diverse postsecondary opportunities. By aligning curricula with industry standards, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their chosen fields.
Instructional Services: This department focuses on enhancing educational practices by providing professional development, curriculum support, and instructional resources. Initiatives like Project SHINE exemplify our commitment to collaboration, working with multiple Intermediate School Districts to serve students across Southwest Michigan.
Early Childhood: Recognizing the importance of early development, our Early Childhood programs, including the Great Start Collaborative and Parent Coalition, strive to make our county a supportive place for families with young children. These programs offer resources and connections to ensure children receive a strong start in life.
ESL/Migrant Services: Dedicated to supporting English as a Second Language learners and migrant families, this department provides tailored educational programs and resources to meet their unique needs, ensuring equitable access to quality education.
Transportation: Ensuring safe and reliable transportation, this team coordinates logistics to facilitate student access to educational programs and services throughout the district.
Special Education: Committed to meeting the diverse needs of all students, the Special Education department collaborates with stakeholders- including local education agencies, parents, and community organizations- to provide tailored support and services.
Through the collaborative efforts of these departments, VBISD delivers exemplary educational services, empowering every student to achieve their full potential.
“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” – Albert Schweitzer
As we start another week, let’s remind ourselves that success doesn’t always come from external achievements or accolades. True success comes from within and it begins with happiness.
When you love what you’re doing, the journey itself becomes fulfilling. The passion you bring to your work, your relationships, and your life becomes the driving force that leads you to success.
This week, focus on what makes you happy and what brings you joy. When you’re aligned with your passions, success will follow. Let’s make this week one where we lead with love for what we do, knowing that success will naturally follow.
Attention BGLC Families: We’re excited to announce that we are moving to an online enrollment system for the upcoming school year. To ensure your student is ready for next year, please make sure your online enrollment is completed before June. This new system will make the process quicker, easier, and more convenient for families.
If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact our office. We're here to help.
“Believe you can, and you're halfway there.” –Theodore Roosevelt
As we kick off this week, let's remember the most important factors in achieving anything- belief in yourself. The journey toward any goal, big or small, begins with a single thought: “I can.” It may sound simple, but that belief is the spark that sets everything in motion.
When you truly believe that you have the ability to succeed, it opens up endless possibilities. It gives you the courage to take that first step, the confidence to push through obstacles, and the resilience to keep going when things get tough.
This week, take a moment to reflect on what you’re working toward and remind yourself: You can do this. Whether it’s personal growth, career goals, or making a difference in the lives of others- believing in your ability is the first step toward making it happen.
VAN & BUS DRIVERS NEEDED
Looking for a rewarding job with great benefits? Join the Van Buren Intermediate School District as a school bus or van driver! No experience? No problem! We provide paid training to help you get started.
What We Offer:
✅ Paid training
✅ GUARANTEED 5 hours of pay per day
✅ Opportunities for extra hours & additional pay
✅ Health benefits
✅ A fun, friendly, and supportive work environment
✅ Small student groups on each route + a bus aide to assist
✅ Opportunities for growth
Make a difference in your community by helping students get to school safely each day. Flexible schedules make this a great job for retirees, stay-at-home parents, or anyone looking for steady, meaningful work.
Know someone who’d be a great fit? Tag them below!
APPLY NOW: https://vbisd.tedk12.com/hire/index.aspx
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” –Nelson Mandela
As we step into this new week, let's remember the incredible power of education. Whether we’re learning in a classroom, through experiences, or from each other, knowledge is the foundation for growth and transformation.
Education doesn’t just equip us with facts and figures; it empowers us to challenge the status quo, think critically, and make informed decisions. It allows us to step up and create the world we want to see.
Today, let’s reflect on how we can embrace learning in all its forms. How can we use the knowledge we gain to uplift others, spark new ideas, and make a lasting impact? Every bit of progress starts with education. Whether you're a teacher, a student, or a lifelong learner, you hold the power to change the world- one lesson at a time.
Van Buren Intermediate School District (VBISD) exists to provide educational and support services to its varied constituencies. The mission statement for VBISD is "Providing Educational Services for a Better Tomorrow." It is our goal as an educational service agency to be comprehensive and flexible as we seek to deliver services based on the ever-changing needs of those we serve. Through these efforts, it is our pledge to work diligently to improve the quality of life of all area residents.
The Van Buren Intermediate School District strives to:
-Provide the best quality of service available to the customers we serve.
-Provide for educational effectiveness, efficiency, and success of all learners.
-Continually monitor and adjust to the ever-changing needs of the educational landscape in providing programs/services to the customers we serve.
-The Van Buren Intermediate School District is committed to providing appropriate services to the constituent school districts we serve, residents served by these school districts, business and industry, and all agencies and organizations that are committed to providing educational and support services to children and residents of counties in our service area.
The Van Buren Intermediate School District is honored to be ranked #8 among the Top 50 School Districts in Michigan for 2025, according to Niche.com. This recognition reflects our commitment to academic excellence, exceptional educators, and the resources that support student success.
The rankings, based on factors such as academics, teacher quality, diversity, and student experience, highlight the dedication of our staff, students, and community in developing a high-quality learning environment.
Van Buren Intermediate School District (VBISD) exists to provide educational and support services to its varied constituencies. The mission statement for VBISD is "Providing Educational Services for a Better Tomorrow." It is our goal as an educational service agency to be comprehensive and flexible as we seek to deliver services based on the ever-changing needs of those we serve. Through these efforts, it is our pledge to work diligently to improve the quality of life of all area residents.