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High School boy thinking and smiling about his future

Preparing for Life After High School: A Guide for Students and Parents

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.

Smiling family eating Thanksgiving dinner

Celebrating Thanksgiving: History, Traditions, and Fun Family Activities

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.

American Flag with overlay of legal documents and two hands grasping each other

Support for Immigrant and Migrant Families: Legal and Employment Resources

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.

Day of the Dead Sugar Skull with Marigolds and Papel Picado

Celebrating Día de los Muertos

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.

Blue background with the Michigan Seal of Biliteracy and the Global Seal of Biliteracy

Celebrate Language Proficiency with the Michigan and Global Seals of Biliteracy

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.

Celebrating the Achievements of Migrant Scholarship Recipients

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.

Covert Public Schools Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with Annual Parade

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.

Fall Fun for Families in Van Buren County

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:

Celebrating Tonda Boothby: A Legacy of Dedication and Compassion

On September 11th at 3 PM, the Van Buren Intermediate School District (VBISD) community gathered to honor two remarkable individuals, Barb Matthews and Tonda Boothby, during the Pathway Recognition Ceremony. This event was a heartfelt tribute to their decades of service and dedication.

Staff Spotlight: Maria Hernandez

Maria Hernandez has been an integral part of the VBISD Migrant program for the past two summers. Serving on our home team, she provides vital instruction in the camps and aids with recruitment throughout the school year. Maria visits migrant camps to help families register for the summer program, showcasing her exceptional organizational skills and efficiency.

The Making of Miss USA 2024: Alma Cooper’s Inspiring Story

This article delves into the inspiring journey of Alma Cooper, Miss USA 2024, through the eyes of her mother, Oralia Cooper. It highlights Oralia’s background, from working in the fields to participating in pageants and serving as a Migrant and ELL Program Director. The article also explores Alma’s father’s influence, family dynamics, traditions, and values that shaped Alma’s upbringing, as well as her commitment to community service, mentorship, and personal growth.

Help! They Don't Speak English!

As a teacher, you might find yourself in a classroom with students who don’t speak English. This can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can help these students thrive. Here are some actionable tips to support your non-English speaking students: