Godwin Heights — “This is amazing!” said high school science teacher Georgie Blake as she pulled out colored pencils, markers, tissues, candy and a pencil sharpener, among other goodies, from a large teal-colored tote.
Blake was one of 10 teachers or educators to receive a tote as part of the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators’ newest initiative, the MASA Impact Award for educators.
While previous Impact Awards have focused on students — providing them with resources, supplies and summer activities — this marks the first award dedicated to educators, MASA Communications Coordinator Kayla Horton said.
“Since this was the fall, we wanted to do something to really support the teachers,” she said.
Districts that are part of MASA had the opportunity to enter a drawing to be selected for the fall MASA Impact “Tote-tally Ready for Back-to-School!” award. Assistant Superintendent of Instruction Michelle Krynicki entered on behalf of Godwin Heights and was selected as the recipient.
Godwin Heights was randomly selected as the recipient of the totes giveaway.
Krynicki said the administrative team chose which 10 educators would receive the totes, ensuring all of the district’s six buildings were represented.
“We always want to do it that way, coordinating with the district, as they know their people the best and what they need the best,” Horton said.
Two teams of MASA officials and Godwin Heights administrators visited buildings on Sept. 3, surprising educators with the supply-filled totes.
“I think it is awesome that our teachers are being recognized and appreciated this way,” middle school Principal Kim Urbanski said.
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