Recent Stories

Let's Get Connected November 5, 2014 Twitter was new for me last year. I opened a personal account years ago, but just didn’t see what all the buzz was about. Once my district started encouraging teachers to build their PLN’s, I reluctantly created a professional account. I was a little skeptical that it would be more of a distraction and less of a genuine resource, but I’m officially convinced otherwise. ... Topic: Michigan Teacher of the Year

The Student Teacher Wish List October 9, 2014 I recently attended a DARTEP (Directors and Representatives of Teacher Education Programs) meeting with the Michigan Department of Education at Saginaw Valley State University. The purpose was to discuss pertinent information about teacher preparation programs across the state of Michigan. Topic: Michigan Teacher of the Year

Melody Arabo: Michigan Teacher of the Year September 15, 2014 Melody Arabo was selected as the Michigan Teacher of the Year (MTOY) for the 2014-2015 school year. Meemic partners with the Michigan Department of Education in the MTOY program, so we were able to get in touch with Melody for an exclusive interview. Below is the full account of our exchange: ... Topic: Michigan Teacher of the Year

Fortune Cookies for (New) Teachers March 7, 2014 As another spring is upon us, even though it may not look like spring outside everywhere now, we can look forward to college graduation season soon. That means the next class of graduating educators will enter the profession and soon begin work in classrooms. ... Topic: Michigan Teacher of the Year

Three Ways Teachers Are Learning From Other Teachers in 2014 January 28, 2014 As technology has evolved to the level of mobile computing and web-based apps, the popularity of educational technology has soared. Demands for workshops on apps, interactive whiteboards, and mobile devices has never been greater; however, the classic model of professional development for teachers has not been able to keep up. Topic: Michigan Teacher of the Year

The Most Important Issue Facing Our Schools December 20, 2013 Major issues facing public education range from the policy level to classroom practice. Achievement disparities, graduation rates, poverty, standardized education reform, changes in public school funding, online education, teacher evaluations, equal access to quality schools, teacher quality and retention all impact the profession.  Improving student achievement is not possible unless we retain, support and develop quality teachers. Topic: Michigan Teacher of the Year

Overcoming the 'Ferris Bueller' Stereotype of Teaching October 20, 2013 Michigan teachers are among the finest in the nation, but the media attention given to public education recently has been far from flattering. The public does not view our teachers in a positive light. From Proposal 2’s Freedom-to-Work last fall to failing school districts and emergency managers, it sure can look to the public like teachers are not living up to public expectations. Topic: Michigan Teacher of the Year