Future PME Explore supports local and intermediate school districts in developing participatory student learning experiences for students in grades 6-12. With supervision and mentoring from local educators, students can learn more about educational strategies, systems and professions. As a partner, MDE provides Explore programs with flexible models for implementation, content standards and curriculum, student learning modules and professional development for educators.
The Michigan Department of Education, Office of Career and Technical Education (MDE-OCTE) expanded educational opportunities by developing the Future Proud Michigan Educator (FPME) LAUNCH program for students who are interested in careers in education or other fields related to children. Students in the program can earn a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or Michigan School-Age Youth Development Associate (MI-YDA) credential. Students take specialized coursework, develop portfolios, and participate in practical field/clinical experiences.
The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) is continuing the Future Proud Michigan Educator (Future PME) initiative with a new grant opportunity for districts to support K-12 school personnel. This grant is an extension of Michigan’s efforts to grow and diversify the educator workforce and reduce educator shortages through the Future PME initiative.
Grant funds may be used to support non-certificated employees working toward initial teacher certification or currently certified teachers looking to add an additional endorsement to a Michigan teaching certificate. Eligible expenses for this grant include teacher preparation coursework tuition and program fees at an approved Michigan educator preparation provider, licensure testing fees, and substitute permit costs.
The permit system is designed to support an educator into becoming a teacher. Permit renewal requirements require mentoring, district observation and feedback, and preparation enrollment and coursework. These requirements can all be completed while working as a teacher of record.
The 2022 education workforce job fairs connect job seekers and those hiring teachers, substitute teachers, bus drivers, custodians, paraprofessionals, secretaries, administrators, and other education-related positions.
These collaborative agreements provide schools the opportunity to recruit world language teachers.
Credentials earned in another state or country may differ from Michigan programs and credentials; however, the department attempts to match certificates, grade levels, and content endorsements as closely as possible.
MDE is with working with state legislators to revise statute to further expand the ability to issue Michigan certification based on out-of-state licensure.
Long-term and short-term analyses pertinent to workforce issues are intended to support internal and external stakeholders in making informed decisions regarding educator preparation, credentialing, hiring, professional learning, and retention.
To support Michigan's efforts to grow and diversify the educator workforce, the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) awarded the 2021 Diversity and Equity in the Education Workforce competitive planning grant. Intermediate School Districts and Regional Educational Service Agencies were invited to apply for this grant funding to support efforts to ensure a diverse workforce in their learning communities.
Grant funds supported the development of high-quality professional development enhancing the experiences of teachers of color, and resources and materials designed to support and retain a diverse professional workforce.
Michigan’s educators are among the nation’s best and it’s important to highlight the incredible work they do every day to provide our next generation with a high-quality education. Whether you’re a student, parent, fellow educator, community member or stakeholder, we encourage you to help us shine the spotlight on the all-too-often unsung heroes in our schools across the state.
Districts have an opportunity to use non-recurring funds to boost staff salaries, particularly those for early career teachers.
