2015 Michigan Teacher of the Year
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---- Permission to speak ----

   "Be loud and bold and consistent."               -Secretary John King

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Passing the Torch

5/16/2015

5 Comments

 
Exactly one year ago, my life completely changed. Within moments at a surprise assembly, I went from being a third grade teacher to being the voice for teachers across the state. I was suddenly the Michigan Teacher of the Year. I realized very quickly that this would be no easy task, but I was equally open to and terrified of taking on the challenge. To earn the honor, I had to dig deep into my beliefs and values as an educator, and construct a vision for the future of the profession. But now I actually had to put those philosophies into practice. While that day was incredible and overwhelming and emotional, it couldn’t even begin to prepare me for the wonder and awe I would experience through this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. One of the two things I get asked most often in this role is, “What have you been doing this year?” Hmmm, great question…
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The first thing I did was to try and understand the purpose of this role and why I would ever be worthy of it. My good friend and predecessor, Gary Abud, was a guiding light for me. He didn’t even know me when this began, but still spent countless hours sharing his experience, offering advice, and helping me see the value I could bring to others. It is hard for teachers to see themselves as valuable, but I know now how powerful it can be when they do. So, what did I do this year?   I found my purpose.
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It took me a while, but I broke through the stifling culture of our humble profession and learned to be  confident  about my strengths and comfortable   with sharing them. I started blogging, tweeting, speaking at events, presenting at conferences, and engaging in policy. I didn’t realize how rare it is for people to hear the teachers' perspective, and  I know now that you don’t need a title to speak your truths. So, what did I do this year?  I found my voice.
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I realized a longtime dream of becoming an author.  A book I wrote nine years ago  as a way to shatter bully stereotypes was now a catalyst for the work I’ve wanted to do on bully prevention. I used to read the story to my class on printer paper in a duo-tang folder, just to be able to share the message that even the smallest, sweetest, and smartest kids act like bullies sometimes. Through this role, I got to spread my message and do  author visits and workshops    for kids, teachers, and parents. I always hoped to shift the conversation around bullying, and I know now that it is something I will do long after this role ends. So, what did I do this year?  I found my passion.
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I visited schools. I talked to students. I listened to teachers. I met incredible educators from all around the world. I connected with others and grew a network of the most genuine, passionate, dedicated, creative, and inspiring people that I’ve ever known. I gained knowledge and strength and motivation with each encounter, and I know now that we are all in this together. So, what did I do this year? 
 I found my team.
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I noticed a lack of teacher input in the places it is needed most. Determined to change that, I expressed the importance of teacher leadership to anyone that would listen. I rallied for more opportunities for those that are anxious to break through the walls of their classrooms and extend their reach. I shared ways to elevate this great profession and helped educators think like  teacherpreneurs. I am grateful to those that saw my potential and lit the fire within me, and I know now that I can do that for others. So, what did I do this year?  I ignited the flame.
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I held a seat at the table during State Board Meetings. I testified before the House Education Committee. I engaged in dialogue with representatives of the U.S. Department of Education and the Foreign Domestic Policy Council. I worked with amazing teacher supporters like the CCSSO, MEA and NEA, America Achieves, Scholastic, SMART Technologies, Smithsonian, Microsoft, University of Phoenix, and Voya, and Meemic.  I started conversations about what needs to change. I offered solutions that will help to change them. I always felt like teachers should have a say in decisions, but I know more than ever it is our responsibility to make our voices heard. So, what did I do this year?  I made an impact. 
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Oh yeah, I also happened to meet the  President of the United States!  So, there's that too.
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For more pictures, please visit the EVENTS page, http://www.melodyarabo.com/events.html
This year was much more than an opportunity to have a title. It was a chance to push myself, try new things, take risks, and to re-shape my beliefs about education and the role I want to play in it. It was a chance to see the teaching profession for what it truly can be - a gateway for change. 

The other question I get most often is, “So what will you do next year?” Great question…

The only thing I know for sure is that my work has just begun. 

But for now, it is time to  pass the torch.  Rick Joseph, an extraordinary fifth and sixth grade teacher from Birmingham Covington School is our new Michigan Teacher of the Year! He is an award winning educator and genuinely kind man that I’m thrilled to know and excited to work with. He too, will enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. He too, will discover his purpose and find his voice. He too, will make an impact and influence change. It is Rick’s turn to be our voice and it is my turn to be the guiding light so that he can shine.  Congratulations Rick!
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5 Comments
Mike Foydel link
5/18/2015 02:17:43 pm

i loved reading about your year as "Teacher of the Year". Rick Joseph is my nieces husband. I am excited for him to hopefully be able to do many of the things you were able to do as Teacher of the year. I am glad that we have people like the two of you to help our education system in its time of need.
Thanks for all you do.
Mike Foydel

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Dave Stuart Jr. link
5/19/2015 05:53:04 am

Congratulations, Melody, on a great year and a bright future, and thank you for taking up the torch. I can't imagine how intense -- in all the meanings of that word -- the last year of your life has been.

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Judy Evola link
5/20/2015 06:45:05 am

Hi Melody,
Your positive, impactful year sharing information about teaching and learning has left a powerful imprint on education in the state of Michigan and our country for years to come. Thank you for shining a bright light on K-12 public education. I look forward to continuing to work with you in your new endeavors. Thanks again!

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Boardroom link
10/15/2016 12:10:13 am

Being a teacher you inspire us every single moment but by sharing your journey of being a normal teacher to "Teacher of the Year" is really very motivational.

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best essay writing company review link
2/21/2019 09:13:10 pm

Hello, Melody! Before anything else, I would like to congratulate you for bagging the said award. Everything was not easy, but you were able to achieve it and it changed your whole life. Being the Michigan Teacher of the Year entails a lot of responsibilities too. You need to keep up with people's expectation, and I know the amount of pressure you carried because of that. But you know, instead of pressuring yourself too much, it would be better if we will look at the brighter side of life and just be completely thankful!

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