Macomb Federation of Educators Hosts First Virtual Candidate Screening
The Macomb Federation of Educators recently held its first virtual candidate screening, bringing together representatives from locals across Macomb County to engage directly with candidates for state, local, and school board offices.
Participants had the opportunity to ask important questions and hear directly from candidates about the issues impacting public education, educators, healthcare and our communities. With every seat in Lansing up for reelection this year, the stakes could not be higher.
We commend the Macomb County locals for their engagement, collaboration, and commitment to this important work. Their participation demonstrates the strength and unity of educators advocating for students, schools, and working families.
A special thank you goes to Jacqueline McPeek, President of Macomb ISD Federation of Teachers, Local 2144, for serving as an outstanding moderator and helping make this event a success.
A Big May for the Taylor Federation of Teachers
May has been an incredibly busy and productive month for the Taylor Federation of Teachers.
TFT recently held a luncheon to honor Dave Beddingfield for his 30 years of service on the TFT Executive Board. First elected as Elementary VP in 1995, Dave has since served as Recording Secretary and currently serves as Executive Secretary.
TFT also celebrated the end of the school year with their annual TFT BBQ at Heritage Park, held during the district’s 2026 Senior Send-Off Parade. This was the highest-attended BBQ in recent history.
Finally, the TFT awarded two $2,500 academic achievement scholarships. Congratulations to Emily Acencio, daughter of TFT member Karen Ascenio, and Taylor High School student Bryce Rodriguez on their accomplishments.
Young Workers Conference 20206 – June 25-27
The Young Workers Conference will be held on June 25-27 in Troy, MI, at the Somerset Inn. The theme for 2026 is “Empower & Lead: Now, Tomorrow, & Beyond”.
This conference is open to participants of ALL AGES, and like all of our events, we encourage folks of all backgrounds to participate. We especially encourage workers who are early in their career or who are new to union organizing to join us!
There’s a diverse set of workshops, including Finance 201, Labor Law & Organizing, and Grievance Handling. Check out the YWC26 page to read about the courses and register! You can also download a PDF version of the registration flyer and send it by mail, email, or fax!
Professional Development Workshop
The Hidden Challenge (Mental Well-Being) in PreK-12
AFT Michigan David Hecker Building
2661 E. Jefferson – Detroit 48207
June 6, 2026
8:30am-4:30pm
Significant mental well-being challenges in PreK-12 education can negatively affect both students and educators.This in-service will examine key challenges affecting student achievement/growth and staff motivation. It will also offer practical, research-based strategies designed to support more positive outcomes for both students and educators.
2026 Summer of Learning
Registration is now open for Share My Lesson’s Summer of Learning webinar series, proudly sponsored by Discovery Education, happening July 21-30!
This summer, tune into free, for-credit professional development designed to help you recharge, reflect and prepare for the school year ahead. From artificial intelligence in education and literacy to student well-being, civic engagement, classroom culture and more, this summer’s lineup is packed with practical ideas and classroom-ready inspiration from trusted education organizations and experts.
Whether you’re watching poolside, planning back-to-school activities, or building your teaching toolkit one session at a time, your summer learning playlist starts here.
Plus, when you register, you can also enter for a chance to win 1 of 10 KoolTunes Igloo coolers.
Contribute to the AFT Michigan PAC Today
AFT Michigan fights for our members, students, patients and communities all year round and we need your help. Can you donate $1 a week to aid us in this fight? Please visit the AFT Michigan website to contribute and make a big difference in protecting public education and building a better Michigan future!
In solidarity,
Terrence Martin
President
