Great Lakes Wire

A teacher from Kent County has received significant recognition for her contributions to education. Kathy Vogel, a middle school English language arts teacher at Northview Crossroads Middle School, was awarded the Excellence in Education award by the Michigan Lottery. Vogel is recognized for her leadership within both her school and the broader community.

The Michigan Lottery established the Excellence in Education awards in 2014 to honor outstanding educators across the state. Weekly award recipients are given a $2,000 cash prize, and one will receive a $10,000 cash prize as the Educator of the Year at the end of the academic year. Each recipient is also featured in a news segment aired by the Lottery’s media partners, with Vogel's feature segment scheduled to air tonight.

“Throughout Kathy Vogel’s career as an educator she has inspired countless students and colleagues to achieve their maximum potential,” stated Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli. “Her work to help those she comes in contact with be their best selves has had a tremendous impact on her school and the Northville community.”

Vogel, who realized early on her passion for teaching, said, “Growing up I always knew that I was destined to pursue a career in education. The real question wasn’t if I would teach but who I would teach. My mom recognized in my personality that I was more suited to teach older students because of their wit and curiosity."

A parent of a former student nominated Vogel for the award, highlighting her integral role in the school’s character development and the welcoming environment she fosters. "Kathy’s subtle, yet infectious methods, imitated by fellow staff, parents, and community, have established our middle school as an enviable beacon of character development."

Vogel’s educational background includes a bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University and master's degrees from Grand Valley State University and Michigan State University. She has dedicated 35 years to her current role.

Nominees for the Excellence in Education award are judged on criteria including excellence, dedication, inspiration, leadership, and effectiveness, which assess their impact on student academic and personal development.