As Lansing USD 469 begins its second full week with students, it’s worth highlighting the professional development and preparation that helped set the stage for the 2025–2026 school year. Over the summer and into August, district leaders and staff participated in a series of events designed to strengthen collaboration, clarify priorities, and build a strong foundation for student success.
Leadership Retreat – August 1, 2025
On August 1, the Lansing USD 469 leadership team, including principals, assistant principals, special education coordinators, and district directors, gathered for the annual back-to-school retreat. The day included updates, training, and planning for the year ahead.
Key topics included:
Instructional Focus: Administrators reviewed NEE indicator trends to guide high-impact instructional practices and began goal-setting aligned with district priorities.
Team-Building: Participants engaged in a “Working Genius” activity led by Director of Teaching and Learning, Miles Azzeh, followed by the Marshmallow Tower Challenge to encourage collaboration across teams.
Technology Training: Apple’s Jim Weber provided hands-on training, helping leaders explore ways to enhance learning and efficiency through technology.
The retreat also finalized the 2025–2026 professional development calendar, reviewed draft testing protocols, and planned special education and co-teaching training.
New Certified Staff Orientation – August 4, 2025
On August 4, Lansing USD 469 welcomed new certified staff members—including first-year teachers and veteran educators new to the district—for a day of introductions, training, and connection.
Highlights included:
District Welcome: Superintendent Marty Kobza set the tone for the day, focusing on community and support.
Resources and Safety: Staff were introduced to the district’s Staff Survival Guide, created by Director of Communications and Marketing, Sharon Burns, and received training on technology and safety protocols from district leaders.
Instructional Priorities: Director of Teaching and Learning, Miles Azzeh, along with instructional coaches Jennifer Nickelson and Caroline Reynolds, led a session on Lansing’s instructional priorities, including the Guaranteed and Viable Curriculum (GVC).
First-Year Teacher Support: Dedicated sessions provided guidance, mentorship, and time for first-year teachers to build connections with peers.
By the end of the day, new staff left with essential resources, a better understanding of district expectations, and a sense of connection to colleagues and the Lansing community.
District Convocation – August 8, 2025
On Friday, August 8th, all staff gathered for the annual district convocation. The program featured updates from Superintendent Kobza, Communications, Student Services, Teaching & Learning, and Technology departments, as well as an engaging trivia activity to introduce new staff members.
The highlight was keynote speaker Dr. Tommy Mabry, who shared his powerful story of perseverance and the impact of education. His message resonated with staff and set an inspiring tone for the year.
Preparing for Success
From leadership training to onboarding new staff and launching the year with convocation, Lansing USD 469 has invested time and energy into equipping its educators for success. The professional development opportunities this summer and early August reflect the district’s focus on collaboration, instructional excellence, and community growth- all with the goal of supporting students in safe, engaging, and challenging learning environments.