Dr. Pamela Pugh, President of the Michigan State Board of Education, visited Dearborn Public Schools on Monday, June 2, 2025 to learn more about the district’s special education programs.
Earlier this spring, Mike Esseily, the district’s Executive Director of Special Populations, and some teachers and students presented to the State Board of Education. The presentation about the district’s special education program highlighted Dearborn Public Schools co-teaching model. In co-taught classrooms, a grade level or subject area teacher partners with a special education teacher to instruct both general education and special education students. All students benefit from the multi-tiered instruction.
Dr. Pugh’s visit to Dearborn included stops at Fordson High School, Smith Middle School to visit a co-taught classroom, and Nowlin Elementary to stop by a classroom for students with physical impairments.
“Having Dr. Pugh visit us to witness our work was a remarkable moment,” Mr. Esseily said. “I am proud of our staff, our district, and our Board for their dedication to serving our students. Our special education team’s commitment and compassion have continued to make a truly inspiring impact.”
Dr. Pugh was first elected to the State Board of Education in 2024. She is on the board of directors for both the Healthy Schools Network and the National Association of State Boards of Education, where she serves as Chair of the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion committee. She has a long background in public health.
During her visit, Dr. Pugh told Dearborn Public School officials that she likes to visit schools to hear and see firsthand what schools and students need so she can better advocate for them on the State Board of Education. She wanted to visit Dearborn because she was impressed with the presentation about special education.
“It is about our children and making sure they feel supported, and you make them feel supported,” Dr. Pugh said.
Dr. Pugh was joined on her visit by officials from Wayne County RESA including RESA Superintendent Dr. Daveda Colbert and RESA Assistant Superintendent of Special Education Jennifer Taiariol.
“We are delighted to host state and local representatives to learn more about Dearborn Public Schools and our never ending work to put Students First, including those receiving special education services,” said Superintendent Glenn Maleyko.
