Excellence in Education: Spencer Vanderheide named Educator of the Year!

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By Gabriel Rogers

Gabriel Rogers joined FOX 17 in January 2023 after graduating from Grand Valley State University. He received his B.A. in international relations and German Language with a minor in history in Winter 2022. While studying at GVSU, he became an active member at GVTV - the university's student-run television station. There, he was introduced to the world of broadcast journalism and storytelling.

Gabriel has also spent time in Europe; living in Munich, Germany for a year while admitted to the Ludwig Maximilian Universität as a guest student.

His passion for journalism comes from a love of history and international affairs. He also has a love for languages — being proficient in German as well as having studied other languages like Dutch, Pennsylvania German, French, Russian and Italian in the past.

Michigan Lottery announced its 2022 Educator of the Year!

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Michigan Lottery announced its 2022 Educator of the Year!

Spencer Vanderheide of Kenowa Hills High School was selected out of 34 Excellence in Education award winners from the 2021–22 school year.

Mr. Vanderheide was at school when Michigan Lottery surprised him with the honor.

"It’s just an incredible honor to win that award and to be seen that we’re doing good work," says Mr. Vanderheide. "If you’ve heard me say nothing else these entire four years, I hope you hear me say this – you are enough. You matter. You are worth it. You are known. And you are so loved."

Michigan Lottery gave Mr. Vanderheide a $10,000 check for his exemplary service to his students.

Michigan Lottery says they've awarded more than $26 billion to outstanding Michigan educators since 1972.

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