KENT COUNTY, Mich. – A teacher in Kent County won the Excellence In Education award from the Michigan Lottery.
Danielle Drumm is a special education teacher at Highlands Middle School, part of Northview Public Schools. She is known for supporting and challenging her students.
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She received a plaque, a $1,500 cash prize, and a $500 grant and a $500 grant to her classroom. She now has a chance to win Educator of the Year.
“My passion for special education began when I worked for Hope Network in college. I was frustrated at how many people didn’t value our individuals of unique populations and I wanted to change that. I desired to equip students with the skills that they need to become their best, no matter at what level that may be. I always enjoyed working with children and helping them become their best selves, overcoming obstacles that are thrown in their paths. I am driven by the relationships I develop with my students and the belief that they can be empowered to make a difference in the world and grow in confidence and skills through the education I provide,” Drumm said.
Drumm earned a bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State University. She has been an educator for 11 years. A parent submitted her nomination for the award.
What are the Excellence In Education awards
The Michigan Lottery created the Excellence In Education awards in 2014.
The awards are meant to recognize public school educations across the state throughout the year.
Winners of the weekly award receive a plaque, a $1,500 cash prize, and a $500 grant to their classroom, school, or school district. One of the weekly winners will be selected as the Educator of the Year and will receive a $10,000 cash prize.
Excellence in Education award nominees are evaluated on the following criteria:
- Excellence – Their work consistently helps students and/or their schools or school districts advance to higher levels of academic achievement.
- Dedication – They consistently go above and beyond expectations to help students succeed.
- Inspiration – Their work inspires others around them to exceed expectations either academically or professionally.
- Leadership – They demonstrate clear leadership skills in their positions with their school or school districts.
- Effectiveness – The nominee’s work has clear and positive results on the educational advancement of students within the school or school district.