Teacher Hall of Fame

We are entering our eighth Teacher Hall of Fame Induction for the 2023-2024 school year, which allows The Leona Group to recognize all of the exceptional things teachers are doing in our schools. Without teachers who continue to strive for excellence, we would not be able to carry out our company's mission to provide a quality education for students and families. 

School leaders, assistant leaders and instructional coaches are asked to submit nominations for monthly teacher hall of fame candidates for the 2023-2024 school year. We will have a Primary Teacher Category for grades K-5 and a Secondary Teacher Category for grades 6-12. These nominations are based on school leaders' observations in their locations. It is up to them to honor a teacher that they feel embodies the spirit of their school's mission. Once the nomination is sent electronically to The Leona Group Department of Academic Achievement, the team reviews the nominees and bases their decision on who best embodies the spirit of The Leona Group and academic success.



Nominations are closed at this time. Thank you to all those that have taken the time to nominate and recognize the outstanding teachers at your schools!

Angelica Tibbitts

Pontiac Academy for Excellence

Fifth Grade

Ms. Angelica Tibbitts is a thriving, 5th grade teacher at Pontiac Academy for Excellence (PAE). She attended PAE as a student from kindergarten through 12th grade. With strong determination and perseverance, she returned to her PAE community as a teacher to support students in their learning and individual growth.

Ms. Tibbitts is an active member of the PAE team. She participates in robotics and works closely with the special education students during after-school tutoring. Ms. Tibbitts builds strong relationships with her colleagues and students as a shining example of how one can overcome obstacles to achieve their goals. “Ms. Tibbitts' ability to persevere, her attitude, and her work ethic, exemplify what our environment needs to succeed in a community where the odds are set against them,” said Latricia Brown, school leader at PAE.

Alissa Biebuyck

Francis Reh Academy

Kindergarten

Ms. Alissa Biebuyck, affectionately called “Ms. B” by her kindergarten students, is an incredibly gifted teacher at Francis Reh Academy (FRA). She has embraced the many curriculum adjustments made over the past three years and her students are thriving in every way. They are excited to learn and show what they know to anyone who visits their classroom. Ms. Biebuyck recognizes that students need to move and embraces the flexible seating concept to provide effective ways for students to get their wiggles out and keep learning. 

When students see Ms. Biebuyck in the morning, their faces light up. They feel loved and supported, knowing they have a teacher that believes in them. That gift, at the tender age of five and six years old, is life-changing. "We are immensely blessed to have Ms. Biebuyck as a part of our Francis Reh family," said Kate Scheid Weber, school leader at FRA.

Jennifer Blaszczyk

Mildred C. Wells Academy

Grade 3

Mrs. Jennifer Blaszczyk is a truly remarkable teacher at Mildred C. Wells Academy (MCWA). She is a beacon of inspiration and positivity that uplifts everyone around her. Mrs. Blaszczyk strives to create a nurturing environment where every student feels valued and empowered to succeed. Her teaching methods are effective and engaging, ensuring that each lesson leaves a lasting impression on her students’ academic growth and personal development.

Mrs. Blaszczyk constantly seeks out new ideas and professional development opportunities to enhance her teaching skills. Her positive attitude and dedication to excellence set the standard for professionalism. “Mrs. Blaszczyk always supports positive change within our school. Her passion for teaching, dedication to her students, and commitment to continuous improvement make her an invaluable asset,” said Latrisha Corona, school leader at MCWA.

Dr. Clint Prong

César Chávez Academy High School

Algebra 2, Honors Algebra 2, AP Pre-Calculus

For nearly two decades, Dr. Clint Prong has taught over 2,500 students at César Chávez Academy High School (CCAH). He is more than just a teacher; he is a mentor, a guide, and a steadfast supporter of his students' dreams. From the first day of class to the moment they step onto the stage at graduation, his commitment to student-focused teaching is unparalleled. He tirelessly devotes himself to ensuring that every individual understands and excels in mathematics. 

Dr. Prong's impact extends far beyond the confines of the classroom. He is the teacher whom students remember long after they have left the halls. His name is uttered with gratitude at graduation ceremonies year after year. Dr. Prong's willingness to stay late, to offer extra support, and to never give up on a student sets him apart as a true champion of education. "We are incredibly grateful that Dr. Prong continues to teach the students of CCAH and we celebrate his achievements," said Carissa Rusnak, school leader at CCAH.

Corinna Tomazic

César Chávez Academy Lower Elementary

Grade 1

Mrs. Corinna Tomazic is a dedicated educator at César Chávez Academy Lower Elementary (CCALE) who consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that her students reach their full potential. Teaching first grade is more than just a job; it's a calling. Managing a classroom of first graders requires excellent organizational skills.  From lesson planning to keeping track of student progress, Mrs. Tomazic has created a structured and dynamic learning environment where success is celebrated.

The best teachers never stop learning. Whether through professional development opportunities, peer collaboration, or personal reflection, Mrs. Tomazic is committed to continuous improvement and staying current with best practices to ensure that her students are provided with the highest quality education. "Her dedication, service and support during the past eleven years at CCALE are highly appreciated and deeply valued," said Kristen Liss, instructional coach at CCALE.

Samantha Reynolds

Wildwood Environmental Academy

High School English Language Arts

Ms. Samantha Reynolds has been dedicated to her position at Wildwood Environmental Academy (WEA) for the past three years. Ms. Reynolds is confident, optimistic, composed and passionate about teaching and learning. In addition to teaching high school English Language Arts, she creates lesson plans for the seventh grade and advises the student council. 

Every morning Ms. Reynolds greets each student with a warm welcome and smile. She works to develop relationships with her students that foster confidence and motivation. "Ms. Reynolds' passion for teaching, willingness to embrace every challenge and imperturbable attitude are crucial to building our positive school community," said Emily Fitch, academic and behavioral support coordinator at WEA.

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Certificate Application Fee Reimbursement Program (Michigan only)

The Certificate Application Fee Reimbursement program has been designed to retain and incentivize early renewals of educators renewing their certificates for the first time between October 1, 2023, and September 13, 2024. There is no need to apply for this reimbursement. This program is available until funds are exhausted. Please visit the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) Certificate Application Fee Reimbursement website for more information.

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