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…

By Erik Edoff, MEA Senior Executive Director Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is signing bipartisan legislation this morning that limits smartphone use among K-12 students during instructional time. This has been a top priority for Michigan Education Association members working in schools across the state, and it’s proof that lawmakers can make good things happen when they set aside partisanship and work…

RELATED: Bipartisan limits on classroom phone use can build momentum on online protections for kids – Detroit Free Press op-ed by MEA Senior Executive Director Erik Edoff --- The Michigan Education Association praised state lawmakers for a new bipartisan state law signed on Tuesday requiring that school districts adopt policies limiting student smartphone use during instructional time. “We commend state lawmakers…

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 students and communities – and…

JOINT STATEMENT – January 28, 2026 As education leaders, our shared responsibility is to ensure that schools remain safe, stable, and welcoming environments where every student can learn without fear. Recent immigration enforcement action, both nationally and here in Michigan, has created anxiety and uncertainty for students, families, and educators alike. When events beyond the schoolhouse generate fear or trauma,…

Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist The Michigan Education Association is recommending Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist for secretary of state, the state’s largest public employee union and education organization announced Wednesday. “Our members who interviewed the candidates were excited to hear Garlin’s plans to partner with educators so the secretary of state can make a difference for students – ranging from quality…

By Chandra Madafferi, President and CEO of the Michigan Education Association From public school educators and police officers to firefighters and those serving in our military, it’s important that we honor these hardworking public servants and their dedication to improving the lives of others. Public school teachers, school support staff and other educators devote their careers to serving the public,…

Karen McDonald The Michigan Education Association is pleased to announce the recommendation of Karen McDonald for Attorney General. Following interviews with our Statewide Screening & Recommendation Committee, which candidates from both parties were invited to attend, the committee voted to recommend McDonald to MEA members as the strongest candidate in this important race. The committee is made up of MEA members…

By Erik Edoff, Senior Executive Director, Michigan Education Association Too many students across Michigan are missing too much time at school and falling further behind their peers. We must come together as a state to address this problem head-on so we can fulfill our promise to provide every student with the opportunity to succeed. Chronic absenteeism is defined by a…

Update 12/12: The House of Representatives and House Speaker Matt Hall have appealed this ruling to the Michigan Supreme Court. Stay tuned to MEA.org and subscribe to MEA’s e-newsletters to remain up to date on the latest developments. The Michigan Education Association on Monday congratulated the Michigan Senate on its court victory against the House of Representatives, which, since January, has…