A Little Network History
¨ The roots of NME go back to the mid 1990s with groups like the Michigan Teacher Forum. The Forum worked to bring recognized teachers together with a central purpose to enhance teaching and learning in Michigan. The group provided opportunities for some members and laid the initial foundation on which others could build.
¨ The NME roots also go deeply to groups like the Michigan Milken Educator Network (MMEN). From 1995 through 1999 Milken Educators attempted to develop a Best Practices Conference and form the Michigan Milken Educator’s Network, which finally became a reality after Jean Shane was appointed by MDE to coordinate the Milken Awards Program in 1999. Following a one day organizing meeting in July 1999 the mission, goals, and guidelines of the MMEN were carried out by a Network Steering Committee. A December Network Retreat, Awards Luncheon, and Legislative Action Day was held in 1999, 2000, and 2001. A Spring Legislative Visitation (all legislators) and resource directory event was held in 2001.
¨ The Network's goal was to develop an effective presence and process for influencing education policy, as well as improve teaching and learning in Michigan. The Milken Network was fortunate to have support from the MDE, the State Superintendent, the Milken Foundation, and the Network members, which together produced the most successful Milken Educator Network in the US. The Network growth potential, however, was limited by its small numbers.
¨ In 2002, State Board President Kathy Straus and State Superintendent, Tom Watkins requested that the Network be expanded to an all awards Network.
¨ An Instructional Leadership and awards event was organized for December 2003 and 67 Recognized Educators from eight different State level awards programs attended a facilitated one day event to outline their hopes and aspirations for Education in Michigan.
¨ During the December 2003 event the group decides to form The Network Of Michigan Educators (NME) and 14 attendees volunteer as an organizing Steering Committee.
¨ During the Spring and summer of 2004 the Steering Committee established a new NME Mission and Operating Guidelines. The Steering Committee established three areas of focus to activate the new Network: Action/Study Teams, a Policy Action Team, and a Communications Team.
¨ In December of 2004 a two day Retreat, Recognition Banquet, and Instructional Excellence Conference kicked off the new Network of Michigan Educators
¨ Throughout 2005 active relationships have been established with the State Board, the MDE, the new Superintendent of Public Instruction, The Governor’s Office, the Michigan Legislature, and US legislators.
¨ This Website is born – check it out.
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