(February 23, 2024 10:07 AM ET) Jackson Magazine’s 2024 Top Teacher was revealed in a surprise announcement during a Jackson High School pep assembly this month. Jackson High School Science Teacher Ray Savicke is the 2024 Top Teacher, having been selected following a months-long process from among over 90 nominations.
Jennie Cronkhite, Jackson Magazine Director of Operations delivered the news to assembled students and staff at the start of a pep assembly on February 9. Cronkhite was joined by members of the Teacher of the Year committee and Jackson High School Principal for Instruction & 12 Grade Principal Monica Pierce.
Ray Savicke is in his 18th year of teaching and was one of 2023’s Top Ten Teachers in the annual program. In surprising Savicke, Cronkhite said, “Mr. Savicke has been a rock in our educational community, making a lasting impact on countless Vikings. The committees loved his positive approach, his knack for building essential relationships, and his dedication to steering students towards success.”
The ten 2024 Top Teachers will be revealed at the Top Teachers event in May, but Cronkhite hinted Savicke isn’t the only Jackson Public Schools teacher among this year’s honorees.
The Top Teachers program began in 2010 and is supported by several sponsors and partners, including The Patricia Stinson Trosin Endowment Fund at Jackson Community Foundation and the Hurst Foundation. In a departure from past years, Jackson Magazine decided to make a surprise announcement of the Top Teacher at the winner’s school in advance of the May 7th ceremony.
As Top Teacher, Savicke will receive a $5,000 grant or check. The magazine will publish a special edition honoring Savicke and nine other teachers in May.
2024 Top Teacher Announcement Event, Jackson High School. Photos by Bart Hawley, JTV.
2024 Top Teacher Announcement Event, Jackson High School. Photos by Bart Hawley, JTV.
