October 2023

NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH

Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month: A Testament to Collaboration and Innovation in Public Schools 

NDEAM is more than just a month-long observance; it is a testament to the ongoing efforts to remove employment barriers that individuals with disabilities still face. It reminds us of the importance of ensuring that our public schools are inclusive spaces where students of all abilities can thrive and prepare for the workforce. It encourages us to foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and acceptance in our educational institutions. 

Public schools play a vital role in shaping the future workforce. They are where young minds are nurtured, talents are discovered, and potential is realized. By promoting inclusivity and innovation in public schools, we create an environment where students with disabilities can develop their skills and talents alongside their peers. This inclusive approach not only benefits students but also prepares them for a workforce that values diversity and embraces the contributions of every individual. 

In the spirit of NDEAM, let us recommit ourselves to the principles of inclusivity, collaboration, and innovation in our public schools. Together, we can create a brighter future where all individuals, regardless of their abilities, have equal opportunities to succeed and make meaningful contributions to society. 

8th/11th Grade Visits to SVSU Campus

Registration for 8th grade and 11th grade visits to SVSU campus during the Fall 2023 and Winter 2024 semester are now open!

Bus transportation reimbursement up to $1000 is available.

Register for a Visit to SVSU Campus!

SCHOOL LEADER MEETING

Next School Leader Meeting

Friday, November 17, 2023 @ SVSU
Curtiss Hall, Room Seminar G
10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Topics:

• Grants
• Teacher/Student Scholarships
• Cardinal Partnership Programs
• School Budgets

BOARD MEMBER TIDBITS

The Open Meetings Act has been updated. To view the updated document, please see: https://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/mcl/pdf/mcl-act-267-19-1976.pdf

Michigan's Attorney General issued an opinion regarding Virtual Public Meetings Under the Open Meetings Act and Americans with Disabilities Act. The opinion can be found at: https://www.fosterswift.com/communications-MI-OMA-ADA-Virtual-Meetings.html#:~:text=On%20February%204%2C%202022%2C%20the,accommodations%20under%20the%20Americans%20with

INNOVATION GRANT PROGRAM

Innovation Grants are being offered for the 2023-24 School Year. Up to $15,000 for school-wide programs (1 per building) and up to $1,000 for teacher/staff programs (2 per building).

The grant description, application, and report forms are located on our website.

Teacher/Staff Grant Commercial

Applications are due by October 2, 2023, to drg@svsu.edu.

MAPSA - MI CHARTER HEROES

Nominate Your Charter School Hero Today - Celebrate MI Charter Excellence! 

In the vibrant world of Michigan charter schools, countless unsung heroes are making a profound impact every day. From innovative teachers shaping young minds to dedicated administrators driving academic excellence, and essential staff members keeping our schools running seamlessly - our MI charter community is filled with remarkable individuals. 

The #MICharterHero project aims to shine a spotlight on these extraordinary people each month, but we need your help to make it happen. Nominations for #MICharterHero are open to the public and gathered anonymously on a rolling basis. When you nominate someone, you're not only acknowledging their exceptional contributions but also contributing to the collective narrative of our passionate and talented community. 

Every selected hero receives the recognition they deserve through storytelling efforts across social media and in the Charter Connect Newsletter. Your nominations help us share the inspiring stories of these exceptional individuals, spreading the word about their dedication and impact on our charter schools. Join us in celebrating the best of MI charter schools by nominating your charter school hero today! 

Nomination Link

TRAINING RESOURCES

FEATURED SCHOOL LEADER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

DLN: Project Gameplan - Keeping Compliant Scenarios

As a school leader or principal, you will need a firm knowledge of school laws and how to interpret those laws to keep compliance when situations arise. This self-facilitated course will provide you with the opportunity to review and understand important laws put in place to protect students and the school community. Topics you will study include mandatory reporting, zero-tolerance, and anti-bullying laws. Click here for more information to enroll.

FEATURE STAFF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

NEA's Certification Bank - Elevating the Profession through Educator Ethics

This stack challenges the status quo, personal beliefs, and cultural norms to develop a non-biased approach to ethical decision-making that allows educators to take control of the Profession. Participants examine various ethical situations including technology do's and don'ts; relationships with students, parents, and colleagues; and the dichotomy of a school employee's life. See: NEA Micro-credentials - FREE!

9th ANNUAL MICHIGAN TEACHERS OF COLOR VIRTUAL JOB FAIR

On October 4, 2023, from 3:30-5:30 p.m., the 9th Annual Michigan Teachers of Color Virtual Job Fair will take place. This online hiring event will connect diverse educators to opportunities to participate in interviews and discuss career opportunities with schools.

HAPPY NATIONAL BOSS'S DAY

Bosses Who Foster Inclusivity: A Shout-Out on Boss's Day, October 16, 2023 

As we approach Boss's Day on October 16, 2023, I'd like to commend the remarkable bosses who exemplify inclusivity in the workplace. I want to share my personal journey. I have a neurological disorder that sometimes affects my abilities. Throughout my career in charter schools, I've been fortunate to receive unwavering support, never feeling like a burden or inferior to my colleagues. My bosses and teammates saw me not just for my needs but, more importantly, for my unique contributions. 

These exceptional leaders possess the rare ability to recognize individual potential beyond limitations. Their approach creates an inclusive environment that empowers employees with diverse needs to thrive. It sends a powerful message that diversity is a strength and fosters a workplace where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, plays a valuable role. 

On this Boss's Day, let's take a moment to appreciate and express our gratitude to bosses who lead with empathy, who see beyond limitations, and who create workplaces where everyone can shine. These leaders remind us that great leadership nurtures the human potential within every employee. To all the bosses who support and accommodate their staff, thank you for your dedication to inclusivity. Happy Boss's Day! 

MICHIGAN TEACHER OF THE YEAR 2024-25 NOMINATIONS

MDE Accepting Nomination for 2024-2025 Michigan Teacher of the Year

MDE is opening the nomination process for the 2024-25 Michigan Teacher of the Year (MTOY), an annual program that recognizes outstanding teachers in our state. Each year 10 Regional Teachers of the Year (RTOYs) are selected through a competitive application process, with one of the RTOYs named Michigan Teacher of the Year. Please make nominations using the online form, which is available until Monday, October 16, 2023, at 11:50 p.m.