How Talent Together Works with Districts to Place Teachers in Classrooms

How Talent Together Works With Districts to Place Teachers in Classrooms Grow Your Own In 2022, seven Intermediate School Districts (ISDs) joined together to create a collective response to Michigan’s teacher shortage. ISD leaders partnered with Michigan Educator Workforce Initiative to create Talent Together.  Today, Talent Together is a consortium of all 56 Michigan ISDs and supports over 1,200 active Teacher Candidates across 400 districts, with a new cohort joining this spring. In just a few short years, Talent Together has grown into the Midwest’s largest Grow Your Own program. Talent Together Management Team  Grow Your Own (GYO) initiatives identify talented individuals who could be excellent teachers and are already working in or connected to a specific community. Individuals, such as paraprofessionals, support staff, long-term substitutes, or residents interested in teaching, are then supported through coursework and coaching, preparing them to earn certification and teach in their local schools. Research from Michigan State University’s Education Policy Innovation Collaborative (Grow Your Own Primer), GYO programs strengthen local teacher workforces when districts recruit from their communities, and preparation programs align coursework, clinical experiences, and support so candidates succeed (3–4). Talent Together builds on this model, focusing on the needs of districts, teachers, and students. “As a small, rural district, Talent Together has helped provide education and support to local residents who are interested in supporting and working for their community school district. This has helped us hire and retain residents who are involved and engaged not only in the school but in the community.” Jennifer Ellis, Superintendent at Morenci Area Schools   Journey of a Talent Together Teacher Candidate Once accepted, a Teacher Candidate enrolls in a post-secondary institution and is supported by a dedicated Talent Together Success Navigator. Teacher Candidates begin by completing required coursework while continuing to work, building the knowledge and skills needed to enter the classroom.   In their final year of coursework, most Teacher Candidates complete a Department of Labor–approved Registered Apprenticeship Program, which replaces traditional student teaching. During the apprenticeship year, Teacher Candidares work in a classroom alongside a Mentor Teacher, gaining hands-on experience while learning and observing. Talent Together Educator Development Specialists provide coaching and support to strengthen instruction and the mentor–mentee relationship.   After completing the program and earning their certification, Teacher Candidates commit to teaching in a Michigan school for five years for an initial certification or three years for an add-on endorsement. The Registered Apprenticeship: Creating Staff Retention and Greater Student Supports During the Registered Apprenticeship Program, Teacher Candidates spend a full school year in a classroom with a Mentor Teacher while earning 80% of a first-year teacher’s salary. This model provides apprentices with hands-on teaching experiences, including working with small groups, leading lessons, and offering one-on-one attention to students, while providing districts with immediate classroom support. Mentor Teachers gain leadership and coaching development experiences while preparing the Apprentice for a classroom of their own, and reducing burnout when they step into their full-time position. “Hosting Talent Together Teacher Candidates has been a tremendous asset to our daily operations. The program offers our veteran teachers invaluable mentoring experiences, strengthening their own instructional leadership. The presence of these future educators means our classrooms have additional caring, dedicated future teachers providing support to our students every day.”  Allison Jordan, Superintendent at Merrill Community Schools   Success Stories To date, Talent Together has supported over 300 Apprentice Teacher Candidates, each one gaining invaluable experience and strengthening their community. Here’s a closer look at the journeys of a few of these future educators: Nine-year school support staff to future certified teacher Portage Public Schools is home to six Talent Together Teacher Candidates and three program alumni. Among those is Agatha Cottrell, who has worked at Portage Public Schools for the past nine years. She initially joined the Special Education team and later moved into a reading/math paraprofessional role. Agatha wanted to teach more but felt limited without the necessary schooling and certifications. “I thought this was too good to be true, not having to leave my current job or pay for school. To have a classroom of my own within the district I love!  It’s been amazing to complete my apprentice year within the same building where I have worked for so long.”  Agatha’s apprentice year has given her hands-on experience and confirmed she’s exactly where she’s meant to be. “My apprentice journey has solidified my desire to teach. Being in one room from the first day is something I can’t really explain. Knowing that my mentor is modeling exactly what I will do next year, and beyond, is knowledge not everyone has.” Chad Mason at West Bloomfield School District Chad Mason is currently completing his apprenticeship year in a High School Emotional Impairment (EI) Special Education classroom in West Bloomfield School District. Chad is thriving in a highly specialized setting, bringing warmth, consistency, and strong relationship-building to a classroom that requires clear structure and emotional support. During a recent visit, Southeast Region Educator Development Specialist Alisha Goins was struck by the positive classroom culture he and his mentor, Terry Battle, have created. In the first 10 minutes of instruction, he maintained a 9:0 ratio of positive to corrective interactions, and students responded promptly to directions. He provided 14 opportunities for students to respond, and there were no disruptions, contributing to strong engagement. The classroom felt calm, structured, and student-centered, reflecting his growing skill and dedication. LaVita Thopson at Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences LaVita Thopson is completing her apprenticeship at Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences (DAAS). She discovered her passion for teaching while working as a substitute teacher and paraprofessional, and now, as she pursues her Special Education certification, she is seeing that passion become a reality. “The support from Talent Together and DAAS has been amazing. They are truly here for us, and everyone is making sure I am understanding and progressing as an educator. I am excited about all that has been and is to come.” LaVita is one of

Not Just a Pipeline- A Lifeline

Across Michigan, the need for certified special education teachers remains critical — but dedicated educators like Heather Gauck are helping lead the change. As a Mentor Teacher with Talent Together, Heather shares how the Registered Apprenticeship model is transforming lives, classrooms, and communities by preparing passionate educators where they’re needed most.

Stronger Together: Celebrating the Partners Powering Talent Together’s Mission

Stronger Together: Celebrating the Partners Powering Talent Together’s Mission  Working Together to Build Michigan’s Educator Pipeline At Talent Together, our mission to address Michigan’s educator shortage is powered by an incredible network of partners who share our vision.  Together, we’re supporting more than 1,200 aspiring educators across 400 school districts with debt-free pathways to teaching — because we believe every community deserves high-quality educators, and every future teacher deserves an opportunity to succeed.   These partnerships make it possible to remove barriers, expand access to teacher preparation, and invest in the next generation of Michigan educators. Michigan Educator Workforce Initiative (MEWI) The Michigan Educator Workforce Initiative has been a cornerstone partner since our launch, providing strategic direction, technical assistance, and design expertise to ensure long-term sustainability. Through MEWI’s guidance, we’ve been able to offer 100% tuition-free education, a paid year-long apprenticeship, fully online degree access statewide, and sustainable career advancement pathways. The impact is clear: 96% of our candidates say we’re effectively removing the top barriers to teacher certification. Jack Elsey  Founder | MEWI “The more we can make sure that starting a career in education is a financially viable career — from the moment training begins — the more likely we are to convince the workforce of the future to consider becoming a teacher.” — Jack Elsey, Founder of the Michigan Educator Workforce Initiative School District Partners: Growing Talent from Within Our school district partners are at the center of our work. They identify passionate individuals already serving in their schools — from paraprofessionals to long-term substitutes — and help them take the next step toward teacher certification.  Superintendent William Heath of Portland Public Schools, which currently has nine (9) Talent Together Teacher Candidates, shares this commitment: “The Talent Together program has created a vital pipeline of passionate, local talent during a time when recruitment is increasingly challenging, particularly in specialized and hard-to-fill roles. By supporting individuals already connected to our district and community in becoming certified educators, we’ve been able to fill vacancies with candidates who not only understand our students’ needs and the culture of our schools but are also deeply committed to staying long term. It’s been a proactive and sustainable solution to persistent staffing shortages.” William Heath  Superintendent | Portland Public Schools This partnership model ensures that schools are staffed with educators who know their communities — and are committed to staying. Higher Education Partners: Pathways to Certification Through our partnerships with accredited universities and colleges, we connect aspiring educators with high-quality, affordable certification programs. These institutions share our commitment to equity and flexibility, offering online coursework that allows candidates to keep working in their school communities while earning their credentials. Strong Partners for our Registered Apprenticeship Program The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity advises & coordinates registration of Talent Together’s Registered Apprenticeship Program with the United States Department of Labor.  We ensure that candidates can earn a wage while completing their teacher preparation. Our 300 Apprentice Teachers spend a full year of paid classroom experience in the grade level and subject area of their certification. This real-world preparation has proven its value with a 95% program completion rate. Our work in this space has earned recognition, including two Race to Talent Apprenticeship Champion Awards from Michigan Works! Northeast Consortium and Macomb/St. Clair. Michigan Works! also helps braid state and federal workforce funding with Talent Together resources, expanding opportunities for more candidates. Why These Partnerships Matter Every partner plays a critical role in addressing Michigan’s educator shortage. Whether it’s providing strategic vision, opening doors in local districts, delivering high-quality coursework, or creating paid apprenticeship opportunities, these collaborations are shaping a stronger, more sustainable future for Michigan schools.

Vision to Reality: Stories from the Next Generation of Michigan Educators

Vision to Reality: Stories from the Next Generation of Michigan Educators  Real Stories. Real Impact. When we talk about the future of education in Michigan, we’re not just talking about policies or programs—we’re talking about people. People like Donille, Lisbeth, and Kenneth are showing us what’s possible when passion meets action and when opportunity is matched with support.     At Talent Together, we have the privilege of walking alongside more than 1,200 teacher candidates—each bringing their unique story, strength, and spark to the profession. Through our collaborative effort with 19 post- secondary partners and 412 school districts and intermediate school district partners across the state, we’re not just helping people become teachers. We’re helping them become the kind of educators Michigan students deserve.  Paraprofessional to Certified Teacher: Donille’s Journey Donille Cabanaw Dexter Community School District   Donille Cabanaw began her journey as a paraeducator in Dexter Community Schools in Washtenaw Intermediate School District and quickly realized she wanted to be a lead teacher in her own classroom. Inspired by her daughter’s first day of kindergarten, Donille knew she wanted to make a difference in students’ lives. Like many aspiring educators, Donille faced real-world obstacles: raising children, balancing work and school, and managing the high cost of childcare and tuition. When she found Talent Together, things changed. The program offered her more than just funding—it offered community, structure, and mentorship. Donille recently graduated Summa Cum Laude from Lake Superior State University with her Bachelor of Science Elementary Education degree. She was named Most Outstanding Graduate by the College of Education. Reflecting on her experience, she said: “I am more than prepared to enter the classroom and continue to learn and grow into a great educator. Being an apprentice teacher for an entire school year has given me a unique insight into how a classroom works from the beginning to the end. I know that when I enter the classroom on my own, I will truly understand how it will run throughout the year to be the most effective teacher possible.” You can read more about Donille’s story here.  Mackinac Island Teacher of the Year Lisbeth McGregor brings over two decades of experience in education to her new role as a certified preschool and kindergarten teacher at Mackinac Island School District in Eastern Upper Peninsula Intermediate School District. Her story is a journey of service that led to a new chapter in her career through Talent Together.   This year, Lisbeth was named Teacher of the Year by her peers—a recognition she describes as both deeply meaningful and a testament of her commitment to her students.   Lisbeth is especially passionate about encouraging future educators to advocate for themselves. When asked what advice she’d give to a current teacher candidate, she shared:   “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’re never alone. Your professors, Talent Together staff, and your school community want to see you succeed. Don’t let silence be the thing that holds you back.” This year has brought many “firsts” for Lisbeth. While she felt prepared for most of them, one unexpected challenge reminded her of the continued value of support. “I reached out to Amy Peterson, Talent Together’s Regional Director for Northern Michigan, and she helped me navigate the situation. Even after graduation, that support didn’t go away—it made all the difference.” Read Lisbeth’s full story here.  Lisbeth McGregor Mackinac Island School District A New Chapter: Kenneth’s Journey from Law Enforcement to the Classroom Kenneth Taylor’s path to education is anything but typical. With a degree in Theatre & Entertainment Arts from Northern Michigan University, his career took him through law enforcement, funeral services, and over a decade as a school resource officer with the Hannahville Indian Community. While he always enjoyed working with students, it was reintroducing the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program that kindled his desire to teach. He realized he wanted to be in the classroom daily—building relationships and watching students grow. Kenneth Taylor  Bark River-Harris Community Schools Kenneth is finishing the last few weeks of his apprenticeship at Bark River-Harris Community School District in Delta-Schoolcraft Intermediate School District. Kenneth will finish his studies through the #T.E.A.C.H program and is set to graduate this August and lead a classroom of his own this fall. Kenneth advises future teacher candidates: “This journey isn’t easy—but nothing truly worthwhile ever is. It’s going to challenge you, but it’s also going to change you in the best ways. Don’t give up. And if along the way you realize it’s not for you, that’s okay, too—because at the end of the day, it’s about being the best we can be for the kids.” You can read more about Kenneth’s story here.  This Is What Progress Looks Like The stories of Donille, Lisbeth, and Kenneth are just a few examples of what’s possible when aspiring educators are given real support. Behind every classroom lightbulb moment, every engaged student, and every confident new teacher, there’s a web of effort, encouragement, and care. As Talent Together continues to grow, we remain grounded in our mission: to reduce barriers, uplift communities, and transform the path to teaching in Michigan. And to the educators walking this road—whether you’re just starting out or guiding others along the way—we see you. We believe in you. And we’re so glad to be in this together.

Talent Together is a statewide solution to Michigan’s classroom crisis

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.  

Why Talent Together Invests in a Registered Apprenticeship Program

Why Talent Together Invests in a Registered Apprenticeship Program  Understanding the Apprenticeship Model An apprenticeship is a structured, hands-on training program where individuals learn a profession by working alongside experienced mentors.  They gain real-world experience while completing related academic instruction. The apprenticeship model has been around for centuries, and teachers have participated in internships for decades, but it wasn’t until recently that we’ve seen K-12 education adopt a U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) model to train aspiring teachers.  At Talent Together, our Registered Apprenticeship Program offers candidates the unique opportunity to earn a salary while working alongside a Mentor Teacher for an entire school year. The apprenticeship overlaps with and enhances the traditional model of student teaching.  Learn and Earn Our recent Teacher Candidate Survey revealed that financial barriers were the most significant challenge teacher candidates faced prior to joining Talent Together. Through our Registered Apprenticeship, Apprentice Teachers are hired by school districts and receive a salary and benefits—helping to eliminate the financial barriers of traditional, unpaid student teaching  By allowing aspiring teachers to earn a paycheck while earning their certification, Talent Together’s Registered Apprenticeship Program is making the pathway to teaching more accessible for individuals across the state. For Ruben Gonzalez, now a full-time teacher at Fiedler Elementary in Kearsley Community School District, this learn-and-earn model completely changed the trajectory of his life.  “The biggest challenge for me was the cost of returning to school. Talent Together has helped cover my expenses and enabled me to earn my degree while working full-time. Without their support, I wouldn’t be where I am today.” Learn more about Ruben’s story.  Ruben Gonzalez, Fiedler Elementary School District Establish Roots Unlike standard, one-semester student teaching programs, Talent Together’s Registered Apprenticeship Program offers a comprehensive perspective on the teaching profession from fall to spring. Navigating the full academic cycle, Apprentice Teachers establish rich relationships within their school communities and witness student growth for a full academic year before leading their own classroom. Jessica Allen, Crossroads Charter Academy  At Crossroads Charter Academy in Big Rapids, MI Apprentice Teacher, Jessica Allen works alongside Mentor Teacher Ken Bankwitz. Jessica highlights the variety of support she received along her journey. “My apprentice journey has given me so many opportunities including learning from my mentor teacher, coworkers, fellow apprentice teachers, teachers from my post-secondary school,  and the experienced teachers from Michigan Talent Together. From these opportunities to work with so many in teaching, I am gaining the experience and knowledge that will allow me to give my passion for teaching the most effective tools and resources I need to help students learn and thrive in my future classroom.” Sustain Success A 2022 poll by the National Education Association revealed that over half of teachers express a desire to leave the teaching profession sooner than they originally planned. Knowing that many teachers leave the profession within their first few years due to the unanticipated pressures of the job, Talent Together invests in the Registered Apprenticeship Program as a way to ease Teacher Candidates into full-time teaching with the support of an experienced mentor.  Calvin Smothers, Donley Elementary School  Calvin Smothers, a first-year teacher at Donley Elementary School, authored an opinion piece in the Detroit News, Old School, New Success: The Power of Apprenticeships in Education, where he stated,  “Individuals who have completed a year-long teaching apprenticeship prior to becoming certified teachers transition into their first year of teaching with confidence and ease and are well-prepared with classroom routines, structure, and experience. Walking into my own classroom for the first time earlier this school year, I felt a profound sense of purpose.”  The Impact of Apprenticeship Programs Talent Together’s apprenticeship model develops a pipeline of well-trained educators who are equipped to stay in the profession while making a positive impact in classrooms across Michigan. Talent Together’s Apprentice Teachers can lean on a robust network of support from their mentors, peers, and school districts as they embark on their journeys as educators. The Registered Apprenticeship Program enables candidates to learn and earn, establish roots, and sustain success for a strong and fulfilling teaching journey.  Read more Teacher Candidate Stories and Common FAQs about the Registered Apprenticeship Program. 

Strengthening the Michigan Special Education Workforce

Strengthening the Michigan Special Education Workforce Meeting the Growing Demand for Special Education Teachers The need for qualified special education teachers is rising, and Talent Together Teacher Candidates are stepping up with the confidence, skills, and experience to succeed. Currently, 37.62% of our Teacher Candidates are enrolled in a special education pathway, preparing to fill certified special education teacher vacancies across Michigan. The Education Policy Innovation Collaborative at Michigan State University is a research center devoted to producing evidence that improves education policy. Their recent 2025 Michigan Teacher Shortage Study highlights the urgent need for certified special education teachers across MI. Fully staffing districts with qualified special education professionals is essential to closing achievement gaps and ensuring all students receive a fair and equitable education. A Candidate’s Perspective Taia Cisco, a Talent Together Teacher Candidate and Special Education Teacher Assistant at Calhoun Intermediate School District, is enrolled in the Siena Heights Cognitive Impairment Program and works with students with mild cognitive impairment. “I’ve gained strategies in behavior management, communication, and individualized education planning. I use task analysis, multi-sensory instruction, positive behavioral support strategies, and augmentative and alternative communication tools to support student success. Strengthening my individualized education program knowledge has enhanced my ability to set goals, track progress, and collaborate effectively.”  Taia Cisco The Siena Heights Cognitive Impairment program equips educators to support students with memory, concentration, task completion, following instructions, and problem-solving challenges. “I’m learning to adapt instruction, support students more effectively, and advocate for students’ needs. This has helped me create a more inclusive and supportive classroom environment and will continue to shape how I educate and advocate for students with cognitive impairments in the future.” Shares Taia Cisco A Strong Foundation in Special Education Talent Together is partnering with Siena Heights University’s online Special Education Cognitive Impairment Program, perfect for educators already working in a classroom. This collaboration is helping to strengthen the special education workforce. The program is based on genetic and neurological medical foundations, by Dr. Carrie Mitchell-Hammer and the late Dr. Martha Carroll, trailblazers in cognitive impairment. From day one, educators dive into hands-on field experiences, working with real students in real classrooms.  Special Education teacher candidates utilizing the electronic autopsy table at Siena Heights University “The asynchronous structure provides flexibility for Teacher Candidates working in K-12 special education settings, allowing them to immediately apply their learning in the classroom. The ripple effect of this model is truly exciting, as it cultivates a new generation of passionate, dedicated, and knowledgeable special educators who are ready to shape the future of special education.” Dr. Carrie Mitchell-Hammer  Be Part of Michigan’s Education Transformation Talent Together is committed to developing the next generation of educators by providing accessible, high-quality pathways to teacher certification. Our tuition-free, job-embedded program, supports aspiring educators to teacher certification.  By joining, partnering, or supporting Talent Together, you become part of a statewide initiative dedicated to strengthening Michigan’s education workforce—helping to fill critical teacher vacancies and ensure that all students receive the support and instruction they deserve.

Serving Rural Schools

Serving Rural Schools Educator Development Specialist Support for Teacher Candidates in Rural Schools At Talent Together, we’re committed to serving educators all across Michigan. We provide support for teacher candidates through our Educator Development Specialist services. Dr. Sara Croney, superintendent for Gwinn Area Community Schools, highlighted the transformative power of educators, stating: “Our greatest strength is a quality, motivated teacher who can change the motivation and beliefs of a child from lukewarm to full steam ahead with achievement! Talent Together teachers are helping to excite our learners to believe they are capable.”  Our Educator Development Specialist team provides in-person and online classroom observations, shares helpful resources, and works closely with teacher candidates.  Quote by: Kimberly Shoup, Educator Development Specialist at Talent Together  “I am continually impressed by the dedication, skill, and hard work I often experience while working with staff in rural schools. Many staff members live in the same community, and their own children attend the school where they work. They have no desire to leave the district once they earn their teacher certification and are committed to contributing to their community by becoming a certified educator.”  Keep reading to learn about Eccles, one of the small rural schools that Talent Together serves. If you’d like to get involved, check out these opportunities: Apply to be a teacher Apply to be a teacher leader Contact us to become a Talent Together participating district Make a financial contribution Eccles School, a one room schoolhouse in Harbor Beach, MI Eccles is a historic one-room schoolhouse in Harbor Beach, Michigan. It serves 24 students in kindergarten through 8th grades with personalized, multi-age instruction. Run by the Huron Area ISD under Dr. Nancy Lubeski, Eccles blends its old-fashioned charm with strong special education and therapy programs. This year, Eccles welcomed its largest kindergarten class, with seven students. Two teachers cover all subjects and grade levels.  Jodi Geiger is a dedicated paraeducator at Eccles School and a teacher candidate with Talent Together. Jodi says, “I enjoy being able to help students and seeing them make learning progress.”  Jodi is pursuing her teacher certification, and we are truly blessed to have her as part of the Talent Together program. Reflecting on her experience, Jodi shares, “Talent Together has been extraordinarily wonderful—checking in on you, helping you through the steps, and always being there if you have questions along the way.” Educator Development Specialists embrace Michigan’s diverse communities, and assist teacher candidates to become strong educators for their schools and students.  More information about the rural school districts in Huron County can be found at Huron County Rural Schools.  

Spotlight on Sarah Al-Kabour: One Apprentice Teacher’s Message to the US Secretary of Education

When US Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona visited Glencairn Elementary School in East Lansing to learn about Talent Together, Sarah Al-Kabour—a Kindergarten Apprentice Teacher at Glencairn—knew she wanted to demonstrate the real challenges that aspiring teachers face.

Meet Crystal Boddy: Special Education Apprentice

Meet Crystal Boddy – Special Education Apprentice Apprentice’s Mentor and School Leaders Support Her Growth September 9, 2024 Crystal Boddy, a Special Education Apprentice Teacher, in her classroom. Meet Crystal Boddy, a former paraprofessional at Allegan Area ESA. Crystal is now embarking on her Apprenticeship Year at Talent Together, working side-by-side with her mentor teacher in a special education classroom. In her first month, she is already getting meaningful at-bats with new skills, like writing an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Crystal’s story highlights how mentors, districts and Talent Together work together to prepare Teacher Candidates to confidently lead their own classrooms. Apprentice-Mentor Relationship The Apprentice-Mentor relationship is at the heart of Talent Together’s apprenticeship model.  Although Crystal is just beginning her apprentice experience, she is already drawing inspiration from her mentor. “My mentor teacher is the one that I would base [my future classroom] on. Her classroom is open, welcoming, and honest, and those are things that I love.” From the beginning, Crystal’s mentor established a structured coaching relationship using Talent Together’s Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) Standards. “My mentor gave me a document listing all of the things that I need to make sure I am covering, and, for me, that helped. I can look at and decide to see how we are going to meet the requirements together instead of just winging it and having someone just check up on me once in a while.” This direct on-the-job coaching gives Crystal the confidence to tackle new challenges in ways that would otherwise not be possible. “I like that aspect of having support around me – how [Talent Together] is helping lead [my mentor] and she is helping me.”  For example, writing an IEP is daunting for many new teachers. But Crystal is already working closely with her mentor on this new skill: “My mentor showed me how and I did a large section. It was a lot, but she helped me navigate the system. I was most concerned about doing the IEPs so I loved having that support.” Strong District Partnerships School administrators play a central role in facilitating the apprenticeship year, and Allegan Area ESA has been an exceptional partner. Thanks to her school leaders, Crystal has had authentic experiences participating in school-wide routines. “So far, the principal has been very supportive. She made sure I was always sitting next to my mentor and immediately invited me to all of the teacher meetings. My mentor started including me in all emails [our school leaders] send.” As Allegan Area ESA invests in Crystal’s development, Crystal looks forward to her continued service at the organization where she’s already deeply embedded. “I really respect all of the staff members at Allegan Area ESA. They have been so supportive, from the superintendent to the principal and other staff members. I can really see myself making a career here.” What can Crystal offer as a piece of advice to future candidates? “If you need support, Talent Together is there for you. If you just follow the steps, you are going to be just fine.” Registered Apprenticeships A registered apprenticeship is a key part of the Talent Together experience. Completing a registered apprenticeship is an opportunity to obtain paid work experience and gain classroom instruction while a teacher candidate completes their final year of coursework. Read More >>