Pines teachers recognized by Herb Kohl Educational Foundation

Five Northland Pines School District educators were five out of 114 Wisconsin teachers to have recently been recognized by Teacher Fellowship awards presented by the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation.

The named teachers included Pines Middle and High School Science Teacher Peter Aerts; Choir Teacher Kate Janssen; Math Teacher Steve Miller; Eagle River Elementary Special Education Teacher Scott McKenzie; and Montessori Learning Center E2 Teacher Pat Rickman.

Each of the teachers has been awarded $6,000, while each teacher’s school will also receive a matching grant of $6,000 to further support student learning and school initiatives.

Recipients of these awards were chosen by a committee of representatives and cosponsors that are active in Wisconsin’s communities, including the Wisconsin Newspaper Association, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, regional Cooperative Educational Service Agencies (CESA), the Association of Wisconsin School Administrators, and the Wisconsin Homeschooling Parents Association.

“Part of Herb Kohl’s lasting legacy is his unwavering support for the profession that makes all others possible—education,” said JoAnne Anton, President and CEO of Herb Kohl Philanthropies. “He challenged us to continue celebrating and investing in educators who shape the future. By recognizing their hard work, achievements, and service, we hope to honor their impact, elevate their contributions within their communities, and inspire future generations to follow in their footsteps.”

The Kohl Foundation award program was established by Herb Kohl, former U.S. senator, philanthropist, and businessman who died December 27, 2023. Since 1990, the foundation has awarded over $40 million to Wisconsin educators, principals, students, and schools.