Dr. Sue Carnell - Chief Deputy Superintendent | Michigan Department of Education
Michigan's regional teachers of the year are featured in a new #proudMIeducator video, expressing their dedication to supporting students through life's challenges. The video showcases the 2024-25 Regional Teachers of the Year.
"Every student has the right to have a teacher that believes in them no matter what they’re going through in their life," says Ms. Sasha Wakefield from Clio High School. "It’s an amazing profession. You get to change lives. You get to make a difference in lives."
The group includes Michigan Teacher of the Year, Ms. Kelley Cusmano, and forms the Michigan Teacher Leadership Advisory Council. This council meets regularly with the Michigan Department of Education to discuss issues important to educators and students and provide feedback on proposed initiatives.
The advisory council was initiated in 2017 with educators applying directly for selection before transitioning to its current format in 2018-19, where membership is determined through the Michigan Teacher of the Year program application process.
In addition to Ms. Wakefield, other teachers share their enthusiasm for teaching in the video. "It’s my dream job," says Ms. Cassandra Eberhardt from Williamston Middle School. "I love what I do."
Mr. Calvin Nellum from Detroit Academy of Arts and Science expresses his appreciation for fellow educators by saying, “Whenever I speak to an educator, I always say, ‘Thank you for your service.’”
State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice praises these teachers as ambassadors for their profession: “At State Board of Education meetings, I am so inspired to hear from our Regional Teachers of the Year about everything they do for Michigan’s children.”
Since 2016, the #proudMIeducator campaign has highlighted educators who share their passion for teaching on its YouTube page.
Michigan's efforts to attract more individuals into teaching include scholarships, stipends for student teachers, loan repayments, grants such as Future Proud Michigan Educator EXPLORE and LAUNCH programs, Grow Your Own grant programs, expedited reciprocity for out-of-state certified teachers and counselors, a rural credentialing hub, and tuition reimbursement for special education teachers.
For nominations or suggestions regarding future features on proud Michigan educators, contact MDE-PME@Michigan.gov.
Alerts Sign-up