Karrie Marciniak
Mackensen Elementary School

Grade: 3rd

Karrie Marciniak exemplifies what it means to live For Students. For Purpose. For Good. For more than 20 years, she has dedicated herself to creating a classroom where children feel valued, inspired, and excited to learn.

What makes Karrie special is that she teaches far more than academics. Every year, her students participate in hands-on experiences that teach life lessons they will carry forever. One of her most beloved classroom traditions is hatching chicks and ducklings. Through this experience, students learn compassion, kindness, patience, responsibility, empathy, and respect for living things. They witness the miracle of life firsthand while developing character traits that help them become caring and responsible individuals.

Karrie is also known for creating meaningful learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. From her Duckling Teacher Assistant Project and literacy celebrations to STEM activities and community service projects, she encourages students to lead, collaborate, solve problems, and make a positive impact in their world.

This year brought significant personal challenges as Karrie underwent intensive medical treatment that required her to step away from the classroom while focusing on recovery. Despite those challenges, her passion for teaching never diminished. In fact, one of the hardest parts of her journey was being away from the students she loves so much. Throughout her recovery, she remained focused on returning to the classroom and continuing to make a difference in children's lives.

As Karrie prepares to welcome a new group of students, this grant would help provide enriching classroom experiences, hands-on learning opportunities, STEM materials, literacy activities, and special projects that spark curiosity and joy. She is eager to create an unforgettable year for her students and continue giving them the experiences they deserve. Karrie has spent her career investing in children, teaching them not only how to succeed academically, but how to be kind, compassionate, and confident human beings. She is truly deserving of the Orange Award and the opportunity to continue making a lasting impact on the lives of her students.

Brooke Gruehn
Unionville-Sebewaing High School

Subject: English

At Unionville-Sebewaing Area Schools, our mascot is the Patriot. Brooke Gruehn embodies this by having true Patriot Pride not only as a USA alumni, but as an outstanding English Teacher.

Working in a small school district, teachers and administrators wear many "hats" to accomplish goals and meet students needs. Brooke works extensive hours outside of the school day to ensure that her students are prepared to meet academic expectations for post-secondary goals that a student will achieve and face after graduation.

She teaches AP English Literature and AP English Language courses where students prepare all school year to take an assessment to earn college credit. Her test scores are stellar, earning students college credit for English 111 and 112 as incoming freshmen. Brooke also serves on our Leadership Team- organizing our "rally hours" where we honor students 3 times during a school year for good grades, attendance and zero discipline. During rally hours students get to choose an activity of their choice; in the past (for example) around Christmas time students could play pickleball indoors, decorate Christmas cookies, or drink hot chocolate and watch a movie. To organize this for an entire school, let alone three times a year, takes extensive time and requires a lot of organization.

In addition, she serves as an Adviser to our P2P student mental health group and National Honors Society (NHS) Chapter. Brooke also teaches a Leadership class that plans and organizes "MAD DAY" (Make A Difference Day) where our entire student body is divided into groups that go to homes and businesses in Unionville and Sebewaing to give back to our community. Brooke organizes transportation, job sites, the annual t-shirt design, chaperones and more to make this day possible. All of this extensive work both inside and outside of the classroom, Brooke is also a mother of two girls who are active gymnasts.

I truly don't know how she does it all, but she does! She is actively involved in her girls’ lives and extracurricular on top of showing up for our students every single day. She is an outstanding colleague and leader of our Patriot Family.

Miranda Santos
Pinconning High School

Subject: Biology 

Miranda is someone who pushes herself to go above and beyond. As a relatively new teacher at Pinconning, she's already become a favorite among students for her hands on lessons and ability to make complex material engaging. She wants more for her students and proves that by successfully applying for the Michigan DNR Salmon in the Classroom program, where she will be able to provide opportunities for those interested in learning more about salmon and fish husbandry, marine biology, and the wildlife industry. This is a huge accomplishment as this program has never been implemented at Pinconning before. She cares deeply for her students and believes in their potential, and I'm certain with additional funding and support she would find new programs, create more opportunities, and get new equipment for her kids to use, learn, and grow.

Jenna Proulx
Auburn Elementary School

Grade: Kindergarten & 4th

Mrs. Proulx was an excellent teacher for my son last year for kindergarten. She was caring and patient. She went above and beyond to try to help curve my son's potty issues by helping to give him frequent reminders in class and even giving him special rewards, and kept up with informing me of the good days and the bad days. I'm sad she's moving to 4th Grade next year as I really wanted my daughter to have her when she goes into kindergarten, but I hope my son can have her again when he hits 4th Grade! All in all, she certainly deserves recognition, she is amazing at what she does. Not just anyone can be a successful teacher, and she rocks it.

Sarah Doughty
Woodcrest Elementary School

Grade: 3rd 

Sarah is one of most caring and loving teachers out there. She calls her class her little loves. Once you are a Mrs. Doughty love, you're always her love. I've witnessed this when my daughter was in her class, years ago. When she see my daughter in public, 5 years later, she gives her the biggest hug and shows such excitement to see her and is interested in hearing about everything she does. Sarah takes the time to attend her students sports events, even when her two boys play. She loves her class hard and does her best to make sure every student is succeeding. One of my daughter’s favorite memories is Mrs. Doughty getting excited about something in class and doing cartwheels. She is simply the best human and definitely deserves this award because of her love of teaching and the LOVE of her students.

Becky Egerer
White Pine Middle School

Subject: Special Education 6th - 8th

Becky Egerer is the kind of teacher who shows up every single day with heart, patience, and purpose. She goes far beyond teaching lessons she builds confidence, creates safe spaces, and makes every student feel seen and valued. Whether she's encouraging a struggling student, celebrating small victories, or giving extra time and energy without ever asking for recognition, Becky leads with kindness and compassion in everything she does. She truly lives the spirit of For Students. For Purpose. For GOOD. Her impact reaches far beyond the classroom. Students trust her, families appreciate her, and coworkers admire the genuine care she pours into her work every day. Becky doesn't just teach” she changes lives, one student at a time. She is more than deserving of The Orange Award because the GOOD she does is constant, heartfelt, and lasting.

Monique Turner
Saginaw United High School

Subject: Biology 9th

At Saginaw United High School, doing good isn't just a value it's a way of life for Ms. Monique Turner, and our 9th grade students feel that every single day. Ms. Turner came to the teaching profession by way of an unlikely path. After building a successful career as a corporate accountant, she made a bold and deliberate choice: to pour her talents into young people. That decision speaks volumes about who she is. She didn't have to be here. She chose to be. In her biology classroom, Ms. Turner brings that same professional rigor and discipline to her students. She holds them to high standards not because it's easy, but because she believes they are capable of meeting them. Her students don't just learn science; they learn what it means to show up, do the work, and rise to a challenge.

Ms. Turner's investment in her students doesn't end when the bell rings. As the girls JV basketball coach, she shows up again on the court, in the trenches, building confidence, teamwork, and character in young women who need to see exactly that kind of dedication modeled for them. Ms. Monique Turner is proof that doing good is a full-time commitment. She brings her whole self to this work, every day, for every student.

Jonathan Rosebush
Arrowwood Elementary School

Grade: 4th

My daughter started her journey in a private school, but do to a later diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder we knew we were going to have to find another avenue of learning. Previously she had headaches and stomach aches and never wanted to go to school. She said she was tired of feeling like she didn't know anything. We made the decision to switch her to Arrowwood Elementary where they would have the resources to better assist her needs - we moved in 4th grade and she was in Mr. Rosebushes class- he was amazing with her- he had a daily schedule which was perfect - she was given any additional help she needed and after just a few weeks was feeling so comfortable and accomplished- we went from never wanting to go to school to never wanting to miss!!

Mr. Rosebush was the turning point in making my daughter who she is today starting at Heritage Highschool in the fall!

Kaeleen Homrich
St. Peter Lutheran School

Grade: 3rd

I am honored to nominate Mrs. Homrich, 3rd Grade Teacher at St. Peter Lutheran School in Hemlock for this grant recognizing educators who go above and beyond for their students and school community. Mrs. Homrich is an exceptional educator who consistently demonstrates dedication, compassion, and excellence in teaching. She creates engaging, hands-on learning experiences and uses differentiated instructions to ensure every student can succeed. She meets students where they are academically and personally, helping each child achieve meaningful growth and reach their individual goals.

What sets Mrs. Homrich apart is her unwavering commitment to all students, not just those in her classroom. She genuinely wants every child in the school to learn, grow, and thrive. She collaborates with colleagues, shares ideas, and works tirelessly to support the success of the entire school community. Mrs. Homrich is also a true team player who generously volunteers her time and talents.

She serves on multiple committees, including the curriculum committee, and plays an active role in organizing and supporting school events such as school musicals, Parents and Grandparents Day, March Is Reading Month activities, coaching along with many more.

No matter the need, she is always willing to step up and help. Beyond academics and service, Mrs. Homrich builds strong, positive relationships with students and their families. She takes the time to understand each child's strengths and challenges, communicates openly with families, and always makes decisions based on what is best for kids. Mrs. Homrich exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding educator. Her passion, leadership, and commitment to student success make a lasting impact on everyone around her. She is truly deserving of this grant and the recognition that comes with it.

Kristine Grover
Chesaning High School

Subject: Special Education

I am honored to nominate Mrs. Grover because she is one of the most caring, dedicated, and selfless educators I have ever met. She consistently puts her students before herself and works tirelessly to ensure that every student feels supported, valued, and successful.

Mrs. Grover's impact extends far beyond the classroom. Not only is she an exceptional teacher, but she also serves as the Student Council Advisor at Chesaning High School. In that role, she spends countless hours planning and organizing activities that help create unforgettable memories for students. From homecoming events, pep rallies, dress-up days, the parade, and the football game to the homecoming dance and many other school traditions, Mrs. Grover is often the person working behind the scenes to make it all happen. What many people don't see is the amount of time, effort, and dedication she puts into these events. She gives up countless hours of her own time to ensure students have opportunities to be involved, have fun, and feel connected to their school community. She does all of this because she genuinely cares about her students and wants them to have the best possible high school experience.

Beyond her leadership and hard work, Mrs. Grover is always there for her students. She listens, encourages, and supports them through both academic and personal challenges. She creates an environment where students feel safe, respected, and appreciated. Mrs. Grover is more than just a teacher, she is a mentor, role model, and advocate for her students. Her kindness, dedication, and willingness to go above and beyond make a lasting difference in the lives of those around her. She is truly deserving of this recognition for all that she does for her students and the Chesaning High School community.