Great Lakes Wire

Brett Metzger, a high school math teacher at Brown City High School in Sanilac County, has received the Excellence in Education award from the Michigan Lottery. The award was presented by Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli.

The Michigan Lottery began the Excellence in Education awards in 2014 to honor outstanding public-school educators throughout Michigan during the academic year. Each weekly recipient receives a $2,000 cash prize and is featured on local media partner stations including WXYZ-TV in Detroit, FOX 17 in Grand Rapids, FOX 47 in Lansing, WLUC in Marquette, WNEM-TV in Saginaw, and WWTV-TV in Traverse City. At the end of each school year, one of the weekly winners is chosen as Educator of the Year and awarded an additional $10,000.

“Mr. Metzger’s drive and ability to inspire creativity in his students is commendable,” said Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli. “He is a role model for his students and the Brown City community, embodying what it means to be an Excellence in Education honoree.”

Metzger shared that he was inspired to become a teacher because of the positive influence educators and coaches had on him while growing up. “The positive influence that educators and coaches had on my life growing up inspired me to pursue a career in education. Their guidance and support motivated me to want to make that same kind of lasting impact on future generations. As a teacher, it is my belief that every student has the potential to succeed, no matter which path they choose. My motivation comes from knowing that I can help provide them with the skills, confidence, and mindset they need to achieve their highest aspirations and goals.”

A lifelong friend nominated Metzger for the award and highlighted his dedication: “Brett Metzger is one of the most impressive and hard-working young educators in the state. He has a relentless drive and contributes to all aspects of students’ lives from sports/coaching, teaching, facility maintenance, and more. His determination and mindset geared towards students’ best interest is one that goes far beyond the classroom and deserves more recognition than can be given. Teaching aside, Brett is a person of tremendous character, willpower, and dedication as a father, husband, and as a friend. The amount of respect he deserves cannot be overstated, as he is a role model of the utmost value to students, parents and coworkers alike.”

Metzger holds a bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State University and has been teaching for eight years—five years at his current position.

Nominees for the Excellence in Education award are evaluated based on their excellence in advancing academic achievement; dedication by exceeding expectations; inspiration provided to others; leadership within their schools or districts; and effectiveness demonstrated through clear positive results for students.