Last month at the Michigan Association of Family Consumer Sciences (MiAFCS) Spring Conference, Stevenson High School Family Consumer Sciences (FCS) teacher, Kristina Robinson was surprised to be named the 2023 Teacher of the Year.

“Never did I imagine being recognized for what I do,” Robinson said. “My why has always been about the students.”

The recognition at the conference began by sharing commentary from fellow FCS colleagues, one of those being Eisenhower teacher, Lisa Willerick, who nominated Robinson for the award.

“Kristina is an exceptional educator who is innovative and driven to try new things,” Willerick said. “She believes in FCS education and instructs her courses with integrity and enthusiasm.”

As a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course, Robinson explained the impact that FCS courses have on students.

“The courses create an engaging classroom experience that allows for collaboration, critical thinking, problem solving, creativity and application to real life scenarios,” said Robinson.

“As a new teacher to the district, Kristina welcomed me from the start,” Willerick said. “She embraced my experience and has always been ready to work as a team with the other FCS teachers to make the Utica Community Schools Family and Consumer Science program a top-tier program in the state.”

For Robinson, the award recognizes the hard work and dedication she puts forth for her students.

“I pride myself on the rapport I have with students and focus on maintaining a positive classroom environment for all students,” Robinson said.

“I truly believe that if we as teachers build positive relationships with students it will increase student engagement, achievement, and our students’ desire to learn.”