Rick Joseph Michigan Teacher of the Year 2016

It seems I get more likes when I post a picture of my dog on Facebook than when I post an article about an issue that is of serious import. I do have a friend on Facebook, however, who consistently comments when I post a comment or an article about a contentious issue....

You Have a Voice! Let it Be Heard.

It’s time to start a new conversation. One that is real. One that is relevant and much needed. It’s time to tell our stories about a profession that is not only noble, but vital in shaping the future.  A future that will require creati...

Bill Bowles is an ambassador for all that is good about public education. A gifted educator, Mr. Bowles just concluded over 20 years with the Detroit Public Schools as a media specialist. Most of his tenure was spent at Western International High School, a Detroit Publ...

I was greeted at the door of the English class the same way I had been met at the other three rooms I visited. An eager, very polite 9th grader addressed me with a greeting that went like this,

“Hello and welcome to our science classroom. We are currently studying genet...

What stereotypes do you associate with juvenile detention centers? Inhumane conditions? Sexual abuse? Hopelessness and despair?

As Michigan Teacher of the Year 2016, I want to be an advocate for all students and educators in all schools, everywhere. This includes studen...

Detroit Collegiate Preparatory High School at Northwestern endures. 

Despite the challenges surrounding Detroit Public Schools, DCP at Northwestern continues to meet the needs of the kids it serves, one student at a time. As guest of physical educator Ray Williams, I wa...

Coleman A. Young Elementary School is the kind of caring community where kids are encouraged to reach their highest potential.  

What always amazes me when I step into a Detroit Public School is the invariable professionalism and dedication of the staff. I am reminded o...

How many languages do you speak? Chances are, if you are like many native-born Americans - the answer is a resounding...one. Only English.

Students at Marquette Elementary School in Muskegon, however, learn in both Spanish and English in the school’s dual language immer...

At Redford Service Learning Academy students appreciate the community that is forged through service to others. What they also learn to value is the importance of listening actively to develop compassion. This atmosphere of understanding "the other" leads to an ethic o...

If I were to consider a definition of community spirit, I need look no further than the atmosphere at Newberry Elementary and High School. Located close to Taquamenon Falls in Luce County, I had the honor of spending a day in Newberry where I met some remarkable educat...