HOPKINS, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – An Allegan County educator known for turning students’ frowns upside down has been honored with an Excellence in Education award from the Michigan Lottery.
The award winner, Katherine Dana, is a middle school art teacher at Hopkins Middle School. The school is part of Hopkins Public Schools.
The Michigan Lottery established the Excellence in Education awards in 2014 to recognize outstanding public-school educators across the state during the school 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.
Dana said that being surrounded by young people is the reason she loves being an educator.
“I love being around young people because they have such incredible imaginations filled with creativity. I look forward to seeing my students every day, and they drive me to keep coming back into the classroom.”
Dana said finding unique ways to keep her students engaged is her favorite part of being a teacher.
A former student nominated Dana for the award. The nomination cited how much she cares for her students and the welcoming atmosphere she fosters in her classroom.
