Victoria Hill, an Alger County educator recognized for her strong advocacy on behalf of her students, has been awarded a $2,000 prize as part of a weekly award celebrating educators in Michigan.

The Michigan Lottery established the Excellence In Education awards in 2014 to recognize outstanding public-school educators across the state during the school year.

At the end of the school year, one weekly winner will be selected as Educator of the Year and receive a $10,000 cash prize.

Hill detailed her experience as an educator, stating, “What I enjoy most about teaching is building relationships with my students and watching their confidence grow throughout the year. It’s really special to be part of those small moments when something finally clicks for them or when they feel proud of their work.”

Superior Central School educator Victoria Hill recently won an Excellence in Education award from the Michigan Lottery. Hill is seen here with her fourth-grade class at a field trip to Northern Michigan University in December 2025. (Contributed photo)

Hill earned a bachelor’s degree from Northern Michigan University and has been an educator for five years, with the last four in her current position at Superior Central School.

“Being a teacher can be challenging, but it’s incredibly rewarding to know you’re making a difference in students’ lives each day,” Hill added.

She also told the Michigan Lottery, “I was drawn to education because it is about so much more than academics. It is about helping kids feel like they matter and that they are capable. I wanted a career where I could make a real difference in children’s lives.”

According to Michigan Lottery Connect, Hill was nominated by the parent of a former student.

“My son has been in special ed and has struggled with reading and spelling since he started school,” the parent said. “Mrs. Hill was able to introduce numerous accommodations including teaching him how to use talk-to-text, advocating for an alternate spelling list, and reading assignments, quizzes, and tests to him when needed.”

The parent also praised Hill’s dedication and attention to students.

“She is excellent at time management, and I am in awe of all the extra, individualized attention she was able to give him. She really cares about each of her students and I’m forever grateful for all she did to help my son grow and excel last year.”

Excellence in Education nominees are evaluated by the Michigan Lottery on several criteria, including excellence, dedication, inspiration, leadership and effectiveness.

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Sophie Vogelmann can be reached at 906-786-2021 or svogelmann@dailypress.net.