P-CCS adult education program instructor honored as 2025 Michigan Adult Educator of the Year

CANTON, Mich. – Starkweather Academy teacher Jena Scott has been named the 2025 Michigan Adult Educator of the Year in recognition for her efforts to positively impact the lives of her students.  

“This award is a well-deserved honor for Jena’s amazing skills, talent, energy and commitment to her students,” P-CCS Superintendent Dr. Monica L. Merritt said. “Jena is dedicated to helping her students thrive and succeed in the classroom and beyond. Her efforts reflect our district’s focus on providing a world-class education for a wide range of students.” 

Presented by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, the Adult Educator of the Year is part of statewide adult education awards that recognize teachers and staff who make outstanding contributions to adult education in their communities. The awards also recognize programs that help prepare students for the real world and success.  

“Jena excels at removing barriers to learning so adults can achieve their academic and personal goals,” Starkweather Academy Principal Kimberly Doman said. “She provides a learning experience that incorporates workplace literacy, English language support and industry-specific skills training that help ensure adult learners can advance in their careers. A true testament of her work is the students who are working successfully in our community and beyond.” 

In the classroom, Scott employs learning practices and strategies that include: 

• Personalized instruction that accommodates different learning methods, abilities and language proficiency; 

• Flexible learning that accommodates students’ work and family responsibilities, including hybrid learning and personalized support; 

• Technological integration for interactive learning, virtual collaboration and greater digital literacy; and 

• Supportive learning environment for all learners, including those who face personal and educational challenges, that prioritize emotional well-being and resilience. 
   

Scott uses relevant instructional support resources such as visual aids and hands-on activities. Beyond the classroom, she encourages students to collaborate with each other and build support through peer-to-peer engagement and community-building activities. To ensure students see value in their education, Scott designs lessons to be practical and relevant by linking them to real-world situations. 

A Starkweather educator since 2018, Scott’s teaching excellence has made a positive impact on the lives of many students. One past student struggled with language and cultural barriers, while juggling work and family. Scott provided one-on-one support and implemented a flexible learning plan that included digital tools. As a result, the student improved their language proficiency and academic abilities, even pursuing advanced learning and career opportunities. That student is now working as a cafeteria manager at P-CCS.