 Issue 76 | March 2026
Be sure your email address is up-to-date in the Michigan Online Educator Certification System to receive important notifications regarding YOUR certificate.
Please see the archived newsletters for other important information that affects licensure.
You Can Still Join the Teacher Appreciation Video Project
There is plenty of time to create a quick, easy, and cherished teacher appreciation video! National Teachers’ Day is May 5, and Teacher Appreciation Week is May 4 – May 8, 2026. Recognizing Michigan's hardworking and dedicated educators is an important part of the Michigan Department of Education’s (MDE) strategic efforts to promote educator retention. That's why we will be celebrating Michigan’s educators during the entire month of May!
MDE invites students to submit a digital video to recognize and thank a specific educator for their impact. If the student prefers not to appear on camera, please feel free to submit a video showcasing a drawing or other artwork celebrating an educator, accompanied by a voice-over explanation.
Full instructions for submitting videos of appreciation for Michigan’s educators are available on the Teacher Appreciation Month webpage.
Submitted videos may be posted on the Teacher Appreciation Month webpage and the MDE YouTube channel. Additionally, our social media pages will promote the videos on the Office of Educator Excellence's Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts throughout the month of May. Check us out: @MIeducator.
If you have a student with great things to say about an educator, don’t hesitate to use the instructions found on our webpage to submit a video today!
Now Accepting Applications! Future Proud Michigan Educator (FPME) Military Veterans Grant
Between Friday, February 6, 2026, and Friday, March 20, 2026, MDE will accept applications for the 2025-2026 (FY26) FPME Military Veterans Grant. Please note that this year, applications will be accepted during a fixed window instead of on a rolling basis—so don’t delay in applying.
This grant can be used to provide a salary for a qualifying military veteran for up to two semesters of student teaching and cover additional costs or fees associated with seeking a teaching certificate. For more information on eligibility requirements, application instructions, and what the grant can pay for, please visit the Future PME Military Veterans webpage.
MDE's Literacy Webpage
The Michigan Department of Education’s Literacy webpage offers a comprehensive collection of tools, guidance, and standards designed to support high-quality literacy instruction across all grade levels. Educators will find easy access to K-12 Literacy and Dyslexia Laws, Professional Learning resources, Literacy Grant information, and additional materials that promote strong reading and writing development. This hub serves as a one-stop destination for strengthening literacy practices and supporting student success throughout Michigan.
We Need Your Voice!
Are you interested in sharing your perspective with the Office of Educator Excellence on a future project? We are always looking for new individuals to participate in workgroups, review committees, and other projects involving Michigan’s education workforce. To be considered, please complete the following form:
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