State Rep. Greg Markkanen announced today the 2018-2019 Outstanding Educator Award recipients.

The award winners are Luke Theisen of Horizons Alternative High School, Laura Augustine of L’Anse Area Schools, and Heather French of Lake Linden-Hubbell Schools.

Luke Theisen has been vital in the creation of Horizon’s “Student First Initiative,” a program that aims to strengthen the student body by decreasing stressful factors, promoting attendance and reducing discipline referrals. Theisen has taught English for the past 10 years.

Heather French has gone above and beyond the call of a typical teacher. French has been known to help with assisting students with tough life events, helping out with scholarship applications, and even helping prepare students for prom. She teaches English in grades 7-9.

Laura Augustine has been involved in the L’Anse community in multiple ways. Augustine has organized the annual Variety of Music Show, led students on numerous trips oversees, and organized the L’Anse Literacy Club. She has also been the choir director at L’Anse United Methodist Church for over 25 years. Augustine has received awards including Outstanding Education Employee from the Copper Country Association of School Boards and the Distinguished Educator Award. She has taught English and study skills for over 20 years.