Recognition Opportunities

Overview of Recognition Opportunities

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/guardian, fellow educator, community member or partner, we encourage you to help us shine the spotlight on the all-too-often unsung heroes in our schools.

Michigan Teacher of the Year (MTOY)

What

• The Michigan Teacher of the Year (MTOY) serves as a representative and advocate for Michigan's more than 85,000 teachers, working with 9 fellow Regional Teachers of the Year as the Michigan Teacher Leadership Advisory Council (MTLAC) to share feedback and input on educational policies and initiatives with MDE and propose ways to enhance student learning.

Why

• Recognizing exceptional teachers through the Michigan Teacher of the Year program advances the profession and amplifies educator voices in shaping policy and practice. For schools and districts, this recognition showcases instructional excellence and reinforces a culture of high expectations. School districts benefit by highlighting local talent on a statewide stage, which strengthens community pride and demonstrates commitment to quality education. Honoring these educators also promotes teacher leadership, fosters collaboration, and provides opportunities for recognized teachers to influence decisions that impact classrooms and districts across Michigan.

How

• Submit a nomination for the Michigan Teacher of the Year
• The recent nomination window closed September 24, 2025

Proud Michigan Educator (#PME, #proudMIeducator)

What

• #proudMIeducator is a Michigan Department of Education initiative that aims to acknowledge, elevate, and celebrate the work of great educators in the State of Michigan.

Why

• The Proud Michigan Educator campaign highlights the dedication and impact of Michigan’s educators, building respect for the profession and inspiring future talent. For schools and districts, participating in #PME strengthens staff morale and reinforces positive messaging about the value of teaching. School districts can use this platform to celebrate local successes, attract new educators, and retain experienced staff by creating a culture of appreciation. Sharing these stories publicly also fosters statewide networks of education expertise, enhances community trust and engagement, and positions education as a cornerstone of state and local pride.

How

• Learn more about the #PME campaign and nominate an educator to be featured via the proudMIeducator webpage.

Talent Pool

What

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

Why

• Identifying and engaging educators and communities through the Talent Pool ensures Michigan has a network of accomplished professionals ready to contribute to statewide initiatives and recognition programs. For schools and districts, Talent Pool provides leadership development opportunities and encourages staff to grow professionally. Talented educators benefit by connecting to broader networks where they can exchange innovative practices and elevate the voice and visibility of their district. Maintaining a strong Talent Pool helps districts and communities demonstrate their commitment to excellence and active partnership in shaping Michigan’s educational future.

How

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

Need help?

• Visit the Recognition Programs webpage for more information on MDE’s recognition programs.

Email addresses: 

• Michigan Teacher of the Year - MTOY@Michigan.gov
• ProudMIeducator and Talent Pool - MDE-PME@Michigan.gov
• Educator Grants - MDE-EdWorkforceGrants@Michigan.gov
• Jennifer Robel, Manager, RobelJ@Michigan.gov