Michigan Learning Channel (MLC) launched the Planning Period in February 2025 as a professional learning video series created and produced by the MLC and hosted by an experienced educator. Each episode opens with an essential question facing today’s teachers — from “How do we build real relationships with students?” to “How can we teach with curiosity?” — and uses documentary storytelling to explore promising answers. Through expert interviews, classroom walkthroughs, and instructional demonstrations, the series models research-based strategies and promotes the use of trusted, turnkey educational content from PBS and other spaces while amplifying the voices of real educators.
The CTN grant will support continued development and production of new episodes for three years while laying the foundation for a sustainable, collaborative model of community-driven professional learning.