Courtesy photo Alcona Community Schools teachers Tim Campbell and Sarah Hecklik were recently recognized for their outstanding work. Campbell was awarded the Program of Outstanding Quality for his industrial arts/woodworking program from the Michigan Industrial and Technology Education Society. Hechlik was named Michigan American Legion Teacher of the Year for Region Four for her work with local veterans.

LINCOLN — Alcona Community Schools (ACS) Teacher Tim Campbell, instructor of the industrial technology program, has received recognition for leading a Program of Outstanding Quality from the Michigan Industrial and Technology Education Society (MITES).

Alcona High School English Teacher Sarah Hechlik also recently received recognition as the Michigan American Legion Teacher of the Year for Region Four.

MITES was established in 1928, according to an informational document. It is a professional organization of industrial technology, technology education, and career technical education (CTE) educators whose purpose is the development of industrial and technology education at all levels of private and public education.

MITES members are K-12 teachers, college instructors, students, administrators, teacher educators, curriculum specialists, guidance counselors, and representatives of business who recognize, assume, and participate in their professional roles.

MITES sponsors 19 regional competitions and a state competition for students enrolled in industrial technology, technology education, and CTE classes. The state exhibition and competition are held during the annual convention.

The special recognition for Program of Outstanding Quality will be presented to Campbell and the school at the MITES annual banquet on Saturday.

Campbell’s woodworking program emphasizes hands-on learning, skill development, and preparation for careers in the skilled trades, a news release from ACS stated. His dedication helps students build practical experience while developing a strong appreciation for craftsmanship.

“Tim has stepped in and led our industrial arts/woodworking program with high integrity, always grounded in teaching students practical skills that apply not only to the trade but also to life,” ACS Superintendent Dan O’Connor said. “We are so fortunate and proud of him and his students through the years to earn this prestigious award.”

Hechlik has been named the Michigan American Legion Teacher of the Year for Region Four, according to a news release from ACS. This honor recognizes not only her excellence in the classroom but also her meaningful contributions to the community and local veterans.

Hechlik was selected in part for her leadership in organizing the Coffee with Veterans program, which brings students and local veterans together to share stories, build connections, and foster mutual respect. Her commitment to volunteerism and civic engagement has made a lasting impact on both students and the community, the release stated.

“Sarah is a talented educator who has a passion for the community,” O’Connor said in a statement. “She’s passed along that passion to her National Honor Society students, who have facilitated monthly Coffee with Veterans at the school. She and her students’ passion for serving the community made her selection for her award a no brainer.”

According to the American Legion website, each award is a $500 grant to the winning teacher for an education project of his or her choice at their school and a recognition plaque presented by the state commander or other designated Legion official. Five teachers receive awards annually.

Reagan Voetberg. News Staff Writer. rvoetberg@TheAlpenaNews.com.