2019 Excellence in Education Recipients

2019 Excellence in Education Recipients
Posted on 04/19/2019
2019 Excellence in Education RecipientsCongratulations to Audrey Rabick and Branden Willis! These two members of the Comstock High School Class of 2019 are among 46 Kalamazoo area students who were honored at the annual Excellence in Education awards presentation.

Alongside the students are their selected significant educators. Branden Willis chose Comstock Athletic Director Justin Ansel as his significant educator, and Audrey Rabick selected her 2nd grade teacher from Comstock Green Meadow Elementary, Laurajane Van Niman.

About Branden Willis, Justin Ansel had this to say: "I had the unique opportunity to coach Branden in soccer starting in 6th grade, and watched him grow into a star defensive player for our high school team which won 3 conference championships and a district championship. The leadership he provided for our team on and off the field was amazing. He was a three-sport athlete who also challenged himself with rigorous courses. I look forward to seeing what he will accomplish in the future, and I am honored to be part of the journey."

On being chosen as significant educator by  Audrey Rabick, Laurajane Van Niman had this to say: "I have always believed that the best way to prepare my students for the future is by getting to know who each of my students is, and helping them find what their passion is. My goal is to give them the tools they need to feel confident in their abilities and voices, and that they will use these talents to pursue their passions and see that learning is a lifelong journey."

Excellence in Education honorees are awarded with $1,000 scholarships. More information can be found on the Kalamazoo RESA web site.