Macomb County Honors Outstanding Teachers

Annual event celebrates over 60 exceptional educators across the region

Apr. 14, 2026 at 3:03pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a stack of colorful textbooks and school supplies repeated in a tight grid pattern, conceptually representing the recognition of exceptional teachers in Macomb County.The Macomb County Outstanding Teachers of the Year awards celebrate the dedication and impact of local educators who inspire students and strengthen the community.Warren Today

The Macomb County Association of School Administrators and the Macomb Association of Curriculum Administrators are honoring more than 60 outstanding teachers at their annual awards ceremony on April 21. The event celebrates exceptional educators from elementary, middle, and high schools across the county, with three teachers receiving special recognition.

Why it matters

The annual Macomb County Outstanding Teachers of the Year event highlights the profound impact that dedicated educators have on students, families, and the broader community. By recognizing these exemplary teachers, the event underscores the vital role that public school teachers play in shaping young minds and preparing the next generation.

The details

Among the 60 teachers nominated, three were chosen for special recognition: Chelsey Pratt, a K-5 music teacher in South Lake Public Schools; Shannon Finkbeiner, a 6th grade science teacher in Armada Schools; and Kira DeFrance, a special education teacher at Eastpointe Public Schools. The teachers will be formally honored by their colleagues, school administrators, and community members at the event.

  • The Macomb County Outstanding Teachers of the Year event will take place on April 21, 2026.
  • The event has been held annually for the past 40 years.

The players

Macomb County Association of School Administrators

The organization that co-hosts the annual Outstanding Teachers of the Year event, along with the Macomb Association of Curriculum Administrators.

Macomb Association of Curriculum Administrators

The organization that co-hosts the annual Outstanding Teachers of the Year event, along with the Macomb County Association of School Administrators.

James Sawyer

The president of Macomb Community College, who will be honored for his years of impact on public education in the county.

Dr. Alesia Flye

The chief academic officer for the Macomb Intermediate School District, who stated that the event highlights the impact Macomb County teachers have on students, parents, and the community.

Michael DeVault

The superintendent for the Macomb Intermediate School District, who expressed gratitude for the professionalism and influence of all Macomb County teachers.

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What they’re saying

“This annual celebration highlights the impact Macomb County Teachers have on our students, parents, and community members. This is always such an exciting and memorable evening for our entire county because we are focused exclusively on celebrating educators.”

— Dr. Alesia Flye, Chief Academic Officer, Macomb Intermediate School District

“We celebrate these highly respected educators who devote their professional lives to ensuring a positive teaching and learning environment for each student. They are to be commended for their dedication to public education as they represent all Macomb County teachers. We know that teaching is a career focused on making a positive difference for all students and their families. All Macomb County teachers prepare lessons that will make a difference for every student, and we are thankful for their professionalism and influence. And so, to all teachers, we extend our congratulations.”

— Michael DeVault, Superintendent, Macomb Intermediate School District

What’s next

The Macomb County Outstanding Teachers of the Year event will take place on April 21, 2026, where the 60 nominated teachers will be formally recognized.

The takeaway

The annual Macomb County Outstanding Teachers of the Year event serves as an important celebration of the vital role that dedicated public school educators play in shaping the lives of students and strengthening the broader community. By honoring these exceptional teachers, the event underscores the profound impact that passionate and innovative teaching can have on the next generation.