YAP Students and Community Partners Recognized at Annual Showcase

Students, families and community partners of the Kalamazoo RESA Young Adult Program (YAP) attended the Annual YAP Showcase on Thursday, May 16, to highlight student achievements through the work-based learning program.

Kalamazoo County Early/Middle College Celebrates Class of 2019

The EMC program, which allows students to earn an associate degree or certificate with little or no cost by completing a fifth year of high school, boasted 367 students enrolled during the 2018-19 school year, with 56 Kalamazoo County students having completed the program this year at KVCC.

Systemic redesign of Career and Technical Education (CTE) considered

On May 1, the Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency recommended a systemic redesign of its

Michigan Department of Education Social Studies Standards Listen & Learn

Kalamazoo RESA will host the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) for a K-12 Social Studies Standards Listen & Learn meeting on Tuesday, April 30, 6-8 p.m.

EFA and EFE Students Honored at 2019 Kalamazoo RESA Outstanding Senior Awards

In addition to honoring the 64 high school seniors who were nominated by their EFA and EFE teachers, every single student also received a scholarship, totaling in $64,450, an effort made possible by the contributions of 43 generous donors.

Environmental Sustainability at Kalamazoo RESA

As part of our continuous improvement strategy across all areas of the agency, Kalamazoo RESA is committed to promoting sustainable practices to ensure a healthier environment and a better future for generations to come.

Kalamazoo County Honors 33rd Annual Excellence in Education Scholarship Recipients

The 47 high school seniors were joined by their families, significant educators and local educational leaders to celebrate their outstanding academic achievements at Western Michigan University’s Fetzer Center.

Kalamazoo RESA Awarded $131,000 Safety Grant

Kalamazoo RESA was recently awarded a $131,000 Michigan State Police Department Safety Grant to bolster security infrastructure and efforts at several student-based campuses.

Interview with Jake Larson, Overneath Creative

"To any student who has an interest in making a career of film production, I would firstly like to congratulate you on choosing a seriously cool career path."

Interview with Matt Vollmar, CEO, Newmind Group, Inc.

Matt talks about his work in the CTE field of technology

Kalamazoo Youth Invited to Apply for MyCITY Summer Employment Program

The MyCITY Summer Youth Employment Program is now accepting applications for the summer of 2019.

Education for Employment receives $15,000 Project Lead the Way grant

Education for Employment was recently awarded a grant for $15,000 from the Verizon Innovation Grant through Project Lead the Way.

Interview with young adult novel author Bryan Bliss

We're celebrating National Reading Month with an interview with author Bryan Bliss

Apply for preschool in Kalamazoo County

One application for all 2019-2020 early childhood education programs

Grant to provide iPads for Early Childhood Special Education

Consumers Energy Foundation awards $5,000 to assist with data collection, tracking

Miller honored as ACTE Administrator of the Year

Kalamazoo RESA's Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Programming, Debra Miller, has been selected as the 2019 Michigan Association for Career and Technical Education (MI ACTE) Administrator of the Year.

Students connected the dots to their futures at the Annual Open House

Kalamazoo County students and their families explored the many opportunities that EFA, EFE, and EMC have to offer at the Open House.

Former EFA Student Thriving in Chicago Film School

Erin Sullivan has just finished her first semester at Columbia College Chicago. Thanks to Education for the Arts (EFA) she is a step ahead of her fellow students.

Annual Web Accessibility Notice

Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Center (KRESA) is fully committed to ensuring that our entire website meets WCAG 2.0 and WAI-ARIA 1.1 requirements of ADA accessibility and compliance standards.

Duncan Aviation’s Collaboration with EFE Helps Students Careers Take Flight

This summer, Duncan Aviation Battle Creek began their partnership with Kalamazoo RESA’s Education for Employment program to find interns and future employees.

Kalamazoo RESA Employee Elected President of Michigan Career Placement Association

Education for Employment Career Specialist Irene Mayfield has been elected President of the Michigan Career Placement Association (MCPA).

Gilmore Car Museum to Open Interactive STEM Exhibits

Kalamazoo RESA, along with several local teachers and students are teaming up with the Gilmore Car Museum and Good Design Group for an exciting project.

New App Developed by Schools, for Schools, Helps Districts Prepare

September may be National Emergency Preparedness Month, but local school districts are focused on safety all year long.

Veterinary Science Students Travel to Africa

Six Education for Employment Veterinary Science alumni went on the journey of a lifetime in Hoedspruit, South Africa to take part in the Vets and Wildlife Program.

Students Attend Early Middle College Bootcamp

On August 22 and 23, first-year Early/Middle College (EMC) students attended EMC Bootcamp. About 100 11th-grade students from Kalamazoo County gathered at Kalamazoo Valley Community College to prepare for the start of classes.

Townhall set to discuss “An Educated Michigan”

Kalamazoo RESA will host an upcoming townhall, “An Educated Michigan,” on Tuesday, Sept. 25, from 7-8 p.m. in the Wile Auditorium located at 1819 E. Milham Avenue in Portage.

Remembering Garrett Boersma Jr.

Garrett Boersma Jr. had a passion for teaching and he spent 44 years doing just that. From 2003 to 2009 Kalamazoo RESA had the honor of working with Mr. Boersma while he served as the Assistant Superintendent for Special Education.

EFE Courses Launch Student's Career in Computer Science

Parker Turchan is heading to Michigan Tech this fall to study computer science and, thanks to Education for Employment (EFE), he has a bit of a leg up on his fellow students.

YOU Student Continues Tradition of Success

On his last day with Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU), Casey Macon was offered a full-time position with Flowserve. He continues the tradition of YOU students who have found success with help from the local company.

A Legacy of Service

Ron Williams, former YOU director, served Kalamazoo County youth for half a century. Mr. Williams retired from Kalamazoo RESA’s Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU) in 1991, but he never stopped advocating for young people.

Kalamazoo RESA Named Fiscal Agent for New Southwest MiSTEM Region

On the heels of the Michigan Department of Education’s announcement of the new MiSTEM Network, Kalamazoo RESA was named the fiscal agent of one of 16 new state-wide MiSTEM regions.

Excellence in Special Education Awards

Sponsored by the Kalamazoo County Parent Advisory Committee (PAC), the Excellence in Special Education Awards honor educators and staff who go above and beyond their role in educating and supporting special education students.

Kalamazoo RESA's Programs Celebrate a Year of Achievement

The end of the school year can be marked by sadness, but it is also a time for celebrating the many accomplishments and achievements from a successful year and welcoming the next steps of life.

EFE Art & Design Career Skills Students Assist Syrian Refugees

Education for Employment Art & Design Career Skills student artists assisted with a jewelry making workshop for Syrian refugee women at the Kalamazoo Islamic Center.

Karen Carlisle to Retire; Eric Stewart Named New Director of YOU

After 26 years of devoted service to Kalamazoo RESA, Karen Carlisle, director of Youth Opportunities Unlimited, will retire October 1. Eric Stewart, YOU administrator, has been named her successor.

WELC and JHS Art Collaboration

Through a collaborative effort, students from the Juvenile Home School Intensive Learning Center (ILC) partnered with students from WoodsEdge Learning Center and Education for the Arts (EFA) teaching artists to create a unique and beautiful work of art.

Portage Central Middle School Students Explore Career Readiness

Kalamazoo RESA’s Career Readiness Coordinator Kristen Garceau led career development during Career Week at Portage Central Middle School.

Wonder Women at Work

Ninth-grade girls from high schools across Kalamazoo County explored non-traditional career opportunities at the Wonder Women at Work expo on Friday, May 18.

Early/Middle College Celebrates Completion of Inaugural Class

During an evening marked by feelings of excitement and accomplishment, the Early/Middle College (EMC) program celebrated the completion of its inaugural class at the first-ever EMC Completion Ceremony on Thursday, May 10.

EFA Seeks Dynamic, Creative and Motivated Teaching Artists

Scheduled around his work as a professional dancer and choreographer, Education for the Arts teaching artist Dasan Mitchell visits local schools to teach elementary and junior high students about creative movement.

Students Honored at Kalamazoo RESA Outstanding Senior Awards

High school seniors in Kalamazoo RESA's Education for the Arts and Education for Employment programs were recognized for their impressive academic accomplishments at the 2018 Outstanding Senior Awards Breakfast.

47 High School Seniors Honored at 32nd Excellence in Education Awards Banquet

Kalamazoo County’s outstanding high school seniors and their significant educators were recognized for their academic achievements at the 32nd annual Excellence in Education Awards Banquet on Wednesday, April 18.

YOU Receives $4,000 Pop Up Giving Donation

“We are very thankful for the community support that we’ve received and very excited that together we are able to prepare youth for careers in the local area. It is truly a win for our youth, the local businesses and our community,” said Karen Carlisle, YOU Director.

Head Start Welcomes Potential Recruits

Those in attendance were welcomed by Head Start Principal Rachel Roberts, Vice Principal Bethany Foote as well as several other staff members and teachers.

The Power of PRE-K Prepared Payton for Kindergarten

Payton was shy when he started going to Head Start as a 3-year-old. He didn’t talk much, and he stuttered when he did. As he finishes up his second year in the program, he no longer stutters and he’s opened up socially.

4th Annual Transition Fair a Success

With more than 90 people in attendance and 27 organizations represented, the event creates a great opportunity for students with disabilities and their families to think about life after school, as well as the specific challenges they may meet.

WMU Sends Kalamazoo County STEM Students on a Mission to Dream Big

More than 300 Kalamazoo County STEM students traveled to a private viewing of “Dream Big: Engineering Our World” in Imax 3-D, sponsored by the Western Michigan University College of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

YAP Choir Recognized as Honored Guests at the Alliance for DisAbility Awareness Benefit Dinner

The Kalamazoo RESA Young Adult Program Choir traveled to Dearborn on Thursday, February 1, as the guests of honor at the Alliance for DisAbility Awareness Benefit Dinner where they received a $6,400 donation.

EFE Honored as 2018 Catalyst University's School of the Year

Kalamazoo RESA's Education for Employment program was recognized with the esteemed 2018 Catalyst University School of the Year award on Thursday, January 25th.

ORS Supreme Court Ruling Regarding 3% Contribution to Retiree Healthcare Fund

Former Kalamazoo RESA employees should please complete and submit the change of address form.

Michigan Students Test Drive Pathfinder Resource

The State of Michigan rolled out a new web-based career and college exploration tool called Pathfinder, which was introduced during a press conference.

Open House Set to Help Students Choose a Career Path

Kalamazoo County students and their families are invited to connect the dots to their future as they explore the many opportunities that EFA, EFE and EMC have to offer! Chat with instructors, discover EMC options and make informed decisions for your future!

Kalamazoo County Pre-K Enrolling 4-Year-Olds Today

If your child turned four years old on or before December 1, they could be receiving high-quality pre-kindergarten education, at low or no-cost, as early as this month.

Kalamazoo RESA, A Michigan Breastfeeding- Friendly Workplace

Kalamazoo RESA was recently awarded with the Michigan Breastfeeding-Friendly Workplace Silver Award by the Michigan Breast Feeding Network.

EFE Students Pitch Ideas at Shark Week

200 Education for Employment Business students from Schoolcraft, Vicksburg, Portage Northern and Parchment high schools traveled to Davenport University in November to compete in Shark Week.

2017 Grant Recipients Honored

Kalamazoo RESA’s Foundation and the Board of Education recently honored the 2017 winners of Employee Enrichment Grants and the Targeted Assistance Grant.

Take Me to the River Thrills at State Theatre

Kalamazoo RESA’s Education for the Arts partnered with the Kalamazoo State Theatre to bring the iconic concert experience, Take Me to the River, to 1,600 Kalamazoo County students on Monday, November 13.

Business & Industry Partner to Bring MiCareerQuest Southwest Back to Kalamazoo

Nearly 5,000 eighth-graders from southwest Michigan explored in-demand careers at the hands-on MiCareerQuest Southwest Community Open House and Job Fair career exploration event.

Cyber Wizards Head to Detroit

The Gull Lake Computer Science class, the Cyber Wizards, are headed to Detroit on Monday, October 30, as they move on to the second round of the Governor’s High School Cyber Challenge at the North American International Cyber Summit.

EFE Student Stuns at Art Hop

Visitors were lined out the door to view EFE student, Jessalyn Kline’s, Art Hop gallery on October 6th.

Don Dailey, Ed-Fi Alliance Ambassador of the Year

According to the Ed-Fi Alliance, through Dailey’s leadership, the Michigan Data Hub has made data more readily accessible to educators in Michigan, ultimately benefiting learning outcomes for all students.

Wellness Team Honored as Best and Brightest

WellStride, the Kalamazoo RESA wellness team, was recently named one of Michigan’s Best and Brightest in Wellness.

Carla Osborn, New Administrator, Joins Early Childhood Team

Welcome, Carla Osborn, the new Early Childhood Administrator of the Great Start Readiness Program.

Head Start Welcomes Bethany Foote as New Assistant Principal

A Michigan-native with 11 years of experience in education, Bethany Foote feels passionately about working with families to support the early development of young children.

Health & Wellness Fair Draws Kalamazoo Families

On Thursday, August 17th, Kalamazoo RESA Head Start and the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) hosted the 2nd Annual Health & Wellness Fair at the Family Health Center in Kalamazoo.

Enroll Today for Kalamazoo County Pre-K

The first day of school is quickly approaching! There’s still time to enroll your three and four-year-olds in one of the many no-cost or low-cost Pre-K classrooms throughout Kalamazoo County.

Kalamazoo RESA Welcomes New Assistant Superintendent of Instruction

Dr. Jennifer Sell looks forward to the opportunity to support local districts, teachers and students through her new position.

Don Dailey Discusses Education Data Interoperability with the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation

It's essential for teachers to have access to student data all in one place.

Shelly Hawthorne to Take on New Role

An 18-year veteran of Kalamazoo RESA, Hawthorne’s most recent position within the agency was as Coordinator of Deaf/Hard of Hearing (DHH) and Visually Impaired Services.

Graduation Season at Kalamazoo RESA

The end of the school year marks a busy and exciting time for Kalamazoo RESA programs and services. End-of-year projects, events and celebrations fill the calendars as students and staff celebrate a year of achievements.

Thank you, Radisson Plaza Hotel Kalamazoo!

During the months of April and May, the Radisson Plaza Hotel in downtown Kalamazoo, raised $1,974 for Kalamazoo RESA’s Autism Program.

Tina Tribu Elected REMC Association President

Kalamazoo RESA’s Tina Tribu was recently elected as the president of the statewide Regional Educational Media Center (REMC) Association. Tribu’s presidency is slated to begin on July 1st and will last for three years.

Rachel Roberts to Lead Head Start

Congratulations to Rachel Roberts, Assistant Principal of Kalamazoo RESA Head Start, who was recently named the new Principal. She succeeds Stephanie Lemmer, who has been hired as Superintendent of Centreville Public Schools. Rachel has served Kalamazoo RESA for the last four years as a site supervisor, MTSS coordinator, and most recently as assistant principal at Head Start. Prior to that, she was an elementary teacher.

Tori Wentela Assumes New Role

Tori Wentela, Administrator of Offsite Special Education Programs, has been named the new Program Improvement and Accountability Administrator. This position, formerly the Administrator of Monitoring, Compliance and Data Collection, belonged to incoming Assistant Superintendent of Special Education Mindy Miller. Wentela has been in her current role for 15 months.

YOU receives funding to expand Talent Tours

Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU) recently received a generous grant of $20,000 from the Sally Appleyard Trust. The funding will be used to extend and enhance youth talent tours, which the program uses to connect young people with in-demand careers.

Kalamazoo County Students Impress at the 4th Annual STEM Showcase

Kalamazoo County K-12 students demonstrated innovative thinking and hard work at the 4th Annual STEM Showcase on Friday, May 12th.

Kalamazoo-area students win the FIRST World Robotics Championship

Kalamazoo RESA and Education for Employment are proud supporters of the Stryke Force robotics team. Learn more about the team's victory in this story by MLive.

Congratulations to the Young Adult Program's Class of 2017!

Festivities began with the processional of students to the tune of Justin Timberlake’s upbeat pop hit “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” On Wednesday, June 17, students danced down the aisle to where they would be honored as the Class of 2017 at the Young Adult Program’s Celebration of Achievement.

WoodsEdge Learning Center Graduation

Seven students from WoodsEdge Learning Center (WELC) graduated from the special education program and earned certificates of achievement on Friday, June 16th.

Applications to fill YAA School Board vacant seat are being accepted now

The Youth Advancement Academy School Board is looking to fill a vacant seat position. All applications are due 5/22/2017 or until filled.

Kalamazoo County Transition Fair a Success

Making the move to post-high school life is tough. The County-Wide Transition Team at Kalamazoo RESA helps students with disabilities and their families think about life after school and works with them to face the specific challenges they meet.

Valley Center School 2017 Commencement

On Friday, May 26th, Valley Center School graduated two seniors, Anthony Hofacker of Parchment, and Jalen Miles of Kalamazoo.

Kalamazoo RESA to Provide Success Coaches for Employees

Kalamazoo RESA has partnered with Michigan Works! Southwest and the Southwest Michigan Employer Resource Network (SWERN) to provide employees with access to confidential resource opportunities. SWERN strives to connect people with resources for employee success at work and in life, and Kalamazoo RESA is happy to extend the services to its employees.

Employment Helps Young Man Prepare for His Future

In the kitchen at Bravo! Restaurant and Café, employees work seamlessly, measuring, cutting and mixing ingredients, calling out to one another, and efficiently handing off prepared plates and dirty dishes. Chef and part owner Shawn Hagen has been with the Southwest Michigan restaurant for 28 years. He knows what it takes to be successful in this bustling, high-energy world, and he believes Trevor Kingsbury has it.

Talking Tiny at Kalamazoo RESA

The Tiny Talkers speech therapy group has seen real results from its tiny, talking students since it began in December 2014. Speech therapists Diane Merkel and Andrea Yancer conceived the idea and implemented the sessions upon recognizing a need for students in the transition phase, ages 2 ½ - 3 years old.

Education for Employment Honors Kalamazoo County's Outstanding Seniors

In celebrating Kalamazoo County’s Education for Employment (EFE) outstanding seniors, students from public and non-public schools were selected for recognition.

Scholarship and Grant Recipients thank the Kalamazoo RESA Foundation

In 2015/16 the Kalamazoo RESA Foundation awarded $60,672 in scholarships and grants to students and educators pursuing further education. Read what a few of the recipients had to say about the Foundation and their awards.

Excellence in Special Education Awards Announced

Wertz Warriors Raise $285,000 for Special Olympics Michigan

In the spirit of Opening Day for the 2017 baseball season, we recognize the work of the late Vic Wertz, former Detroit Tigers’ first baseman and outfielder, as well as Kalamazoo RESA’s own Stephanie Steffer.

Education for Employment's Culinary Arts Program Recognized by MOSPA

The Kalamazoo RESA Education for Employment’s Culinary Arts program has been recognized by the Michigan Occupational Special Populations Association (MOSPA) as a recipient of the 2017 MOSPA Program Award-Secondary.

Area Schools Commit to Reading Now Network, Efforts to Boost Early Literacy

Superintendents from seven Intermediate School Districts (ISDs) in Southwest Michigan committed to support early literacy efforts through the Reading Now Network at a meeting on Thursday, March 9.

Applications Open for Summer Youth Employment Program

The Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU) summer youth employment program, renamed MyCITY, is now accepting applications. Youth between the ages of 14-18 who live in the City of Kalamazoo or attend a Kalamazoo Public School may apply now through April 23.

Kalamazoo RESA 2015/16 Annual Report

The Kalamazoo RESA 2015/16 Annual Report is now available. Check it out here.

Mindy Miller Named New Assistant Superintendent of Special Education

Congratulations to Mindy Miller, who will begin transitioning into the role of Assistant Superintendent for Special Education on March 1. She will follow Laurie Montgomery who plans to retire June 7.

Early Childhood Special Education Welcomes New Administrator, Jennifer Sova

Jennifer Sova has been selected as the new Early Childhood Special Education administrator, upon recommendation to the Kalamazoo RESA Board of Education. With a passion for Early Childhood, Sova hopes to impact students and families while here at KRESA

Early Childhood Special Education Administrator to Retire

After 27 years of loyal service to Kalamazoo RESA, Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Administrator Dr. Carmen Jonaitis will retire on December 31, 2016. Jonaitis's passion for improving the lives of students with special needs has driven her long success at KRESA, where she started out as a volunteer during high school.

Charter communications announces new Spectrum Internet Assist program at Kalamazoo RESA

Kalamazoo RESA housed an event by Charter Communications to announce its new initiative, Spectrum Internet Assist, on Monday, November 28th. The initiative will help supply low-cost, high speed broadband internet services to eligible families.

Stuff the turkey

The Stuff the Turkey food drive was a remarkable success, and will feed a total of 65 families a free Thanksgiving meal. The Families received baskets stocked full with stuffing, potatoes, gravy, corn, green beans, cranberry salad, pasta, a dessert, roasting pan, a gift card to help provide a main course, such as a turkey or ham, as well as extra sides and meals for the four-day weekend.

Transition Fair Prepares Students with Disabilities for Post-Secondary Life

Making the move to post-high school life is tough. The County-Wide Transition Team at Kalamazoo RESA helps students with disabilities and their families think about life after school and works with them to face the specific challenges they meet.

Team visits white house

Kalamazoo RESA’s Eric Stewart is a member of a Michigan Works! Southwest winning team that was recognized for its work in a Department of Labor sponsored White House Customer Design Challenge. The winning teams were invited to the White House where they presented their findings and met with White House leaders and high-ranking officials from the Department of Labor.

WoodsEdge welcomes new principal

Aubree Spencer is the new principal of WoodsEdge Learning Center. She earned a bachelor’s degree in special education and a master’s degree in special education administration from Western Michigan University. She’s currently pursuing her doctorate from WMU.

New principal leading Juvenile Home Schools

Laura Draper has assumed the top leadership position at the Juvenile Home Schools. She was hired as principal to replace Adam Danapilis, who is now principal at the Young Adult Program.

Gary Brown to step down from Board; applications to fill his seat are being accepted now.

The Kalamazoo RESA Board of Education regretfully accepted the resignation of Board Secretary Gary Brown. His resignation is effective Nov. 30, 2016. The Board will appoint someone to fill his seat. Anyone interested must submit a completed application to the Kalamazoo RESA Superintendent’s Office by October 10, 2016, at noon.

New Name, Same Service at the KRESA Print Center

The KRESA Print Center, formerly known as REMC 12 Printing, has a new name and a bigger team.

Kathy Stuby Begins as the Director of Early Childhood Services

With 33 years of experience in education, Kathy Stuby is excited about her new role as the Director of Early Childhood Services.

EFE Welcomes New Program Administrator

Education for Employment (EFE) is excited to welcome Cameron Buck as its newest Program Administrator. Originally from Battle Creek, Buck began his college career at Kellogg Community College and later transferred to Western Michigan University where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 2003 and his master’s degree in Educational Technology in 2006.

From Troubled Teen to Honored Alumni

As the recipient of the Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) Alumni of the Year Award, Luke Wagner is an exemplary model of the adage, “hard work pays off.” Wagner was recognized by JMG, which is part of the national Jobs for America's Graduates program that helps young people graduate and make successful transitions to postsecondary education or meaningful employment.

YAP Students Release CD

The Young Adult Program celebrated the hard work of its students with a CD release party on Wednesday, June 8.

Kalamazoo RESA Honored 18 Retirees

Kalamazoo RESA was privileged to honor the hard work and dedication of 18 retiring employees on Wednesday, May 18.

YAP staff, students will miss Deb Wild

After six years with the Kalamazoo RESA Young Adult Program (YAP), Principal Deb Wild will finish out the school year and end her tenure with YAP. Wild cited her most unforgettable moment at YAP as the end of her first year.

How can you tell if your child is drinking alcohol?

Although the following signs may indicate a problem with alcohol or other drugs, some also reflect normal growing pains. Experts believe that a drinking problem is more likely if you notice several of these signs at the same time, if they occur suddenly, or if some of them are extreme in nature.

EFE students get down to business

Kalamazoo County high school students recently competed in the Education for Employment (EFE) Business Bash Competition at Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC). The event collaborates with industry professionals to host mini workshops, followed by student competitions.

EFA provides students with unique theatre experience

Love that poem? Love that dog! Education for the Arts (EFA) recently provided Kalamazoo grade school students with an opportunity to see the theatre production show “Love that Dog” at the Kalamazoo Civic Theatre.

Parchment man shines in successful school-to-work transition

If you shop at Harding's supermarket in Parchment, hopefully you'll meet 20-year-old Xavier Gamez. Just look for the electric smile and shelves arranged so perfectly, you'll be inspired to snap a photo.

Kristi Carambula, early childhood director, retires

While change is inevitable, it is still tough. Tears are falling in Kalamazoo County this week, especially among those who work in early childhood education. Kristi Carambula, the director of early childhood at Kalamazoo RESA, retires March 11.

EFE Veterinary program honored by State of Michigan

Kalamazoo RESA’s Education for Employment Veterinary Science program is one of four programs in Michigan to receive the 2016 Excellence in Practice Award from the Michigan Department of Education.

EFE puts student on the fast track

Mitch Taber earns certifications early; prepares for a promising future

Pre-Kindergarten Classes

Sign up now for pre-kindergarten classes!

Kalamazoo RESA's own Back-to-School celebration video!

A lovely autumn-themed collage of images and music, this 3-minute creation by our own Anne Goodrich weaves inspirational quotes about teaching with photos of KRESA staff educating, serving, bonding and caring.

Change the first five years and you change everything!

"If we invest in programs that promote learning beginning at birth, the statistics will change, the stories will change, the future will change."

Former EFE student to the rescue!

What would you do if you found two baby squirrels in your backyard who only moved in circles and couldn’t walk normally? When Portage Northern graduate Kelsey Skinner encountered that situation recently, she knew just who to contact: Her Veterinary Science instructor from last year!

Kids in K-8 learn theater and dance with the pros of PACE, for free

Children featured in this new video highlighting a very special offering of Kalamazoo RESA’s Education for the Arts program.

Look who’s giving a TEDx talk!

Understanding the value of helping kids un-plug and explore hands-on learning and social skills will be the topic when our own Ethan Alexander, Behavior Consultant for the Instructional Center, speaks at TEDx Kalamazoo

LIVE from downtown Kalamazoo . . . It’s Monday Night starring Dave Campbell!

Our fearless superintendent will be in the spotlight Mon., March 3 at 7 p.m. as the featured guest on Public Media Network’s “Monday Night Live with Keith Roe.”

Construction alert! Alternate route to West Campus

To avoid construction zones, here's a good alternate route to West Campus:

Art provides a palette of skills for WoodsEdge students

EFA instructors come to WoodsEdge to observe Heather Bigelow’s art classes, and to learn strategies and techniques for teaching art to students with special needs in local school buildings.

YAP educators honored

Congratulations to Deb Wild, our Young Adult Program principal, and YAP teacher Laura Wolfe-Eversole! The duo were recently presented with Excellence in Service-Learning awards.

Life After School: Transition Services help students with disabilities find success

Kalamazoo RESA’s Transition Services help families work together to identify long range goals, ensuring that students with disabilities gain the skills and community connections they need to be successful.

EFE and Habitat for Humanity build and dedicate new home

Kalamazoo Valley Habitat for Humanity (KVHH) dedicated a home to a very lucky homeowner on Sunday, December 14.

EFA teacher receives Inspired Learning Grant

Five individuals, included Education for the Arts instructor Francesca Pileci-Bates, have been awarded $2,500 Inspired Learning grants and one person will receive a $1,000 grant

Free college credit programs highlighted at expo

Several career-education programs of the Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency will be holding an open house for interested students and parents at the Kalamazoo County Expo Center

Kalamazoo RESA paraprofessionals attend a professional learning event

On Friday, January 23, 118 Kalamazoo RESA paraprofessionals attended a professional learning event held at West Campus.

New Deputy Superintendent chosen

The Kalamazoo RESA Board of Education recently approved the hiring of Tom Harwood, Grosse Pointe Public Schools superintendent, as the new Deputy Superintendent.

Thank you, Mr. Gilmore, for linking learners

Chilly temps may linger on, but the Irving S. Gilmore Foundation recently warmed our hearts with three grants to enrich the lives of thousands of area students through the arts

Kalamazoo County Great Start Collaborative

ISAAC (Interfaith Strategy for Advocacy & Action in the Community) will honor Kalamazoo County’s Great Start Collaborative Photo of Jacque Eatmon (GSC) with its 2015 Founders’ Award at a banquet on Saturday, March 14

Dance instructor Pat Plasko honored

Congratulations to Patricia Plasko, Education for the Arts dance instructor, who recently received the 2015 Western Michigan University Partners in Dance: Community Dance Advocacy Award.

Nearly 300 students attend EFE Student Job Fair

Juniors and seniors in the Kalamazoo area recently had the opportunity to meet with more than 60 employers at the Student Job Fair.

First Annual Transition Fair held at West Campus

Making the move to post-high school life is tough. Transition Services at Kalamazoo RESA helps students with disabilities and their families think about life after school and works with them to face the specific challenges they meet.

United 4 Change

United 4 Change brings together businesses, educators, nonprofits and volunteers to partner on specific efforts that inspire students to achieve more, especially in early grade reading and career mentoring

Board appoints Lynne Cowart to empty seat

Longtime educator, former Kalamazoo RESA employee to fill Jim Harrington’s seat on the Board of Education

Kalamazoo RESA Foundation Awarded Donation from Bosch

Bosch Community Fund grant will benefit Education for Employment STEM programs in three Kalamazoo-area schools.

Seeds for Success Parents as Teachers Program

The Parents as Teachers program helps parents with the development of their children from newborn up to three-years-old.

YOU students visit Borgess

Students in the YOU Summer Youth Employment Program recently visited Borgess Medical Center to learn about careers in healthcare and fitness.

EFE Student Designs Homecoming Shirt

Caitlyn Boyer is a second-year student in the Education for Employment Art and Design Career Skills class and a senior at Kalamazoo Central.

Intern Runs to Raise Funds

Julian Borst of Kalamazoo, an intern with Project SEARCH, recently ran the Bronson Children’s Hospital 5K to raise funds for the hospital.

Enhanced Partnership Expands Early/Middle College

Kalamazoo RESA and Kalamazoo Valley Community College announced this week an enhanced partnership aimed at expanding the county’s Early/Middle College.

Lisa Bartell recognized as the MCPA Honoree of the Year

Congratulations to Lisa Bartell! The Michigan Career Placement Association recently recognized Bartell as the MCPA Honoree of the Year.

Determined to Succeed: Foundation scholarship helps YOU student realize her dreams

Tia Portrum of Kalamazoo came to Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU) in the fall of 2013 through the Kalamazoo Education and Employment Partnership (KEEP) program.

EFE Students Award Winning Recipe

Congratulations to the Education for Employment (EFE) Culinary Arts students of Team KASA.

Determined to Succeed

Foundation scholarship helps YOU student realize her dreams.

WKZO Interview with Dave Campbell

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Kalamazoo RESA Foundation Radio Ad: Choose Your Legacy

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YAP Honors Employers

Kalamazoo RESA’s Young Adult Program marked the end of a successful year of student work experiences with their fourth annual Employer Recognition Breakfast on June 3.

Project Lead The Way hosts STEM Showcase

On March 13, 40 students from kindergarten through 12th grade exhibited their science, technology, engineering and match (STEM) problem-solving skills at the Kalamazoo RESA service center.

WoodsEdge recognized for entrepreneurial classroom

The Michigan Council for Exceptional Children (link: http://www.michigancec.org/) recently selected WoodsEdge Learning Center to receive the 2015 Entrepreneurial Classroom Award.

Kalamazoo County Great Start Collaborative earns 2015 ISAAC

ISAAC (Interfaith Strategy for Advocacy & Action in the Community) will honor Kalamazoo County’s Great Start Collaborative (GSC) with its 2015 Founders’ Award at a banquet on Saturday, March 14. Jacque Eatmon, GSC’s coordinator, will accept the award for the collaborative.

Linking learners with culture and art

The Foundation’s grant to WoodsEdge Learning Center will help fund its Music Therapy Program for students with significant disabilities. “We’re thrilled that our students will continue to benefit from regular music therapy, engaging their brains and bodies in curriculum through music, thanks to the generous support of The Irving S. Gilmore Foundation,” says WoodsEdge director Angela Telfer.

Luke recognized as "talent champion"

Imagine 10,000 young people in your county suddenly driven to join the manufacturing workforce. It seems like an impossible dream, but Jason Luke has utilized the financial, material and human resources in Kalamazoo County necessary to attain it.

Education ReConnection

Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU) helps students finish school with an online class and support program, Education ReConnection.

Kindergarten Readiness

Jacque Eatmon, coordinator of the Kalamazoo RESA Great Start Collaborative, talked with Channel 3 News recently about The Learning Network's collaborative initiative for kindergarten readiness.

Math educator receives regional award

Danielle Seabold received the Michigan Council of Teachers of Mathematics Region 1 Director’s Award at the 2014 annual conference at Hope College on August 6. Seabold, a Kalamazoo RESA Instructional Center math consultant since 2007, was recognized for her leadership in mathematics education and her efforts in the development and implementation of new teaching strategies and techniques.

Kalamazoo RESA Tech Trio

The Kalamazoo RESA Instructional Technology Team strives to empower teachers to transform student learning through the use of technology integration. Keith Stamper, Tina Tribu and Jeremie Coplin (pictured left to right above), provide instructional technology support to southwest Michigan schools in partnership with Technology Services/MiTech and REMC 12.

Bronwyn Drost, YOU ES Honored

Kalamazoo area hiring and employment successes were among those celebrated recently by the Michigan Works! Association at the recent First Annual Prosperity Awards. Bronwyn Drost, Y.O.U. Employment Services, pictured third from left, was one of the award recipients.

Congratulations to our 2014 Retirees!

New adventures and new beginnings are in store for some of our Kalamazoo RESA family. Recently our retirees were recognized at a special dinner held in their honor. Pictured above, top row, left to right: Joan Raffenaud, Barb Kortes, Marsha Cain, Ken Mitchell, and Laura Wolfe-Eversole.

Most Likely to Succeed - the Power of Pre-K

When education starts with pre-K, students are more likely to thrive in the classroom, graduate from high school and earn higher pay. Learn more about the importance of pre-K education in our new video!

Employers Honored For Providing Work Experience to Young Adults With Disabilities

How do you live a life that matters? Nauman Choudhry believes what counts is not your success, but your significance; not what you’ve learned, but what you’ve taught. Choudhry, director of housekeeping for Greenleaf Hospitality Group, will relate that philosophy to his work with Kalamazoo RESA’s Young Adult Program (YAP) in his keynote address for their third annual Employer Recognition Breakfast on Wed., June 4.

Restaurateur wins statewide award for work with Kalamazoo RESA students

Mike Leeuw helps students with disabilities to learn the restaurant trades by giving them work experiences in some of the restaurants he owns. He and his wife Jane own eight eateries, which provide plenty of opportunities for young people, the folks at Kalamazoo RESA's Work Based Learning Program say. And that is great.

Hispanic American Council 1st Annual Dia del Nino/ Children’s Day

Children’s Day is recognized on various days in many places throughout the world. The Hispanic American Council 1st Annual Dia del Nino/Children’s Day was a free celebration with books, fun activities, food and music.

Select Education for Employment seniors lauded for career development, academics

Honors were bestowed this week on 84 area high school seniors who’ve excelled in the Education for Employment (EFE) program. The 28th annual EFE Outstanding Senior Awards Ceremony at the Radisson recognized students’ achievements in career development and academics.

Most Likely to Succeed - The Power of Pre-K

When education starts with pre-K, students are more likely to thrive in the classroom, graduate from high school and earn higher pay. Learn more about the importance of pre-K education in our new video!

WoodsEdge students celebrate achievements

Students and staff at Kalamazoo RESA's WoodsEdge Learning Center recognized several of the school's students for their achievements during an end-of-year ceremony on June 10. The ceremony, which included student musical performances and a photo slide show, was followed by a reception at the school for students and their families.

Local school districts honored for energy management

Several Kalamazoo County school districts that are part of an energy management consortium led by Kalamazoo RESA are achieving big savings with energy-efficient behavior – and now those good habits are earning national recognition.