Lenawee County, MI - In Lenawee County, each April brings a wave of bright, spinning pinwheels planted outside schools, community centers, and government buildings. More than just colorful decorations, these pinwheels are a powerful symbol—representing the hope that every child grows up in a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment. Among those championing this important work is Kelly Shiels, Truancy Prevention Specialist at Lenawee Intermediate School District (LISD), whose passion for child welfare spans more than 20 years.
Before joining LISD in 2021, Kelly dedicated her career to child welfare, and that commitment hasn’t wavered. “Prevention and providing services to families is extremely important to me,” Kelly says. “I continue to participate with the Child Abuse Prevention team to raise awareness in the community.”
Kelly’s work bridges the LISD and the Lenawee Department of Health and Human Services, helping to keep schools connected to vital community resources and advocacy efforts. Her role on the CAP team is instrumental in sharing information with educators about how to support children.
“Kelly brought her experience from her time in child welfare to the LISD in assisting families to reach their full potential,” says Chris Howard, a colleague at LISD. “She always has the best interest of kids in mind and will advocate for them at every turn. Lenawee County is lucky to have her working with families.”
The pinwheel, used in the “Pinwheels for Prevention” campaign, is the national symbol for child abuse and neglect prevention. It stands as a visual reminder that we all play a role in protecting children. Whether planted to represent children served by a program, born in the past year, or simply living nearby, each pinwheel carries the same message: all children deserve great childhoods.
As pinwheels spin across Lenawee County this month, they reflect the enduring efforts of leaders like Kelly Shiels—working every day to build a safer, more supportive world for every child.