Michigan—On May 6, TV anchor Tricia Sloma of 16 Morning News in South Bend, Ind., entered the library at Ruth Murdoch Elementary School with a balloon bouquet in hand and a cameraman in tow, to tell fourth-grade teacher Laura Bowlby that she was selected to receive a 16 Excellence in Education Award. A very surprised Bowlby was in the school library reading with her students, including Bayley Schalk, the student who nominated her.

"Ms. Bowlby is very creative. She has taught our whole class how to knit (boys and girls) and she lets us knit after we finish our work. She also has lots of creative field trips for us to go on. We went bowling to learn about friction and to the grocery store to learn about nutrition. We learned about caring for animals at the Humane Society and she taught us about directions with a compass journey around the campus of Andrews University. Ms. Bowlby's creativity makes her special," read Bayley's nomination letter.

Bayley's mother, Brenda Schalk, saw the call for entries on the local TV station and encouraged Bayley to nominate her teacher. "Ms. Bowlby reminds me of Ms. Frizzle from 'The Magic School Bus' (a children's cartoon). She's a very creative teacher," said Brenda.

Bowlby's creative attitude is an asset in her very diverse classroom. Her students and their families represent 20 countries: Argentina, Bahamas, Botswana, Brazil, China, Croatia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Italy, Kenya, Nigeria, Peru, Puerto Rico, Rwanda, Samoa, South Africa, South Korea, Uganda, United States and Venezuela.

During the interview, Bowlby was asked how it felt to receive this award. "It's very overwhelming and very special," she said. "I think Bayley is a remarkable girl."

Each year, three Michiana (a seven-county region in northern Indiana and southwestern Michigan) teachers are given distinction for their commitment to high-quality education. In addition to the recognition and an award plaque, each teacher receives a $1,000 savings bond and their school receives a check for $250. Bowlby hopes to use the money to enhance an outdoor habitat her school is creating.

Keri Suarez, media relations specialist, Office of Integrated Marketing & Communication, Andrews University