As part of its ongoing efforts to support K-12 education and educators, Saginaw Valley State University recognized six education professionals for their outstanding achievements and commitment to students. Sponsored by SVSU's College of Education, the Heroes in Education dinner and awards ceremony was held on Thursday, April 18th.
SVSU Dean of Education James Tarr said more than 50 nominations were submitted. The selection of the winners was based on four criteria:
- Impact — How will the candidate impact the lives of students, the school, the school district, the community, and/or the teaching profession?
- Inspiration — How does the candidate inspire others?
- Innovation — How does the candidate innovate in their work or area of expertise?
- Engagement — How is the candidate involved in the school, district, community, and profession?
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“We are proud of this year’s recipients of the Education Hero Award,” Tarr said. “Teachers, principals, and support staff are emotionally and tirelessly invested in student success, celebrate student accomplishments, support students through challenges, and embody the essence of dedication and impact in their communities. In short, they inspire hope and resilience and build the foundations for future generations to thrive.”
The 2024 Education Hero Award winners are:
Rob Baker, Frankenmuth High School
Mr. Baker has worked at Frankenmuth High School for 22 years and currently teaches Conceptual Physics, AP Physics I, Calculus, Engineering, and Drone Aviation. After he earned a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from Purdue University, he served in the U.S. Navy as an E-2C pilot and was deployed to the USS Saratoga and the USS He America. After his military service, he worked as an electrical engineer, production engineer, and research and development engineer for the Dow Company in Midland. Baker earned both her teacher certification and her master’s degree in education from SVSU.
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Greg Crider, Midland County Office of Education
Kreider began her career as a social studies teacher in San Diego, California. Upon relocating to Midland, he joined the Midland County Office of Education as a substitute teacher and paraprofessional for students with severe behavioral disabilities. These experiences inspired Mr. Crider to continue his education at SVSU, where he earned a Special Education Certification in Learning Disabilities, a Master's Degree in Learning Disabilities and Behavioral Disorders Education, and a Supervisor's Certification. Mr. Crider currently serves as the Director of Special Education for the Midland County Educational Services Agency.
Erin Martin, Block Creek High School
Martin has taught physics and AP calculus at Brock Creek High School for 25 years. She earned her bachelor's degree in physics with a minor in mathematics education and a master's degree in natural science secondary education education from SVSU. Throughout her career, Martin has secured more than $25,000 in grants for technology and equipment such as 3D printers, video monitors for hallways, and solar panels for the high school. She and students in her honors physics class established the school's first recycling program in 2023.
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Jennifer Mohler, Hemmeter Elementary School
After earning a bachelor's degree in elementary education from SVSU, Ms. Moeller enrolled at Saginaw Township Community Schools and later earned a master's degree in education in early childhood education. Mr. Moeller received Saginaw Township's Creativity and Knowledge Philanthropic Leader Award. She recently won funding for a “story walk” at Hemeter Elementary School.
Sarah Schomaker, Bangor West Elementary School
Ms. Schomaker was recently appointed principal at Bangor West Elementary School, giving her the opportunity to work with staff and support all grade levels. Prior to becoming her principal, Ms. Schomaker taught second grade and her third grade for 11 years. She earned her bachelor's degree in elementary education at SVSU and recently earned her master's degree in literacy education.
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Crystal Stomack, Croswell Lexington High School
Stomack teaches art and ceramics at Croswell-Lexington High School and serves as the student council advisor and election committee chair. Stomack began his teaching career in Arizona, where he taught art and ceramics for 10 years, then returned to Michigan to teach at Croswell-Lexington. She earned her bachelor's degree in secondary visual arts education from SVSU, her master's degree in e-learning from Northcentral University, and her master's degree in art education from the College of Education and the Arts.