Dear Reader,
I wanted to share something exciting with you! I recently had a great conversation with Tim Fergestad on the Phoenix Prosperity Podcast, where we explored education, leadership, and the power of community impact.
In this episode, we discussed:
The Million Dollar Teacher Project (MDTP)—our mission to elevate the teaching profession by increasing support, compensation, and recognition for educators.
The teacher shortage crisis—and why this issue affects entire communities, not just students.
My role at STN—and how we’re shifting local media to focus on solutions, not just problems.
Authentic leadership—staying true to your mission and making a lasting impact.
At MDTP, we believe that when teachers thrive, students succeed, and communities grow stronger. That’s why we’re dedicated to bringing innovative programs and partnerships to support educators in Arizona and beyond.
If you care about education, leadership, and creating change, I think you’ll find this conversation valuable.
Listen here: Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube: Watch Now
I’d love to hear your thoughts—what do you think is the biggest challenge facing teachers today? Reply and let me know!
Best,
Lloyd Hopkins
Join Us for These Exciting Events!
Teacher Exclusive: Puppies & Pilates
Join MDTP, ASU, and The BE KIND People Project for a Puppies & Pilates class led by Zakiya Johnson (@zroseflow). Relax with Pilates and adorable, adoptable pups from Barb’s Dog Rescue.
Date: Sunday, March 23
Location: 731 Grand Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85007
Cost: $10 (Assistance available—email alex.fallon@mdtproject.org)
Unwind, stretch, and maybe meet your new furry best friend!
Ways to Get Involved!
Sponsor the 2025 Adult Field Trip (AFT)
Join us on July 23, 2025, at Junior Achievement BizTown® for an unforgettable evening—not your typical gala! This exciting event is the perfect blend of fun for adults and a unique venue that you won’t want to miss. All proceeds go directly to supporting the Million Dollar Teacher Project’s efforts to enhance teacher and student programs in Arizona.
How Can You Make a Difference?
Become a Sponsor!
- Sponsorships start at $2,500 and come with amazing perks:
- Logo recognition in event marketing
- VIP and general admission tickets
- Opportunities to speak and engage with the community
Want to Learn More?
Check out the AFT Sponsorship webpage to purchase your sponsorship directly. You can also review our AFT Sponsorship Prospectus for more details.
Let’s celebrate Arizona’s educators and invest in the future of education together!
Share This Volunteer Opportunity with Students and Educators
We’re excited to share a great opportunity for students to gain valuable experience while supporting Arizona educators. The Arizona Department of Education is seeking student volunteers to serve as conference room monitors for the Teacher Institute Leading Change Conference in Glendale from June 3-5, 2025.
Students can volunteer for one, two, or all three days of the conference, assisting with session logistics and presenter support. This opportunity qualifies as community service and can count toward service organization requirements, including hours for the Seal of Civics Literacy. Volunteers will receive an ADE-signed certificate confirming their hours, and breakfast, lunch, and snacks will be provided each day.
Responsibilities include:
- Monitoring session attendance
- Managing room capacity
- Assisting presenters with time prompts and materials
- Providing emergency information and general support
This is a great way for students to contribute to the education community while earning service hours. Please share this with teachers, students, and parents who may be interested.
SRP Spring 2025 Professional Development Workshops for Teachers
SRP is offering free, high-quality professional development workshops for K–12 educators in Arizona! These workshops provide engaging lesson plans, hands-on materials, and four professional development hours per session. Educators will leave with practical resources and strategies to enhance their teaching.
Spring 2025 Workshops are now open for registration! Educators may attend up to three workshops per semester, and space is limited. Workshops are completely free, but spots fill up quickly!
- Register here: SRP Spring 2025 Education Workshops
- Participants will receive a certificate for continuing education units.
- Eligibility: Open to all K–12 educators teaching in Arizona.
- Grant Opportunity: Educators are eligible for one SRP classroom grant per school year. If you received a grant in fall 2024, you are not eligible for spring 2025.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable skills and resources—sign up today!
Nominate an Educator for the 2025 Esperanza Latino Teacher Awards
Do you know an outstanding Latino educator who inspires students and makes a difference in their community? The CPLC Esperanza Latino Teacher Awards honor four exceptional teachers who exemplify dedication, passion, and excellence in education.
Award Details:
- $5,000 cash prize for each winner
- $2,500 stipend for their school
- Recognition at an in-person awards luncheon on May 2, 2025
- Featured in a two-week social media campaign celebrating their impact
Nomination Deadline: March 27, 2025, by 5:00 PM
Who Can Nominate? Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be a full-time, fully certified Pre-K–12 teacher in Arizona
- Have at least six years of teaching experience, with the most recent three years in Arizona
- Teach any subject, including special education, the arts, and physical education
Help us celebrate educators who bring hope (“Esperanza”) to their students and communities!
For questions or to submit a nomination, contact:
Cathy Keppel | Cathy.Keppel@CPLC.org | 602-257-6759
Empowering Educators, Elevating Student Success
Your support fuels the vital work of empowering educators and enhancing student success in Arizona. By donating to MDTP, you are directly contributing to programs that provide tangible benefits for both teachers and students. From celebrating educators to supporting them with essential resources, every dollar makes a difference.
How Your Support Makes an Impact:
- Recognition – Programs like Take a Teacher to Lunch and One in a Million celebrate educators, fostering a culture of appreciation and community support.
- Support – Our Classroom Support Teams and Million Dollar Teacher Tree equip teachers with vital materials, reducing stress and allowing them to focus on student success.
- Compensation – The Teacher Appreciation Package (T.A.P.) program provides financial incentives, helping to boost job satisfaction and retain top educators.
When teachers are supported, students succeed—and that benefits us all. Your contribution fuels programs that uplift Arizona’s educators, making a lasting impact on classrooms and communities.
Thank you for being part of this mission!
