Great Lakes Wire

Ryan Anderson, a case manager at Holt High School in Ingham County, has been recognized with an Excellence in Education award from the Michigan Lottery. The Excellence in Education awards were created in 2014 by the Michigan Lottery to recognize exceptional public-school educators across the state annually.

Recipients of the weekly award obtain a $2,000 cash prize, with a chance to win an additional $10,000 as the Lottery's Educator of the Year. News segments featuring the winners are broadcast on partner stations, including FOX 47 in Lansing, with Anderson's segment scheduled to air this evening.

"Ryan Anderson is a perfect example of the profound impact an educator can have," said Lottery Commissioner, Suzanna Shkreli. "He’s not just teaching; he’s building bridges of confidence and friendship, ensuring his students are ready to embark on happy and productive lives. Holt Public School’s is fortunate to have such a compassionate champion for its students."

Anderson felt inspired to enter teaching by his positive experiences as a student. He aims to provide similar motivation and support to his students, especially those with special needs.

"I had a lot of amazing teachers growing up. They made going to school fun and kept me engaged. I wanted to be able to have a similar impact on students and help to motivate them to not only graduate from high school but gain confidence in themselves, create friendships with peers, and have the skills necessary to be happy and productive adults."

Anderson was nominated for the award through the efforts of a former student's family. Their nomination praised his dedication to students with special needs: "Ryan is a champion for kids with special needs. Ryan works with kids daily that are on the ASD spectrum and have other disabilities and gives them a chance to graduate. Ryan is available to parents afterhours, takes phone calls and goes the extra mile to make a difference. He is a true mentor and friend to kids who have few. He plays a vital role to families who dearly need help. Holt Public is lucky to have him. What an amazing role he gets to play to make a difference in these kids’ lives."

An experienced educator with 19 years in the profession, Anderson holds degrees from Central Michigan University and Madonna University.

Criteria for the awards include the individual's ability to consistently help students advance academically, go beyond expectations to assist student success, inspire others, demonstrate leadership, and effectuate positive educational outcomes.