At Mid Michigan Leadership Academy (MMLA), Ryan Holmes is more than just a special education paraprofessional—he's an artist, educator, and dedicated community advocate. With a passion for creativity and student success, Ryan plays a pivotal role in shaping a supportive and inspiring learning environment for students in Lansing.
Ryan was drawn to MMLA by its vibrant student community, where he saw an opportunity to make a lasting impact. "MMLA offered me the ability to work with a population of gifted students that create the heart of inner Lansing!" he says. "I get to pour into the community and our future by serving the whole student." For him, every role—whether greeting students in the morning, ensuring a safe and welcoming lunch experience, or assisting teachers in the classroom—is a chance to uplift and empower young minds. He firmly believes that “no job is too small when it comes to shaping the future.”
What stands out most to Ryan about his students is their confidence, boldness, and capability. "I believe that the smartest person in the room is the room," he explains. "Together, our students learn not just from us, but from each other. I love how they embrace each other’s cultures, allowing them to feel open to be themselves."
Beyond the classroom, Ryan’s dedication to the arts and literacy extends into the community. As an artist, he has led the creation of community murals at city events, facilitated therapeutic art meet-ups for mental health during the winter, and organized summer art lessons for students from kindergarten through high school—complete with a scholarship program and healthy lunches. "As an artist, I believe creativity can make a difference, inspiring all ages," Ryan says. Perhaps most impressively, he spearheaded a reading initiative that has collected over 3,000 books for Lansing families, ensuring that children have access to literature and the joy of reading.
Ryan Holmes embodies the spirit of Michigan’s charter schools—dedicated, creative, and deeply committed to student growth and community engagement. His work at MMLA is a testament to the power of education and the arts in transforming lives. Thank you, Ryan, for being a true #MICharterHero!
Mid-Michigan Leadership Academy (MMLA) is a charter school in Lansing serving grades K-8. It's authorized by Central Michigan University.
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