Wayne County educator receives Excellence In Education award
LaTasha Thomas
A Wayne County educator who is known for dedicating her life to the success of her students has been honored with an Excellence In Education award from the Michigan Lottery.
The award winner, LaTasha Thomas, is an assistant principal at Davison Elementary-Middle School. The school is part of the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD).
The Michigan Lottery established the Excellence In Education awards in 2014 to recognize outstanding public-school educators across the state during the school year.
Well-deserved cash prize
Winners of the weekly award receive a $2,000 cash prize. At the end of the school year, one of the weekly award winners will be selected to receive the Lottery’s Educator of the Year award and will receive a $10,000 cash prize.
Each winner also is featured in a news segment on the Lottery’s media partner stations: 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. The news segment featuring Thomas will air this evening.
Thomas said her desire to develop future leaders inspired her to pursue a career in education.
Inspiring future leaders
“Being able to explain concepts in ways to reach each type of learner and to inspire our future leaders are some of the things that attracted me to a career in education. My desire is to equip students with knowledge and skills to become critical thinkers, problem solvers, and innovators.”
Thomas was nominated for the award by a former student.
“LaTasha Thomas has dedicated her life and career to serving students, families, and her community with excellence,” the nominator’s submission said. “As both an educator and assistant principal, LaTasha has gone above and beyond to nurture the academic success, personal growth, and confidence of her students.
“Her influence has extended far beyond the classroom – many of her former elementary students have remained connected with her through the years, crediting her guidance and encouragement as a foundation for their adult achievements and successful careers.”
