On November 1, Kalamazoo RESA (KRESA) hosted the fifth Annual Educating Outside the Box Symposium at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. This day of learning was geared towards educators who work in alternative and innovative programs. During the day, two inspiring keynote speakers, Ben Talsma and Kevin Honeycutt, spoke on creative ways to increase student engagement and motivation, and a variety of breakout sessions were offered to the over 170 attendees.

Following the morning keynote address, Kalamazoo RESA’s Instructional Services and Community Supports (ISCS) team awarded the Educating Outside the Box Symposium Awards. This award is given to those who serve as champions to meet the unique needs of our students in alternative and innovative settings.

2024 Educating Outside the Box Award Recipients:

• Dawn Krasts
  Educator and Department Head at Comstock Compass High School
  Dawn has been a pillar of Compass Alternative High School for nearly 30 years, inspiring students with innovative, hands-on learning experiences. From hands-on learning to engaging field trips, Dawn ensures her students experience education in meaningful ways. Known for her daily hallway presence and empathetic support, she meets students’ social and personal needs, creating a welcoming environment. A mentor to colleagues and a driving force behind programs like “Service Wednesdays” where students apply their learning to real-world scenarios, Dawn’s commitment to student engagement and life skills is unmatched.
  
  
• Tiffany Harris
  Dean of Students at Calhoun Community Highschool
  Tiffany is dedicated to enhancing the school environment for both students and staff. She has implemented several programs, including the "Academic Probation" program, which supports students facing challenges with attendance, behavior, grades, or a combination of the three, by helping them set and achieve SMART goals. Since its inception, the program has improved both student performance and attendance. Tiffany is also the driving force behind the annual "I See You" event, which brings in facilitators to foster connections among students and staff, building a stronger school community.
   

Thank you to those who attended and to the incredible staff and partners who helped make it a great day of learning. If you have someone you would like to nominate for the 2025 Educating Outside the Box Award, please complete this form. 

 
About KRESA ISCS: KRESA ISCS provides educators and community members with leadership, support, and resources to ensure all students are college and career ready. This is accomplished by providing the most current training, coaching, and technical assistance available throughout Southwest Michigan. Learn more here.