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Laura Eakiri is an emerging author who has captured hearts with her latest children’s book, Lety’s Deaf Diaries: I Can Do Anything!. Through this uplifting story, Eakiri shines a light on themes of resilience, empathy, and the power of embracing one’s identity, creating an impactful narrative that resonates with readers of all ages.

We are committed to providing educators with meaningful professional development that enhances their knowledge, skills, and ability to serve our diverse student population. This spring, there are several outstanding opportunities for learning and networking, including the National Association of State Directors of Migrant Education (NASDME) Conference, the Michigan Association for Bilingual Education (MABE) Institute, the Michigan Newcomer Summit, and the Día De La Mujer event in East Lansing.

Navigating immigration-related matters can be challenging, but knowing your rights and having access to the right resources can make a significant difference. Whether you are in need of legal support, emergency planning, or simply wish to learn more about your rights, we’ve compiled valuable resources and essential information to help you protect yourself and your family.

We are excited to announce that Laura Kronk has transitioned into the role of Multilingual Coach & Consultant for the Van Buren Intermediate School District (VBISD). A valued member of our VBISD family, Laura previously served as a dedicated teacher and stepped into her new role in the fall of 2024 to bring her expertise to a broader audience.

As the WIDA assessment period approaches, parents play a crucial role in supporting their children’s success. Here are several ways parents can help their children prepare for and navigate the WIDA assessments:

Preparing for college can be a daunting task, but residents of Van Buren County, Michigan, have access to a wealth of resources to help them through the process. From FAFSA assistance to tax preparation and college enrollment guidance, here’s a comprehensive guide to the services available in the area. FAFSA Assistance The Free Application for…

The information in the following article was drawn from the “Immigration Rights Schools Need to Know Document” which was assembled by members of the Newcomer Coaching group from the State of Michigan. In today’s diverse educational landscape, it’s crucial for schools to understand and uphold the rights of immigrant students and their families. This blog…

The holiday season is a time for community, compassion, and generosity—and the 2024 Migrant Christmas Basket Event exemplified all of these values and more. The event took place at the Van Buren Intermediate School District Conference Center in Lawrence, MI. Organized by the Southwest Michigan Migrant Resource Council, this annual event brought together volunteers and donors to support over 300 migrant and seasonal farmworker families, spreading holiday cheer and essential assistance.

Christmas is celebrated worldwide, but each country adds its unique spin to this beloved holiday. From festive foods to one-of-a-kind customs, learning about Christmas traditions from around the globe is a wonderful way to embrace the season’s spirit of joy and togetherness. Let’s take a tour of a few fascinating traditions and discover local spots where you and your family can experience these celebrations firsthand!

Attention: Superintendents, Principals, and Staff

Effective communication is the foundation of a strong school community, but for parents who don’t speak English, staying informed about their children’s education can be challenging. When schools send important updates or reminders in English only, non-English-speaking parents are often left out.
In some cases, bilingual staff have reported fielding dozens of phone calls from parents seeking clarification after school messages go out in a language they don’t understand. This shows that these parents are eager to stay engaged—they simply need the information in their native language.

How to Translate School Messages Effectively…

On November 13, 2024, two exemplary individuals from Van Buren County were recognized for their remarkable contributions at the 2024-2025 Annual Data and Recruiter Training. The awards were presented by Michelle Mattson Headley, Michigan Migrant Consultant with the Michigan Department of Education, highlighting their exceptional dedication and service.

At just 11 years old, Ximena Romero has accomplished something most adults only dream of—she’s now a published author. Her debut book, Happy’s Bad Luck, has captured hearts with its magical charm and uplifting message. Ximena’s story is one of perseverance, creativity, and unwavering support from her family and community, making her journey as inspiring as her book.