Current Happenings

August 24, 2024
LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP), reminded families that they can still enroll 4-year-olds in free, high-quality pre-K through their local school district. The recent historic investment in Pre-K for All included in the state’s new budget will allow nearly 59,000 four-year-olds across the state to access free pre-K. As of August 15, enrollment has expanded to all families regardless of income level, while continuing to prioritize families who need it most.  

"Free pre-K is here for Michigan families, and there is still time to enroll in a program in your area. This is a huge win for Michigan families that gives kids the educational foundation they need and saves parents thousands on child care costs,” said Governor Whitmer. “I am proud that we got this done in the recent balanced, bipartisan budget, and will continue to work with anyone to deliver a brighter future for our children.”  

“MiLEAP is committed to ensuring Michigan families have access to a high-quality pre-K education that meets their needs and helps their child thrive,” said Dr. Walker-Griffea. “Through our efforts, we are connecting Michigan kids, families, and adults with the lifelong education opportunities they need on their path to prosperity.” 

The Pre-K for All initiative ensures that every Michigan 4-year-old has access to a free, high-quality pre-K education, regardless of where they live. By investing in pre-K, Michigan is supporting families by:  

• Helping Michigan's four-year-olds reach key developmental milestones and enter kindergarten with a strong educational foundation, setting them up for greater success in school and beyond.  

• Introducing children to essential skills like early math, reading, and writing from teachers who support their social and developmental needs.  

• Providing families with the flexibility to work and save an estimated $10,000 per year on childcare costs, which contributes to the state's economic growth.  

Under the FY 2025 budget, free pre-K enrollment was open to families up to 400% of the federal poverty limit, or about $120,000 for a family of 4. As of August 15, school districts and other pre-K providers may open up enrollment to all families, depending on availability.  

It’s not too late to enroll children who will be 4 years old by Dec. 1 in pre-K this fall! Availability varies by location, with priority given to those who need it most. Visit greatstartjackson.org or MiPreKforAll.org to find programs near you. 

August 22, 2024
Jackson, Mich. – Jackson County ISD (JCISD) celebrated a significant milestone this week with the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly completed Phase 2 of the JCISD Central Campus. This event marked the official opening of a state-of-the-art special education school and a new professional development space for educators, solidifying the district's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for children with special needs.

A Two-Phase Transformation

The journey to this moment began last year with the completion of Phase 1, which saw the opening of five specialized "Neighborhood Schools" within the JCISD Central Campus. These schools were designed to serve specific groups of students, each with unique needs:

• Huskies - Serving young children (ages 3-5) with developmental delays.
• Ravens - Focusing on children with cognitive impairments and autism.
• Redhawks - Supporting students with emotional impairments.
• Bulldogs - Assisting young adults (ages 18-26) in developing independent living skills.
• Evaluations Area - A dedicated space where children are assessed to determine if they require special education services.

Phase 2 of the project, which has just been completed, involved a comprehensive renovation of the rear section of the school. This new space now serves as a countywide professional development center for teachers, ensuring that educators have access to the latest training and resources. Additionally, the project included structural repairs to the gym and cafeteria, as well as an all new commercial kitchen.

A Celebratory Ribbon Cutting

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by key figures from JCISD, including Superintendent Kevin Oxley, Assistant Superintendent and Director of Special Education Maureen Keene, and Director of Finance and Operations Roger Auwers, as well as representatives from R.W. Mercer and Covalle Group Architects, who spearheaded the 28-million dollar renovation project. Three students - Redhawks 6th grader Brandon Chaffin, Ravens 12th grader Matthew Knoebel, and Dante McCan from the Bulldogs/Young Adult Program - helped with cutting the ribbon, symbolizing the start of a new chapter for the school. The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce also assisted in the ribbon-cutting, adding to the significance of the event.

In the lead-up to the ceremony, hundreds of JCISD staff members were invited to explore the newly completed building through self-guided tours. The event provided an opportunity for colleagues to reconnect after the summer break and enjoy lunch from a variety of food trucks stationed on-site.

Looking to the Future

In his remarks during the ceremony, JCISD Superintendent Oxley highlighted the district's ongoing commitment to improving its facilities. He announced plans for future renovation projects at the North and South Campuses, including upgrades to the Lyle Torrant Center and the Jackson Area Career Center. These projects align with the district's theme for the year, "Restoring the Past, Building for the Future," and underscore JCISD's dedication to providing top-notch educational environments for all students.

Capturing the Moment

The day's events were well-documented, thanks to JTV, which provided a fantastic photo gallery of the ribbon-cutting and other activities. Additionally, JTV featured a walk-and-talk interview with JCISD administration, offering viewers an inside look at the new facilities and the vision behind them.

As the new school year begins, JCISD Central Campus stands as a symbol of hope and progress, ready to support the diverse needs of its students and educators. The completion of this project not only enhances the learning environment but also reinforces the district's mission to ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed.

JCISD Central Campus Renovation Highlights

• All new HVAC system
• Addition of central air conditioning to the facility and individual air handling units in every classroom
• UV lighting built into the system to kill germs and viruses
• Automated building management system provides state-of-the-art control capabilities
• New or refurbished roofs
• New gutters, drainage and rainwater management system
• 3 new playground areas built with inclusivity in mind
• New secure student entryways
• Added fire suppression (sprinkler system) to the entire building
• Upgraded electrical system, including new LED lighting throughout the facility
• Upgraded technology infrastructure and technology tools (interactive monitors)
• Site plan brought up to current state standards for combining bus, passenger vehicle, and pedestrian traffic
• All new commercial kitchen
• Structural repairs to cafeteria, gym, and old pool area
• New space for meetings and professional development
• Updated two-classroom suite for Community Action Agency Head Start programming

Renovation Earns Award from Local Contractors Association

Jackson County ISD’s commitment to use local contractors on this project earned the district a 2023 Brick Award from the Jackson Commercial Contractors Association. Upon accepting the award at the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce’s Night of Distinction, Superintendent Oxley said, “This project has truly been one of the highlights of our careers. It is so gratifying to see a community come together the way this entire community has come together to create this project and really serve our students who need this the very most. It’s truly been an honor to work on this project and to be a part of it, and to continue to serve the students, parents, and the greater Jackson community.”

Many thanks to the following Jackson and mid-Michigan contractors:

Allen Brothers Fence
Ajax Heating & AC
Anderson Concrete LLC
Asbestos & Lead Abatement of Michigan
Bareman & Associates
Bell & Sons
Blumm
Bracy & Jahr
Braun’s Home Furnishings & Floor Coverings
Challenger
Challenger 2
Chris Thompson LLC
ControlNet
Cook Foundation & Flatwork
Covalle Group Architects
D/A Central
Detroit Dismantling
Hirst Electric
H & H Painting
Hunter Prell
Jackson Automatic Sprinkler
Jackson Glass
Johnson Signs
Kent Office Furniture
KnightWatch
Kuhn Flooring
Lansing Glass
Lenco Painting
McDonald Roofing
McGowan Electric Supply
MSC Blinds & Shades
Paul Bengal Mechanical Contractors
Penchura
Positive Electric
Quality Excavators Inc
R.W. Mercer
Safety Systems
Spirit Steel
Walker Commercial Interiors
Weatherwise Insulation
Wiltse Electric
Yoxheimer Tile Co.

Consumers Energy Press Release

JACKSON, Mich., May 22, 2024 – Consumers Energy today celebrated the accomplishments of seven Jackson County Intermediate School District students with developmental disabilities who completed a unique experience that moves them from the classroom to the workplace.

The students graduated from Project SEARCH, a model program that provides students with firsthand training and knowledge for the last year. The students, all in their late teens, rotated through different jobs with the company and came away with experience that better prepares them for the workplace.

“Before I came into Project SEARCH, I had severe anxiety and some mood disability and lacked work environment experience. Once I entered Project SEARCH, a whole new world opened. I have learned not to carry my load of anxiety wherever I go,” said Noah Cantrell, one of the Project SEARCH interns. “All the teams I have worked with this year have given me new skills that I can use in the future. Project SEARCH helped me overcome so many fears and problems. I am stronger and more capable than day one here.”

“We are so proud of these students and are confident their experience at Consumers Energy can help open doors for their bright futures,” said Angela Thompkins, Consumers Energy’s vice president of community affairs and chief diversity officer. “We hope our partnership with the Jackson County ISD can inspire other employers to provide similar opportunities to others who, like these students, only need a chance.”

This is the sixth year Consumers Energy and the ISD partnered for Project SEARCH, a national program that aims to secure competitive employment for people with disabilities. Students worked in the company’s headquarters in Jackson and its nearby Parnall facility, where they learned and performed entry-level work across departments.

“Project SEARCH teaches much more than the critical skills needed in the workplace, it’s a valuable program aimed at creating confidence, instilling pride and making connections with others,” said Megan Hall, a Project SEARCH Instructor with Jackson County ISD. “The students who participate in this program always amaze me with the amount of growth they gain from the beginning of the year to the end of the year. Their smiles and positive attitudes are contagious, and I couldn’t be more proud to be a part of such a wonderful program.”

Consumers Energy plans to continue Project SEARCH next year and beyond, with a goal of providing full-time jobs for some participants.

“We are blessed with so many talented people in the communities we serve, and are proud we can take part in Project SEARCH to create pathways that don’t always exist,” Thompkins said.

For more Project SEARCH Graduation coverage, click any of the links below:
JTV - Project SEARCH Graduation
JTV - Photo Gallery
WILX - Jackson ISD Students Graduate
MLive - Teens graduate from Consumers Energy school-to-workplace program

Jackson, MI – The Jackson Area Career Center (JACC) is proud to introduce two significant scholarship opportunities for Michigan residents seeking to advance their careers through education. These scholarships aim to support adult learners in their pursuit of career training and further education, demonstrating JACC's commitment to lifelong learning and workforce development in Michigan.

Michigan Achievement Scholarship

The Michigan Achievement Scholarship offers an incredible opportunity for individuals looking to embark on or advance in their career journey. Eligible students may receive up to $2,000 to attend a career training program at the Jackson Area Career Center. This scholarship is available to those who graduated from a Michigan high school or received a GED in 2023 or later. It's designed to open doors for students by providing financial support for vocational training, helping them gain the skills and qualifications needed to thrive in today's competitive job market.

Michigan Reconnect Short Term Training Program Scholarship

In collaboration with the Michigan Reconnect initiative, the Short Term Training Program Scholarship is specifically tailored for Michigan residents aged 21 years or older who have yet to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree. This one-time scholarship provides up to $1,500 towards tuition costs for students choosing to attend a career training program where they can gain new skills or credentials in their chosen field.

Interested individuals are encouraged to visit www.jacc-mi.net for more information on how to apply and detailed descriptions of the available career training programs.

About Jackson Area Career Center
The Jackson Area Career Center is a leader in career and technical education and skills training in Michigan, offering a wide range of programs designed to equip adult learners and high school students with the necessary skills for successful careers in various industries. Our commitment to excellence in education, student support, and community service drives us to offer programs that meet the evolving needs of our workforce and economy.

The school district was named one of four Brick Award winners for its new JCISD Central Campus by the Jackson Commercial Contractors Association at the Jackson Chamber’s Community Awards. The multi-million dollar project involved renovating the former Frost Elementary School into a facility for students with special needs.

"This project has truly been one of the highlights of our careers. It is so gratifying to see a community come together the way this entire community has come together to create this project and really serve our students who need this the very most,” said Jackson County ISD Superintendent Kevin Oxley. “It's truly been an honor to work on this project and to be a part of it, and to continue to serve the students, parents, and the greater Jackson community."

The former school was built in the 1950s and served thousands of Jackson Public Schools students until it closed in June 2020. The building was set to be demolished as part of a 2018 JPS bond issue. However, JCISD was in need of more space for its programming and was able to purchase the building from JPS for $1, preserving previous tax investments like new windows and upgraded bathrooms. The purchase also allowed JPS to reallocate more than $1 million in bond project funding to building improvements across the district, instead of using that money for demolition. In turn, JCISD was able to solve their facility problems by renovating the 125,000 square foot building for a fraction of the cost of what building a new facility would take. 

Over the past two years, JCISD has been renovating the school for special education programming for students ages 3-26 years old. Those renovations included making all classroom entrances ADA compliant, installation of a new HVAC system for heating and cooling, new roof, new student lockers, new playgrounds and new entrances. Central Campus partially opened for students in two programs in January 2023, and by the start of the 23-24 school year, all students from all four programs were in the building. 

Several Jackson-based contractors played a huge role in this renovation project. JCISD hired R.W. Mercer as the Construction Manager (and General Trades contractor), and Covalle Group Architects as the Architect of the project, both of which have been staples of the Jackson community for decades.

Hiring local contractors to renovate this building was like a homecoming for many of them. R.W. Mercer was the construction manager for Jackson Public Schools’ 2010 bond, which included remodeling of the front office, new flooring, new ceilings and other upgrades. This time around, Mercer did all the demolition, new steel sidings for the additions, new door frames and doors, finishes in the classrooms, and all the exterior work. As construction manager, Mercer was also responsible for organizing the more than dozen subcontractors who were hired for the project, many of which are also locally-based and family-owned.

“Throughout the renovation project, we learned many workers had a connection to Frost as a student themselves, or had family that attended the old school, and working on this project stirred up a lot of nostalgia,” said Director of Finance and Operations Roger Auwers. “Because so many local subcontractors were hired for this project, the project was also a great example of collaboration. Many of the workers from different companies had worked together on previous projects before, so they were aware of each other’s expectations and how to work together to resolve issues.”

Renovating this building has allowed JCISD to stay true to its mission of serving the students and families of Jackson County. The school is located in the middle of the county, hence the ‘Central Campus’ name, allowing for more efficient bussing and staffing to serve students. It also allows us to take advantage of the city bus line to teach 18-26-year-old students to use public transportation, and makes local businesses more accessible to provide real life educational opportunities for students.  

“This campus gave us the space to bring classroom programs to one location, which we previously did not have,” said Assistant Superintendent and Director of Special Education Maureen Keene. “We are able to centralize our services, and provide students and staff a safe, collaborative and supportive environment in which to educate our students in. We have been able to develop a sense of community in this location and we look forward to being here for years to come.”

MORE COVERAGE
JTV Bart Hawley Show: JCISD Wins Brick Award for Central Campus

(pictured left to right: Ray VanZandt, Facilities Supervisor; Maureen Keene, Assistant Superintendent and Director of Special Education; Roger Auwers, Director of Finance & Operations; and Kevin Oxley, Superintendent)