Instructional Services

Bay-Arenac ISD, Instructional Services Department

The Bay-Arenac ISD, Instructional Services Department is committed to supporting local educational leaders and educators in achieving their goals through leadership, coaching, instructional support, and professional development. With a focus on long-term impact, the department continues to advance key strategic initiatives, including the Curriculum Council Strategic Plan, now in its sixth year.

Key Areas of Responsibility

Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

• Facilitating the Michigan Integrated Continuous Improvement Process (MICIP) and expanding mental health services for K-12 students through 31n grant funding.
• Implementing regional health education services and support roles, such as the Whole Child Systems Supervisor, to coordinate social-emotional learning (SEL) and mental health initiatives.
• Partnering with BHWorks and TRAILS to Wellness to provide mental health resources, suicide prevention strategies, and restorative practices.
• Delivering ongoing professional development in trauma-informed practices, behavioral threat assessments, and crisis management.

Early Literacy and Numeracy

• Supporting literacy and numeracy coaching through partnerships with local districts and the BAISD Literacy Network.
• Providing professional development for administrators, coaches, and teachers in literacy and mathematics instruction.
• Promoting early math and science education and fostering teacher collaboration through specialized networks and learning labs.

Truancy and Attendance Support

• Managing truancy referrals and case oversight while offering proactive support through the Truancy Officer and Outreach & Engagement Coordinator.
• Assisting districts in establishing attendance protocols, tracking student attendance data, and identifying intervention strategies to improve engagement and reduce truancy.

Resource and Community Engagement

• Coordinating efforts to provide essential resources—including food, hygiene products, and school supplies—to students in need.
• Facilitating connections between schools and community organizations to ensure students and families have access to vital support services.
• Administering McKinney-Vento grant funds to assist students and families facing housing instability, including transportation support, personal care items, and emergency assistance.

Professional Learning and Conferences

• Offering ongoing professional learning opportunities to educators across all districts to promote continuous growth and development.
• Hosting the Annual Fall Conference, a flagship event for educators in Bay and Arenac Counties, providing a platform for professional collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Partnering with local districts to deliver instructional coaching and mental health support, ensuring educators have the necessary resources to effectively support student success.

District Partnerships for Instructional Coaching & Mental Health Support

• Collaborating with districts to provide targeted instructional coaching aimed at improving teaching practices and student outcomes.
• Enhancing mental health support systems by integrating SEL, mental health services, and restorative practices within school environments.
• Strengthening partnerships to develop a comprehensive, district-wide approach that supports both the academic and emotional well-being of students.

A Commitment to Collaboration

The BAISD Instructional Services Department works closely with local school districts, community organizations, and key stakeholders to foster a supportive and enriching educational environment. Through these collaborative efforts, the department remains dedicated to advancing academic achievement and student well-being.