Excellence in Education: Suzie Zuke

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.

Suzie Zuke of Ralya Elementary School is this week's Excellence in Education award winner!

HASLETT, Mich. — Suzie Zuke is being recognized for her Excellence in Education.

“She is a teacher who truly cares about all of her students and makes lifelong connections with each one of them,” says Amy Webster, Zuke's nominator.

“I pour my heart and soul into teaching,” says Suzie, “and sometimes you plant seeds and don't know where they'll blossom, or what will happen after they grow, and it's just so affirming and reassuring to know that I make a difference with students and their families. That's just amazing. That's the best gift I could've ever received.”

Suzie has received a $1,500 check from the Michigan Lottery, and her class at Ralya Elementary School will receive a $500 grant.

Is there an educator in your community who displays Excellence in Education? Click here to nominate them.

SEE MORE: Excellence in Education nominees wanted

Follow FOX 17: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - YouTube