Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University (EMU) will have a significant presence at the Michigan Division for Early Childhood (MiDEC) 2025 Conference, which will be held November 6–7 at the EMU Student Center Ballroom in Ypsilanti. The event is expected to draw early childhood educators, researchers, and policy leaders from across the state to discuss strategies for fostering inclusive and equitable learning environments for young children in Michigan.

“Eastern Michigan has long been recognized as a leader in teacher preparation and special education,” said Audrey Farrugia, professor of communication sciences and disorders in EMU’s College of Education. “Having this conference on our campus allows us to showcase the innovative work our faculty and students are doing to ensure equitable access to high-quality learning experiences for every child.”

Seven faculty members from EMU’s College of Education are scheduled to present research and lead professional development sessions during the two-day conference. The presenters include Martha Baiyee, Leslie Blome, Audrey Farrugia, Jessica Grimone-Hopkins, Myung-Sook Koh, and Christina Mirtes. Several will participate in multiple collaborative sessions.

Myung-Sook Koh will conduct a workshop titled “Bridging Gaps in Early Childhood and Special Education,” which aims to provide educators with diagnostic teaching tools based on cognitive development. Koh said, “This workshop isn’t just about theory, it’s about giving teachers a roadmap to show how children’s innate cognitive potentials can be developed and strengthened through the power of the early years. When educators can diagnose learning barriers and respond with targeted, developmentally aligned instruction, every child has a greater chance to thrive.”

Christina Mirtes, who will also present at the conference, highlighted ongoing research supported by Michigan’s Early On Center. “Our research, funded by Michigan’s Early On Center, focuses on strengthening the early intervention workforce through three key components: intentional knowledge building, mentorship, and cross-disciplinary collaboration,” said Mirtes. “We’re helping professionals move beyond one-time workshops to create lasting, research-informed impact for young children and their families.”

The MiDEC Conference is regarded as one of the state’s leading events for professionals who work with children from birth to age eight. This year’s agenda includes sessions on topics such as inclusive leadership, positive behavioral supports, autism education, and social-emotional development. Attendees will also have opportunities to engage with exhibitors featuring classroom tools and resources related to early childhood education.

More information about the event, including registration and a detailed agenda, is available on the official event website.

Eastern Michigan University was established in 1849 and is the second-oldest public university in Michigan. The institution serves over 12,000 students across undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines. EMU emphasizes career readiness through hands-on learning opportunities, partnerships with industry, and personalized student support. The university’s commitment to diversity and applied education has earned national recognition.

Further details about EMU’s achievements and academic offerings can be found on the University’s points of pride page and its official website.