Newsletters

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.

Graduating from high school marks an exciting but challenging transition to adulthood. For many, the journey continues to college, trade schools, or directly into the workforce. Navigating this transition requires planning and insight to make choices that align with career goals, finances, and interests. Here’s a roadmap to help students and families prepare for life after high school, including checklists, tips for exploring options, and actionable resources.

Thanksgiving is a holiday rich in history, gratitude, and time spent with loved ones. Observed on the fourth Thursday of November, it has evolved into a celebration of family, reflection, and delicious food. But beyond the turkey and pie, Thanksgiving is also a time to create lasting memories with family and friends. Let’s take a look at the history of Thanksgiving, some of the cherished customs, and some fun crafts and activities to make your celebration even more special.

Facing immigration and legal challenges can feel overwhelming, but there is support available through the VBISD Migrant/Multilingual Resources Website. This resource connects families to services that assist with immigration, employment, and legal rights. Key partners like the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center and Farmworker Legal Services offer personalized guidance, ensuring immigrant and migrant families understand and can act on their rights.

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a vibrant Mexican celebration that transcends the boundary between life and death. This profound cultural tradition, now celebrated in many countries, honors departed loved ones through a festive blend of indigenous Aztec rituals and Catholic traditions.

Are you a student or parent eager to recognize and celebrate language skills? The Michigan Seal of Biliteracy (MI-SoBL) is a prestigious award designed to do just that! It honors high school graduates who have demonstrated proficiency in two or more languages, providing them with an official credential to showcase their bilingual or multilingual abilities.

We are thrilled to announce the recipients of this year’s Migrant Scholarships, a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students and the unwavering support of our community. These scholarships, generously funded by donors and supported by the tireless efforts of volunteers like Kimo Kim, provide crucial financial assistance to help our students achieve their educational dreams.

On Saturday, September 16, the streets of Covert came alive with vibrant colors, music, and community spirit as the town celebrated its second annual Hispanic Heritage Parade. The event, organized by Covert Public Schools, marked the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month and showcased the rich cultural diversity that makes the community unique.

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, Van Buren County transforms into a magical playground for young children. Fall is the perfect time to explore the outdoors, enjoy festive activities, and create lasting memories with your little ones. Here are some delightful fall activities happening in and around Van Buren County that are perfect for young children: