Elementary English Teacher of the Year
The Michigan Council of Teachers of English Elementary Teacher of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding literacy educator who teaches in kindergarten through fifth grades.

To be considered for the award, the ideal nominee…
- demonstrates a strong commitment to creating a caring and respectful climate conducive to effective teaching and learning.
- utilizes a variety of teaching methodologies and plans innovative learning experiences to meet the needs of all students.
- shows originality and unique perspectives in the teaching of language arts.
- has earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and students.
- has taught for at least 10 years.
- provides service to the profession at the local, state, or national level through leadership, presentations, or publications.
The nominator is responsible for submitting the nominee’s information and a brief statement describing why the nominee is deserving of the Elementary English Teacher of the Year Award.
Nominees may be recommended by colleagues from the local school district or a member of MCTE. Before submitting a nomination, please check the requirements for the award.
Recipients will be recognized at the MCTE annual fall conference.
Click here to nominate a colleague today for the Elementary Teacher of the Year Award.
Past Honorees
The MCTE introduced the Elementary English Teacher of the Year Award in 2012. Below are all past honorees.
2022 | No honoree |
2021 | Nina Chacker, Bunche Preparatory Academy |
2020 | No honoree |
2019 | Emily Hoekstra, Ottawa Elementary School, Petoskey |
2018 | Heather Jensen, Hillside Elementary School |
2017 | Christopher Working, Grand Haven Area Public Schools |
2016 | Elena Waugh, Bath Elementary School |
2015 | Jill Hoort, Central Elementary School, Okemos |
2014 | Jeanne Chatel Tate, Alanson Public Schools |
2013 | Jenny M. Lee, Williams Elementary, Jonesville Public Schools |
2012 | Suzanne E. Nayback, Central Elementary School, Petoskey Public Schools |