Portage Education Association

09/07/2026

Happy Labor Day to our educators and union family, whose dedication continues Michigan’s proud tradition of workers standing together for fair working conditions and pay. From the Flint Sit-Down Strike of 1936, which helped establish the UAW as a powerful force in Michigan’s labor movement, to the generations of teachers and public employees who have organized for better schools and stronger communities, our history reminds us that solidarity creates change. We honor those who came before us and celebrate the educators who continue to raise their voices for one another across Michigan.
WE are the union.
Happy Labor Day!

09/05/2026

PEA Apparel now available! Info will be emailed out next week, or get a head start here: https://www.customink.com/fundraising/portageea?utm_campaign=desktop-post-launch-v3&utm_content=portageea&utm_medium=social&utm_source=copy-link

We have long sleeve shirts and hoodies in Red for Ed, and various color t-shirts (like our Red for Ed that everyone has).
To keep costs low for us, we have to have a minimum of 13 orders, If we hit that, they'll print and ship! If we don't, everyone who did order will be refunded and we'll try again a different time.
Orders must be placed by Tuesday, Sept 29th.
Delivery expected October 16th.

09/05/2026

Happy Labor Day weekend, all!

Happy Labor Day, Members!

08/31/2026

Wishing all educators a wonderful first day of school! May this year bring meaningful connections, new opportunities, and countless moments that remind you why you chose this important work.
Here’s to a great year ahead! 💚🏫💚

08/23/2026

True, and we can do it!!

Oh yeah, the Sunday scaries. I had forgotten about them.

08/16/2026

Information on Bob Walker’s visitation and funeral arrangements:

Life Story Visitation
Wednesday, August 19
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes
6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Where food, drinks and stories will be shared.

Time of Sharing
Wednesday, August 19
7:00 PM EDT
Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes
6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49009

Visitation
Thursday, August 20
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Milwood Methodist Church
3919 Portage Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49001

Service
Thursday, August 20
11:00 AM EDT
Milwood Methodist Church
3919 Portage Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49001
There will be a luncheon following the service

08/14/2026

With great sadness, we share the news of the passing of former PEA President Bob Walker.

Bob was a dedicated leader and a valued member of our PEA and PPS family. His commitment, service, and friendship left a lasting impact on our association and on the many people whose lives he touched.

We extend our deepest condolences to Bob’s family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May the memories of his leadership, kindness, and contributions bring comfort during this difficult time.

Please join us in keeping the Walker family in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn this tremendous loss.

As arrangements are made and announced, we will pass those along.

As Bob would say, Onward and Upward.

08/07/2026

As you get ready for the new school year, add "apply for the MIDream Contest" to your to-do list! Four winners will receive $500 in supplies to benefit their school, students or classroom. Apply before August 31 by visiting https://www.meafs.com/midream-contest/.

08/06/2026

We cant wait to see you today!

Stop by the Portage Central High School Commons today, August 6, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Our staff will be available to assist families through the enrollment process and answer any questions.

Families can also enjoy free food, giveaways, school bus tours, and information from community partners. Human Resources staff will be on-site to share employment opportunities with Portage Public Schools.

Please bring:
• Parent/Guardian photo ID (and proof of guardianship, if applicable)
• Birth certificate
• Proof of residency
• Immunization records (or an approved waiver)
• Current high school transcript (for high school students)

Please note: Due to construction on South Westnedge Avenue, visitors should park on the north side of Portage Central High School and follow the signs around the building to the event entrance.

We look forward to helping your family get ready for a successful school year!

08/04/2026

Today is Primary Election Day!

Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time, and if you're in line by 8 p.m., you have the right to vote.

Your vote starts with a plan. Visit MEAVotes.org/plan-to-vote to research your ballot, find your polling place, and head to the polls with confidence.

Vote like your schools depend on it!