NEWS RELEASE: Roseville Community Schools Announces 2024/2025 Teachers of the Year
Roseville Community Schools is proud to announce three exceptional educators as the 2024-2025 Outstanding Teachers of the Year. Knukellia McCurdy (Elementary), Scott Wheeler (Middle School), and Melissa Kaehler (High School) were selected as this year’s recipients.
Knukellia McCurdy has been teaching in Roseville since 2000. She started her career at Eastland Elementary but over the years has taught a variety of elementary grades at several schools, including Dort, Huron Park, Kaiser, and Kment. She moved over to Patton eleven years ago, where she now teaches third grade. Patton Elementary Principal Brandon Komarowski said that Mrs. McCurdy approaches each day with a commitment to growth and success. “Whether it is sending an early morning email, responding to Dojo messages after school, or grading papers on the weekends, she consistently goes above and beyond her duties to ensure her students receive the support they need.” Komarowski added that McCurdy is an advocate for her students. “She makes herself readily available, fostering strong connections built on trust, communication, and generosity. She makes sure every child’s academic, social, and emotional needs are met daily. Mrs. McCurdy’s commitment to her profession is truly admirable, and her impact on her students’ lives is immeasurable.”
Scott Wheeler is now in his 32nd year of teaching in Roseville. His first four years were spent teaching adult education and alternative education at Guest before making the move to Roseville High School. He taught science at RHS for 22 years, including chemistry, biology, environmental science, human biology, advanced placement biology, physics, anatomy and physiology, and earth science. He made the move to Eastland Middle School six years ago, where he now teaches seventh and eighth grade science. EMS Principal Bob Beato said that Wheeler has an innate talent for reaching students at all academic levels. “His commitment to ensuring that every student feels seen and valued is truly commendable. He goes the extra mile to create an inclusive learning environment where each student has the opportunity to thrive.” Beato added that Wheeler's approach to restorative conversations is noteworthy. “He skillfully navigates these discussions, helping students reflect on their actions and find positive solutions. This not only contributes to a positive classroom atmosphere but also equips students with valuable conflict resolution skills. He is more than a science teacher; he is an inspiration and a positive force within our school.”
Melissa Kaehler has been teaching in Roseville for 18 years, serving in a wide variety of roles during her career. She began at Huron Park Elementary where she spent several years as a general education teacher. She then made the move to special education, working as a teacher in the Self-Contained Emotional Impairment Program at both Roseville Middle School and Steenland Elementary. In 2016, she made the move to Roseville High School where she fills a variety of roles for the students and staff. She serves as a teacher consultant, co-teaches Algebra II, and hosts the testing center. She is also the school’s transition coordinator, IEP coordinator, and department chair for the special education department. RHS Principal Jason Bettin said that Kaehler is always willing to help anyone in any way she can. “Time and again, Ms. Kaehler has demonstrated her commitment to student success. Students request her help because they know she can break down information in a way they understand, and with a demeanor that shows confidence in their abilities.” Bettin added that her peers regularly and enthusiastically let him know how wonderful she is to work with. In the words of one of her peers who nominated her, she ‘has demonstrated that she is empathetic, yet firm, and handles the most stressful situations with students in a thoughtful, respectful and professional manner.’”
Superintendent Mark Blaszkowski said that this year’s honorees exemplify excellence both inside and outside of the classroom. “Roseville Community Schools has provided the community with outstanding teachers for 100 years and this year is no exception. Mrs. McCurdy, Mr. Wheeler, and Ms. Kaehler are enthusiastic, motivating educators that make a difference in our students’ lives. They are truly deserving of this honor.”
RCS Outstanding Teacher of the Year candidates are nominated by peers, administrators, students, family members, or community members. Each candidate must have a minimum of three completed nominations to be considered. A review committee, which is made up of principals from all levels and the deputy superintendent, meets to rank two candidates from each level to present to the superintendent for final review, with the superintendent confirming their top choices. All three district Outstanding Teacher of the Year winners will be honored at the MISD’s Outstanding Teacher of the Year Awards Banquet on April 22, 2025, as well as at the district’s Board of Education meeting on May 5, 2025.
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