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The Michigan Education Association is recommending Jocelyn Benson’s candidacy for governor, the state’s largest public employee union and education organization announced Monday. Jocelyn Benson is the best candidate for governor when it comes to improving our public schools, bringing down costs for working families and creating a brighter future for every Michigan student, noted MEA’s Statewide Screening and Recommendation Committee,…

By Chandra Madafferi, President & CEO, Michigan Education Association “I left my gallbladder in Kentucky” might sound like the refrain of a bad country song – but it’s also been my recent reality. I am incredibly thankful for the care I received from the doctors, nurses and hospital staff during a recent health emergency while traveling. At the same time,…

As part of the early July budget compromise, bills passed mandating K-5 educator science of reading training over the next five years (HB 5697), and a corresponding inclusion of those concepts in teacher preparation programs (HB 5646).  Importantly, several key changes to the training bill were made in the State Senate, including: Requiring at least two different training providers to…

Albeit a few days late, passage of the state education budget for the 2026-27 school year on Friday, July 3, allows educators and schools to focus on getting ready to help students succeed this fall.   The education budget includes modest increases — $250 (up to $10,300) per student for the foundation allowance and 1% for community colleges and higher…

From NEA.org: State governors have the power to reject the first national voucher program and prevent a tidal wave of funding to unaccountable private schools In 2025, Republicans created the first national voucher program when they passed the tax law known as H.R. 1. The legislation uses the tax code to create scholarship-granting organizations. It is a private school voucher program, championed…

Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition, West Michigan Building and Construction Trades Council, Michigan Realtors® and Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM) on Thursday joined together to urge a NO vote on a Constitutional Convention, a ballot question that voters will face in November.   Representing a wide range of interests and policy priorities including education, business and environmental…

The following statement can be attributed to Michigan Education Association President and CEO Chandra Madafferi, a teacher from Oakland County, in response to the legislative Democrats reintroducing previously passed legislation addressing rising public employee health care costs: “We are thankful that Michigan's Democratic legislators have reintroduced a bill to rein in skyrocketing health care costs for hardworking school employees. While…

New statewide survey finds voters across party lines say a candidate's education plan will shape their vote A week ahead of Michigan's August primary election, a new statewide survey commissioned by Business Leaders For Michigan (BLM) and the Michigan Education Association (MEA) shows education is a key priority for Michigan voters heading into this fall's election. The survey also provides…

EAST LANSING – The public is invited to the Michigan Education Association’s headquarters from 4:30-6 p.m. on Tuesday for an art exhibition and reception to celebrate the winners of the 62nd Michigan Education Association-Michigan Art Education Association Art Acquisitions Purchase Awards. The art exhibition recognizes MEA-member artists working in schools across Michigan, with award categories including Best in Show, Honorable Mention,…

By Brenda Ortega MEA Voice Editor Update 7/29: Democratic legislators have reintroduced versions of this vetoed legislation to rein in skyrocketing health care costs for school employees. Whether it's now or in 2027 with newly elected lawmakers, addressing this crisis for educators is a top priority. Learn more and take action today! Retired MEA Lobbyist Christina Canfield used to get asked by…