Professional Innovators in Education is a MAPSA-affiliated, state-approved apprenticeship program that provides an alternative pathway to teacher certification in Michigan.

GVSU-authorized schools may receive reimbursement of 50% of the program cost from the GVSU Division of K-12 Education Innovation and Scholars Success (DEISS) to support staff pursuing initial certification or additional endorsement in general or special education through Professional Innovators.

Professional Innovators Program Highlights

• Begin teaching immediately with an interim teaching certificate
• Receive real-time coaching and cohort-based support
• Earn a standard teaching certificate upon completion

Program Cost and Financial Support

Costs vary by certification track:

• General Education: $7,500
• Special Education: $10,000

For participants approved for DEISS support:

• Full tuition must be paid upfront by the participant’s school
• GVSU DEISS will reimburse the school up to 50% of the program cost upon submission of a reimbursement request

Eligibility for DEISS Support

To be considered for financial support from the GVSU DEISS, an employee must:

• Be full-time staff at a GVSU-authorized charter public school
• Have documented support from their school leader

Note: Support from the GVSU DEISS is limited by the availability of funds and not guaranteed. 

Note: Applications are accepted year-round. Support is available to help applicants meet cohort eligibility.

Next Steps

Employee must  'Request to Join' Professional Innovators
Learn what to expect after submitting your request.

Upon program admission:

Employee must apply for the MI Future Educator Fellowship
This Fellowship offers a $10,000 scholarship to up to 2,500 future educators annually. 

If Not Approved for the MI Future Educator Fellowship:

• Academy Representative must submit the Professional Innovators Program Support Application.
• DEISS will provide a decision (approval or denial) within 10 business days.

To receive reimbursement:

• Academy Representative must submit a reimbursement request. 
• Academy will receive reimbursement for up to 50% of the program cost.

Learn More

For additional information, visit the links below:

Professional Innovators Program Website
General Education Program
Special Education Program

Questions?

Please contact:

Jayme Lesperance, Manager of Educator Enrichment and Outreach, for questions about DEISS support. 

Melissa MacLaren, Program Director, for Professional Innovators program specific questions.