Washington Street Elementary kindergarten teacher Sue Raven received the Teacher of the Year Award at the Otsego Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner on March 18. One nominee was chosen by each principal from each of the five Otsego Public School buildings. The other nominees were Sheryl Cramer, kindergarten teacher from Alamo Elementary; Kristin VanWyk, kindergarten teacher from Dix Street Elementary; Kathy Chmielewski, social studies teacher from Otsego Middle School; and Merry Beth Ruiz, Otsego High School Spanish teacher.

Washington Street Elementary Principal Heather Badders nominated Mrs. Raven for the award. She said, "I’m pleased to nominate Sue Raven as Teacher of the Year. Sue is a kindergarten teacher at Washington Street Elementary who has also taught 1st and 3rd grades and has been employed by the district for 36 years. Sue is a core team member for the district’s Rewiring the Brain program and has been a dynamic presenter on the topic. Her enthusiasm about the strides that students make with the early literacy techniques is contagious. Sue’s dedication extends far beyond the classroom. She has participated in several extracurricular projects outside of the school setting, including raking leaves for Make a Difference Day and starting a knitting club for students and their parents. She has a great sense of humor and gives 100 percent each day for the staff and students.  She’s enthusiastic, energetic and a positive force at Washington Street Elementary. Congratulations, Sue!" 

Teacher of the Year Sue Raven with Washington Street Elementary Principal Heather Badders.

Teacher of the Year Nominees Sheryl Cramer, Kristin VanWyk, Sue Raven, Merry Beth Ruiz and Kathy Chmielewski.