The Detroit Red Wings Best in Class program, presented by Coca-Cola and Meijer, shows gratitude to Michigan teachers and educators who change the lives of millions of children every day, inside and outside the classroom. Throughout the 2025-26 season, 75 teachers were recognized through our Best in Class program. One finalist was selected from each reception to compete for the Best in Class Teacher of the Year prize of a $5,000 grant and meet and greet with a Detroit Red Wings player. From March 23rd to April 3rd votes can be cast for Best in Class Teacher of the Year by completing the online form below.
Best in Class Finalists
Rachel Krieg, 9th Grade English Teacher at Ithaca Jr./Sr. High School
Rachel is a dedicated educator at Ithaca Jr./Sr. High School, teaching 9th, 10th, and 12th grade English with a strong focus on student-centered learning. She continually reflects on and adapts her teaching methods to ensure lessons are accessible and engaging for all students, incorporating technology in creative ways to strengthen understanding. Rachel is deeply committed to professional growth, completing over 400 hours of professional development since earning her certification in 2022. She has also revived the school’s writing team, leading a small group of students to an impressive 3rd-place finish. Beyond academics, Rachel creates a welcoming and supportive environment, often opening her classroom during lunch and free time to provide students with a safe, judgment-free space. Her dedication, compassion, and commitment to excellence make a lasting impact on both her students and school community.
Alyssa Henneman, Special Education Teacher at Centreville Elementary School
Alyssa is an exceptional special education teacher at Centreville Elementary School whose compassion and dedication make a lasting impact on her students. She works tirelessly to support students with special needs, using personalized strategies, creative lessons, and a nurturing environment to help them succeed academically and grow in confidence. Alyssa has made a significant impact beyond her classroom by establishing her school as a Special Olympics Unified Champion School, promoting inclusion through unified sports and school-wide initiatives. She has also helped students reach meaningful milestones, including increased independence and participation in activities like team sports. Her commitment to innovation, inclusion, and student success makes her truly deserving of recognition.
Danielle McDaniel, Life Skills Teacher at Burger Baylor School for Autism
Danielle is an extraordinary educator at Burger Baylor School for Autism, where she teaches life skills to students with profound autism and cognitive impairments from districts across the region. She works with some of the most complex and underserved students, creating individualized, hands-on learning experiences that support communication, independence, and daily living skills. Despite facing significant physical and emotional challenges in her role, Danielle shows unwavering compassion, always seeing beyond behaviors to care for each student with dignity, patience, and love. She is a passionate advocate for the autism community, developing training programs and promoting greater awareness and inclusion. Danielle also goes above and beyond by creating specialized materials, funding classroom needs out of her own pocket and supporting families in meaningful ways. Her dedication, resilience, and selfless commitment make her truly deserving of recognition.
Awards & Prizes
Each of the 75 teachers recognized through the Best-in-Class program were gifted tickets to a predetermined Detroit Red Wings game and a $500 Meijer gift card for their classroom. One grand prize winner will receive a $5,000 grant and a meet and greet with a Detroit Red Wings player!