Learning has become harder for many students as fewer people are reading due to the distractions of new technologies.  While Artificial Intelligence spreads information quickly, it doesn't necessarily offer the depth of traditional teaching. So, how does one teach deep learning when most Michigan fourth graders aren't reading proficiently? Erik Meerschaert is a special education teacher at Lake Orion High School. He also just became the 2026-2027 Michigan Teacher of the Year, and he’s the state’s candidate for the National Teacher of the Year award for 2027. Meerschaert joined host Robyn Vincent on The Metro to discuss why he loves his job, and how that joy helps construct bonds with his students that aid them in the learning process.