A Statewide Solution to Michigan’s Classroom Crisis
Michigan's Teacher Shortage
A recent Detroit News investigation shed light on Michigan’s growing class sizes, but behind that issue lies an even greater concern: the state’s ongoing teacher shortage. According to MSU’s EPIC research, in 2022-23, district leaders reported having twice as many teacher vacancies and only half as many applicants per position compared to 2019-20. Without more high-quality teachers, class sizes will continue to rise — affecting student learning across the state.
Michigan’s answer to this crisis is Talent Together, a homegrown, innovative teacher preparation program led by all 56 intermediate school districts (ISDs) and regional education service agencies (RESAs). Partnering with 18 colleges and universities, the program eliminates the top barriers to entering the profession: cost, time, and access.
Rooted in Schools, Ready to Teach
The program is effective because it’s designed by Michigan educators for Michigan schools. Participants are often already working in schools as paraprofessionals or aides, embedded in their communities, and committed to staying. Supported throughout the process, they receive credentials and practical skills needed to lead classrooms. With an 88% retention rate, the model works. As Calhoun ISD’s Taia Cisco puts it, “I’m learning to adapt instruction, support students more effectively, and advocate for students’ needs.” Talent Together’s results speak volumes: 96% of its participants report feeling confident and classroom-ready after their training. The best teachers often start with hands-on experience, and this program builds on that foundation by placing candidates in real classrooms, learning alongside experienced mentors.
Taia Ciscp, Calhoun Intermediate School District
Real Impact
One such teacher is Lisbeth McGregor from Mackinac Island Public Schools. “Through many years of supportive roles, I’ve learned so much about teaching and the whole child,” she says. “Talent Together helped me transition from support staff to lead teacher—something I had dreamed of for years.”
Recognized as a Registered Apprenticeship Program by the U.S. Department of Labor, Talent Together allows teacher candidates to earn a wage while they learn. For people like Alex Getty of Lake City Area Schools, that support is critical. “Talent Together has been life-changing,” he says. “I could support my family while pursuing my dream.”
Lisbeth McGregor, Mackinaw Island School District
Full support
The program also emphasizes observation of model teachers, creating a cycle of practice, feedback, and reflection that ensures readiness from day one. Leah Porter, the 2022 Michigan Teacher of the Year, praises the program’s community: “It’s inspiring to be surrounded by professionals so committed to making a difference.”Talent Together currently supports over 1,200 teacher candidates in 400+ districts, with 229 newly certified teachers already in classrooms and another 210 on the way. It’s the largest “Grow Your Own” teacher initiative in the nation, with reach into both urban and rural communities.
The desire to teach is still strong. What’s been missing is a way to get there. Talent Together removes the barriers—bringing passionate, qualified educators into classrooms where they’re needed most.
To ensure this work continues, Michigan residents can contact their legislators and advocate for full funding in the state school aid budget. Sustained investment in programs like Talent Together will reduce class sizes, fill vacancies, and strengthen education statewide.
Daveda Colbert is superintendent at Wayne RESA, Eric Hoppstock is superintendent at Berrien RESA and Jason Mellema is superintendent at Ingham ISD.