Celebrating staff and our teachers is important all year long, especially in May, as this month is Staff Appreciation Month nationwide. Oakland Schools will recognize the Teacher of the Year for Oakland County on Thursday, May 8, 2025. Four of our staff members and Superintendent Fitzpatrick will attend to applaud our staff.
Early Childhood Center: Sarah Hoover
At the Early Childhood Center (ECC), Sarah Hoover was celebrated for her dedication to early learners. With a nurturing approach and creative teaching strategies, she fosters a love for learning in her young students. Supervisor Danielle Truesdell talked about Sarah's ability to engage students in the learning process.
"Sarah uses a variety of motivational strategies that not only spark curiosity but also ensure active participation. Sarah always creates hands-on activities that allow students to explore concepts through play, building excitement and fostering a genuine love of learning. She is a role model to both students and colleagues, demonstrating through actions what it means to be an upstanding member of the school community."
"I am so grateful to have been selected as the ECC Teacher of the Year. Thank you to all of my colleagues. I am so lucky to work with such wonderful early childhood educators every day! Congratulations to the other teachers in Royal Oak selected for this honor of Teacher of the Year. Thank you again!" - Sarah Hoover
Elementary School: Jeanette McLeod
At the elementary level, Jeanette McLeod stands out for her commitment to academic excellence and student well-being. She is known for her ability to connect with students, meet them where they are, and inspire a love for learning. Jeanette's classroom is a space where curiosity thrives, and her positive impact extends beyond her students to her fellow educators and the greater school community. Keller Principal Marcie Dryden said, "Beyond the classroom, Mrs. McLeod, along with a former Keller student now a ROMS Senior, pioneered our elementary Robotics League, becoming the first volunteer coach last year. Her enthusiasm and leadership in this area not only provided students with new opportunities in STEM but also inspired other elementary schools in the district to participate. One of her teams qualified to compete at the state level. By sharing her knowledge and passion for innovative programs, Mrs. McLeod has significantly contributed to student success and encouraged a collaborative learning environment among her peers."
“Words can't fully express my gratitude for this honor. Being recognized for teaching in the district I graduated from, at the school I once attended—where I met my husband and where my children now go—is about the highest honor I can imagine.” - Jeanette McLeod
Middle School: Katie Coffin
In the halls of Royal Oak Middle School, Katie Coffin is a beacon of dedication and student-centered learning. She is recognized for her ability to foster a sense of belonging in her classroom, ensuring that every student feels heard and valued. Colleagues and students alike admire her hard work, creativity, and willingness to collaborate to make ROMS a better place for all. Principal Kristin Meldrum said, "Katie’s dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to her students make her an exceptional teacher. Her ability to inspire, support, and create meaningful connections in the classroom (and with her colleagues) is why she was selected as Teacher of the Year. She embodies excellence in teaching and truly makes a difference every day, and ROMS is extremely lucky to have her."
“I am so unbelievably grateful to be selected as ROMS Teacher of the Year. I absolutely love what I do and the people I work with, both ROMS staff and students! I am truly honored." - Katie Coffin
High School: Brittney Laurent
At Royal Oak High School, Brittney Laurent has earned recognition for her passion for teaching and her support of her students. She challenges students to think critically, push beyond their limits, and develop a lifelong love for learning. Brittney’s dedication to education goes beyond the classroom, as she continuously seeks ways to support and uplift both students and staff. Principal Don Loomis said this about Brittany's nomination: "Brittney is always highly prepared for class, setting up her smartboard with a consistent configuration for student learning that includes a learning target, success criteria, and an agenda for that day. Brittney consistently engages students in discussion, asking questions, and probing thinking. I have seen high levels of student engagement when stopping into Brittney’s classroom. She is an outstanding teacher who goes above and beyond for students."
“It is truly because of my colleagues, students, and families that I am inspired to be the best that I can be for my students daily. Royal Oak High School is such a creative, rigorous, and supportive environment that it makes it easy to try new teaching strategies to engage my students and genuinely have fun learning together!" - Brittney Laurent
These four educators exemplify the best of Royal Oak Schools, inspiring their students and colleagues through their dedication, innovation, and heart. We are incredibly grateful for the work they do each day to make our schools a place of learning, growth, and community.