EAST LANSING - The Okemos Education Foundation held its 24th annual award banquet on Tuesday November 16th at the Kellogg Center.

The event began at 5:30 pm with a social hour as guests were arriving and dinner served at 6:30 pm to celebrate the excellence of six educators. The six individuals were Jose Gutierrez, Paul Hinze, Tyler Hursey, Rachel Krier, Melissa Samluk, and Cyndi Webster. They were recognized for their notable service to Okemos Public Schools from 2020, and honored this year from last year’s event being canceled due to the pandemic. Many challenges were faced last year and they have continued to contribute in many ways to significantly impact the students and school community with their levels of work with K-12, as well as both general and special education.

The OEF's main focus is to provide grants as well as other opportunities that will enhance students' learning through excellence and innovation.

"It's just so nice that we were able to celebrate and recognize these individuals and just get together with everyone and celebrate the excellence that is Okemos, because that’s what it's about, the individuals and district as a whole,” said Sue Hallman, the Chair of the OEF. “You feel so motivated and teaching is a tough profession and this really explains and gives us reasons why we continue doing what we love to do."

HOMTV was able to speak with one of the six individuals who received recognition, Tyler Hursey, who has been teaching mathematics to children for 25 years at Okemos High School, “It’s a great honor to be recognized tonight. I love what I do and it's nice to get recognition. It was a great evening for Okemos Schools. We have great staff, students, and administrators. I’m just humbled to be a part of this evening.”