Celebrating Educational Heroes: Honoring the Ripple Effect of Excellence in Van Buren County
At the Van Buren Intermediate School District Conference Center, an evening of gratitude, inspiration, and celebration unfolded as educators from across the county gathered for the Educational Hero Awards banquet. Hosted by VBISD and sponsored in partnership with the Van Buren County Association of School Boards, the event brought together representatives from districts throughout Van Buren County to honor the incredible individuals who make a lasting impact in schools every day.
The evening served as a powerful reminder that the work of an educator is much like a wave in the ocean. What begins with the dedication of one person in a classroom can ripple outward—touching students, families, schools, and entire communities in ways that are often unseen, yet deeply felt. Each educator recognized embodies those waves of influence, commitment, and care that continue to move education forward.
It was an honor to have districts from across the county represented and to celebrate such inspiring individuals whose passion and dedication leave a lasting mark on generations to come. Their work reminds us that education is not just about lessons taught, but lives changed.
A special moment of the evening was recognizing one of VBISD’s own. There is great pride in celebrating Sarita Collins, whose impact reaches far beyond any single role or title.
It was a privilege to recognize an individual whose life’s work has truly changed the trajectory of countless students and families—Sarita Collins.
For nearly five decades, Sarita has devoted her career to ensuring that migrant and multilingual students receive the education, opportunities, and support they deserve. What began in 1975 as a summer position with Project NOMAD grew into a lifelong calling grounded in equity, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the power of education.
Throughout her career, Sarita has served as a teacher, coordinator, advocate, interpreter, and mentor. But titles only tell part of the story. What truly defines her work is the way she meets students and families where they are—sometimes quite literally. From teaching ESL classes in migrant camps to visiting families in their homes, Sarita has consistently gone above and beyond to support students navigating language barriers, school transitions, and the path to graduation and beyond.
She has empowered families to become active partners in their children’s education—guiding them through complex systems, interpreting during critical meetings, and helping them see possibilities they may have never imagined. Sarita has organized college visits, supported families through the FAFSA process, and worked tirelessly to ensure that migrant students never lose access to educational opportunities, even as they move across states.
For Sarita Collins, this work has never simply been a job—it has always been a calling. Her empathy, cultural understanding, and relentless advocacy have opened doors for generations of students. Because of her, students who once felt invisible have been seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Sarita is celebrated not only as a tireless advocate, but also as someone who continually challenges school districts—and all educators—to do better for every child.
Please join in honoring Educational Hero, Sarita Collins.
Congratulations to this year’s Educational Heroes:
Bangor Public Schools
Phil Devers
Tina Loomis
Bloomingdale Public Schools
Deb Rodgers
Nicole Meloche
Covert Public Schools
Adriana Saucedo
Gina Valela
Decatur Public Schools
Michelle Botti
Ben Botti
Gobles Public Schools
Lauren Bolhuis
Salvador Robles-Soriano
Hartford Public Schools – HPS
Lindsay Blackmer
Nora Aguirre
Lawrence Public Schools
Alma Robles
Tara Lampe
Lawton Community Schools
Amanda Maurer
Diana Michalski
Mattawan Consolidated School
Erin Rumery
Nate Engels
Paw Paw Public School District
Samantha Christenson
Isamar Herrera
South Haven Public Schools
Madeline Finn
Lori Schooley
VBISD
Antoinette Vaughn
Sarita Collins
To all of this year’s honorees: thank you. The dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment shown to students continue to create waves that extend far beyond the classroom—reaching into the future in ways that truly matter.
