Samantha Samuels, Oak Valley Middle School's Choir and Theater teacher, has been honored with the prestigious title of Oakland County Middle School Teacher of the Year. Ms. Samuels received the news of this remarkable achievement Wednesday, March 19 in a surprise announcement made in front of her students.

This recognition follows closely on the heels of an exciting announcement made one week earlier when Ms. Samuels, along with two other outstanding educators from Huron Valley Schools, were named Huron Valley Schools Teachers of the Year. Ms. Samuels was joined by Kalie Zimmerman, a first-grade teacher at Kurtz Elementary, and Kimberly Best, a special education teacher at Harbor High, in receiving this distinguished honor.

Ms. Samuels has been shaping young minds at Oak Valley since 2019. Her dedication to the arts, paired with her ability to spark creativity in her students, has made her a standout educator. Her work as a choir and theater teacher has not only enriched the school’s arts program but has also had a lasting impact on her students' confidence, communication skills, and personal growth.

In addition to her role as a teacher, Ms. Samuels is the recipient of the Henry Ford Innovator Award, an accolade that highlights her innovative and creative approach to education. Her unique ability to engage students through artistic expression has made her a cherished figure at Oak Valley Middle School.

The honor of Oakland County Teacher of the Year is the latest in a series of accolades recognizing Ms. Samuels’ dedication. Last week, during a special surprise event, the Huron Valley Schools Superintendent Dr. Paul Salah, along with the Board of Education revealed that she, along with Kalie Zimmerman and Kimberly Best, had been named Teachers of the Year within the district. These educators were recognized for their outstanding contributions to their students, schools, and the community.

Kalie Zimmerman, who has been teaching at Kurtz Elementary since 2007, was also recognized for her exemplary work as both a first-grade teacher and as the coordinator of the WATCH DOGS program, which invites male role models to engage with schools. Her commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment has made a significant impact on the lives of her students.

Kimberly Best, a dedicated special education teacher, has been with Huron Valley Schools for nearly 20 years. Throughout her tenure, she has supported students with special needs at Harbor High, White Lake Middle, and Highland Elementary, earning a reputation for her compassionate and tireless work on behalf of her students.

“I am beyond proud to see Ms. Samuels recognized with such a prestigious honor,” said Dr. Paul Salah, Superintendent of Huron Valley Schools. “Her passion, creativity, and dedication to her students exemplify the very best of what we strive for in education. Ms. Samuels, along with Ms. Zimmerman and Ms.  Best, are shining examples of the remarkable educators who make a difference in the lives of our students every single day. We are incredibly fortunate to have them as part of our Huron Valley Schools family.”  

Each of these educators will receive a special monetary award, generously provided by LaFontaine Automotive Group in Highland Township, and will be honored at the upcoming Oakland County Outstanding Teacher of the Year Awards Ceremony on May 8, 2025.