Sarah Needham, a second-grade teacher at Northwest Elementary, has been named the 2023-2024 Howell Public Schools Teacher of the Year. With over 23 years of dedicated service within the district, Needham has inspired students, staff, and the Howell community through her innovative teaching methods, commitment to excellence, and unwavering student advocacy.
Needham received several nominations for this year’s award, each celebrating her dynamic approach to education, as well as how she consistently finds new and engaging ways to inspire her students and instill a lifelong passion for learning. Her classroom is described as an environment where learning becomes an immersive experience that captivates and motivates her students.
The Livingston Post ran a story about one of Needham’s innovative and immersive lessons in 2017, when her class created informational flyers on endangered and vulnerable marine life that were displayed at the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium in Auburn Hills. The students created the flyers as part of a research unit.
Kids create informational flyers for Sea Life Mich. Aquarium
In addition to her work at Northwest Elementary, Needham serves on the committee overseeing the pilot and development of the district’s new elementary science curriculum.
“Ms. Needham embodies the Howell Public Schools Teacher of the Year award. Her passion for teaching shines through in everything she does,” said HPS Superintendent Erin J. MacGregor. “Howell Public Schools is honored to have Ms. Needham as part of its educational community. Her dedication not only elevates the standards of teaching and learning within the district but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for current and future educators.”
“Our Northwest Eagles soar to greatness thanks to Ms. Needham’s positive impact on our school. Her knowledge, caring and positive attitude, and passion for teaching and learning extend well beyond the walls of her classroom and into every corner of Northwest Elementary, said Principal Craig Munro. “Our school, district, and community are better places because Ms. Needham is a part of them.”
A committee of 26 individuals, including teachers, support staff, parents, a central office administrator, a principal, and a school board member, was tasked with selecting this year’s Teacher of the Year. Individually, committee members reviewed the support materials for the 117 certified teachers nominated for this year’s award. Each committee member then voted for their top five nominees. On Tuesday, Feb. 20, the committee met to review and discuss the top five Teacher of the Year nominees resulting from the initial vote.
After discussing the outstanding nominees, each committee member voted for their top three choices. Following the vote, Needham emerged as this year’s winner.
The Howell Board of Education will honor Needham at its March meeting.
PHOTO: L-R: Assistant Superintendent Elson Liu, Northwest Principal Craig Munro, Sarah Needham, Superintendent Erin J. MacGregor, Special Ed Director Malissa Patrick, and Finance Director Ben Engelter.
