Local Teacher Wins 'Teacher of the Year' Award

Junior Achievement Worldwide recently announced its annual Teacher of the Year awards and one local teacher gains national recognition. After winning at the local level, John McKelvey, Saline High School Economics Teacher was nominated by the local Junior Achievement office for the national annual teacher of the year award. Although John did not win the prestigious award, he was chosen as one of the three teachers in the US to receive a runner-up award and cash prize from the William Wrigley Jr. Company Foundation for his accomplishments and teaching initiatives.

"John is truly a fine example of an excellent, resourceful and well informed teacher," said Nancy Carter, Junior Achievement Program Director. "He goes above and beyond the normal teaching methods to really expose the kids to economics and the 'real' world of business." John's economic classes have attended Detroit Economic Luncheons and heard local leading executives and elected officials talk about the economic development and goals of our community and state.

In addition, John, with the help of the local Junior Achievement office, has developed a partnership with the local elementary schools to bring the high school students into the elementary classrooms to teach economics and mentor the young students in the community. The students teach a five-week course on business and economics as part of the Junior Achievement Elementary School Programs. "John is a highly motivated teacher. His enthusiasm for this project is evident in the performance of the students that come into the classroom," stated Barb Shuman, third grade teacher at Harvest Elementary School. "My students always look forward to them coming to our room each week and after the lessons, have a good understanding of what economics and business is."

John was awarded a check for $500 and a certificate of award at a surprise ceremony at his school. "John McKelvey represents all that is good with education. John is not only an asset to the Saline Area Schools but to our entire community. We are indeed fortunate to have a person of his skills be a part of our school system and community," said Sam Sinicropi, Saline Area Schools Superintendent.

For more information about Junior Achievement, contact the local Junior Achievement office at 313-962-2550.

Source: Junior Achievement

CONTACT: Nancy C. Carter of Junior Achievement, +1-734-944-9196