Imdieke Receives State Honor

Sandra Imdieke (Education) is the recipient of the 2005-2006 Michigan Reading Association (MRA) Teacher Educator Award. She is recognized for being a role model to others and for having a significant effect on the local reading council and classrooms across the Upper Peninsula.

Imdieke has given presentations at national and international conferences. She has served as a chair, co-chair, and steering committee member of the International Reading Association Teacher’s Choices Project, and was a committee member for the Caldecott Award selection in 2000. Most recently, she was appointed to the 2006 Newbery Award selection committee. Imdieke is a member of the Marquette Alger Reading Council and a member of the MRA board.

“Her dedication, perseverance and thirst for improving literacy instruction make her an exceptional candidate for this award,” wrote Sue Szczepanski (Education) in her nomination letter. “She is a true example of a state and national leader in the field of literacy. ... Many educators have been encouraged to explore research and examine their practices because of Dr. Imdieke's influence. She has been a mentor to area educators, making literacy connections that have everlasting effects in the classrooms of teachers."

Each year, MRA distributes awards in five categories: elementary teacher, secondary teacher, administrator, adult educator, and teacher educator. On March 19, Imdieke will be recognized for her award at Cobo Hall in downtown Detroit.