Michelle Bahr

Meet Michelle, a proud first-generation college graduate, an enthusiastic lifelong learner, and a dedicated special education teacher and administrator at Midland ESA. After years of devoted service, Michelle celebrated her well-deserved retirement on June 30, 2023! Both Michelle and her daughter, Kirsten, had remarkable experiences while attending the close-knit community at SVSU.

Life at SVSU

Michelle started her educational journey by earning her first teaching degree at Bradley University in Illinois. When she moved to Midland with her husband Brad in 1984, Michelle took a break from work to become a stay-at-home mom to her daughter, Kirsten, who has Turner's syndrome. In seeking support for Kirsten at the Midland Educational Services Agency (ESA), Michelle's inspiration led her back to academia to pursue a specialized teaching degree designed to help students like Kristen. Michelle and Brad also have a daughter Shannon, who is married and lives in Arlington Heights with her husband Steve, and son Patrick.

Ambitious Michelle embraced the opportunity to work at Midland ESA and attend SVSU, where she obtained her Master of Arts in Teaching with a focus on early childhood education in 2001. Relishing the vibrant learning environment of SVSU, she particularly enjoyed her class on special education law – a pivotal moment where she found herself captivated by the laws designed to protect people with disabilities. Through the Gerstacker Fellowship, Michelle embarked on an unforgettable journey to South Korea and Hong Kong.

Over the years, SVSU became more than just an institution for Michelle; it became her second home. She continuously expanded her qualifications with various endorsements throughout her exemplary career at Midland ESA, including earning her Supervisor and Director endorsement in 2007.

Life beyond SVSU

Michelle's heart belongs in early childhood education, especially when it comes to teaching special education preschool children aged 3-6. She held roles as both a teacher, supervisor, and director of education at Midland ESA. Her favorite aspect? Collaborating with families and ensuring that children receive the necessary support to thrive.

Like mother like daughter - Kirsten also attended SVSU! Michelle admires the exceptional work of the SVSU Accessibilities Department in assisting Kirsten throughout her college years. In Michelle's eyes, no other college could have given Kirsten a more positive experience.

As Michelle commences her well-earned retirement from Midland ESA, she plans to invest her newfound free time in various volunteer activities. Her generosity extends to organizations such as the Philanthropic Education Organization (PEO), First United Methodist Church, Leadership Midland, and Midland Community Foundation.

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