Dreams start early for kindergarteners in Rosi Corl’s Central Elementary kindergarten classroom in Grandville. See a gallery of the Dream Drawings young students created as they describe their hopes for the future.

When Clara stepped into the 3D Animation & Game Design program at Kent Career Tech Center, she wasn’t quite sure what to expect. Now in her second year, she has her sights on a career in this area where she can express herself artistically while mastering high-end technology used in a growing economic sector.

Before they finish high school, Abby and Cole will complete their Associate Degrees at GRCC and have a top five finish at a NASA competition under their belts. They’re both getting a jump start on their education and careers at no cost by taking part in a program called Launch U.

When Brady Bowers heard the word “quadrilateral” he knew he was headed to Washington. Bowers won the Greater Grand Rapids Spelling Bee setting him up for a spot on stage at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in June, an achievement made possible with support found at school

When Angel moved from Puerto Rico to Michigan, he had no idea what opportunities awaited him. After entering Kent ISD’s Empower U program at Goodwill Industries his entry into meaningful employment and increased independence began

Lessons in agriscience and farming grew into a hydroponic and microgreen business for a busy Lowell High School senior with the help of his teacher and FFA advisor

Just a year ago, Luz Hernandez was in a coma, intubated and clinging to life. As her recovery from COVID began in 2022, she vowed to return to school to continue learning English after losing some of her language skills to her bout with deadly virus

Joel Perez hasn’t had a typical high school experience until now. As he navigates advanced placement classes, football practice and his role as a student leader, he’s focusing on a future in front of the classroom

Madi Storey is intent on giving back. Inspired by others who aspire to hold office, defend the disadvantaged and assume roles in improving lives, she is learning to lead

As a fifth grader, Bishop Cobbs has big dreams of being a professional athlete, but after a summer coding class, he’s adding video game designer to his ambitions