Happy Holidays from ECSE! Students each created their own ornaments to decorate a tree during speech.
4 months ago, Megan Makowski
A construction paper Christmas tree hung on a wall with a variety of construction paper ornaments all over it.
True inclusion isn't just about sharing the workload; it’s about sharing the culture. When learners participate in events like the Holiday Meal or a visit from Santa, they gain "soft skills" that can’t be taught in a classroom:

Sense of Belonging: Being invited to the party signals to the learners that they are valued colleagues, not just guests.

Social Fluency: Navigating a holiday meal helps learners practice professional socializing, small talk, and workplace etiquette in a relaxed setting.

Networking: These informal gatherings are often where the strongest bonds are formed between the interns and the hospital staff, which can lead to better mentorship and future job opportunities.

A Credit to Trinity Health
It speaks volumes about Trinity Health as a host business. By opening up their traditions to the Project SEARCH team, they are demonstrating a commitment to an authentic, integrated work environment. It’s these "fun" moments that often become the most cherished memories of the program.
4 months ago, Pleasanna Carter
Santa sitting in the middle of 4 ladies
Sign that says "Welcome to the Holiday Meal"
People in a line being served food
Santa with a young lady sitting next to him
PREP learners love giving back to the community. Today, they’re making ornaments to share with seniors at the Fowlerville Senior Center.
4 months ago, Dennette Kreutzkamp
Two teachers and several learners sitting around tables making Christmas ornaments

Calm and focused! Bryson is loving some sensory swing time as part of play and movement activities.

4 months ago, Amy Buchler
A young child hangs in a blue sensory swing, touching their lips thoughtfully, surrounded by colorful gym mats and equipment.
Festive pretzels, made by our learners, were delivered to seniors at the Fowlerville Senior Center—simple acts of kindness that brighten the day.
4 months ago, Dennette Kreutzkamp
A teacher and adult learners standing are a kitchen island making decorative pretzels..
Independent reading is essential at Pathway! 📚💛 Students are building choice-making, engagement, stamina, and a true love for stories.
4 months ago, Jaime Oppenlander
Three boys sitting around table reading books.

During Deck the Alley in Downtown Howell, I ran into two former LESA students, Victoria and Baily. I first met them during their time at Pathway where they helped to run the recycling program. Now Victoria is in Project Search, and Baily works at Trinity Health after graduating from Project Search. It was great to see them and hear about their latest accomplishments! 

4 months ago, Merribeth Tognetti
Three women stand in front of Christmas display.
Early Head Start artists created “melted snowmen” after reading a story—exploring paint, textures, and retelling through art!
4 months ago, Kelsey Mickus
Children’s melted snowman art made with white paint on blue paper, with black eyes and orange carrot noses.
Santa and the LESA/Brighton Behavior Consultant had a very important top-secret meeting to graph behavior data and review behavior plans. It was determined that everyone is on the Nice List this year!
4 months ago, Leslie Leemgraven
Santa spotting in Brighton!

Adult Education -
The English as Second Language program celebrated the holiday season by sharing their favorite traditional foods, holiday traditions, and a gift exchange!

4 months ago, Merribeth Tognetti
Group of adults gathered to celebrate the holidays
AI consultant, Amy Baad, helping Jessica, special ed teacher with prep work. Smart tools make work easier! They are creating holiday vocabulary slides in Google Docs! 🧑‍🏫💻✨
4 months ago, Amy Buchler
Two staff in front of a computer screen smiling
a computer screen with images of Christmas items.
Ugly sweaters and big smiles! Learners enjoyed a festive DIY photo event hosted by the Howell Carnegie Library.
4 months ago, Dennette Kreutzkamp
Group of people in not really ugly sweaters for a fun photo.

PREP teachers showed holiday appreciation by treating all staff to a delicious lunch from the Bloated Goat.

Photos Courtesy of Charlotte Martin

4 months ago, Dennette Kreutzkamp
Staff sitting around a table eating lunch.
Staff sitting around a table eating lunch.
It was finally warm enough to play outside in the snow. Mrs. Pedigo was so excited to get her class out for some sunshine and fresh air.
4 months ago, Merribeth Tognetti
Small children playing in the snow
Small children playing on the slide
Creative focus! Stevie concentrates on a drawing project, surrounded by crayons. Hands-on activities help strengthen fine motor and writing skills! 🖍️
4 months ago, Amy Buchler
A student coloring
Today one of our LESA drivers surprised the students at Pathway visiting each bus when they got to the school to start their day.
4 months ago, Crystal Walker
Santa Waving
Fowlerville/LESA behavior consultant (Vicky James) presents to staff about the importance of differentiating instruction to meet the diverse needs of learners.
4 months ago, Leslie Leemgraven
Training staff on how to meet the diverse needs of learners.
Holiday cheer fills the halls at Pathway during Spirit Week! 🎄✨ Celebrating together as we build joy, connection, and community.
4 months ago, Jaime Oppenlander
Women dressed as a Christmas Tree
Four women with their Winter Sweatshirts on
Women dressed as Christmas Tree.

Transportation is getting in the Holiday spirit! Enjoying the company of one another and taking a moment to be thankful for the amazing team of coworkers we have.

4 months ago, Crystal Walker
Poeple in a group photo dressed up in Christmas accessories
Our assistants are the heart of Pathway ❤️ Their support helps our students thrive, learn, and feel safe. We are so grateful for you! 🙌✨
4 months ago, Jaime Oppenlander
A student with a huge smile is holding hands with an assistant walking down the hall.