MASA Impact is a new initiative in collaboration with the association’s strategic partners, that aims to help address critical needs in school districts across the state. The program exemplifies MASA’s commitment to providing unparalleled support to district leaders in their efforts to ensure that every student receives the highest-quality educational experience that they deserve.
The initiative officially kicked off on Tuesday with the MASA Team – along with representatives from Capturing Kids’ Hearts, SET SEG, and Trane – delivering 250 “Winter Warmth Totes” to early education and special education students throughout St. Joseph County ISD. The reusable tote bags were filled with winter essentials, including a hat, scarf, gloves, lip balm, and lotion, to help students be prepared for the cold months ahead.
St. Joseph County ISD was selected as the first MASA Impact recipient thanks to Superintendent Teresa Belote who was randomly selected from more than 200 school leaders who participated in a drawing at the association’s annual Fall Conference in September.
MASA Impact is a staff-led initiative born out of a Culture Committee meeting this past spring. Volunteering and giving back are ongoing priorities for the MASA Team, demonstrated through activities such as adopting families for the holidays, packing backpacks, and cooking meals for those in need. However, many team members expressed an interest in finding more direct ways to engage with member districts and support Michigan students. Once the idea for MASA Impact was introduced, the entire team eagerly embraced it.
MASA envisions this initiative as a model for future collaborations between educators, strategic partners, and communities, furthering its mission to support public education in Michigan and creating a ripple effect that positively impacts everyone involved.