Aspiring Michigan Teachers Secure Cash Under State Recruitment Plan 

MICHIGAN—More than 600 aspiring teachers received some big help with their college tuition this week thanks to a new state assistance program from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s administration designed to support students and alleviate a shortage of educators across Michigan.

The MI Future Educator Fellowship offers aspiring teachers a scholarship of up to $10,000 for up to three years to eliminate or lower the cost of tuition while they train to become educators. Students who receive the award must commit to teaching in Michigan for at least three years.

A second program, the MI Future Educator Stipend Program, provides up to $9,600 per semester in compensation for full-time student teachers while they complete the final stages of their teacher preparation program. The cash can be put toward tuition, living expenses, childcare and other costs of attending college. 

The first payments for both programs were awarded this week. All told, nearly $6 million in scholarships and stipends have already been awarded to more than 600 students. Nearly 4,000 more students have also applied, and are completing the next steps to receive their cash.

“Together, we can lower the cost of higher education for future educators and pay our hardworking student teachers, so they are encouraged to stay on the path to the classroom,” Whitmer said in a release. “I encourage eligible Michiganders to apply. Let’s work together to grow the education profession by lowering costs and paying our aspiring teachers.” 

Whitmer’s latest budget also includes $195 million in recognition of the crucial role that teachers can play in the success of their students—including another $25 million in scholarships for aspiring teachers and $50 million in student teacher stipends. The budget also includes cash to retain and develop existing teachers (especially in rural areas) through mentorship programs.

“Lowering the financial hurdles to help address Michigan’s teacher shortage just makes sense for Michigan’s future,” added State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks. “Providing scholarships and stipends to those aspiring to teach can help ease the financial burden when getting a degree. My team is ready to help those who wish to follow their dreams of becoming a teacher.” 

READ MORE: Whitmer Budget Plan Prioritizes Tax Cuts and School Funding

Want to apply for assistance?

Scholarships are still available for Michiganders who are working toward their first teacher certification and have earned at least 56 semester credits or 84 term credits with a cumulative GPA of 3.0. They must have also started an education prep program in fall 2022 or later. 

The program still has $25 million available for aspiring teachers. Click here to learn more.

About $50 million in stipends are also available for active student teachers. Eligible student teachers must be participating full-time in required student teaching coursework in Michigan, and be unpaid by their local district. Click here for more details on how to submit an application.

For more information, email [email protected] or call 1-888-447-2867.