Education Unpacked

This extended-length episode goes deeper than usual to explore Block Imaging’s mission of “people matter” and its partnership with Wilson Talent Center to create work-based learning and apprenticeship programs for high school students.
Listeners will hear how hands-on opportunities, mentoring, and career-readiness training help young people launch technical careers, stay in the community, and contribute to medical imaging that supports patient care—making the extra time well worth it given how rich the content is.

From Classroom to Career: How Wilson Talent Center Jumpstarted a Future at MSU
On this episode of the Education Unpacked Podcast, host Micki O'Neil talks with Aiden Daenzer about his experience in the Wilson Talent Center’s Business and Risk Management program. Aidan shares how job shadows, internships, industry connections, and hands-on training helped him prepare for college and career exploration.
They discuss the value of networking, earning industry credentials, creating a personal mission, and using technical education to find direction and confidence for future opportunities.

In this episode, Micki O'Neil speaks with Monique Colizzi and Jamie George of Wilson Talent Center about the work-based learning umbrella—how job shadows, internships, and career training equip juniors and seniors with both technical certifications and the soft skills employers demand.
They share examples of local employer partnerships, student success stories, and how experiences can lead to paid jobs or apprenticeships after graduation.

Episode 7: How Work-Based Learning Preps Students for Real Careers (Wilson Talent Center)
On the Education UnPacked Podcast, host Micki O’Neil talks with Monique Colizzie and Jamie George, Work-Based Learning Coordinators at Ingham ISD’s Wilson Talent Center, about how juniors and seniors gain real-world experience before graduation.
They break down the four work-based learning tiers—career awareness, exploration, preparation, and training—from career fairs, field trips, interviews, and job shadows to resume/cover-letter coaching, mock interviews/job fairs, and paid or unpaid workplace placements. Hear how the twice-monthly “Boss Mode Boot Camp” builds soft skills (first impressions, initiative, dependability, interviewing, professionalism, leadership), why 22+ industry partners are engaged, and how 20 students are already working this year (with most placements for second-year seniors).
Discover what employers want (problem-solving, teamwork, reliability), how students present as “job-ready,” and how Wilson Talent Center is building a local talent pipeline that connects businesses with skilled, motivated teens.
🎧 Listen at BackPackPress.org/UnPacked to learn how schools and employers partner to launch students’ careers.

Episode 6 | Life After High School: Transition Programs That Build Independence
In this episode, host Micki O’Neil talks with Michel McDonald, Director of Transition Programming at Ingham ISD, about post-high school services designed for students ages 18–26.
They discuss Project SEARCH—a one-year internship program created in partnership with Michigan State University and Michigan Rehabilitation Services—and SAIL (Skills for Adult Independent Living), which offers hands-on work experience, life skills development, and community-based training.
Listeners will learn about strong employment outcomes for graduates, individualized supports, transportation and community access, and how families can connect with Ingham ISD to explore these transition opportunities and next steps toward independent living.
Listen now at BackPackPress.org/UnPacked

Episode 5 | Life After High School: Transition Programs That Build Independence
In this episode of the UnPacked Podcast, host Micki O’Neil talks with Michel McDonald, Director of Transition Programming at Ingham ISD, about post-high school services designed for students ages 18–26.
They discuss SAIL (Skills for Adult Independent Living), which offers hands-on work experience, life skills development, and community-based training.
Listeners will learn about strong employment outcomes for graduates, individualized supports, transportation and community access, and how families can connect with Ingham ISD to explore these transition opportunities and next steps toward independent living.
Listen now at BackPackPress.org/UnPacked
The conversation highlights the focus on independence, the variety of placements based on student needs, and program growth that expands opportunities for young adults with disabilities.

Episode 4 | IEPs vs. 504 Plans: Unpacking Eligibility, Rights & Support Teams
Every student deserves not just access—but meaningful support and full participation in school. In this episode, we dive into the two key pathways that provide that support in K–12 education: the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
Join us as we explore:
The civil-rights roots of Section 504 and how it paved the way to today’s accommodations.
How IDEA mandates specialized instruction and related services for eligible students—leading to an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
How Section 504 offers a broader eligibility definition and accommodations via a 504 Plan, for students who may not qualify under IDEA but need access.
What the eligibility criteria look like for each—what qualifies a student under IDEA vs. Section 504.
The team of educators, specialists, families and administrators who collaborate behind the scenes to make both IEPs and 504 Plans effective in practice.
Practical tips for school-leaders, teachers, and parents: how to navigate the planning process, understanding rights and roles, and supporting students’ success.
Tune in and build your fluency in these foundational supports—and emerge better equipped to advocate for all learners.
Listen now at BackPackPress.org/UnPacked

Episode 3 | How Michigan’s Intermediate School Districts Support Special Education
Every student deserves the chance to succeed—and for many, that starts with the right support system. In this episode, we explore how Michigan’s Intermediate School Districts (ISDs)—also known as Regional Education Service Agencies (RESAs)—play a vital role in providing special education services throughout the state.
Hear from educators and experts as they discuss how ISDs collaborate with local school districts to meet diverse student needs, deliver specialized staff and resources, and ensure compliance with state and federal education laws.
This episode sheds light on the impact of these partnerships on students, families, and communities—and how coordinated support helps every learner reach their full potential.
Listen now at BackPackPress.org/UnPacked

Episode 2 | How Artificial Intelligence Is Transforming Education
Artificial intelligence is reshaping classrooms across Michigan—and the conversation is just beginning. In this episode, host Micki O’Neil talks with Ingham ISD Superintendent Jason Mellema about how AI is transforming teaching, learning, and school operations.
From personalized instruction and real-time student support to AI pilot projects at Ingham ISD, this episode explores how emerging technology is redefining what’s possible in education. Learn how schools are using AI to enhance—not replace—human connection, bridge opportunity gaps, and prepare students for a rapidly changing world.
Listen now at BackPackPress.org/UnPacked to discover how educators are navigating innovation with equity, ethics, and excitement for the future of learning.

Episode 1.1 | How Michigan’s Schools Collaborate to Support Every Student
Across Michigan’s public education system, schools work together to meet the diverse academic and social-emotional needs of students and families—helping every learner reach their full potential.
Most people are familiar with their local school district, but fewer understand the vital role of Intermediate School Districts (ISDs)—also known as Regional Education Service Agencies (RESAs). These organizations provide specialized programs, professional development, and shared services that strengthen teaching and learning in local communities statewide.
In this first episode of a four-part series, Ingham ISD Superintendent Jason Mellema explains how local districts and ISDs collaborate to create a comprehensive network of educational opportunities, ensuring that every Michigan student has access to the support, expertise, and innovation they need to succeed.
Listen now at BackPackPress.org/UnPacked to learn how Michigan’s schools truly work better together.