May 14, 2009

LANSING –Robert Stephenson was named 2009-2010 Michigan Teacher of the Year (MTOY) today during a visit from state Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan. 

Stephenson, a third grade teacher at Wardcliff Elementary School with 15 years of classroom experience, was selected from 20 regional semifinalists statewide.

“Great teachers make an incalculable impact on the lives of our children,” said Governor Jennifer M. Granholm.  “We honor Rob not only because he’s a great teacher but also to recognize the tremendous contribution that dedicated teachers are making in classrooms across our state.”

Flanagan congratulated Mr. Stephenson on this recognition, saying, “Rob is an energetic example of our Michigan teachers.  He believes in connecting with individuals and challenging them to reach their highest potential.  We look forward to his continued contributions to teaching and learning.”

“Stephenson will carry on the valued tradition of Michigan Teachers of the Year who have shared their teaching knowledge, expertise, and skills with educators across the state,” said State Board of Education President Kathleen N. Straus.

District superintendent, Cheryl Kreger, had high praise for Mr. Stephenson.  “He brings learning alive.  The students experience the universe in Mr. Stephenson’s class.  The students in his classroom have an enthusiasm about learning that is very, very special.  He has a personal relationship with and cares for every child.”

Mary Seeterlin, parent of three children who had Mr. Stephenson as their third grade teacher, said, “…Mr. Stephenson creates an environment where students thrive and enjoy their education….he has the ability to make students feel great about themselves and their work….Mr. Stephenson makes learning fun by incorporating an extraordinary array of hands on experiences.  The kids love it, and more importantly – they learn!”

Colleague teacher, Julie Bellinger, said, “I can say without a doubt, he is truly the most gifted educator I will ever work with and one of the most trusted colleagues and friends I have.  Rob’s extensive knowledge of early childhood development guides his practice and decision-making.  To watch him interact with children is both endearing and motivating.  His child-centered approach allows him to relate, connect, and build relationships with all of his students, as well as their families.”

Stephenson’s self-defined mission as an educator is, “…to treat each child with respect and dignity, to accept each child with understanding, and to have faith in his/her abilities…to help … students learn to value themselves, value others, and develop a love and enthusiasm for learning…to attain their full potential, while striving for their personal goals.”  As Michigan Teacher of the Year, he plans to work to broaden the number of school/business partnerships working toward relevant contextual investigations for students, as well as conducting trainings on the hands-on integration of the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) content areas.

Through the corporate support of MEEMIC Insurance Company*, Wardcliff Elementary School will receive a monetary award of $1,000 in honor of Mr. Stephenson’s recognition as Michigan Teacher of the Year, to be used for the advancement of education.  Stephenson also will receive the use of a car during his tenure as MTOY; $300 in MEEMIC apparel; and a leather briefcase.

The corporate support agreement between the Michigan Department of Education and MEEMIC Insurance Company also includes a monetary award to be presented to the schools of each of the MTOY finalists. 

The other educators selected as state-level finalists for the Michigan Teacher of the Year Award are:

• Kassandra Lawhorne, Mathematics Teacher, Bath Middle School, Bath Community SchoolsMichelle McLemore, English Language Arts Teacher, Onsted High School, Onsted Community SchoolsLewis Smith, III, Fifth Grade Teacher, Barth Elementary School, Romulus Community Schools

For additional information on the Michigan Teacher of the Year program, access www.michigan.gov/mtoy.