We are grateful for the hundreds of educators serving our Lutheran schools across the Michigan District. Each spring we recognize some of them with our Educators of the Year Awards. These individuals were nominated by their colleagues as being outstanding and going above and beyond in serving students, families, and their congregations. It is a joy to celebrate the wonderful teachers, principals, and directors that make our Lutheran schools a place where Christ’s love is shared on a daily basis!
Principal of the Year – John Reincke (Lutheran High North, Macomb)
Here are just a few of the words shared by those who nominated John:
God has used Mr. Reincke in so many powerful ways throughout his ministry. We are grateful for his leadership and the blessing he as been on the Lutheran North community.
I appreciate Mr. Reincke for his open communication with parents and keeping us updated on the latest news and announcements.
Mr. Reincke was a wonderful principal. I’ve even seen him cutting the grass showing no job is beneath him.
Mr. Reincke is someone who led as an example and with grace… he is a Rock Star!
John’s ministry at Lutheran North is a true testament to his faith, leadership, and dedication to Christian education. His Spirit-filled leadership has been a blessing to students, staff, and families over the years, creating an environment where Christ’s love is at the center of all that is done. We are incredibly grateful for John’s commitment to his calling and celebrate the lasting impact he continues to make.
K-8 Teacher of the Year – Karen Collins (Guardian, Dearborn)
Here is what those who nominated Karen shared:
Karen is going above and beyond to teach her first graders and keep them involved in her lessons. She cares deeply for their well-being and puts their education number one on her priority list… She is an exemplary model of Lutheran Education.
Karen is a devoted teacher and a steady presence at Guardian Lutheran School... She gives generously of her time, not only in the classroom, but also in her role as co-athletic director at Guardian. Most importantly, Karen consistently shines Christ's light through her care, patience, and servant heart. She intentionally nurtures that same spirit in her students, equipping them to reflect the love and light of Jesus in their words and actions. The first-grade class thrives under her leadership, and the depth of learning she has cultivated has well prepared her students for the years ahead.
Karen’s ministry to the students, staff, and families at Guardian is a shining example of Christ-centered teaching. Her unwavering dedication, compassionate heart, and commitment to excellence have blessed countless students and families over the years. We are deeply grateful for her work both inside and outside the classroom, and we celebrate the lasting impact she continues to have on all those she has been called to serve.
High School Teacher of the Year – Marianne Volkert (Lutheran High Northwest, Rochester Hills)
Here are a few of the words shared by those who nominated Marianne:
Marianne always goes far above and beyond to meet her students' needs. She is usually found after school with students, helping them with their math lessons and offering corrections and reteaching. Marianne finds a way to be present at many extra-curricular events, including athletics, theater productions, and music performances. She also is co-student council leader. Marianne is truly the heads and feet of Jesus to our students every day.
We are grateful for Marianne’s dedication to Lutheran education and all the ways God uses her to be a blessing to our students, staff, and families.
Marianne is a vital part of the Lutheran Northwest family. Her passion for education and excellence leaves a profound mark on our students every day.
We are inspired by Marianne’s ministry at Lutheran Northwest. Whether she is in the classroom or supporting families, her commitment to her students is clear in everything she does. We are incredibly grateful for her dedication to Lutheran education and look forward to seeing how she continues to be a blessing to all those she is called to serve.
Early Childhood Director of the Year – Mary Huisinga (St. Mark, Battle Creek)
Here is what those who nominated Mary said:
Mary has been the rock of OWC since the beginning. She cares for all the staff and treats everyone like family. She makes sure we are taken care of both in our personal lives and at work. She cares about every family and child that walks in the building.
Mary always wants what’s best for our staff, comes in early and stays late for us, and is welcoming and friendly to all.
Mary truly cares for each and every staff member, child, and parent who walks through those doors. She remembers every person’s name despite 50+ staff and over 180 families, and makes time to ensure everyone feels acknowledged and heard… She treats every family as if they were her own and shares the love of Christ in every interaction.
The staff, families, and children at Our World for Children are truly blessed by Mary’s compassionate leadership, unwavering dedication, and Christ-centered heart. Her ministry to the students, staff, and families is one that deserves to be celebrated. We are incredibly grateful for her commitment to Lutheran education and look forward to seeing how she continues to make a powerful impact on those she is called to serve.
Early Childhood Teacher of the Year – Melissa Susalla (St. Paul, Trenton)
Here are a few of the words shared by those who nominated Melissa:
Melissa’s passion for teaching, unwavering dedication, and love for her students have made a profound impact on countless young lives. Here are just a few of the heartfelt words shared by those who nominated her:
Miss Melissa (as she is known) is to be considered one of the best early childhood teachers around. Her work ethic is unsurpassed. Her care for the students in her class is beyond compare. She works diligently with other staff and with student families in a bright, focused way, being loving but firm. And she does all of this with a constant smile on her face!
We are grateful for Melissa and her dedication to our students and families. She is such a blessing to so many.
Melissa is a teacher of deep faith and shows the grace of Jesus in everything. ANY child and family will be blessed by her!
Please join us in celebrating Melissa for her extraordinary work in early childhood education. We thank God for her and look forward to hearing how she continues to have a powerful impact on those she has been called to serve!