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MEA Vice President Brett Smith Educators are integral in establishing clean energy initiatives that prepare public school students for in-demand careers and promote environmental sustainability — all while saving money on energy costs that can be reinvested in our classrooms. MEA member Brian Prill’s solar panel project in Marquette — which is already reducing his school’s carbon footprint — demonstrates…

Jamin Villarreal Last Friday, MEA member Jamin Villarreal found himself among other higher education leaders at a summit organized by MEA’s Michigan Association of Higher Education (MAHE) to discuss common issues and challenges across the state’s colleges and universities. Villarreal’s participation in Friday’s MAHE Town Hall was remarkable, given he hadn’t been active in his support staff union at Michigan…

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…

Better Made - Keith Beale Get your artwork ready — it’s almost time to submit entries for the 62nd MEA/MAEA Art Acquisitions Purchase Exhibition. Digital submissions will be accepted March 1-22 via the form at this link. The annual juried art show has continued to expand and improve. This year’s event includes a new award category: Promoting Peace through Art,…

“If this bill package passes today, we will have passed two very solid school policy bills in the past month, indicating that yes, we can come together across the aisle and across chambers to do the right things for kids, parents and schools.” — Sen. Dayna Polehanki, chair of the Senate Education Committee, on passage of bipartisan bills banning student…

By Brenda Ortega MEA Voice Editor Michigan voters are likely to see the phrase “record school funding” in campaign mailers from both political parties this election year. The difference will be in perspective. One side will use the term to tout recent gains in school funding as a point of pride in better supporting educators and students. The other side…

Brian Prill Marquette Alternative High School (MAHS) teacher Brian Prill has helped make the school a statewide leader in environmental sustainability, Career and Technical Education, and in redefining the role of the alternative high school. Prill, who teaches social studies, Spanish and a construction and work readiness course, provides a world view for his students, having completed Fulbright scholarships in…

Josh Cowen Two decades ago, MEA member Josh Cowen began his career as an education researcher without strong opinions on school vouchers and full of idealism about the potential for scientific data to help make public schools the best they can be. Over time, working alongside voucher advocates to evaluate programs, he watched as evidence mounted showing vouchers harm students…

Puzzuoli MEA is creating pathways for members to secure less expensive graduate credits, a move made more vital since the U.S. Department of Education announced plans to cap federal student loans available to pursue certain graduate degrees, including education and social work. (The comment period on that proposed new rule — which is drawing concerns from associations representing education and…

As educators, MEA members are committed to the safety and well-being of students, families and the communities we all call home. We believe schools and communities should be places of learning and belonging, and they should be safe for all. Whether it’s in Minnesota or here in Michigan, the fear and trauma immigration enforcement is creating for children and families is real and harmful.…