A paraeducator wants to grow in the role. A veteran high school teacher seeks targeted professional development. A school counselor aspires to strengthen supports for a diverse student population.

Where can educators turn to fulfill their desire to learn, lead and be valued?

The MEA LearnCenter is a new online learning platform launched this year to meet those challenges. Designed with input from MEA members across roles, geographies, and experiences, the LearnCenter animates four key principles: Connect, Learn, Share, Lead.

“The LearnCenter is built not only to provide learning but to deepen engagement, spark leadership, and build power through professional growth,” said MEA UniServ Consultant Chad Williams, who helped to develop the platform.

School employees from every job category are reporting increased levels of stress and dissatisfaction alongside a lack of relevant, accessible professional learning.

At the MEA LearnCenter, members can chart their own path through self-paced micro-credentials, live webinars, issue-based cohorts, and customizable dashboards. They can also contribute content, mentor others, and design regional events.

Traditional PD often treats educators as recipients of information. The LearnCenter values them as sources of knowledge and experience, reflecting our shared belief that every educator has both the right and responsibility to lead.

From a custodian in the Upper Peninsula pursuing advancement, to a teacher-leader facilitating book studies, to a local president hosting a SCECH-approved training on trauma-informed practices, the MEA LearnCenter offers members the tools and agency to make desired career growth into reality.

“A union that cultivates leaders is a union that wins, not just at the bargaining table, but in the board room, legislature, and public square,” Williams said. “When members grow, the union grows.”

This new benefit of membership is brought to you by the MEA Center for Leadership & Learning. Be sure to check out their new website at cll.mea.org, where you can access the new LearnCenter along with information on upcoming conferences and offerings!