March in Michigan means unpredictable weather—but it also means some of the best education conferences of the year. Plus, it’s Reading Month and Women’s History Month, so this episode is packed with must-see resources, professional development insights, and hands-on media projects for your classroom.
What’s Happening in Michigan: March Conferences
March is conference season, and we’re highlighting three must-attend events:
MRA (Michigan Reading Association) – Grand Rapids If you’re all about literacy, this is the place to be! Meet authors, literacy experts, and even young writers while discovering fresh strategies to spark a love of reading in your students.
MSTA (Michigan Science Teachers Association) – Lansing Science educators, this one’s for you! Expect live animals, hands-on activities, and engaging sessions to bring science literacy into any classroom.
MACUL (Michigan Association for Computer Users in Learning) – Grand Rapids This edtech conference is a favorite for a reason. If it’s your first time attending, check out our interview with the 2024 MACUL Innovator of the Year for expert tips on making the most of it.
Find the full interview on our channel and social platforms!
Planning to attend? Stop by the MLC booth and say hi!
Mini PD: March is Reading Month!
Reading Month isn’t just about book fairs—it’s about creating a reading-rich culture that lasts beyond March.
We rely on the Literacy Essentials to drive how we create content and support teachers as they read and write with students. Our PD segment in The Planning Period this week examines three key elements of the Literacy Essentials and how they should impact teaching and learning.
We also have new upper-elementary episodes of Read, Write, ROAR! to help! These short videos help students: Explore science and social studies texts Build reading stamina Practice writing in response to what they learn
What’s on MLC: Women’s History Month
This month, we’re spotlighting incredible women in literature, music, and activism—through PBS documentaries you can stream for free!
Zora Neale Hurston: Jump at the Sun: Perfect for ELA and Social Studies—explore Hurston’s research, writing, and historical influence.
Amy Tan: Unintended Memoir: Great for career exploration! See how Tan transitioned from technical writing to award-winning fiction.
Julia Alvarez: A Life Reimagined: A deep dive into immigration, assimilation, and storytelling—ideal for poetry and narrative writing lessons.
Hey, Boo: Harper Lee & To Kill a Mockingbird: Encourage students to analyze the novel’s cultural impact, then and now.
Buffy Sainte-Marie: Carry It On: Bring music and activism into the classroom with this Indigenous singer-songwriter’s powerful story.
All documentaries + lesson plans are available on PBS LearningMedia!
Media Challenge: Read Across America Day 📚🎥
Monday, March 3rd is Read Across America Day—but why stop at one day?
Challenge your students to create their own video book reviews!
Head to our MLC Media Hub for:
- Prompts & resources to guide students
- Tips for recording with any device—from cell phones to webcams
- Inspiration from other classrooms
Place-Based Learning: Michigan History in March
1837: Michigan Becomes a State Research some of the first laws ever passed in Michigan. Why were they important then—and how do they compare to today’s laws?
1954: Construction Begins on the Mackinac Bridge This iconic structure isn’t just about engineering—it’s a perfect case study for budgeting, design, environmental impact, and cultural significance.
Want to tie this into literacy? Check out our Read, Write, ROAR! segment on the Mackinac Bridge for reading and writing connections.
