MEA Resources for Census 2020

By Chandra Madafferi, President and CEO, Michigan Education Association Improving student literacy here in Michigan promises to be a major topic throughout 2026, with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer committing to it as a top issue for her final year in office, as noted in her final State of the State address last week. Whether a student is a struggling or an…

A tearful Stephanie Johnson makes her way to the front of the gymnasium to accept her Award as colleagues, students, dignitaries and media cheer her on. From Michigan Department of Education: https://www.michigan.gov/mde/news-and-information/press-releases/2026/02/26/mi-teacher-honored-with-milken-educator-award What started with a special visit from Michigan Chief Deputy Superintendent Dr. Sue Carnell turned into an exciting announcement Pine River Middle School teacher Stephanie Johnson will never forget:…

MEA Vice President Brett Smith Educators are integral in establishing clean energy initiatives that prepare public school students for in-demand careers and promote environmental sustainability — all while saving money on energy costs that can be reinvested in our classrooms. MEA member Brian Prill’s solar panel project in Marquette — which is already reducing his school’s carbon footprint — demonstrates…

The following can be attributed to Michigan Education Association President Chandra Madafferi in reaction to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s State of the State address, in which the governor made improving student literacy a top priority for her final year of office: "Exceptional educators equipped with the right training and tools will make a big difference for student literacy — so long as…

Jamin Villarreal Last Friday, MEA member Jamin Villarreal found himself among other higher education leaders at a summit organized by MEA’s Michigan Association of Higher Education (MAHE) to discuss common issues and challenges across the state’s colleges and universities. Villarreal’s participation in Friday’s MAHE Town Hall was remarkable, given he hadn’t been active in his support staff union at Michigan…

With Gov. Gretchen Whitmer making improving student literacy a centerpiece of her final year in office, Michigan Education Association members from across the state are speaking out about what kinds of support they need to help improve all students’ reading skills. In interviews with public school educators published in the latest edition of the MEA Voice magazine, numerous MEA members…

Better Made - Keith Beale Get your artwork ready — it’s almost time to submit entries for the 62nd MEA/MAEA Art Acquisitions Purchase Exhibition. Digital submissions will be accepted March 1-22 via the form at this link. The annual juried art show has continued to expand and improve. This year’s event includes a new award category: Promoting Peace through Art,…

“If this bill package passes today, we will have passed two very solid school policy bills in the past month, indicating that yes, we can come together across the aisle and across chambers to do the right things for kids, parents and schools.” — Sen. Dayna Polehanki, chair of the Senate Education Committee, on passage of bipartisan bills banning student…

By Brenda Ortega MEA Voice Editor Michigan voters are likely to see the phrase “record school funding” in campaign mailers from both political parties this election year. The difference will be in perspective. One side will use the term to tout recent gains in school funding as a point of pride in better supporting educators and students. The other side…

Brian Prill Marquette Alternative High School (MAHS) teacher Brian Prill has helped make the school a statewide leader in environmental sustainability, Career and Technical Education, and in redefining the role of the alternative high school. Prill, who teaches social studies, Spanish and a construction and work readiness course, provides a world view for his students, having completed Fulbright scholarships in…