Fowlerville Elementary Teacher Honored with Excellence in Education Award

Jennifer Miller recognized for dedication and inspiring colleagues despite health challenges

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Jennifer Miller, a teacher at Fowlerville Elementary in Michigan, has been named the latest winner of the Michigan Lottery's Excellence in Education award. Miller was recognized for her dedication to her students and her ability to inspire her fellow teachers, even as she manages health challenges from a diagnosis of Primary Lateral Sclerosis.

Why it matters

The Excellence in Education Awards shine a light on exceptional educators who go above and beyond to support their students and colleagues. Miller's story demonstrates how teachers can overcome personal obstacles to continue making a positive impact in the classroom.

The details

Miller was nominated for the award by a colleague who highlighted her influence in the workplace. The nominator stated that Miller goes out of her way to support her fellow teachers, inspiring the entire staff at Fowlerville Elementary to be the best educators they can be. Over the past few years, Miller has faced mobility and speech challenges due to her diagnosis of Primary Lateral Sclerosis, a condition similar to ALS. Despite these physical difficulties, Miller continues to work with students, showing them how to persist through difficult circumstances.

  • On February 11, 2026, Miller was presented with a $2,000 check as part of the Excellence in Education award recognition.

The players

Jennifer Miller

A teacher at Fowlerville Elementary in Michigan who was named the latest winner of the Michigan Lottery's Excellence in Education award.

Joe Froehlich

The Acting Lottery Commissioner who presented Miller with the $2,000 check as part of the award recognition.

Michigan Lottery

The organization that sponsors the Excellence in Education Awards, which have provided over $29 billion to public education in Michigan since 1972.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Jennifer Miller, Teacher

The takeaway

Jennifer Miller's story is an inspiring example of an educator who refuses to let personal health challenges stop her from making a positive impact on her students and colleagues. Her dedication and resilience in the face of adversity highlight the vital role teachers play in supporting and inspiring the next generation.