Excellence in Education: Jill Ford

6:00 PM, Dec 20, 2022

6:18 PM, Dec 20, 2022

By Gabriel Rogers

Gabriel Rogers joined FOX 17 in January 2023 after graduating from Grand Valley State University. He received his B.A. in international relations and German Language with a minor in history in Winter 2022. While studying at GVSU, he became an active member at GVTV - the university's student-run television station. There, he was introduced to the world of broadcast journalism and storytelling.

Gabriel has also spent time in Europe; living in Munich, Germany for a year while admitted to the Ludwig Maximilian Universität as a guest student.

His passion for journalism comes from a love of history and international affairs. He also has a love for languages — being proficient in German as well as having studied other languages like Dutch, Pennsylvania German, French, Russian and Italian in the past.

Michigan Lottery

This week's Michigan Lottery Excellence in Education Winner is Jill Ford from Grand Ledge Public Schools.

“She's a hard worker. I've seen her put in a lot of hours after school investing in her children. She's respected by her peers. She's a leader amongst her peers and has an excellent reputation,” Ford’s nominator writes.

“I know that something like Alfie is going to make a difference in kids’ lives, and that's why I went into education - because I want to make a difference in kids’ lives,” said Jill.

Jill has received a $1,500 check from the Michigan Lottery, and her class at Willow Ridge Elementary will receive a $500 grant.

Is there an educator in your community who displays Excellence in Education? Click here to nominate them.

SEE MORE: Excellence in Education nominees wanted

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