MITTIN's Autumn Updates & Future Planning

Fall is in full swing and MITTIN is actively connecting with educators while planning for our work ahead. This year we will be adding new topics to our Virtual Library, enhancing accessibility features and strengthening implementation through onsite and virtual professional learning events. We will also be expanding our Lesson Plan Resource Library to boost current topics and to support our newest titles.

In the coming months we will also begin updating our strategic plan which will guide our work for the next 3-5 years. We invite you to take a moment to share your thoughts regarding MITTIN strengths, opportunities, aspirations and the results you would like us to achieve (survey linked below). Your insights are invaluable and we look forward to hearing from you.

If you would like to learn more about MITTIN professional learning opportunities or sign up for the MITTIN Memo, 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.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support. Together we are expanding opportunities, strengthening connections and shaping meaningful learning experiences for students across Michigan. We are grateful for all you do and look forward to the important work ahead.

Best Regards,

Dr. Derek Cooley,

MITTIN Committee Chair

We need your voice in shaping MITTIN's next chapter. As we near the completion of our current strategic goals, we are proud of the progress we have made. This momentum positions us perfectly to look ahead and plan for the future. In the coming months, MITTIN will be refreshing our strategic plan to guide our vision for the next 3-5 years. To ensure this plan reflects the needs, experiences and priorities of those we support and serve, we need to hear from you.

Your input is essential in helping us determine what is working well, where we can grow and what new opportunities we might pursue. Please take 7 minutes to complete our Strategic Planning Survey and lend your voice and perspective to MITTIN's future. Your feedback will help shape the impact we make.

Thank you for helping us move forward... together.

Southeast Michigan Transition Conference

Matt Korolden and Jessica Carrier hosted the Inaugural Southeast Michigan Transition Conference at Oakland Schools on November 12th. This collaborative partnership of Oakland Schools, Wayne RESA, Macomb ISD, Livingston ESA, and Genesee ISD, created a professional learning opportunity designed specifically for secondary and adult transition special education teachers and transition professionals. MITTIN was honored to be part of the 150 participants who had the opportunity to attend 14 breakout sessions on a wide variety of topics such as: the implementation of evidence-based transition practices, student led IEPs, virtual and mixed reality transition resources, work-based learning, tiered transition program models, and partnerships with mental health services agencies. 

The filled-to-capacity MITTIN breakout session, 'Empowering Independence Through Digital Innovation' was facilitated by Pam Cunningham, Assistive Technology Consultant at Wayne RESA and Kristine Gullen, MITTIN Project Manager.

Conference highlights included:

• Welcome Address from Oakland Schools Superintendent, Mr. Ken Gutman
• Keynote Address from Dr. Michele Harmala, Deputy Superintendent at the Michigan Department of Education
• Educator-to-Educator Learning Sessions
• Panel of Former Student sharing their experience as young adults living and thriving with a disability
• Agency Fair featuring statewide and regional service providers
• Student Microenterprise Demonstrations highlighting products from home décor to full-service catering 

MITTIN Implementation & Professional Learning

Over the past month, MITTIN has been busy supporting the implementation of our digital resources. You may have seen us in person at the MAASE Professional Learning in Lansing, Southfield Public Schools, Detroit Public Schools Community District, Washtenaw ISD, Oakland Schools or at one of our virtual MITTIN Mondays or Learning Lab sessions.

As our connections and impact continue to grow, we would like to thank Dr. Lois Vaughan-Hussain, Richard Gregory, Shannon DeLora, Kyra Siverly, Pam Cunningham, Karen Hairston and Kristine Gullen in leading, facilitating, and supporting this work.

Virtual Learning Lab

We are excited to introduce our newest professional development series: MITTIN's Virtual Learning Lab which is scheduled on Mondays throughout the year. These drop-in online sessions are designed for new users -- educators, parents and agency personnel who support learners in developing independent living skills. Participants will learn how to access and explore MITTIN's innovative digital modules, lesson plans and curricular resources.

Our final MITTIN Monday for this semester is scheduled to meet by zoom @ 4:30 pm on December 8th. For more infomation on how to get involved, visit: mittin.org and click on the ‘How to Get Involved' tab or use the QR code at the end of this memo to sign up.