The panel runs from 6-8, so ushers will be helping direct people to their seats, signing guests in, and other general set-up duties in the half hour prior to the panel. After it is over, ushers will help with clean up from about 8-8:30 (will probably be done sooner). During the panel, ushers are required to stay, but will be able to get leadership hours for being at the panel and participating in the open discussion portion. Featuring well-renowned advocates for education in Michigan, this discussion panel will have a broad focus on the state of education with an emphasis on their own unique insights and ways in which citizens can help close the achievement gap. There will be time for open questions from attendees, as well as a time for mingling and networking at the end. Free snacks will be provided by Teach For America. Panelists include: - Donna Kaplowitz - Assistant Professor at MSU, former member of East Lansing School Board - Lothar Konietzko - Social Studies Teacher & Department Chair at Everett High School - Marcus Sumrall - Regional Recruitment Manager at City Year - Nate Walker - K-12 Organizer & Policy Analyst at AFT Michigan - Jeff Williams - CEO of Public Sector Consultants