Cheryl Hess was recently honored, and surprised, with the title of Lake Orion Schools Elementary Teacher of the Year at Carpenter Elementary School.
The announcement was made at an assembly at the school on Jan 3.
Hess, a second-grade teacher, was shocked to learn that she had received the title, during a ceremony attended by Carpenter students, school board officials and her husband, Jim.
‘I had no idea whatsoever,? Hess said. ‘It was a complete surprise.?
‘I feel extremely honored,? said Hess, who doesn’t particularly like being in the limelight.
‘There are so many great teachers in this district.?
According to the district’s website, ‘The Lake Orion Community Schools? Outstanding Teacher of the Year Awards are presented annually to honor teachers in our district who have achieved, through their efforts and examples, the highest standards of excellence in their profession.?
Carpenter Principal Rose Edwards said the decision of who becomes teacher of the year comes from a district-wide process.
‘In Mrs. Hess? case, she had several letters from parents,? Edwards said.
Hess credits the great students and parents she has worked with for making her job an easy one.
‘I have always had wonderful children in the classroom,? she said. ‘I have been extremely fortunate.?
At the assembly, Lake Orion Schools Assistant Superintendent Ken Gutman read some statements submitted by Hess’fellow teachers, and parents of some of her students.
He managed to keep Hess? name out of the remarks, but everyone slowly began to figure out the big surprise.
‘In addition to being tireless in the classroom, this teacher devotes plenty of her off-duty time to her students,? Gutman read.
‘She is a familiar face at soccer games, dance recitals, you name it.?
Hess said it is easy for her to get to area events because she lives in Lake Orion, and because her two daughters have moved away to California and New York.
‘I feel that it’s as important to see the kids outside of the school as it is in school,? Hess said.
‘I am blessed to be in this community and this classroom,? she added.
But as much as Hess tries to deflect her credit, the community has taken notice of her great work.
‘I was absolutely delighted,? Edwards said of Hess? selection. ‘She is so deserving of this honor.?