Christopher Hansen, a seventh and eighth grade English teacher at Potterville Middle School in Eaton County, has received the Excellence In Education award from the Michigan Lottery. The award was presented by Acting Lottery Commissioner Joe Froehlich.
Hansen has been recognized for his commitment to student growth both inside and outside the classroom. He has worked at Potterville Middle School, which is part of Potterville Public Schools, since 2016 and has been an educator for 24 years.
The Michigan Lottery began the Excellence In Education awards in 2014 to honor outstanding public-school educators across Michigan during each school year. Weekly winners receive a $2,000 cash prize, and one will be chosen as Educator of the Year at the end of the school year to receive an additional $10,000.
Winners are also featured in news segments on several partner stations across Michigan. The segment featuring Hansen is scheduled to air this evening.
Hansen explained his motivation for teaching: “Our families, middle school/high school staff, and elementary school staff work together for quality outcomes. From the parking lots to the sidewalks to the hallways to the classrooms to the cafeteria to the playgrounds to the offices and the athletic fields, this is a team effort. I’m happy to be part of the team. I became a teacher to have a positive impact while spending time in a worthy cause. Seeing ‘light bulb’ moments where a student now knows they have earned a skill is enjoyable. Graduates and high school students who return to visit and say they’re doing well inspire me to keep teaching. I strive to be an inclusive ‘big picture’ educator who helps students see the skills and work ethic they start to develop when they’re 12 can benefit them every year of their lives. We often have fun while we’re learning, which helps keep things positive. A big, shared goal is for students to have reading and writing versatility along with courage and persistence to pursue something they are interested in.”
A colleague nominated Hansen for his efforts supporting dual enrollment opportunities through partnerships with local colleges such as Lansing Community College, University of Olivet, and Davenport University via Eaton RESA Career Preparation Center (CPC). These programs allow high school students at Potterville High School to earn college credit without cost in various trades programs. With Hansen’s support and collaboration with career development staff, enrollment at CPC increased from 10 students to over 40 in recent years.
Hansen also coaches middle school cross country; under his guidance, participation grew from single digits in 2024 up to 22 runners by 2025. His team collectively improved race times significantly over one season.
He holds degrees from Michigan State University (bachelor’s) and Central Michigan University (master’s).
Nominees for Excellence In Education are evaluated based on excellence, dedication, inspiration, leadership, and effectiveness within their schools or districts.
