(STURGIS) – The 2019 John E. Oster Award was given out Monday to Sturgis Public Schools teacher Ellen Eisele.

Eisele received the award during the Sturgis Rotary Club Luncheon.

Eisele came to Sturgis in 1990, following teaching tenures in Chicago, Illinois along with Flint and Leslie, Michigan. She was instrumental in piloting the Connected Mathematics Program, ensuring access to some of the finest teaching materials and professional development on the market.

In addition, Eisele took part in the Woodrow Wilson National Leadership Program for two years.

Ellen makes herself available to students, parents and staff before and after school almost every day. She compliments students and staff members' strengths and suggests ways to improve.

Ellen is active as a mentor teacher, department chair and as a leader in the Sturgis Education Association and the National Education Association. She is active in her church and as volunteered at Relay For Life for many years.

The John E. Oster award was established in 1981 by JoEllen Oster in her husband's memory to provide a permanent endowment to recognize teacher excellence in the Sturgis Public School system. The selection committee consists of John and JoEllen Oster's daughter Sarah Gardner, John Dresser, the current Sturgis Board of Education President, and the Sturgis Schools Superintendent along with a representative of the Sturgis Area Community Foundation.

The 2019 Oster Award marks the 38th year for the honor.