Welcome to the MITTIN Memo

As the school year wraps up, so do our Virtual Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). We extend a heartfelt thanks to the parents and educators who showed up, engaged and collaborated with us over Zoom throughout the year. A special thanks to Dr. Lois Vaughan-Hussain for her amazing and energetic facilitation. Your leadership helped unite over 160 educators across Michigan in meaningful, after-hours professional development. Well done.

We have some exciting news... our web-based access has increased to 11 modules. Thank you to Great Lakes Reality Labs for your creativity and expertise in making this possible. We look forward to our total collection of 18 MITTIN modules to be web-based by the end of September.

Are you interested in joining next year's virtual PLCs or simply learning more about MITTIN? We would love to connect with you! Reach out to Kristine Gullen, Ph.D. Project Manager at kristinegullen@maase.org or scan the QR code at the end of the newsletter.

Together we are strengthening connections and shaping learning opportunities across Michigan.

Best Regards,

Dr. Derek Cooley,

MITTIN Committee Chair

New module launch & expanded

web-based access

On May 1, 2025, Great Lakes Reality Labs delivered an exciting update to the MITTIN Virtual Learning Library with the release of a brand-new digital module:

“Clean Sink, Shower, and Tub.”

In addition to the new content, seven existing MITTIN modules were re-released with web-based access, making it easier than ever for users to access transition-focused learning experiences directly through the MITTIN platform. You can now launch these modules directly from the MITTIN website by visiting mittin.org and selecting the Digital Modules & Resources tab:

• Mopping
• Use Self Checkout
• Clean Bedroom
• Put Away Groceries
• Shop for Groceries
• Sweeping
• Change a Lightbulb

This enhancement significantly improves accessibility and ease of use for educators, students, and families utilizing MITTIN resources to support independent living skill development.

We are also excited to announce that our next module, titled “Sort and Do Laundry,” is scheduled for release on June 30, 2025. This upcoming addition will further expand MITTIN’s comprehensive suite of tools for real-life skill building.

MAASE extends our sincere appreciation to Great Lakes Reality Labs for their continued creativity, innovation, and collaboration in making these impactful tools available to learners, families and schools throughout Michigan.

The House Appropriations Subcommittee

On May 6, 2025, MAASE was honored to present before the Michigan House Appropriations Subcommittee on School Aid and the Department of Education, at the invitation of the Chair Representative Tim Kelly. MAASE Executive Director Abby Cypher, Associate Executive Director Ben Hicks, and Project Manager Kristine Gullen provided an in-depth update on the 51g Virtual Learning Library, also known as MITTIN. The presentation highlighted both the current accomplishments and projected future developments of this innovative, state-funded special education initiative. The team shared engaging videos and photos demonstrating MITTIN’s impact in action, showcasing its use in supporting students with disabilities across the state. The overview emphasized how MITTIN is helping to build critical independent living skills for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), equipping them for greater independence and success in adult life.

At the conclusion of the presentation, Chairman Kelly offered words of encouragement, “...lots of good things going on in special education... it’s good to see and it’s exciting.”

MAASE would like to extend our sincere thanks to Chairman Kelly and the House Appropriations Subcommittee for their time, attention, and continued support of this vital work. We are proud to partner with the State of Michigan in creating these innovative resources for learners.

A teacher's perspective on MITTIN....

MITTIN connects with the most amazing educators. Just last week, a teacher was asked, 'When you think of MITTIN - what does it support or solve for educators, students, families and communities.' The response that was received from Barbie Simpson is something we are proud to share.

"MITTIN creates a safe, immersive environment where individuals with disabilities can engage with real-world challenges—without the real-world risks. It provides a virtual space that feels familiar and supportive, empowering users to navigate everyday life experiences at their own pace. In this environment, mistakes become learning opportunities rather than setbacks, helping to build confidence, resilience, and independence.

By simulating situations that may otherwise feel overwhelming or inaccessible, MITTIN helps individuals move beyond fear of the unknown. It transforms uncertainty into opportunity—allowing users to practice, adapt, and ultimately succeed. Through guided experiences and meaningful repetition, learners are not just prepared for the outside world—they're empowered to thrive in it.

As an educator, it’s a privilege to open new pathways for my students—regardless of their age or ability level. When they succeed, I succeed. And isn’t that the true heart of special education?

Throughout my 20-plus years in education, I’ve searched for a tool that could truly give students meaningful access to everyday tasks in a way that leads to real, lasting success. The MITTIN project has been that tool.

Using MITTIN with my students has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my teaching career. It’s immersive, engaging, and—most importantly—effective. I’ve witnessed firsthand how students exposed to MITTIN have grown in all areas of daily living. And what’s even more powerful? They’ve enjoyed the process. They’re not just learning life skills—they’re living them in a safe space that builds confidence, independence, and joy. "