When Katie Kipp Dohm saw an opportunity to enhance hands-on learning across Ann Arbor’s elementary schools, she knew exactly what her students needed: a safe way to turn their creative visions into reality.

Kipp Dohm, the Project Lead The Way (PLTW) teacher at Haisley Elementary, secured a $4,000 grant from Kiwanis of Ann Arbor last year that has transformed how young students approach engineering challenges. With the funding, the Elementary PLTW team purchased ChompSaws, which are specialized cardboard-cutting machines designed for safe use by people of all ages, for each elementary school in the district.

When Danielle Capitan received the Distinguished Service Award from the Michigan World Language Association at their annual conference in Lansing on October 24, her recognition was more than just an acknowledgment of her teaching. It was a celebration of her tireless advocacy for something she believes every student deserves.

“I’ve always wanted to dedicate myself to service in public schools, because I believe that every student deserves a holistic education where they can learn alongside their community peers,” Capitan says.

One of the most discussed topics in education in recent years is the use of Artificial Intelligence in classrooms. A pair of Huron 12th graders and a Skyline 11th grader got the chance to share their knowledge and experiences around developing the district’s draft AI Bill of Rights at the 2025 Student Technology Showcase at the Michigan State Capitol.

A lot of kids (and even adults) have a hard time finding the words to express themselves, so I try to find a way to connect with them so they feel more calm and comfortable. I make a lot of picture visuals that I use with students to give them other ways to describe how they feel.  It also helps to have fidgets, stuffed animals, and calming items that students like to help them feel comfortable.

Wines Elementary kindergarteners had an amazing time at Domino’s Farms Petting Farm as they launched into their new Arts & Letters unit about farm life. The students got to meet friendly animals up close and learn firsthand about what happens on a farm. Their teachers said this hands-on experience was the perfect way to spark curiosity and excitement for Module 2.