Fall Professional Development Series

The Literacy Center’s Fall Professional Development Series sponsored in memory of Kathy Blahunka will focus on early literacy and successful practices supporting early literacy learners. A “Book Club” approach will be used, allowing educators the flexibility and time to learn, practice and collaborate with other educators across the state.

This Fall, the new book “Big Words for Young Readers: Teaching Kids in Grades K to 5 to Decode—and Understand—Words With Multiple Syllables and Morphemes" by Heidi Ann Mesmer will be used. All participants will receive a free copy of this text and up to 5 SCECH hours for attending all five sessions. 

Front cover of the book

Participants will receive up to 5 State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECHs).  

Join us on these dates: 

  • Oct. 2
  • Oct. 16
  • Oct. 30
  • Nov. 13
  • Nov. 20

All sessions will be delivered from 7 - 8:00 p.m. in a virtual format via Zoom for ease of participation.

Fall 2024 registration is now full.

The professional development text, SCECH fees, and other costs for the Fall Professional Development Series are generously sponsored by the Family and Friends of Kathy Blahunka, CMU alumni- First Grade Teacher- and Beloved Individual. Her legacy is honored through donations to the CMU Literacy Center, serving Michigan with professional development for future and practicing literacy educators as well as literacy tutoring for children and families.