March 20, 2024
April O'Neil / news@WHMI.com
An Oakland County educator known for being an advocate for struggling students has received an Excellence in Teaching Award from the Michigan Lottery.
The winner, Lee Bonner, is a high school history teacher in the Novi Community School District.
The Michigan Lottery established the Excellence In Education Award in 2014 to recognize outstanding public school educators in the state during the school year.
The weekly award winner will receive a cash prize of $2,000. At the end of the school year, one of her weekly award winners will be selected as the Lottery's Educator of the Year and receive a $10,000 cash prize.
Bonner said her desire to have a positive impact on children drew her to a career in education.
“My goal has always been to have a positive impact on the students I work with. I have been fortunate to have several teachers who have had a positive impact on my life, and on my students as well. I hope to do the same.”
Building relationships with students is one of Bonner's favorite things to do as an educator.
“I really enjoy getting to know my students as people. By talking to them and building relationships with them, I am able to provide them with the guidance they need and create an open environment in which learning can take place.”
Mr. Bonner was nominated for the award by his colleagues. He received his bachelor's degree from Grand Valley State University and his master's degree from the University of Michigan-Dearborn. He has been in the education industry for his 23 years, all of which are in his current position.
