Novi Times

The South Lyon Community School District celebrated three teacher-of-the-year winners at their April 18 board meeting.

The recipients represented every school grade level in the district and were recognized for their outstanding achievements.

“Again, I'll just add to that each of you again, tough, tough selections out of all the folks that we had to choose from, but certainly very well deserved,” said Superintendent Steven Archibald.

From Hardy Elementary, Ashley Bentz was chosen and was presented by Principal Emily Testani. Bentz is a first-grade teacher with six years of experience. Testani credited her as someone who is always looking to hone her teaching skills by cultivating a safe classroom environment and seeking the advice of her peers.

Leann Lambert, from Centennial Middle School,  was the middle school teacher of the year. Leann, who has taught in the district for 32 years, is an alum of the district herself. The sixth-grade math department depends on her for experience and advice to keep the morale up. Lambert is known for implementing new lessons to address difficult topics, even going as far as having students teach math to their therapy dogs to help them master a topic.

Archibald said he learned of each teacher before he met them.

“Certainly a credit not only to the district but an asset to the profession,” he said. “I think also what we heard here and what we know what is required to be an effective and impactful teacher is in all three cases, we felt the passion. We felt the care that they have for their students. And in that right environment, learning happens, and it doesn't happen in a vacuum. And it takes a tremendous amount of effort by some very special people. So, thank you.

Finally, from South Lyon High School, John Sadowski was announced as the winner by Principal Jim Brennan.

Brennan said after Sadowski’s name came up in the conversation for teacher of the year there was no more debate. Sadowski runs the CAD program and classes, creating a new class called architectural design for the students that he teaches. Students noted how they felt valued and important in his classes and how he motivates all of his students to constantly strive for more.

Archibald said he learned of each teacher before he met them.

“Certainly a credit not only to the district but an asset to the profession,” he said. “I think also what we heard here and what we know what is required to be an effective and impactful teacher is in all three cases, we felt the passion. We felt the care that they have for their students. And in that right environment, learning happens, and it doesn't happen in a vacuum. And it takes a tremendous amount of effort by some very special people. So, thank you.”

Each of the teachers thanked the board for the recognition and was happy to continue supporting their students.