August means new beginnings and the chance to reach and teach a new group of students. The start of a school year brings out a level of excitement in educators like no other time.

That feeling is one of the greatest aspects of our shared profession – and it’s on us to make sure the next generation of educators is encouraged to join our ranks and feel that passion for helping every student succeed.

This issue of MEA Voice highlights the many ways we’re working together to encourage the best and brightest to dedicate their career to helping Michigan students. From high school teacher cadet courses to grow-your-own programs to train new teachers, amazing work is happening to bring new, diverse, talented educators to schools statewide. Read the cover package.

MEA is proud to be part of that effort, from our involvement with the new Educators Rising organization, to our continued commitment to the Aspiring Educators of Michigan and our college teacher-prep students, to helping all educators refine their craft through our Center for Leadership & Learning.

Of course, we face challenges in education, especially connected to uncertain political times and efforts to demonize educators and the promise of public schools. But for every challenge, there’s an opportunity that comes when the light bulb blinks on for a student who grasps a concept for the first time, or a student shares the difference you’ve made in their education and their life.

It’s on us as educators and MEA members to share those bright spots, both with incoming educators and our communities at large. Because our hometown schools are the center of our communities. Because every student, no matter where they live, deserves the opportunity to succeed in a great public school.

Because above all else: We Love Public Education.

In Solidarity Always,

Chandra Madafferi, MEA President and CEO

Brett Smith, MEA Vice President

Aaron Eling, MEA Secretary-Treasurer