The annual Detroit Red Wings Teacher of the Month program, presented by Burns & Wilcox, recognizes the efforts of Michigan teachers and educators who touch countless lives daily, both in and out of the classroom. From October 2023 to March 2024, the program has spotlighted educators, recognizing one outstanding teacher each month with the Red Wings Teacher of the Month award.
Each month’s recipient receives a personalized award from the Red Wings and Burns &Wilcox, along with two tickets to a designated Red Wings home game and a $1,500 Visa gift card to enhance their classroom environment. Additionally, one exceptional educator will be named Teacher of the Year, earning a $5,000 grant and an exclusive meet and greet with a Detroit Red Wings player.
Nominees for the Red Wings Teacher of the Month program are educators in Michigan who have exhibited a commitment to improving student achievement, implementing innovative teaching strategies, or making a profound difference in the lives of their students. Teachers from all grade levels (K-12) and disciplines are eligible for consideration.
Vote for the 2024 Teacher of the Year, here. The voting period is open to the public from March 25 until April 5, and the winner will be announced at the Red Wings game on April 9.
This year’s Red Wings Teachers of the Month, and nominees for Teacher of the Year are:
October: Karie Starr, 4th Grade Teacher at Hickory Woods Elementary in Walled Lake, MI
With over two decades of experience in the district, Starr has spearheaded a co-teaching program that facilitates personalized instruction, mentored student teachers, and provided essential support to ASD and ESL students, exemplifying her unwavering dedication to student success.
November: Shelby McCumber, 4th Grade Teacher at Orion Oaks Elementary School in Lake Orion, MI
With a commitment extending beyond academics, McCumber fosters holistic growth through personalized encouragement, innovative classroom environments, and extracurricular activities, embodying the role of a mentor and guide in her students’ lives.
December: Lindsey Kling, 7th Grade Teacher at Boyd Arthurs Middle School in Trenton, MI
Kling’s multifaceted approach to education, encompassing academic support, social-emotional learning, and mentorship through programs like WEB, underscores her commitment to nurturing well-rounded students equipped for success in middle school and beyond.
January: Danielle Allen, 1st Grade Teacher at Detroit Merit Charter Academy in Detroit, MI
Allen’s dedication to her students’ holistic development, her innovative teaching methods, and unwavering support for underprivileged students, reflects her unwavering commitment to fostering a nurturing and inclusive learning environment.
February: Echo Ranney, 2nd Grade Teacher at Reese Elementary School in Reese, MI
With a creative approach to learning, and her emphasis on character development and community engagement, Ranney exemplifies her dedication to fostering a supportive classroom environment where every student feels valued and empowered.
March: Dana Mayhew, 1st Grade Teacher at Monroe Elementary School in Wyandotte, MI
Mayhew’s initiative in establishing and nurturing a “young fives” program, coupled with her compassionate approach to student care, highlights her commitment to preparing young learners for academic and personal success while fostering a sense of belonging and familial support.
To learn more about the Teacher of the Month program or to nominate a deserving educator, visit DetroitRedWings.com/Teacher. For further insights into the Red Wings’ community initiatives, explore DetroitRedWings.com/Community.
