By Jason Wesseldyk
Sports Editor
Do you know someone who has made a positive impact on students who attend Otsego Public Schools or Plainwell Community Schools?
If so, then you should consider nominating that person for the 2024 Outstanding People for Education Awards.
Sponsored by the Allegan County School Boards Association, the purpose of the Outstanding People for Education Awards is “to honor and recognize people in public education who are excelling in their field and/or making an impact in the quality of education in Allegan County.”
This marks the 16th year the awards have been held. The nomination widow is open through Friday, March 1.
“They say it takes a village,” said a press release from Otsego Public Schools. “When it comes to education, Otsego Public Schools recognizes that everyone involved in the education of our students could be the one person who makes an impact on a student’s experience and success.
“That’s exactly the concept of the Outstanding People for Education awards. The recognition is to honor and recognize people in education who are excelling in their field and/or making an impact in the quality of public education.”
Anyone—including students, parents, school staff and community members—are able to make a nomination. Each school district in Allegan County can select up to three winners, who will be recognized at a special dinner in May.
Selection committees for districts are comprised of at least one administrator, one school board member, one teacher and one support staff.
Examples of someone you could nominate include:
- a teacher or classroom aide,
- an administrator,
- a secretary or other support staff personnel,
- a bus driver,
- a custodian,
- a volunteer.
Good nominees should be:
- Someone involved in public education who has made a difference in the overall quality of education in Allegan County by:
- demonstrating knowledge and skill in their area of responsibility,
- developing unique programs that have enhanced the classroom learning experience,
- playing a leadership role in education,
- being a true team player in a school setting,
- providing support for a program, service, or event that significantly impacts education,
- exhibiting an attitude that promotes a positive working and learning environment and reflects positively on our school district.
- Someone who has made an impact on the quality of an individual student’s educational experience by:
- demonstrating sensitivity to the needs of individual students,
- providing service above and beyond, over and above their job description.
To make a nomination for Otsego Public schools, go to https://www.otsegops.org/news/~board/district-news/post/nominations-open-for-outstanding-people-for-education. Paper copies of the nomination form are also available in the main office of each school building.
To make a nomination for Plainwell Community Schools, go to https://www.plainwellschools.org/article/1465143.