Michelle La-Bonnell, Academy Park Elementary
Jul 10, 2026, 1:05 PM | Updated: Jul 14, 2026, 4:17 pm
“Michelle is the kind of teacher every school hopes to have. As a 4th grade teacher at Academy Park Elementary, she creates a classroom where every student feels welcomed, valued, and capable of success. She has a gift for building genuine relationships with her students and their families, and you can see the trust she has built in every interaction.
Michelle has made a huge impact on me as an educator. Over time, she helped me come out of my shell and become more confident in myself. She accepted me for who I am, encouraged me to grow, and has always been someone I know I can turn to. Her kindness, encouragement, and genuine care have made a lasting difference in my career.
She leads with compassion, positivity, and authenticity. Whether she is supporting her students, collaborating with colleagues, or connecting with families, she makes people feel seen, heard, and valued. Michelle doesn’t just teach academics. She builds relationships, creates a sense of belonging, and leaves a lasting impact on everyone around her. Academy Park is a better place because of her, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.”
-Caitlin Gannon
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