What's Happening

The Michigan Council of Teachers of English (MCTE) has selected Eaton Regional Educational Service Agency (RESA) Literacy Consultant Jill Hoort as the 2026-27 recipient of the Ray H. Lawson Award.

Named in honor of beloved educator and past MCTE leader Ray Lawson, this award recognizes an individual whose distinguished career exemplifies lifelong dedication to English language arts instruction, mentorship, and advocacy. Hoort’s career in the classroom and her leadership with the Red Cedar Writing Project at Michigan State University, exemplify the criteria of the Lawson Award. She has served as a teacher, coach, mentor, leader, researcher, and collaborator through her many years in education.

Families in Eaton County are invited to FREE Community Playgroups designed for children and infants from birth through 5 years old, along with their siblings. These fun and engaging playgroups will be held in Grand Ledge, Charlotte and Eaton Rapids. Please see the complete list of playgroups and locations.

Each playgroup offers a welcoming space for families to connect while children enjoy stories, movement activities, art, social interaction and plenty of play. Parents and caregivers must remain with their children at all times, and each child will receive a free book to take home.

Eaton Regional Educational Service Agency (RESA) celebrated the completion of its 2026 Inclusion in Manufacturing Camp, "Picture the Possibilities," a program designed to introduce high school and post high school-aged students with special needs, disabilities or other barriers to employment to careers in manufacturing.

Eaton RESA is excited to welcome two new members to its leadership team: Eileen Prihoda, who joined the Special Education team as the Director for Maple Valley Schools and Related Services, and Crystal Knight, the new Executive Assistant to the Superintendent.