MDE Announces New State Superintendent of Public Instruction, MASSP Executive Director and Members React
As reported last week by the Michigan Department of Education, Dr. Glenn M. Maleyko has been selected to be Michigan’s next state superintendent. As the current superintendent of Dearborn Public Schools, he works directly with many MASSP members and served on an EdCon panel in 2024. MASSP Executive Director Wendy Zdeb said she could not be happier with the State Board of Education's decision to name Dr. Maleyko as our next Superintendent…
New Course: Practical AI Tools for Building Leaders
School leadership has never been more complex, and time has never felt more limited. That’s why MASSP’s Digital Learning Network (DLN) is excited to launch a brand-new course designed just for building leaders: Practical AI Tools for Principals and Teacher Leaders. This 4 SCECH course is all about helping you make AI work for your daily practice. Across four engaging modules, you’ll explore how to streamline everyday tasks, sharpen your communication, and…
From Ford Field to the Faculty Lounge: AI, Lions Lessons and a Staff Icebreaker
It’s been said that good teachers borrow cool ideas, and great teachers steal them outright and make them their own. AI has made it easier than ever to synthesize and personalize great ideas. This year, I had the opportunity to provide the back-to-school address to the district staff. As I shared with our team members during that message, having been given this opportunity I knew I had to do something different. Something…
Empowering Michigan Educators: Join the MiSELA Statewide Social Emotional Learning Conference “The Heart of SEL”Advance Student Success Through Social Emotional Learning
The Michigan Social Emotional Learning Alliance (MiSELA) invites all educators, including teachers, building administrators, and student support staff, to participate in its highly anticipated statewide conference, The Heart of SEL. This event is designed to strengthen Michigan’s collective commitment to nurturing the whole child through social emotional learning (SEL) practices. About MiSELAMiSELA is dedicated to advancing social emotional learning in Michigan schools by equipping educators with the tools, resources, and collaborative networks…
QUICK TIPS September 2025 | School is in Session
Whether you've already had students in your buildings this week or the focus has been on working with your staff to prepare for the year ahead, September is the month when school is fully back in session. Let your Board of Directors help you focus on what needs to be done next month with your September Quick Tips. Todd Distelrath, Principal, Chippewa Valley High School Make sure that all 504 and IEP…
Leadership in Motion | The Season Isn’t Over: Writing the Next Chapter of Your Leadership Story
Navigating Change, Shaping Culture and Driving Impact Opening Reflection The first bell has rung. The halls are full. The plays you planned are now in motion. But the season is long. A great opening drive does not guarantee a strong finish. The real work begins now, in the daily grind where culture is tested, not just celebrated. The Detroit Lions know this well. Their transformation wasn’t defined by one draft, one press…
Mandated Reporters: Reporting of Suspected Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Explained
Child Protection Law The Michigan Child Protection Law, MCL 722.621 et seq. requires certain persons (commonly referred to as “mandated reporters”) to report suspected child abuse or neglect. Administrators, teachers, counselors, social workers, psychologists, nurses, physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapists, athletic trainers, and others identified as mandatory reporters pursuant to Michigan’s Child Protection Law must immediately report all instances of suspected child abuse or neglect to Children’s Protective Services (CPS). …
Unsung Heroes of Leadership: How Administrative Assistants Shape Our Schools
To the incredible administrative assistants of our schools, this message is for you. You are the heartbeat of the school, the first face many see, and the steady hand that keeps everything running smoothly. You manage the chaos, soothe concerns, and celebrate successes—often all before the first bell rings. Your role is central to the daily rhythm of our schools, and it gives you a unique perspective that no one else has.…
Start Strong: Practical Tools to Tackle Student Vaping in Your School
Vaping is showing up in every school, and principals are being asked to lead the response. Three free webinars through our Partners at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services this September will give you practical tools and resources to support students right away. Helping Students Break Free from Vaping: Two Free Webinars for Principals The start of a new school year is always filled with energy, but it also brings…
The Linchpin Relationship: Superintendent and Secondary Principal
Heidie Ciesielski is the MASSP Associate Director of Accreditation and Certification (also a Previous Superintendent and Secondary School Leader) The success of any school district hinges on countless factors, from dedicated teachers to supportive communities. However, a particularly crucial, yet often understated, element is the dynamic relationship between the Superintendent and their secondary principals. This unique partnership, built on mutual respect and clear communication, can be the cornerstone of a thriving middle…