St. Clair County RESA is proud to announce that Angela Jackson, a special education teacher at Woodland Developmental Center, has been named a 2026-27 Region 5 Teacher of the Year. This prestigious recognition places Angela among 10 finalists for the Michigan Teacher of the Year award.
Angela’s journey to Woodland began long before she had her own classroom. As a high school aide at Woodland during her junior and senior years, she discovered her love of special education and knew she wanted to return one day as a teacher. After completing her undergraduate degree at Saginaw Valley State University with endorsements in Elementary Education, Cognitive Impairment, and English, and later earning a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, she fulfilled that dream.
In 2018, while teaching overseas in Italy, Angela received word that her long-hoped-for classroom at Woodland was available. She returned home, interviewed just days later, and was offered the position. She is now in her ninth year at Woodland and her 14th year teaching special education.
Angela’s classroom, known as “Room 101,” is guided by the simple but powerful belief that every child belongs. She begins each school year by partnering intentionally with families, inviting them to share their child’s strengths, interests, and joys. That information shapes daily instruction and routines, helping students and families feel understood and valued from day one.
“Our class is a family,” Angela said. “I want every student to feel safe, valued, and genuinely loved. When students and families feel that trust and connection, that’s when meaningful learning happens.”
Angela works with young learners at a pivotal time, often when special education services are first being introduced, and families are navigating uncertainty about what the future may hold.
“Angela serves students and families at one of the most critical stages in their educational journey,” said Britt Pionk, Assistant Supervisor of Programs and Services at St. Clair County RESA. “She understands how important the caregiver-teacher relationship is when needs are first being identified. Angela provides reassurance, clear communication, and an unwavering belief in each child’s potential. She has a remarkable ability to see possibilities beyond what others might initially expect and consistently helps students achieve more than imagined.”
Beyond the classroom, Angela contributes through mentorship, collaboration, and professional leadership. She has served on committees focused on strengthening Least Restrictive Environment practices and helped develop guidance to support thoughtful kindergarten transition decisions. She regularly attends professional conferences and shares new learning with colleagues to continuously improve practice across programs.
“Angela’s recognition shines a light on the exceptional work happening every day in our special education programs,” said Deana Tuczek, Director of Special Education at St. Clair County RESA. “In center-based settings, growth is often incremental, but its impact is life-changing. The progress our students make strengthens their independence, communication, and confidence. This honor celebrates not only Angela’s dedication, but the collective commitment of our entire team to ensuring every child receives the support and opportunities they deserve.”
Woodland Developmental Center serves students with diverse and complex needs, ages 3 to 26, from across St. Clair County. At Woodland, staff are united by a shared belief that every student deserves the opportunity to learn, thrive, and grow in a safe and nurturing environment.
Angela says being nominated by a parent makes the recognition especially meaningful. “Families trust us with their children, and that trust is something I never take lightly,” she said. “Knowing a family felt seen and supported enough to nominate me is incredibly humbling.”
Angela will now advance as a finalist for the Michigan Teacher of the Year award, which will be announced later this year.