Michigan elementary school teacher Dana Mahew earns recognition by Detroit Red Wings ice hockey team. Photo Credit:Monroe Elementary School

The Detroit Red Wings ice hockey team is demonstrating to everyone how important educators are to Michigan. Among the best is Dana Mayhew.

Each month from Oct., 2023, to March, 2024, one outstanding teacher was recognized as the Red Wings Teacher of the Month. In April, fans were invited to vote for their favorite monthly winner, and when the votes were counted, the Red Wings Teacher of the Year was announced. She was Dana Mayhew of Wyandotte!

Dana teaches first grade at Monroe Elementary School in the Wyandotte Public School District. She has worked at the school for 11 years. Wyandotte is a small town of about 25,000 residents found in southeastern Michigan.

This Chalkboard Champion was selected for her exemplary work in establishing a Young Fives program; her compassionate approach to student care; and her commitment to preparing young learners for academic and personal success while fostering a sense of belonging and support.

Nominees for recognition program were educators in Michigan who have shown exceptional commitment towards improving student academic success, who have implemented innovative teaching strategies into their curriculum, or who have made a profound difference in the lives of their students. Teachers from all grade levels (K-12) and disciplines were eligible.

Each of the monthly winners received a personalized trophy, two tickets to a home game at Little Caesars Arena, and a $1,500 Visa gift card to purchase supplies for their classroom. As the winner of the Teacher of the Year program, Dana received these gifts, plus a grant in the amount of $5,000 for her school. She was also invited to a meet and greet with two prominent Red Wings players.