Novi Community School District Honors Peggy Bassett as Educator of the Year

News Summary

The Novi Community School District celebrated Peggy Bassett as the 2025 Educator of the Year on February 26, 2025. The ceremony, marked by an entertaining performance from the improv group Awkward Pause, highlighted Bassett’s dedication and impact on students and colleagues. Principal Nicole Carter recognized her as a master teacher, while the Novi Educational Foundation’s Sue Collins-Schroeder presented Bassett with the prestigious award and a two-year lease on a Chevrolet Equinox. Nominations from former students reflect her lasting influence and commitment to the educational community.

Novi Community School District Celebrates an Inspiring Educator

In the charming city of Novi, excitement was in the air on February 26, 2025, as the Novi Community School District proudly crowned Peggy Bassett as their Educator of the Year for 2025. With a heartwarming legacy that dates back to 1992, Bassett’s impact on her students and fellow educators is nothing short of remarkable.

A Surprising Honor

The delightful announcement was made during a lively show featuring the Novi High School improv group, Awkward Pause. Just as laughter filled the auditorium, Principal Nicole Carter took center stage to unveil the exciting news, turning an entertaining performance into a memorable tribute to an extraordinary teacher. The ever-gracious Bassett was genuinely taken aback, especially with the local media crews capturing every precious moment.

Celebrated as a Master Teacher

Principal Carter didn’t hold back in her commendations, calling Bassett the “epitome of a master teacher.” The emphasis was on the excellent relationships she fosters with her students, making her a well-loved figure in the school. While Bassett felt her chances of winning were decent, she was still caught off guard by the honor.

A Heartfelt Presentation

The award presentation was graced by Sue Collins-Schroeder, executive director of the Novi Educational Foundation, who recognized Bassett for her caring and individualized approach to education. Through the selection process, the Novi Educational Foundation evaluates all district Educators of the Year from various levels to identify the overall winner, which made the recognition even more profound for Bassett.

A Special Prize

As an added bonus to celebrating her achievements, Bassett was awarded a two-year lease on a shiny, new Chevrolet Equinox. This visiting company, Feldman Automotive Group, has been generously providing the vehicle lease for the Educator of the Year for several years, adding an exciting touch of recognition. With its popularity and safety features, especially during snowy Michigan winters, the Equinox was undoubtedly a fitting choice.

Heartfelt Nominations

Bassett’s journey to this recognition began with her nomination by none other than Lauren Nizol, a former student and current English teacher at Novi High School. Nizol embraced the profound impact Bassett had on her life by affectionately referring to her as “Aunt Peggy.” Her warm and nurturing nature as a teacher has left a lasting impression, evident in the heartfelt words of her former student.

Connecting with Students

One of Bassett’s standout qualities is her unparalleled ability to connect with her students, regardless of their backgrounds or challenges. She understands the significance of small gestures and subtle interactions—whether it’s complimenting a new haircut or showing up at after-school events. These little moments create an atmosphere of kindness and respect, which she encourages among her students.

Recognizing the Importance of Relationships

Bassett reflected on what winning the award meant to her, emphasizing the power of meaningful connections. Her relationships with her students lie at the heart of her teaching philosophy, showcasing that education goes beyond tests and grades—all about fostering growth and learning.

In a world where challenges abound, it’s educators like Peggy Bassett who truly shine, making a difference in the lives of their students and contributing to the community in a multitude of ways. Congratulations to Peggy Bassett, the Novi Community School District Educator of the Year, and cheers to her bright future filled with inspiring moments ahead!

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Additional Resources

• C & G News: English Teacher Named Novi Community School District’s Educator of the Year
• Google Search: Novi Community School District Educator of the Year
• WXYZ: Beloved Teacher in Novi Community Schools Awarded
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
• Hometown Life: Novi Educator of the Year
• Google News: Novi Educator Awards
• The Oakland Press: Novi Administrator Honored
• Google Scholar: Educator of the Year
• MI Lottery Connect: Oakland County Educator Wins Excellence in Education Award
• Google Search: Dedicated Teachers in Michigan