Congratulations to Erik Meerschaert
Learn About This Year’s Michigan Teacher of the Year
Meemic congratulates Erik Meerschaert, the 2026-27 Michigan Teacher of the Year. Erik is a special education teacher at Lake Orion High School in Lake Orion Community Schools.
“Every great achievement in our communities begins with a teacher,” said State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko. “Teachers like Erik Meerschaert care about the foundation of our education system and the heart of our schools. He ignites curiosity, builds confidence and opens doors of opportunity for every child. His influence goes far beyond the classroom—he helps shape the students to become innovators and leaders who define our future.”
Erik will serve as an advocate for, and representative of, the more than 80,000 public school teachers statewide and engage in discussions on how best to continue to improve Michigan's education system as a non-voting member of the State Board of Education and a member of the Governor’s Educator Advisory Council. He is also the state’s candidate for the prestigious 2027 National Teacher of the Year honor. He is also part of the 2026-27 Michigan Teacher Leadership Advisory Council, comprising this year’s Regional Teacher of the Year cohort.
Meet the 10 Michigan Regional Teachers of the Year.
Read more about Erik Meerschaert.
Nominate a Teacher
Excellence in teaching deserves to be recognized. Know of a great candidate for the Michigan Teacher of the Year or want to become one yourself? For the 2027-28 award, find the online nomination form and other information at the Michigan Department of Education. Meemic and The Meemic Foundation have sponsored the Michigan Teacher of the Year award since 2007.