FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Pathway for Early Childhood Educators Forged by Bay Mills Community College and Lake Superior State University
Brimley, MI & Sault Ste. Marie, MI – Bay Mills Community College (BMCC) and Lake Superior State University (LSSU) announced a new articulation agreement for Early Childhood Education (ECE), signed in a ceremony on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. This pioneering partnership creates a seamless “3+1” pathway for students to earn a bachelor’s degree and Michigan’s Birth-to-Kindergarten teaching certification, addressing a critical need for highly qualified educators in the region and beyond.
This agreement marks the first formal ECE-specific articulation between the two institutions. While previous transfer options existed, this program is uniquely designed to culminate in teacher certification. This is a significant advancement that responds to both student aspirations and statewide educational priorities.
“This partnership between Bay Mills Community College and Lake Superior State University demonstrates our unwavering commitment to the communities we serve,” said Dr. Duane Bedell, President of Bay Mills Community College. “By working together, we are creating opportunities that strengthen education and support families across the region. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the dedicated team whose hard work and collaboration made this initiative possible."
“This articulation agreement in Early Childhood Education strengthens pathways for Bay Mills students to advance their studies at LSSU, while building bridges between our institutions that will benefit families, communities, and the regional workforce.” said Dr. David Travis, President of Lake Superior State University.
The “3+1” structure allows students to complete three years of coursework primarily online through BMCC before finishing their fourth year through LSSU’s flexible online and hybrid formats, which are scheduled to accommodate working professionals. A cornerstone of the program is its dual advising model, where advisors from both BMCC and LSSU will guide students from day one, ensuring a coordinated and supportive journey.
“The ECE department prides itself on a strong culture, high-quality curriculum, individualized learning, and meaningful relationships between students and staff,” said Heather Stelzer, BMCC Early Childhood Education Faculty & Department Chair. “From the beginning of this partnership, LSSU has honored these values. This articulation was developed through extensive collaboration and thoughtful planning to ensure students receive the highest level of support."
“Michigan has moved beyond the outdated divide between qualified and certified early childhood teachers,” said Becky Davis, LSSU faculty member with expertise in Early Childhood Education. “The Michigan Department of Education now recognizes that young children need educators who are both. Teachers trained in early childhood development and developmentally appropriate practice - especially for children with special needs - provide the strong social, emotional, and academic foundation children need to succeed.”
Graduates of the pathway will be eligible for Michigan teacher certification in Birth-to-Kindergarten general and special education, a credential that enhances professional recognition, improves pay scales, and opens doors to expanded career opportunities within tribal communities, across Michigan, and in other states through licensure transfer. The program’s design allows the required student teaching experience to be completed in Michigan or another state convenient for the student.
“We hope this creative and unique program will serve as a catalyst for other teacher preparation programs,” said Jennifer Fager, PhD, Chair of the LSSU School of Education and Associate Dean. “It is a model for collaborative partnerships that address teacher shortages, particularly in rural communities, by preparing educators where they live.”
The signing ceremony was also attended by LSSU Provost Dr. Kimberly Muller; LSSU Dean Dr. Ashley Moerke; BMCC Vice President of Academic Affairs Samantha Cameron; and BMCC Dean of Occupational Education Sheryl Hammock.
Media Contacts:
Bay Mills Community College
Heather Stelzer
Early Childhood Education Faculty & Department Chair
[email protected]
Chelsey Cameron
Media and Marketing Specialist
[email protected]
Lake Superior State University
Jennifer Fager
Associate Dean, College of Great Lakes Ecology and Education
[email protected]
Connor Tetzlaff
Assistant Director of University Marketing
[email protected]