GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- A commitment to supporting scholars and families is taking Leandra Pogson's work to the state stage.
Pogson, a bilingual administrative assistant in the GRPS English Language Learners Department, was recently appointed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to serve on the Michigan Developmental Disability Council. Her term runs through Sept. 30, 2030.
The appointment recognizes Pogson's dedication to advocacy and service, values that also guide her daily work at GRPS. As a member of the council, she will help support efforts that improve opportunities and quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities across Michigan.
A graduate of Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where she earned a bachelor's degree in psychology, and Universidad Carlos Albizu, where she earned a master's degree in psychological counseling, Pogson said she was drawn to GRPS because of the district's impact on students and families.
"I chose to work at GRPS because I believe in the power of education and the impact it has on students, families, and the community,” she said. “I wanted to use my skills and experience to support a diverse community while continuing to grow professionally. GRPS gives me the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families during my time at Burton Elementary."
Pogson continues that mission by helping multilingual scholars and families access the support they need.
"What I enjoy most about working at GRPS is being able to support students, families, and staff and knowing that my work makes a difference," Pogson said. "I really enjoy collaborating with my teammates, helping each other, and working together to get things done."
As she prepares to begin her service on the Michigan Developmental Disability Council, Pogson will bring with her the same collaborative spirit and commitment to advocacy that have defined her work at GRPS.
