From the time Michelle was a preschool room parent, she has been engaged as an active parent, volunteer, and leader to support schools and great experiences for students.
In the last three years, her roles have included:
President, Morningside Elementary School (MES) Parent Teacher Association (PTA), 2015 - 2017
- Facilitated over 500 parents, teachers and administrators on policies, programming and budgeting that support MES, a 2017 US Green Ribbon School and a 2016 National Blue Ribbon School; Conducted executive board and general meetings.
Vice-President of Communication, Georgia PTA, 2016 - Present
- District 10 Representative for statewide organization for parents, teachers and administrators.
Member, State Advisory Panel (SAP), Georgia Department of Education, 2015 - Present
- As an appointed stakeholder, I am part of a group that assists the state special education department in addressing and advising on a variety of special education issues. The SAP is comprised of representatives from public and private agencies, parents, persons with disabilities, educators and administrators.
Member, Student Success Stakeholder Committee, Georgia Department of Education, 2015 - Present
- Appointed participant in the US Department of Education initiative through the Office of Special Education Programs.
Publications
Atlanta Public Schools - School Bus Safety
Knowing that the school bus is the safest way to transport students to and from school, I supported APS Department of Transportation by participating in this public service announcement.
Opportunity School District (OSD)
In early 2015 Governor Deal laid out his plan for a state-run school district. Its purpose was to take over failing schools. I joined the advocacy efforts to "Vote NO" to the OSD Legislation – SB 133 and SR 287 - by writing an op-ed that was featured in the AJC’s Get Schooled and participating in the following video. The amendment did not pass.
- Get Schooled: Rhyme and reason: Georgia should not adopt New Orleans state takeover model
- Opportunity School District Video
Extended Day
During the 2014 budget process, rather than APS expanding the extended day schedule program into all elementary schools, equity and money are reasons the district cited to end the program at some local schools. Here is a letter that I wrote to the Board of Education explaing why I was not in agreement.
- Our committee is developing a State Systemic Improvement Plan (SSIP) that includes a multi-year focus on improving outcomes for students with disabilities.
Grady High School Cluster Advisory, Atlanta Public Schools, 2016 - Present
Inman Middle School Go Team, Atlanta Public Schools, 2015 - Present
Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC), Atlanta Public Schools, 2014 - Present
- Guide stakeholders on maximizing education outcomes and achievement throughout the district
Principal Selection Committee Tier 3 - Morningside Elementary School, 2015
Principal Selection Committee Tier 3 - Inman Middle School, 2016