Bean is the first teacher in University Prep Schools network to receive the award

Media Contact: Jesli Banks; U Prep; Jesli.Banks@uprepschools.com; 313-910-6458

Detroit, Mich.—March 3, 2026 –Detroit-based University Prep Schools, Detroit’s largest charter school network, comprised of three districts and 10 schools from kindergarten through high school, is pleased to share that kindergarten teacher, Brandis Bean, has been named the Region 10 Teacher of the Year by the Michigan Department of Education. Bean joins nine other educators from across the state of Michigan to make up the 2026-2027 cohort and is the first teacher within the University Prep Schools network to earn the recognition.

Bean has been a kindergarten teacher at University Prep Academy (UPA)’s elementary school, Ellen Thompson, since 2020. Known for her warm, consistent classroom culture, she creates a joyful, structured learning environment where students feel safe to take risks and be proud of their growth. Her teaching style blends high expectations with care and attention—using purposeful routines, clear learning targets, and hands-on, developmentally responsive instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners. Bean is especially intentional about early literacy and foundational skills, ensuring every student builds confidence as a reader and problem-solver. Families and colleagues alike describe her as patient, reflective, and relentlessly committed to doing what’s best for students. UPA Ellen Thompson Principal Shaura Robinson reflected on Bean ‘s impact as a teacher and individual.

“Ms. Bean has a track record of excellence in the classroom, but her character speaks truth to her power first,” Robinson said. “She leads with heart, holds her scholars to high expectations, and never wavers in her belief that every child can grow. We are Panther Proud of the consistency, care, and instructional excellence she brings to our community each day.”

According to the Michigan Department of Education, the Regional Teachers of the Year were selected out of nominations from students, staff and community members and were chosen for their dedication to the teaching profession, as evidenced by their commitment to students and their records of service in the teaching profession.

All 10 teachers will comprise the Michigan Teacher Leadership Advisory Council and, as part of this, will meet regularly to discuss important education-related topics and offer input on the Department of Education and state-led initiatives. Of the 10 teachers selected, one will go on to be awarded as the Michigan Teacher of the Year in May 2026.

About University Prep Schools

University Prep Schools (U Prep Schools) is a tuition-free charter school network comprised of three distinct districts: University Prep Academy (UPA), University Prep Science & Math (UPSM), and University Prep Art & Design (UPAD). Between the three districts, there are 10 state-of-the-art schools – four elementary schools, three middle schools and three high schools – all located throughout the heart of Detroit. Established in 2000, all of the school buildings within U Prep Schools were built through funding from the Plymouth, Michigan-based Thompson Foundation, which continues to support the school in a variety of ways, including charging only $1 for rent per year for each school building. The cornerstone of the U Prep Schools is the 90/90 promise: that 90% of students entering ninth grade will graduate and 90% will be accepted to college, the military, or trade/technical pursuit. Learn more here.

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