LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – A Kalamazoo County teacher known for incorporating life lessons into class periods and taking responsibility to help any student that is struggling has been honored with an Excellence in Education award from the Michigan Lottery.
The award winner, David Smith, is a high school creative writing teacher at Vicksburg High School.
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 $2,000 cash prize. At the end of the school year, one of the weekly award winners will be selected to receive the Lottery’s Educator of the Year award and will receive a $10,000 cash prize.
“During his 25-plus year career, David Smith has had a positive impact on so many students,” said Lottery Commissioner, Suzanna Shkreli. “He has been a listening ear and an adult that students know they can come to when they need help in or outside of school. His focus on finding positivity in school and in life has shown his students that when you are positive those around you will be too.”
Smith says finding ways to relate to his students helps build connections and makes a better learning environment.
“I like to make the students feel comfortable in my class and laugh with them. As their comfort level rises, so does their willingness to learn and grow. I always have my door open, and they know they can come in and talk.”
Smith was nominated for the award by a student.
Smith earned a bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University. He has worked in education for 27 years, the last 14 in his current position.
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