Jennifer Miller, a teacher at Fowlerville Elementary, has been named this week’s Michigan Lottery Excellence in Education winner. Acting Lottery Commissioner Joe Froehlich presented Miller with a $2,000 check as part of the award recognition.
The Excellence in Education Awards are sponsored by the Michigan Lottery, which has provided more than $29 billion to public education in the state since 1972. Miller was selected for the weekly honor based on her dedication to her students and her ability to inspire her colleagues.
Miller was nominated for the award by a colleague who highlighted her influence in the workplace. The nominator stated that Miller goes above and beyond to support her fellow teachers. This support is intended to inspire the staff at Fowlerville Elementary to be the best educators they can be on a daily basis.
Over the past few years, Miller has managed health changes after being diagnosed with Primary Lateral Sclerosis. The condition is similar to Lou Gehrig’s disease, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ALS, but it is not fatal. Miller noted that the diagnosis has created challenges with her mobility and speech at times.
Despite these physical challenges, Miller continues to work with students at Fowlerville Elementary. She explained that her role in the classroom now involves showing her students how to persist through difficult circumstances.
“Showing kids that you can show up, connect, work through things has been part of my new identity, honoring myself and honoring the students at my table,” Miller said.