August 2024

WELCOME BACK

Elevate your potential for positive change at Saginaw Valley State University, in your local community, and among countless lives with our empowering online master's degree programs. Our programs integrate into your busy life, equipping you with the skills to make a profound impact. Apply today, and together, let's cultivate progress in your organization, community, and the lives you touch.

My name is Tanika Williams, MBA, MS, and I am here to help you navigate your path to earning your graduate degree. Feel free to text me at (989) 461-2050 or visit https://www.svsu.edu/graduateprograms/.

https://www.svsu.edu/teaching/specializations/

Public School Academy Teacher/Administrator Scholarships

The School/University Partnership Office at Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU) offers tuition scholarships to teachers/administrators of SVSU authorized Public School Academies to obtain continuing education credits or to complete a program through the College of Education. 15 credits per year are available (Fall to Summer).

Specifically, 50% tuition scholarships for 3-5 years of service; 75% tuition scholarships for 6+ years of service. Download the fillable Scholarship Verification Form (102KB) to request a scholarship and send to drg@svsu.edu. The form must be submitted each semester of classes to obtain a scholarship.

SCHOOL LEADER NETWORK MEETING #1

THEME: Together We Grow - Strength Through Gathering

DATE: Friday, August 16, 2024
TIME: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
LOCATION: Emeriti Room (Curtiss Hall)

Link to RSVP for the School Leader Network Meeting Please respond by August 7!

*Save the date - November 22, 2024 - School Leader Network Meeting #2 - Exploring the Impact of Poverty

TITLE IX UPDATES TRAINING

The School/University Partnership Office is pleased to announce a vital opportunity for school administrative teams. This training aims to ensure awareness and understanding of the recently updated laws concerning Title IX.

DATE: Thursday, August 22, 2024
TIME: 10:00 am
FORMAT: Virtual Training via Zoom
PRESENTER: Dr. Mamie Thorns, SVSU Title IX Coordinator

This session is crucial for maintaining compliance and enhancing knowledge of the latest regulations. Registration is required to participate .

Click here to register. A Zoom link will be provided upon registration.

BOARD MEMBER TIDBITS

It is the goal of the School/University Partnership Office (SUPO) at Saginaw Valley State University to provide quality educational opportunities that are accessible to all. As a school board member, you play an incredibly important role in the success of the academy you serve. We feel honored to be able to partner with each of our academy boards to ensure best practice and alignment with state and federal requirements. 

Efforts for the 2024/25 academic year are underway and we wanted to share that the professional development expectations for school board members have been updated. Beginning this academic year, each of the school board members will be required to complete two (2) hours of professional development annually. There will be many opportunities available to meet this requirement – more specific information will be forthcoming, but here is a preview!

• Regional Board Trainings
• Virtual trainings available on the SUPO website
• Board training in collaboration with your SUPO Field Rep

We recognize that your service is volunteer and in conjunction with all of the other obligations in your life. It is our full intent to provide each of you with an opportunity that will serve your needs. Thank you again for your continued service. We are looking forward to an amazing school year!

Candice Casey
Director of Operations

INNOVATION GRANT

SCHOOL INNOVATION GRANT:

24-25 School Innovation Grant Description (47KB)

24-25 School Innovation Grant Application (41KB)

24-25 School Innovation Grant Report Form (56KB)

Up to $15,000 per school building

DUE: September 27, 2024

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TEACHER/STAFF INNOVATION GRANT:

24-25 Teacher/Staff Innovation Grant Description (48KB)

24-25 Teacher/Staff Innovation Grant Application (41KB)

24-25 Teacher/Staff Innovation Grant Report Form (60KB)

Up to $1,000 (up to two programs per building)

Due: December 2, 2024

FREE EVENT FOR EDUCATORS

Free event for educators at the Gerald’s R Ford Presidential Museum

August 14, 2024 - 2:00-4:00 p.m.

Are you looking for new and creative ways to inspire your students to become active citizens? Join us at the Ford for a special teachers open house and guided tour on Wednesday, August 14 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. focused on the 50th anniversary of the Ford Presidency to learn about:

• No-cost field trip opportunities and educational programs for all grades
• Special programs celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Ford Presidency
• Upcoming conferences and professional education for teachers

Register Here https://www.devoslearningcenter.org/teachers-open-house-registration

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Survival Kit for New Teachers – Offered by SVSU’s Professional Development Office

Learn the keys to success from an experienced educator so you can thrive as a classroom teacher. This course is designed to help teachers build motivational classrooms, reach diverse learners, write engaging lesson plans, communicate clearly, and keep stress at bay.

6 Weeks Access / 24 Course Hrs

• First cohort begins August 14, 2024
• Second cohort begins September 11, 2024
• Third cohort begins October 16, 2024

Click here for more information and registration

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SVSU ONLINE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OFFERINGS

All courses listed are at least 24 SCECH credits and can be completed between 4-6 weeks. All classes are $140 per person.

• Classroom Management Secrets
• Creating the Inclusive Classroom: Strategies for Success
• Differentiated Instruction in the Classroom
• Solving Classroom Discipline Problems
• Student Engagement and Learning

See SVSU's Professional Development Page for a complete listing of offerings.

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https://www.svsu.edu/stem/k-12teachers/

Family Night Activity Checkout

STEM Stars 

STEM Teacher Dinner

Teaching Resources 

PSA LONDON STUDY ABROAD TRIP

My name is Jordan McCloud, and I am a graduate student in the Public School Academy Scholarship Program. This year, I had the incredible opportunity to travel abroad to London. Spending most of our time in central London allowed for a fun-filled adventure. London, being the melting pot that it is, enabled me to engage with people from diverse backgrounds and enjoy a variety of cuisines from different cultures.

Our group dedicated a significant amount of time to exploring the rich history of London through town visits, museum tours, and historically acclaimed monuments. One of the most traditional experiences I participated in was the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Despite it happening regularly, it still attracted a large crowd of spectators.

Traveling by train was a bit of a culture shock initially, but once I got the hang of it, it became an enjoyable and convenient way to navigate the city. I particularly enjoyed exploring West London, which had a more grounded, urban feel with its cafes and street art. The street food and casual shops made the area feel like home and provided a comfortable environment to shop and explore.

One of my favorite experiences in London was watching Hamilton in the theater. It was an absolute 10/10 and I highly recommend it. Overall, I had an amazing time in London and I can’t wait to go back and explore more of Europe.