Extraordinary Educators
2024/2025
Thank yo u to all of o u r amazing sp o nso rs t h is pa s t year! A HUGE TH ANK YOU TO E V ERYONE W HO VOTED FOR THE FOLLOW ING TE ACHERS! W E ARE LOOK ING FORWARD TO CONTINUING THE PROGR AM ING FOR THE 2025-2026 SCHOOL YE AR.
SPOTLIGHT EDUCATOR
Amy Rothe’s lifelong passion for teaching shapes generations of students
KATY SNODGRASS
Sta writer
Since she was a little girl, Amy Rothe had only one dream: to become a teacher.
“I think, from the time I was born, I wanted to be a teacher,” Rothe said. “There was this little room outside my bedroom, and my dad set up a little chalkboard on the wall. I had chalk, I had a couple of little desks that they bought, and, of course, my stuffed animals and dolls were there.”
Throughout her childhood, Rothe found great enjoyment in playing pretend as a teacher, often giving drawn-out lessons to her toys. As she grew up, Rothe’s interest in education never died — she would even help out her own teachers in middle school with grading and whatever else they needed, simply because she enjoyed it.
After graduating from high school at Ubly Community Schools, Rothe attended Central Michigan University, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in teaching, with a major in English and a minor in childhood development.
Once she graduated from college in December 1990, Rothe was lucky enough to get a job the next month as a permanent special education substitute teacher for
Ubly Schools.
“I was very lucky, but I think that it helped because I knew everybody here,” Rothe said. “So I took that from January to June, and my principal was wonderful enough that when a first-grade position opened here, he immediately came to me and asked if I would like it.”
Although Rothe began her teaching career in first grade, spending her early years working with young students, she eventually moved on to teach third grade and kindergarten for a few years. Ultimately, Rothe returned to first grade,
where she has dedicated 23 of her 34.5 years in education.
“I’m so blessed to have — I hate to even say a job because I really do enjoy it so much — a job where I can come to school every day and be happy coming,” Rothe shared. “I truly love working with my little sweethearts, and the people here are just amazing.”
She went on to elaborate on how fulfilling it is to witness her students grow into accomplished adults who make a difference in the world.
“I love seeing them become productive citizens because there is
such a span from when I have them in first grade until they graduate from high school and go off to college and everything,” she said. “I’ve got some that are doctors, lawyers, teachers, nurses, just everything. Some of them, I’ve even been blessed that they’ve come back, and I’ve been able to work with them here.”
As an educator working with younger students, Rothe shared that one of the key differences with her teaching style is that she always wants her students to feel loved, seen, and safe with her.
“I don’t know if it’s an actual teaching style,
but I let them know that I love them and care for them. That’s my biggest reward — just the love and caring between us,” Rothe explained. “I think they feel safe, secure, and they know that I care about them. I’m not just here for a job. That’s the biggest thing.”
Rothe also emphasized the importance of letting kids enjoy their childhood while learning to become educated adults.
“I feel like we try to make it as fun as we can, but they don’t always get to just be a kid sometimes,” Rothe said. “They have to grow up so fast, and I know we need to in today’s world, but I think letting them have that extra recess or extra time where they don’t have to worry about math, read-
ing, spelling and all that.
I mean, I’m not against that — believe me, that’s why we’re here. We want them to be educated, but just with that little extra time to be a kid and play with their friends.”
For those currently considering a career in education, Rothe emphasized the importance of prioritizing the well-being of the students.
“In today’s world, there’s just so much more out there for kids,” she said. “They have more challenges, and it’s hard when I can’t help them overcome some of their challenges, whether it’s behavior or they’re struggling with something — just to try to make them feel like they can do it because it’s harder sometimes.”
Looking ahead, Rothe shared that while she has no immediate plans to retire as she continues to find joy in teaching, she envisions a future where she can dedicate more time to her family and grandchildren.
Amy Rothe, a dedicated educator, smiles at her desk while preparing for another impactful day. (Katy Snodgrass/Huron Daily Tribune)
Amy Rothe engages her rst-grade students with interactive lessons in her Ubly classroom.
(Katy Snodgrass/Huron Daily Tribune)
TRICIA COOPER
Ubly Community High School
Mrs. Cooper is not just a teacher; she’s a mentor who cares about her students beyond their grades. She’ll motivate you to be your best self, but she’ll also be there for you when you’re struggling. No matter what, you can count on Mrs. Cooper to help you out. She’s always been there for her students, even when things got tough and we were virtually doing school.
HAILEY SANCHEZ S&S / Bad Axe
Hailey is a Bad Axe High School senior who works as an OJT student at S&S family daycare. Hailey has always had a passion for helping others and is a babysitter for numerous families . She takes pride in what she does and strives
MRS. LEVITT Frostick Elementary
Mrs. Levitt is a truly exceptional educator who has made a profound difference in the lives of countless students. She goes above and beyond for each one of her students and truly is a blessing to our school. My son always struggled and hated school and once he started her classroom his whole demeanor changed he absolutely loves school and her.
JESSICA HEILIG
Ubly Preschool
Mrs. Jessy radiates positivity—always upbeat, incredibly caring, and effortlessly outgoing. Her energy lights up the room, and she makes every student feel seen, heard, and supported. I chose this photo because it perfectly captures how fun and dedicated she is! She is the absolute best!
SPOTLIGHT EDUCATOR Decades of dedication: Cross Lutheran’s Brian Wright nds joy in coaching & teaching
JHYRAH DELAPP Sta writer
Brian Wright, a physical education teacher at Cross Lutheran School in Pigeon, has only been at the school for three years — but he brings more than 35 years of experience to the gymnasium.
A Cass City native, Wright graduated from Cass City Public Schools and went on to attend Central Michigan University, where he majored in physical education and minored in biology. Though he earned his degree in teaching, Wright said his original goal was simply to coach.
“I wanted to be a coach at one time, and at Central they wanted all the coaches to have a minor in physical education,” Wright said. “So, I just started taking phys ed classes and a minor in bio, and wound up teaching elementary phys ed for the most part.”
Wright currently serves as the assistant coach for the Cass City junior varsity baseball team and coaches basketball at Cross Lutheran. Before that, he spent 32 years at Owendale-Gagetown, where he taught and served as head coach for both basketball and baseball.
He said the highlight of his long coaching career was sending two of his players — including his
son Jacob — to play baseball at Delta College. Both students also scored more than 1,000 points in high school basketball. Wright retired from Owendale-Gagetown, but soon found himself back
in the gym.
“It was kind of a calling — I wasn’t quite ready to retire,” Wright said. “It got to be a lot at Owendale-Gagetown. I was working five days a week and coaching two
teaching is seeing students grow and change — physically, socially and emotionally.
“The best part about being a phys ed teacher is being able to play with the kids,” he said. “It’s
structured but laid-back fun, especially with the younger ones. You look at a kindergartener and then again in eighth grade — it’s amazing how much they grow.”
Wright said teaching physical education is never one-size-fits-all, and that’s what keeps it engaging.
big sports. Now, at Cross, I work three days with some really good, special kids, and the staff is nice. It was just a good change after all those years.”
Wright said one of the most rewarding parts of
“Every class is different,” Wright said. “You’ll try something with one third-grade class and it works great, then try it with another and it doesn’t, so you adjust. That’s part of the challenge and fun — figuring
out what works.”
He tries to make every student feel seen.
“I try to learn all the kindergarteners’ names before I get them in class,” Wright said. “I call them by name, give them a high-five or fist bump, and I try to get to know their interests and hobbies outside of school, too. It builds respect and connection.” and
“THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING A PHYS ED TEACHER IS BEING ABLE TO PLAY WITH THE KIDS,” WRIGHT SAID. “IT’S STRUCTURED BUT LAID-BACK FUN, ESPECIALLY WITH THE YOUNGER ONES. YOU LOOK AT A KINDERGARTENER AND THEN AGAIN IN EIGHTH GRADE — IT’S AMAZING HOW MUCH THEY GROW.”
Cross Lutheran’s Brian Wright re ects on 35+ years in coaching and teaching, emphasizing student growth, adaptability and building connections. (Brian Wright/Courtesy Photo)
NICOLE OSENTOWSKI
Early Years Preschool
I would like to nominate Nicole Osentowski, the dedicated owner of Early Years and an outstanding preschool teacher, for recognition in our local newspaper. Nicole embodies the best qualities of a teacher, bringing kindness, compassion, and an incredible nurturing spirit to her work every day. Her gentle yet effective approach with children makes her an inspiration to everyone who learns from her, whether they are fellow teachers, parents, or the kids themselves.
Nicole treats every child as if they were her own, creating a warm and supportive environment at Early Years where the children feel safe, valued, and loved. Her passion for education and her genuine care for each child’s development is what makes her business such a success in our community. Not only does she run an excellent business, but her feminine strength and patience with children leave a lasting impact.
Nicole truly deserves recognition for the difference she makes in the lives of so many.
RHONDA WRIGHT
Owen-Gage Elementary School
who
She is a retired teacher but went back to teach 1st grade after 2 years of retirement. She has one son and has been married to Brian (also a teacher) for 30 years. She also volunteers at Common Ground Cafe for Revive Ministries and at church in their Sunday School Kdg. Classroom. She also works at TACT(Thumb Area Community Theatre. She is an amazing teacher who cares so much about the children in her classroom and goes above and beyond to help and make sure each one has everything they need everyday. Thank you for considering Mrs. Wright!
AMY TAMLYN
Cass City Jr/Sr High School
Amy is a phenomenal teacher who transfers her love for math to her students. She I willing to put in any amount of effort it will take for a student to understand math. She has a passion for math and her job which she carries into her everyday routine.
ABIGAIL ORNOWSKI
North Huron
Abi is a new addition to the North Huron staff but is no stranger to the Warrior family as she graduated a Warrior in 2020. Abi has always been passionate about young children and will make a great impact on any student who has the pleasure of being in her class!
MICHELLE FRITZ
SULYNDA SCHUMACHER
Deckerville High School
Laker Elementary School
Michelle Fritz is an exceptional second-grade teacher at Laker ElementarySchool who consistently goes above and beyond to foster a love of learning in her students. Her creative approach to teaching encourages curiosity and builds a strong foundation in both academics and social-emotional skills. Through innovative lessons and a nurturing classroom environment, Mrs. Fritz empowersher students to become confident, independent learners. She is dedicated to providing personalized support for each child, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed and thrive. Her passion for education and commitment to her students make her an ideal candidate for this award, as shecontinues to inspire and positively impact the lives of those she teaches.
Amazing teacher, coach, mentor and all around amazing person. Always willing to do what needs to be done for her students an athletes for them to have an get the best education or training to go the extra mile not only to win in sports but at life as well. She volunteers, supports an helps many with things in school an out of school with out ever asking for any type of recognition or praise. She is one of the most selfless teacher/coaches you will ever meet. Teaches mathematics 9-12th along coaches volleyball, track, quizz bowls, academic decathlon. An as lot more. She is well deserved of recognition in her life an field.
KERRY ROSE
North Branch Area Schools
LESLIE EBERLY Cross Lutheran School
Mrs Rose is an outstanding teacher. She always goes above and beyond to nurture and encourage her students both academically and artistically. She’s one of the first teachers to dress up on the special event days at school, and she eagerly encourages students to express their vocal and theatrical talents. In elementary school she produced the play “The Wizzard of Oz” with her elementary students performing all the roles. She sang a duet from Wicked with another aspiring junior high student vocalist. A young man brought in his electric guitar and performed in class. These are only a few examples. In hercurrent role as Literacy Coach at the Jr high and high school, she sees many of her former students who just adore her! In their Art class they paint her a name plaque and gift it to her and she proudly displays them all in her room. I ran into a parent just today who said two of her children had Mrs Rose… and we all just love her! I wish I could post several photos so you could get a better idea of how much she is adored and
respected.
Mrs. Eberly is kind, patient and caring to all her students. Her love and compassion for each child shows every morning at drop off! The way she leads and has control of her classroom is admirable. She is always positive and uses positive reinforcement with the children. Each child adores and respects her because she shows that care and respect back to them. We are very fortunate to have her at Cross and she is truly a Blessing!
KATRINA GENTNER
Huron Intermediate School District Elementary STEPS Program
Katrina goes above and beyond for her students. Katrina makes sure she knows her students goals and makes sure they have the tools to meet those goals. Not everyday is a smooth day in her classroom, one this is for sure she never gives up on the students and always has a positive attitude.
SPOTLIGHT EDUCATOR
Bad Axe art teacher inspires students by embracing individuality and growth
KATY SNODGRASS Sta writer
Growing up, school was always one thing Christian Snider never had to worry about. Even with the challenges of frequently moving because of his father’s military career, attending as many as nine schools, Snider always found learning came naturally to him.
As a result, Snider knew he wanted to be a teacher, but picking a subject to focus on was not an easy task. At first, his natural skill in math drew him toward it. That all changed, however, when he took his first art class at Laker High School.
“It wasn’t until I took art classes and realized that it’s something you can continually improve on that I really got into it and wanted to pursue it more,” Snider shared.
He explained that it was the analytical aspect of art that drew him in. Unlike the freedom of expression that often attract others, Snider was captivated by continually discovering ways to refine and perfect his craft.
“School was always really easy for me, and I always got pretty decent grades, but art was something that was truly challenging,” he explained. “I liked the idea that everything I made
required me to physically examine every part of it that was wrong, identify the mistakes, and either live with them or figure out how to fix them.”
Snider began his teaching career in Wyoming, Michigan, where he spent five years teaching elementary art. He then moved to Clio, followed by North Huron. Now, Snider teaches art to students in grades seven through 12 at Bad Axe Public Schools, where he has been inspiring young artists for the past three years.
As an educator, Snider diligently works to meet his students where they’re at, passionately believing that some of the rigidity in traditional schooling prevents students from being successful.
“I think for a lot of kids, regardless of the subject area, there are many barriers in their way,” he shared. “Whether it’s a kid who struggles with writing and has to do a lot of it for different classes, or a kid who doesn’t have time for homework because they’re working a job, taking care of siblings, or dealing with something else, I feel like the traditional structure of school often gets in the way of their success.”
To help combat this, Snider has structured his classes to focus on in-
class projects that allow his students to explore the different materials and styles that they feel connected to.
“It’s pretty individualized. The introductory levels of my classes are a little more whole-group — nobody’s ever making the same thing, but we may all be working with the same material, for instance,” Snider said. “However, as they progress, it becomes much more individual, with every student working on their own unique project.”
He went on to say that his teaching style motto is to try to, “make the class what the kids need it to be.”
As a part of that motto, Snider demonstrates a deep sense of empathy and a strong understanding of the challenges his students face, as well as the unique pressures of being a modern-day teenager.
“I think it’s almost the fundamental aspects of school that sometimes get in the way,” Snider shared. “It’s kids feeling like, because they’re not successful in one class, they’re not successful in school; or kids who are so bogged down by their home life that it’s hard to be successful here; or the pressures of social media and how that impacts their day-to-day understanding and learning.”
Art teacher Christian Snider balances empathy and individuality in his classroom, shaping a supportive environment for grades 7 through 12.
(Christian Snider/Courtesy Photo)
Snider went on to say he focuses on helping his students understand that, regardless of their circumstances or how they view their lives, they have the power to shape their future and make the changes needed to create the life they want.
By helping his students grow more comfortable with themselves and blossom into the individuals they are meant to be, Snider has discovered that the relationships he builds with them are the
most rewarding part of his job.
“I think it’s all the different ways you end up being so proud of them — not even for their accomplishments, but simply for realizing who they are,” Snider shared. “It’s not any individual moment, just those times when you sit back and watch them create something or hear them talk to a friend in a cool way, and you’re just like, ‘Wow, they’re really amazing!’”
For future teachers, Snider has three bits of knowledge to share that he has gathered from seasoned educators throughout his career:
• “What you allow, you encourage.”
• “At the end of it all, once you’re done with everything, all you have left is your memories.”
• “Good is good. Don’t sacrifice good in the pursuit of greatness.”
He also emphasized the importance of not becoming stagnant and from learning from your students.
“I think that as soon as you believe you’ve learned everything, you stop growing or improving,” Snider said. “I also think there are plenty of things my students teach me on a daily basis.”
He went on to share examples, like two current students whose painting techniques are unlike anything he has ever seen, or a recently graduated senior whose unique drawing style fascinated him so much that he spent his free time trying to replicate it without success.
Snider wrapped up with a final piece of advice: “There are just so many different ways to grow that I think as soon as you decide you know everything, you actually don’t know anything.”
MR. DON SCHADD Bad Axe High School
Mr. Schadd has been an incredible teacher, and it’s easy to see why he was recognized as an Extraordinary Educator. In his shop class, we get to work with all kinds of tools and equipment, creating projects like clocks, furniture, and even CNC machine designs. He doesn’t just give us the answers—he pushes us to think through problems and figure things out on our own, which makes learning so much more rewarding. It’s really cool to see how much we improve over time, and he even takes pictures of our projects to show our progress. As the school year comes to an end, I know a lot of us will miss him, but his impact on his students will last long after we leave his class.
AMY ROTHE
Ubly Community Schools
If you know Amy, you know her love for teaching! She always the first one in the building to prep for the school day. Amy’s a team player, and is always willing to lend a hand to anyone that needs it. Her positive energy and passion for teaching supports so many students in excelling in her classroom. Ubly is so lucky to have you, Amy!
MICHAEL MEISSNER
Huron Area Technical Center
At USA Schools, excellence is not a goal it ’s a tradition shaped by the dedicated educators who lead, inspire, and empower our students ever y day
Great teacher and co-worker. Michael always stives for his students to do their best and it shows. His students excel at their work and he has has students whom have placed very high at skills USA competitions. He is well liked by all
SPOTLIGHT EDUCATOR
Teacher returns to tech center to inspire the next generation
JHYRAH DELAPP
After working in the industry for a while, Michael Meissner transitioned to teaching — taking over the very class that once inspired him to pursue a trade.
Meissner has been a power technology instructor at the Huron Area Technical Center for the past five years.
“What we do in power technology is basically everything mechanical that automotive doesn’t do — from chainsaws all the way up to semis,” Meissner said. “We also do all the welding and metal fabrication training. So, we’re kind of two programs in one.”
Meissner heard that Mr. Glenicki, the former instructor, was retiring. At that point, he had been working in the industry for over a decade. After a conversation with his wife, he decided to apply. He got the job in January 2020.
“I’m currently teaching the program that, in high school, changed my life. It’s the whole reason I went to college and decided to pursue the trade. I’ve loved every second and have no regrets,” Meissner said. “There are some things I miss about the industry, but I really
like working with the kids because they’re the future of the trade — and there’s a huge shortage. I think I serve a better purpose as an instructor than I do working in the trades.”
A Forestville-area native, Meissner attended Harbor Beach High School and graduated in 2007. He later earned a degree in heavy equipment technology from Ferris State University in 2009.
He now lives on his family’s farm, which has been in operation since 1908, with his wife and four children.
“The first A I ever got, other than in math, was at the tech center,” Meissner said. “I disliked school, but the tech center redefined what I wanted to do for my career with the career exploration end of it. My two tech center instructors were a big influence on me. I’m just trying to do the same thing for today’s generation.”
Meissner said traditional classroom learning didn’t work for him — and he sees that same struggle in many of his students. That’s why he builds his curriculum around hands-on learning.
“I don’t use any books when I teach. All of my
finals are hands-on,” Meissner said. “They’re not taking a multiple-choice test. They have to build, make, measure, disassemble or construct something. I kind of teach how I like to be taught—a proficiency task rather than a written test.”
He added that this style of teaching often works well for students with disabilities.
“The thing that would surprise most people about my classroom is how many female students are in it,” Meissner said. “The trades are known to be male-dominated, but they don’t have to be. A lot of my female students are the best welders.”
Meissner said he wants to open the door of opportunity for his students by showing them they don’t need a bachelor’s degree to succeed.
“I ask my students at the beginning of the year, ‘How many of you are planning to get a bachelor’s degree?’ Usually only two out of 60 raise their hands,” Meissner said. “And I tell them that’s OK. You can be just as successful working in a trade. A lot of people think they’re selling themselves short if they don’t get a degree. That’s not true in the trades.”
“I’M CURRENTLY TEACHING THE PROGRAM THAT, IN HIGH SCHOOL, CHANGED MY LIFE. IT’S THE WHOLE REASON I WENT TO COLLEGE AND DECIDED TO PURSUE THE TRADE. I’VE LOVED EVERY SECOND AND HAVE NO REGRETS,” MEISSNER SAID.
Sta writer
Michael Meissner teaches power tech at Huron Area Tech Center — the same program that changed his life. He focuses on hands-on learning to help students nd success in the trades. (Michael Meissner/Courtesy Photo)
EMILY BEAVER
North Huron Schools
Mrs. Beaver brings the joy back into any classroom she walks into. She always puts her students first and is always going above and beyond. She is the “Momma Bear” and her students know that their classroom is a family. She is always thinking of ways to bring her lessons to life with hands-on exploration and plain old fun. She deserves a recognition for her inspiring dedication to all who encounter her.
STEPHANIE BRINING
North Huron
Stephanie needs to be recognized for taking her lessons to the next level. Her creativity supports her students soaring academically! She makes learning exciting by using hands on activities and lessons with her students. The excitement in their eyes while they work together on these activities is amazing to watch.
LAUREN FISCHER
Bad Axe Elementary
Mrs. Fischer is a wonderful educator who builds confidence in her students. She personalizes her classroom for the kids, and is truly a wonderful teacher. She reaches outside her classroom and interacts with multiple students throughout the
DAVID FAUPEL
Cross Lutheran School
David is a teacher and principal that goes above and beyond for both his students and staff. He engages his students in their studies and makes sure he is available for extra help, as he wants to see them succeed.
In top of their class work, David encourages his students to be their best self by teaching them about life skills that will help them become better people without standing character. David not only teaches these life skills but he exemplifies them in his own life.
As a principal, David’s staff knows that he will go to bat for them and make sure they have the support they need to be an affective teacher. His desire is for the students to receive an exceptional education and to be their best no matter if they are in school or in the community. Because of this, the students and staff at Cross Lutheran School are blessed by his leadership.
SPOTLIGHT EDUCATOR
The ‘Miss Frizzle’ of Ubly: Jessica Heilig sparks curiosity in preschoolers
KATY SNODGRASS Sta writer
Jessica Heilig, affectionately known as Miss Frizzle by her students, is a passionate and devoted preschool teacher at Ubly Community Schools.
Joining the staff nearly 10 years ago, Heilig earned her “Magic School Bus” nickname for her energetic personality and innovative teaching style that encourages creativity and exploration.
“I really love hands-on activities. I feel like that’s the best way preschoolers learn, so we do get messy,” Heilig said. “I’m okay with the class, like Miss Frizzle says, ‘Taking chances, making mistakes, and getting messy.’ I think that’s a huge thing in preschool, so I am known as the louder, messier class, but I love to have fun. I’m a loud person, I’m energetic, and I think that’s why my classroom here stands out.”
However, teaching was not always Heilig’s end goal for her career, originally receiving a degree in business management and administration from Baker College. She only became drawn to the world of education through working as a teacher’s assistant later on in life.
“I started out as a paraprofessional at Deckerville, and I knew
lig explained. “She knew I had finished college, so she reached out to me and said there was an opening at Ubly.”
Jessica Heilig, known as Ubly’s ‘Miss Frizzle,’ shares a joyful moment with her preschoolers. (Jessica Heilig/Courtesy Photo)
that’s what I wanted to do,” Heilig said. “It was later in life, but I’ve always been around kids and have always worked with kids. It took me a little while to find that path, but once I found it, I knew I was on the right one.”
While working at Deckerville Community Schools, Heilig got to know then-Principal Yvonne O’Connor, who had a big impact on her career. During her seven years there, Heilig decided to take the next step
in her journey by earning a bachelor’s degree from Rochester University’s early childhood program. This decision solidified her passion for working with children and shaped her path forward.
After O’Connor became principal at Ubly, she played a key role in bringing Heilig onto the preschool staff, greatly encouraging her to pursue a career in education.
“O’Connor is actually the reason why I went back to school when I was at Deckerville,” Hei-
Since joining Ubly’s staff, Heilig said she has always felt very welcome and comfortable there thanks to the great staff, students, and families of Ubly Schools.
coddle their education by doubting their capabilities, feeling very strongly that her students are capable of much more than most people know or give them credit for.
to the great staff, families Schools.
“I think I was at Deckerville for seven years, and that’s where I went to school, that’s where I graduated, and that’s where I coach. But I came to Ubly, and it felt like home,” Heilig said. “Right away, the director here welcomed me, as did the staff and the families. After my first year here, I moved up as a director along with being a preschool teacher, and that had a lot to do with the administration having trust in me. I just truly love it here at Ubly.”
Heilig is deeply dedicated to her work, fully understanding the importance of shaping the young minds she nurtures in the school. However, she also does not
“We underestimate these little guys and their minds, but they can do so much, and if you allow them, they’re going to do it,” Heilig expressed with heartfelt emotion. “I think the biggest thing is not comparing the kids. One child might be doing really well in one area, while another might start off not knowing the alphabet, but by the end of the year, they’ve got it.”
Building off that point, Heilig also expressed that teachers, and more specifically preschool teachers, are often overlooked and not given their due credit from the community.
“I don’t think educators get the credit they deserve,” Heilig began.
“In my building, we have 12 staff members and 54 preschoolers. We’re often told that we’re just preschool teachers, and I am just a preschool teacher — I’m okay with that — but we do so much more. We do a lot of teaching, but we also help these kids with self-help skills, and we’re the first step in their educational path.”
For those considering a career in education, Heilig emphasized the importance of discover-
ing what suits each classroom through personal experience and adapting ideas to fit unique teaching styles.
“I try to tell my new staff that your classroom is your classroom; what works in my classroom might not work in yours,” she explained. “So, take the wisdom from other teachers who have been in the field for a while, but always remember that your ideas matter too.”
She also stressed the importance of being truly passionate about your work, particularly when working with young children who are highly impressionable and can sense when an adult genuinely cares about them.
“Any person can do a job, but to be successful, you’ve got to love it. Each day may not be perfect, but when you wake up in the morning, you should want to go to work,” Heilig said. “And you should do it for the right reasons — not just because you went through college and that’s what you do, but because you’re doing it for the right reasons and realizing that those little guys look up to you.”
Heilig balances her passion for teaching with coaching varsity volleyball at Deckerville, all while cherishing her role as a devoted wife and proud mother to two grown children.
BRIAN WRIGHT
Cross Lutheran
Retired from teaching in a public school, went back into the classroom a couple months later. He now teaches at Cross Lutheran School in Pigeon. He teaches physical education grades K-8. He loves working with the kids and watching them grow.
KAYLA TREIB OwenGage Elementary
HALEY DHYSE North Huron
Haley does such an amazing job making learning so fun for her students! She is extremely supportive and meets all students where they are at academically. She is their biggest advocate and strives to help them meet their goals.
Mrs. Treib is the definition of kind and compassionate. She is an extraordinary teacher, teaching grades 4th and 5th grade. She also serves as the president of the PTO, is the advisor for National Honor Society, and is the first to volunteer whenever there is a need for the students. Mrs. Treib deserves all the recognition and support. The way she continuously goes above and beyond for the Owengage community is incredible.
SHERRY HOWARD-BREAULT Bad Axe Elementary
Sherry Howard Breault goes above and beyond to ensure that all students succeed. She provides a loving and welcoming environment and my child absolutely adores her. Thank you Sherry for all you do!
CHRISTIAN SNIDER
Bad Axe High School
Mr. Snider, Bad Axe High School’s art teacher, goes above and beyond to help students create masterpieces and develop a true love for art. He creates a calm and supportive environment in the classroom, working one-on-one with us to improve our skills and reach our artistic goals. Beyond the classroom, he donates countless hours of his time as a positive school climate committee advisor and student council advisor, always finding ways to make our school abetter place. His creativity and passion for teaching make Bad Axe High School an exciting place to learn, giving students the confidence to explore different artistic styles. One of the coolest things about him is his talent for photo realistic art, and he constantly pushes us to challenge ourselves in ways we never thought possible!
DENISE GORDON Bad Axe Elementary
Mrs. Gordon is an outstanding second-grade teacher at Bad Axe Elementary who goes above and beyond to support her students. She creates a welcoming and engaging classroom environment where every child feels encouraged to learn and succeed. Her dedication to her students’ growth is evident in the way she tailors her teaching to meet their individual needs, ensuring they stay on track academically and personally. Mrs. Gordon’s use of tools like the Remind app helps keep students organized and engaged, fostering a strong connection between the classroom and home. Her hard work and commitment to her students truly make her an extraordinary educator.
