LANSING, Mich. — Michigan school administrators, educators are encouraged to address issues of equity and inclusion in schools through free programming made possible by a collaboration between Michigan Virtual, Michigan State University and the University of Michigan.
This week marks the fourth annual “International Day of Education,” celebrated on January 24th annually, to recognize the role of education in peace and development, and to support transformative actions for inclusive, equitable and quality education for all students. The theme for this year’s annual International Day of Learning is “Changing Course, Transforming Education,” which calls for a rebalancing of our relationships with each other, with nature, as well as with technology, bearing opportunities to address concerns of equity and inclusion.
The collaboration between Michigan Virtual, Michigan State University and the University of Michigan has led to the creation of 14 modules, offered for free to Michigan schools, addressing issues of inclusive teaching and learning. These free professional learning modules have been made possible thanks to a $1.4 million investment from the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief fund. These online courses outline current research and best practices for those teaching remotely.
“These modules offer educators the latest research and best practices for learning about and addressing topics central to the heart of being more inclusive and equitable members of society.”
Jamey Fitzpatrick, President and CEO of Michigan Virtual
“These modules offer educators the latest research and best practices for learning about and addressing topics central to the heart of being more inclusive and equitable members of society,” said Jamey Fitzpatrick, President and CEO of Michigan Virtual. “These free resources can help educators create a safe and comfortable learning environment designed to meet every student’s unique needs and can continue to meet the challenges and opportunities that arise in a COVID-19 classroom.”
The courses support learning about topics such as social interventions for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), family-school partnerships for students with disabilities, project-based learning, social justice, anti-racism, self-care, online learning for multilingual students, trauma-informed practice in PreK-12 education and more.
Educators and school administrators are encouraged to review the available resources and enroll at www.michiganvirtual.org/geer-grant. The modules are available at no cost to Michigan schools to work through at their own pace, and State Continuing Education Clock Hours will be awarded upon successful completion of the modules.
