All teachers deserve access to high quality professional learning!

Over the past five years, educators in Kent county have been coming together in a network called Michigan Mathematics Educators (#MichME). In order to provide high quality professional learning during a pandemic, #MichME will be presented entirely online for FREE this year to ensure accessibility to all educators.

While the format and cost is changing, the quality you have come to expect will not change. #MichME’s core values are building relationships, cultivating a growth mindset, and deeper learning through dialogue.

Building Relationships

People First. Period.

#MichME is a network of individuals that value human connection. It is important that we spend time getting to know one another, supporting each other, and responding to how we are doing both individually and as a group. Just like in your classroom, learning will flourish with positive relationships.

In order to bring members a larger scope of learning and networking, this year #MichME is proud to partner with some of the best teachers, coaches, and consultants from the state of Michigan (e.g. Oakland Schools, Muskegon Area ISD, Calhoun ISD, Wexford-Missaukee ISD, Kent City Community Schools, Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, Zeeland Public Schools, and Waterford Schools). Membership will also open up to educators from all around the state. This enhancement will allow members additional opportunities to build relationships.

Cultivating a Growth Mindset

All students are capable of learning mathematics at the highest level.

#MichME members feel a sense of community with intention toward action. It is our responsibility as professional educators to continue to be reflective of our practices and take action towards change. Just as our students will ebb and flow as they learn mathematical content, we must also give ourselves permission to learn, try, reflect, and try again.

Deeper Learning through Dialogue

The time that we will be together will encompass what good teaching and learning would include. These sessions will not be sit and get. Members get to know their peers and engage in dialogue with the whole group, as well as, small groups. We will use video, student work, role playing, etc. to center the learning and connect it to the classroom.

Check out this short video from Rusty Anderson and Marcus Deja to tell you more about what to expect as a member of #MichME this year!

Flexibility in Scheduling

Recognizing your needs for flexibility and limited time, the meeting structure for the year will be largely defined by which breakout session you plan to attend. You will work with other colleagues in the group and the facilitator to determine the best dates and times to meet and engage in learning. Know that each breakout will be one hour long and will meet a total of five times throughout the year.

Click here to JOIN #MichME today!

#MichME #WeLeadLearning #KentISDpd

This blog post was written in conjunction by Rusty Anderson, Math Consultant, Marcus Deja, Math Consultant, and Amanda Walma, Professional Learning Coordinator at Kent ISD; and, edited by Sara Seflik, PD Hub Intern.