Celebrating Outstanding Educators
By Nick Lico
COLLEEN KOHN
Cromie Elementary,
Warren Consolidated Schools
Colleen Kohn believes that she was meant to be a teacher from a young age.
“Even in grade school, I would be the teacher with my dolls. Being with kids was always in my heart. I love setting them up for a good future,” Kohn, the Sterling Heights native and former Warren Consolidated Schools student, said. She taught middle school for four years before transitioning to teaching first grade for the past 12 years – all through the Warren Consolidated School system.
Asked for her reaction to being named the top elementary school Macomb teacher for 2025, Kohn replied, “I’m still shocked. It’s an honor. I had a very special class last year and the parents were so wonderful and engaged. I was recognized (for the honor) by one of the parents.”
“I think (the honor) has made me more grateful for the families and the community in general. It makes me feel that teachers are appreciated and serve a purpose,” Kohn added.
JACQUELYN CARTER
Richards Middle School,
Fraser Public Schools
Jacquelyn Carter, our Middle School Teacher of the Year, lives in St. Clair Shores and has been teaching at Richards Middle School in Fraser for the past 13 years.
“I feel like my whole life, teaching is what I’ve been called to do. I always felt a calling to be in front of children and to influence their lives,” said the Saginaw Valley State University graduate and mother of two.
“I was shocked to discover that I had been named one of the teachers of the year. I have to give credit to my students who have made this
job a joy. I feel blessed to see 148 students every day. I’m also fortunate to work with individuals who push the needle and push me to get even better,” Carter said.
Asked how receiving the award has changed her, Carter replied, “It’s made me more aware of the position that we play as teachers. I have always known it’s important, but now I feel like I don’t want to settle, to become complacent. I feel like it’s been a huge motivator to become even better.”
GAIL ASHBURN
L’Anse Creuse High School,
L’Anse Creuse Public Schools
Our Macomb County 2025 High School Teacher of the Year is Gail Ashburn, from L’Anse Creuse Public Schools. When asked why she decided to become a teacher, Ashburn provided the following witty reply, “I think it’s because I love school supplies. I could spend a lot of time at a place like Staples.”
Turning more serious, she added, “I really like watching learning habits. I love it when kids grasp a concept. I was also fortunate to have had a really good teacher who made me love teaching,” said the lifelong Macomb County resident and educator for the past 25 years.
“To be recognized for my hard work is fantastic. Someone nominating me for that honor is awesome. I hope that I’m honoring all other Macomb County teachers. It takes a lot of hard work to do what we do,” Ashburn added.
“The Outstanding Teachers of the Year program provides an opportunity to celebrate the incredible dedication, passion, and hard work of teachers throughout Macomb County,” said Dr. Alesia Flye, chief academic officer for MISD. “This annual celebration highlights many examples from students, parents, and community members of how Macomb County teachers have made a lasting impact in their lives, while inspiring a love for learning.”
JENNIFER HULL
Michigan Virtual Charter Academy
Also receiving teaching honors is Jennifer Hull from the Michigan Virtual Charter Academy (MVCA). The English teacher was voted Class of 2025 Teacher by the senior class and recognized at MVCA graduation for her dedication, kindness and the influence she has had on students’ lives.
The Macomb Township resident taught in Royal Oak and at Michigan Collegiate prior to joining MVCA. She sees virtual schools providing advantages and challenges over brick-and-mortar schools.
“With education, the avenue in which you teach doesn’t matter. Making a positive connection with students is what makes the difference,” she said. “The challenges are that I can’t physically see if they’re engaging. However, the virtual classroom enables more shy students to open up and to learn from students who live all over Michigan. I’m hoping that I’m entertaining them enough to keep them engaged. It’s the same challenge you see in traditional classrooms.”
Asked what excites her most about being a teacher, Hull replied, “I just love the full-circle moments. Watching them grow, figure things out and become themselves, it’s what keeps me in the classroom.”
