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	The Ypsilanti Courier A Heritage Newspaper Weekly Publication

Estabrook teacher honored with award

PUBLISHED: March 6, 2008

The Department of Michigan American Legion has announced that Estabrook Elementary first-grade teacher, Deborah Wilbanks, will receive one of five "Teacher of the Year" award from the veterans organization. The American Legion recognizes one teacher in each of the organizations five districts. Wilbanks was selected from the Legion's southeast Michigan region.

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For more than two decades the Legion has honored exemplary educators wh also have shown strong support for patriotism and community service. Each honoree receives a $500 grant for an educational project and a plaque. State American Legion Commander, Michael L. Williams said it is important to recognize and reward teachers for the efforts they put forth to educating the nation's children.

"For 89 years, the American Legion has supported students through a number of initiatives. Because teachers play a significant role in the education and nurturing of our youth, the American Legion annually recognizes Michigan teachers," said Williams.

Wilbanks has been an Ypsilanti Public Schools' teacher for 34 years and some of her extracurricular activities include overseeing the school's student council, coordinating the Social Studies Bowl, Michigan Bee and the Oratorical Society, trustee for the Ypsilanti Public Schools Foundation, coordinating donations to the Warm the Children program and the Pride and Honor Flights of Michigan, a nonprofit that organizes visits to the World War II Memorial in Washington D.C.

In addition to her school-wide activities she has taught her students to daily recite the Pledge of Allegiance, the Preamble to the Constitution and to sing the Star Spangled Banner. They not only learn the words but the meaning behind these patriotic salutes. She also encourages good citizenship and daily selects two students to be honored in a number of ways as "Good Citizens." Wilbanks said the Legion's award is meaningful.

"It is an honor to be recognized by such a prestigious organization and I would like to thank the American Legion for this honor," Wilbanks said. "I will share this award with the children, parents and staff at Estabrook whose support and cooperation have allowed me to organize a number of enrichment programs."

Wilbanks will be honored at the American Legion's state convention, June 20 in Grand Rapids.