Amanda English, EdD, The Intentional Educator, LLC: 2026 Back to School Newsletter!
- amandaje27
- Aug 25
- 5 min read
Two weeks may not sound like a long time, but these first two weeks in business have already been full of conversations, planning, and a whole lot of gratitude.
This newsletter will share what's been happening with the business, what is coming up soon, and how you can connect if you have been thinking about training retreat, parent or educator workshop, conference or workshop keynote, or the Michigan Regional Abacus Bee.
There is already exciting news to celebrate, including only 3 remaining spots for the Mom’s ILS Retreat, the announcement of the 2026 Michigan Regional Abacus Bee, and new openings for in-person and virtual workshops.
The First Two Weeks!
Starting a business brings a mix of excitement, planning, learning, and faith. These first two weeks have reminded me why this work matters. There are several announcements in this newsletter, so read on to find out what is in store for the coming months!
I love the start of the school year. There is so much excitement around what is possible for an upcoming year. The same seems to be true for my business! In just two weeks, there have been conversations with people who are curious about learning support, enrichment opportunities, parent-focused spaces, and meaningful educational experiences. Each conversation has helped shape the next step.
Some of the work has been visible on my website and social media (follow me on FaceBook and Instagram), like sharing program updates and opening workshop availability. Some of it has happened behind the scenes, like organizing business details, planning future events, working on a data analysis project, and preparing ways to serve families, students, and groups well.
The best part has been seeing that there is real interest in learning experiences that feel personal, practical, and encouraging.
This business was created to offer more than one-time events. The goal is to build spaces where people can learn, ask questions, grow confidence, and leave with tools you can actually use. I am honored to be able to bring these opportunities to you!
Mom’s ILS Retreat has Only 3 Spots Left
One of the most exciting updates is that the Mom’s ILS Retreat has only 3 remaining spots!
This retreat is designed as a space for moms to step away from the noise, reconnect, learn, and receive support in an intentional setting. It is a chance to pause, breathe, reflect, and be part of a meaningful experience with others who understand what motherhood of a child with blindness or low vision can bring. I cannot wait to share some great independent living skills tips and tricks, enjoy delicious fall meals, take a walk to Lake Michigan, and spend some time with you!
If you have been thinking about attending, this is the time to act.
Sign up today to hold your spot. Mom's Independent Living Weekend Retreat | Amanda English The Intentional Educator
With only three spaces left, this retreat is close to full. Once those spots are claimed, registration will close. I've already been asked if there will be more retreats in the future. While I don't have one planned, yet, I am certainly willing to entertain the idea!
The 2026 Michigan Regional Abacus Bee is Officially on the Calendar
I am excited to share a major upcoming event! Our company will be hosting the 2026 Michigan Regional Abacus Bee on November 14, 2026, at the Plainwell Ransom Library, in Plainwell, MI. The Abacus Bee is a national program of the
American Printing House.
This event will bring students together to celebrate focus, number sense, mental math, and abacus skills. The Abacus Bee is a wonderful way for students to practice, challenge themselves, and experience the energy of friendly competition. While this is not the first time the Abacus Bee has been in Michigan, this is the first time my company will be the host. I am grateful to bring this opportunity to the students and parents!
Hosting the regional event is a meaningful step for the business and for the learning community we are building. It gives students a goal to work toward and gives families something special to look forward to. The Michigan Regional Abacus Bee is a qualifier for the national APH Abacus Bee. There is no guarantee a participant will qualify for the national competition. Competitors are notified by APH if they qualify for the national competition.
More details will be shared as planning continues, but for now, please save the date:
2026 Michigan Regional Abacus Bee
November 14, 2026
Plainwell Ransom Library
Plainwell, MI
Whether a student is brand new to abacus learning or already building strong skills, this event will be a great milestone to keep in mind. Parents, if your child is in grades 3-12 and they are blind or low vision, you are welcome to register. Registration will be on my website in a couple of weeks: www.theintentionaleducator.org
Workshop spots are available for groups and organizations
I also have available spots for in-person and virtual workshops.
Workshops can be a great fit for schools, homeschool groups, parent groups, organizations wanting to learn about creating accessible opportunities, and teams looking for a focused learning experience. They can be planned around the needs of the group and the goals of the event.
Workshop topics and formats can be discussed during planning, but the focus is always the same: create a session that is useful, engaging, and easy to apply after it ends. You can create your own or choose from one of my signature workshops:
Mom, You're Not a Helicopter Parent; You're a Fighter Jet!
The Intentional Educator
The Intentional Parent
In-person workshops offer the benefit of shared energy and hands-on connection. Virtual workshops make it easier for groups in different locations to participate without travel.
Both options are available.
If you have an idea for a workshop but are not sure where to start, the first step can simply be a planning conversation. We can talk through the audience, goals, length, format, and what would make the session most helpful.
Keynote presentation planning is also open
Along with workshops, there are also options for keynote presentation planning.
A keynote can be a strong fit when a group needs a clear message, a thoughtful speaker, and an experience that helps set the tone for an event. Planning ahead helps make sure the topic, timing, and audience needs all match well.
If you are organizing an event and would like to explore a keynote, you can set up a time to talk.
There are two easy ways to begin:
Schedule a conversation through Calendly
Select a Keynote Presentation Planning or Workshop Planning spot on the website
That planning time is where we can talk through the details and decide what kind of session would be the best fit.
Thank you for being part of the beginning
These first two weeks have been encouraging, busy, and full of possibility. I am grateful for every message, question, registration, and conversation so far.
Here is what is happening right now:
Mom’s ILS Retreat
Only 3 spots remain. Sign up today to hold your spot.
2026 Michigan Regional Abacus Bee
Save the date for November 14, 2026, at the Plainwell Ransom Library in Plainwell, MI.
In-person and virtual workshops
Spots are available now.
Keynote and workshop planning
Set up a time through Calendly or choose a planning spot on the website.
If something in this update sounds like the right fit, now is a great time to take the next step. Planning ahead for the coming year ensures you get a date that will work with your organization. I would love to talk with you, answer questions, and help plan an experience that serves your group well.
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