Great Lakes Wire

A high school art teacher from Tuscola County has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to education and the community. Taylor Dantinne, who teaches at Millington High School within the Millington Community Schools, has received an Excellence in Education award from the Michigan Lottery.

The Excellence in Education awards were established by the Michigan Lottery in 2014 to honor outstanding public-school educators throughout the state during each school year. Recipients of the weekly award receive a $2,000 cash prize, with one winner being selected at the end of the school year for a $10,000 Educator of the Year award.

Dantinne's achievements will be highlighted in a news segment airing on several media partner stations: WXYZ-TV in Detroit, FOX 17 in Grand Rapids, FOX 47 in Lansing, WNEM-TV in Saginaw, and WWTV-TV in Traverse City.

Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli praised Dantinne's commitment to creating a supportive environment for students. "In today’s society, it is so important for children to have adults in their lives who create a safe space and foster an inclusive environment," Shkreli stated. "Taylor does this and more by sharing her free time with her students and community."

Dantinne expressed her passion for teaching as rooted in her love for children. “I love my students and being involved in all of their school activities,” she said. “Kids need to know that adults are there for them and so I make it my goal to show up for them every day.”

She was nominated by her superintendent who highlighted her extensive involvement beyond teaching art. Dantinne organizes various events such as the Annual Macho Volleyball Tournament fundraiser and coordinates initiatives like Adopt-A-Senior. Her efforts contribute significantly to fostering a positive school climate.

Dantinne holds both bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Michigan Flint and has spent all 16 years of her teaching career at Millington High School.

Nominees for the Excellence in Education award are evaluated based on excellence, dedication, inspiration, leadership, and effectiveness — criteria that Dantinne evidently meets through her impactful work.