Education Excellence Awards
by Joseph Schultz
The Leaders in Our Community (LOC) program at Wayland Union Schools received an Education Excellence Award from the SET SEG Foundation and the Michigan Association of School Boards.
As one of only 12 school districts recognized across the state, the district was honored for the LOC program’s ability to “change lives and impact students’ future.”
The award comes with a trophy, a check for $2,500, and an Education Excellence Award road sign.
School board member Becky Hohnke noted that the LOC club has expanded over the years and that the program is “a great representation of our schools and our community.”
Outstanding People for Education Award
It was also announced that Wayland Union had 91 staff members nominated for the Outstanding People for Education Award. The award recognizes individuals in Allegan County who are going above and beyond to serve the students in public schools.
Among the nominees, three were selected to receive the award: high school athletic administrative assistant Autumn Bonte, high school intervention specialist Erin Koopman and bus driver Steve Wright. They will receive their awards at a banquet next month.
Manufacturing and Engineering Education Re-imagined for All (MEERA) Curriculum
Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services Teresa Fulk told the board that the district has received a 61B grant, which will fund implementation of the Manufacturing and Engineering Education Re-imagined for All (MEERA) curriculum.
The MEERA program will be geared toward middle school students and will introduce them to 3D printing, CNC work, electrical circuits, robotics, coding and welding. It will start as a pilot program next year.
Fulk said they were “elated” to be able to bring this program to the middle school students.
School Board Actions
The Wayland School Board voted to approve the purchase of iPads and Chromebooks for classroom use. A new Digital Design and Technology course for high school students also was approved for the 2026-27 academic year. Additionally, the board approved a motion to sell surplus property during the Wayland Citywide Garage Sales in June.
A Public Comment of Gratitude
High school freshman Peyton Mathis addressed the board to express her gratitude to Fulk and her involvement with the Anne Frank exhibit. “Ms. Fulk, you are making a positive difference that we need here at Wayland,” Mathis stated. “Everything that you do does not go unnoticed, especially by me.”å
