At the 17th annual Groundswell Student Project Showcase, educators from across West Michigan were recognized for their commitment to stewardship education and student leadership. This year’s Sprout Teacher of the Year Award was presented to Brooke Bevins of Ottawa Hills High School (10th grade Biology, Grand Rapids Public Schools) for her work engaging high school students in campus beautification, native planting initiatives, and collaborative outdoor learning experiences with younger students. The award recognizes educators newer to the Groundswell network who have already made a strong impact through stewardship-based learning. 

The Swell Teacher of the Year Award was awarded to Dave Kraff from The Field School at Highlands Middle School (Dave Kraff, 5th & 6th grade Science and English/Language Arts, Northview Public Schools). With more than a decade of involvement in Groundswell, Kraff has led students through long-term restoration and biodiversity projects while connecting environmental stewardship with hands-on learning and entrepreneurship. 

Groundswell also introduced its Rooted in Service Award, honoring Joe Uzarski of Grand Rapids Montessori Academy (4th-6th grade, Grand Rapids Public Schools). Uzarski, who is retiring after 26 years in education and more than 13 years with Groundswell, was celebrated for inspiring generations of students through place-based learning and environmental stewardship. 

Retiring educators Becky Bravata (Caledonia Community Schools) and Laura Sloma (East Kentwood Public Schools) were also recognized for their years of dedication to hands-on education, community engagement, and fostering curiosity in students through outdoor learning experiences. 

Together, these educators have planted seeds far beyond the classroom. Shaping students, strengthening communities, fostering education, and proving that stewardship begins with people willing to care a little deeper about the world around them. It is an honor to work with them, and a privilege to provide them with awards for their efforts.