Gov. Gretchen Whitmer gathered hundreds of leaders from education, philanthropy, government and business in December to underline the need for shared responsibility to improve literacy — which she said in her final year in office, “will remain my number-one priority.” “Helping every child read is tough; it’s a worthwhile goal. It’s a long-term project that […]
Dionna Roberts wears multiple hats, but she likes to say, “Literacy is my ‘jam,’ meaning my job and motivation for the work I do.” A former teacher and literacy coach, now a principal and current president of the Michigan Reading Association (MRA), Roberts describes her core philosophy as a balance between the technical “science of […]
MEA member Andrea Ward knows the devastating effects that reading struggles can have on a child’s self-esteem. Ward was diagnosed with dyslexia in fifth grade and has dedicated her life to helping others who struggle in school. “Reading struggles shape who (kids) think they are and what they believe about their ability levels,” she said. […]
By Brenda Ortega MEA Voice Editor As in most stories of change, the timeline of MEA member David Pelc’s teaching transformation marks a few key events building up to the pivotal moment. Early on, a volunteer experience spent reading books with youngsters in disadvantaged communities hooked him on the joys of teaching and spurred him […]
Like all educators, MEA member David Pelc didn’t stop learning once he started teaching. Several years ago, the mid-career Romulus elementary teacher began a journey of transformation in the way he taught children to read. That expertise got Pelc invited to join a panel discussion at an all-day Literacy Summit at the Michigan Science Center [...]
Click to view online. In this issue: LETTER TO MEMBERS: Literacy demands consistency NEWS & NOTES: Briefs: Supporting students amid immigration fear and uncertainty MEA/MAEA Art Exhibition: Call for entries Quotables: Cell phone legislation passes House and Senate MEA Elections: ESP Caucus THE FUTURE IS NOW: Advance your degree without debt COVER STORY: Leading on literacy […]
Recent student protests in Michigan regarding ICE activities have prompted requests for guidance for educators concerning their rights to support student activism. NEA has developed some excellent resources and reminders for educators addressing their employment rights and concerns, including how to handle student protests and walkouts. Below is a summary of the issues educators should […]
By Chandra Madafferi, Michigan Education Association President Uncertainty and fear. In recent conversations with educators across Michigan, I keep hearing those words that lead to a common refrain: “I’m trying to keep it together for my students.” What’s happening with immigration enforcement in Michigan and across the country is causing trauma for many of our […]
