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Why submit your application for Michigan Teacher of the Year?

Why submit your application for Michigan Teacher of the Year?

Benefits of being named the Michigan Teacher of the Year

  • Being a spokesperson for Michigan’s 100,000+ teachers and bring recognition to your district
  • Attending all State Board of Education meetings as a non-voting member of the board
  • Receiving additional teacher-leadership training at national conferences and networking with other state Teachers of the Year
  • Attending Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama with other state Teachers of the Year
  • Working with the Meemic Foundation to create and host professional development opportunities for fellow teachers
  • Possibility of receiving invitations to be part of state-level workgroups and committees
  • Michigan’s applicant for National Teacher of the Year (NTOY)
  • Meeting the President of the United States, members of Congress, the Governor of Michigan, and state lawmakers
  • Free three-year subscription to SMART Technologies Learning Suite software
  • Walden University offers full-tuition scholarships to State Teachers of the Year enrolling in the Richard W. Riley College of Education and Leadership programs within 15 months of being named their state Teacher of the Year
  • As Michigan Teacher of the Year, Meemic supplies a $1,000 check to your school for classroom expenses and provides financial support for your travel as Michigan Teacher of the Year

Benefits of being named your region’s Teacher of the Year

  • Serving as a spokesperson and advocate for the educators and students within your region
  • Membership in the Michigan Teacher Leadership Advisory Council (MTLAC), which has opportunities to provide direct feedback to MDE on initiatives and proposals
  • Funds to offset the cost of travel to meetings and providing professional learning opportunities within your region

Eligibility requirements for Michigan Teacher of the Year

  • Certified teacher in good standing with your school and district
  • Completed at least five successful years of teaching in Michigan
  • Work in a role where you are directly involved in the education of students, and
  • Not been recognized as a Regional Teacher of the Year in the two application cycles preceding the current cycle, nor previously been recognized as the Michigan Teacher of the Year
  • Willing to commit to active membership on the Michigan Teacher Leadership Advisory Council (MTLAC) during the next school year if selected as a Regional Teacher of the Year

Updated 10/1/2024