The Michigan Talent Pool is a group of elementary and secondary educators nominated by their supervisors that the Michigan Department of Education draws upon throughout the year when opportunities for engagement and recognition become available. 

We welcome recommendations of outstanding classroom teachers and/or principals who exhibit strong potential for professional leadership, and demonstrate the following:

• Exceptional educational talent as evidenced by effective instructional practices and student learning results in the classroom and school;
• Exemplary educational accomplishments beyond the classroom;
• Contributions to education that are largely unheralded, yet are worthy of the spotlight; and
• An engaging and inspiring presence that motivates and impacts students, colleagues and the community.

Recommendations to the Talent Pool should be submitted by the nominee's supervisor and can be made via the online recommendation form.

The nomination form includes a one-page letter of recommendation explaining how the nominee meets the above criteria. Please note that these recommendations are confidential and should not be discussed with the recommended educator or others in your school or community.

Please direct any questions to Jennifer Robel at RobelJ@Michigan.gov.