Professional Development Hub

Empowering Future Problem-Solvers: West Michigan Design Prize 2026–27

Join us for a professional development session focused on the West Michigan Design Prize and the Design Thinking process. This experience will prepare Grades 4–12 educators to guide students through a real-world, project-based learning challenge that builds creativity, empathy, and problem-solving skills.

The West Michigan Design Prize is a regional collaboration that connects schools with ISD support, colleges, and industry partners. Educators will learn how to integrate design thinking into their instruction and support students as they move through a full design cycle during the 2026–27 school year.

Session highlights include:
• Overview of the West Michigan Design Prize structure and timeline
• Hands-on design thinking practice through a rapid design sprint
• Strategies for classroom integration and student mentorship
• Collaboration with regional educators, colleges, and industry partners
• Support for student creativity, agency, and real-world problem-solving

Additional benefits:
• Mentorship support from ISD consultants and regional partners
• Professional learning network across West Michigan
• Connections to core curriculum
• Opportunities for college and industry collaboration
• Earn 10 SCECH credits

Tuesday, June 9, 2026 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Register at: bit.ly/26CUR0609
Registration closes June 5, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST

Questions? Contact Lindsay Lane, Innovative Learning Consultant at [email protected]

Kent ISD 2026-2027 Professional Learning Lineup is officially open for registration.

We are committed to providing high-quality professional development that respects your time and your teaching style. Our upcoming schedule offers a variety of formats to ensure you can find the right fit for your professional goals.

Learning formats for the 2026-2027 school year:

In-Person: Traditional workshops and collaborative networking.

Virtual Learning: Interactive, live sessions held online.

Podcasts: Professional growth content designed for on-the-go listening.

Asynchronous: Flexible, self-paced modules you can complete at any time.

Browse the plan and find a course that fits your schedule! https://kentisd-cdn.fxbrt.com/downloads/pd_hub/2024-2025_pl_plan_1.png

Check out my favorite math consultants in action…Kent ISDs Kelli VanSetters (president) and Sammi TenHave (Secretary) have active roles with MCTM to make sure all educators in Kent county’s voices are heard.

Teachers and Parents…looking for a fun night out? Bring your kids, bring your neighbors, help us spread the word and share with your students families.

Join the Kent ISD EdTech team for a free community movie night featuring The Mitchells vs. the Machines, a funny and heartfelt story about family and technology. Adults will receive conversation starters to spark meaningful discussions about AI with the kids in their lives. Bring your kids, share it with neighbors, and make it a night out (Kent County only)! PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED: https://iamed.tech/mvm26 Professional Development Hub

It’s Teacher Appreciation Week!

Kent ISD PD Hub is proud to celebrate the educators serving students and schools across Kent County and West Michigan. Your dedication, leadership, and care help create meaningful learning experiences every day.

Thank you for the impact you make in our classrooms, districts, and communities.
Kent ISD PD Hub is proud to celebrate the educators serving students and schools across Kent County and West Michigan. Your dedication, leadership, and care help create meaningful learning experiences every day.