Students are able to learn better when there is a greater sense of openness within the classroom. These can be done through conversation or action. We take a look at ways educators can lead their classrooms in ways that are equitable and inclusive.        

Engineering and community service combine at Edgewood Middle School's GoBabyGo!. Junior high students at this Warsaw school alongside engineering mentors design and build customized toy riding jeeps for toddlers with mobility issues.

Lincoln Jr. High in Plymouth gives students a head start in television and podcast production. Students in the program have access to real cameras, lights, mics and other studio equipment. Digital Storm, as it's called is a great way for students to start their journey with media production and help build confidence and structure.

Children who are learning to read are often hesitant about their reading abilities. Many kids feel more at ease reading to pets, who are simply there to listen—not to judge how well they are reading. Studies have shown that children who read to dogs achieve higher end-of-year reading scores. Young readers can practice reading skills at the New Buffalo Township Library once a week in a new Read to a Therapy Dog session.

Expression through art can be a powerful thing. Students at Southwestern Michigan College got the chance to explore this through the combination of writing and artwork that make up graphic novels. They even got the chance to create themselves in graphic novel form.

Language is a powerful tool. It can be used to express one's feeling and viewpoints. The best way to learn how to understand others though is through a back and forth dialogue. And when tougher issues are discussed in a calm and rational way, these are called courageous dialogues.

#ENOUGH: Plays to End Gun Violence calls on teens to confront gun violence by creating new works of theatre that will spark critical conversations and inspire meaningful action in communities across the country. The South Bend Civic Theatre is one of many theatres across the country producing a set of plays for April 20.

Positive Outlook may appear to be an organized sports club but it is much more than that. The program teaches students the power of teamwork, leadership and other life skills through sports and mentoring in grades 3 – 12.  

Learning trade skills in high school is a good way to be prepared for the future. The automotive refinishing program at the Elkhart Area Career Center offers the students to get real-world hands on experience in the world of car restoration.

The trucking industry needs more drivers. To help fill the vacancies, Lake Michigan College partnered with the Tri Area Trucking School to create a course geared towards getting more truckers back on the road.

Art has a very special power. It can convey people's thoughts and feelings without every using a single word. The Arts of Dignity Series at the University of Notre Dame provides a place to learn about different art forms and find the dignity within.

Students in the CTE program at Dowagiac Union High School are learning about careers not only in class but onsite. The approach is work based learning and students help local businesses by being on the clock, learning hard and soft skills. The school hosted a career fair in which local businesses were invited to bridge the community need and potential workforce.