April Update

Ana Alemán-Putman is currently serving as superintendent in her hometown of South Haven, Michigan - a full circle moment in a career rooted in service. A first generation child of migrant workers, she is currently the only Latina superintendent in Michigan, bringing a powerful and personal commitment to equity and opportunity in education.

She began her journey in education as a paraprofessional before expanding her experience in Grand Rapids Public Schools as a teacher as well as an elementary and middle school principal. She later transitioned to Grandville Public Schools, where she served as an elementary principal and district coordinator focused on student success and well-being.

Ana is known for her commitment to equity, student voice, and creating systems that support both academic achievement and a strong sense of belonging. Her work has included addressing disparities, supporting multilingual learners, and strengthening connections between schools, families, and the broader community.

Beyond her professional role, Ana is a proud mother of two daughters and deeply values time spent with her large extended family. Her leadership is grounded in compassion, clarity, and the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive.

Join us for a unique professional learning experience designed to develop, connect, and elevate Latino educational leaders across the YK–12 spectrum. This event creates space for Latino educators & allies to develop their personal leadership skills while strengthening pathways that support future generations of Latino leaders.

MORNING FEATURED SPEAKER:

Maria Campanario of Benchmark Education

AFTERNOON CAPACITY BUILDING FOR LATINO LEADERSHIP:

Multigenerational Mentorship

Who Should Attend?

• MI-ALAS Members
• Latinos and allies who are: Current K-12 educational leaders (Superintendents, Directors, Principals, Administrators, etc.), Current K-12 educators (Teachers, Para-Educators, Bilingual Educators, Support Staff, etc.), Future K-12 educators (Undergraduate students or those seeking K-12 teacher certification), In another role & passionate about supporting rising Latino leaders

Lunch Provided

Hosted by MI-ALAS

Generously Sponsored by Benchmark Education

Held at Los Lagos Bilingual Academy

11946 New Holland St., Holland, MI 49424

Flyer viewable here!

Register here 🎯 by May 29th

This week's episode of ALAS TV's Connecting Compadres Podcast, powered by Summit K12, features Sergio Keck and Jonathan Tobar from Michigan Affiliate MI-ALAS! Both are MI-ALAS board members and deputy superintendents in their state. They discuss the shortage of Latino education leaders in Michigan, the grassroots approach taken to create MI-ALAS, and the importance of partnerships and community-building when creating an ALAS affiliate.

MI-ALAS is seeking dedicated and passionate leaders to serve on its Board of Directors. Board members play a vital role in advancing MI-ALAS’s mission to promote strong leadership, collaboration, and advocacy for high-quality public education across Michigan.

Prospective board members should demonstrate a strong commitment to the mission and purpose of MI-ALAS, actively participate in events and activities that advance our work, and collaborate in good faith with fellow directors. Board service includes attending at least 75% of board meetings annually, fulfilling director responsibilities, and adhering to board-approved policies and procedures.

MI-ALAS is especially interested in leaders who are passionate about:

• Expanding professional growth and advancement opportunities for Latino educational leaders
  
  

• Advocating for equitable representation and inclusive leadership within education
  
  

• Bridging opportunity gaps for emerging leaders
  
  

• Fostering educational environments that celebrate diversity and promote academic success, cultural pride, and leadership skills for Latino students
  
  

Serving on the MI-ALAS Board offers a meaningful opportunity to help shape the future of education in Michigan while empowering Latino administrators, superintendents, and the communities they serve.

If you are interested, please fill out this Google Form and we will be in touch.