CECI partnership expands West Michigan teacher workforce

Since May 2024, the College of Education and Community Innovation and the West Michigan Teacher Collaborative — an alliance among Kent, Muskegon and Ottawa intermediate school districts — have worked together to address the shortage of PK-12 and special education teachers in West Michigan.

The partnership marked a significant milestone this week as the first cohort to participate in the WMTC’s program completed its journey on April 17.

The event, held at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, recognized 51 residents who had successfully met the program’s requirements. The residents — school professionals and support staff who already hold at least a bachelor’s degree — pursued certification at either the elementary or secondary level through CECI’s graduate teacher certification program.

“Our partnership with the WMTC demonstrates how PK-12 schools and university educator preparation programs can build on their existing relationships to address the teacher shortage,” said Amy Schelling, CECI associate dean. “We've implemented innovative programming that removes barriers to becoming a teacher while upholding high standards for teacher preparation and meeting the unique needs of the region.”

Daisy Fredricks, CECI’s director of teacher education, said the evening was a milestone not just for CECI and the WMTC, but, most importantly, for the residents.

“This is about recognizing your passion for our profession, and the dedication you have made to your learning and growth,” Fredricks said. “It's about recognizing your unique teacher magic that we've watched you bring to your classrooms and to your students.”

In Northern Michigan, 35 school employees in that region will earn teacher certification this month after participating in CECI's Graduate Teacher Certification program through a partnership with Northwest Education Services that was funded by the State of Michigan. Grand Valley's Traverse City Regional Center collaborated on that program.

In addition to the residency program, the WMTC also offers additional pathways for adult learners pursuing bachelor’s degrees through GVSU’s LEADS program on their way to becoming a teacher, or current educators seeking additional credentials through advanced degrees via GVSU coursework.

Funding for the collaborative was provided through the Michigan Department of Education’s Grow Your Own (GYO) Programs , encouraging school districts to develop their school support staff as teachers or encourage current teachers to earn additional certifications. 

Tuition, fees and stipends for residents in the program are covered by the WMTC with many eligible participants receiving stipends up to $20,000. 

Mary Kay Murphy, the WMTC’s interim executive director, celebrated the commitment and camaraderie of the inaugural cohort.

“The people who we are recognizing tonight as residents, they've been in this together,” Murphy said. “They text each other, they support each other, they hug each other, they cry on each other’s shoulders and they celebrate together.”