BUCHANAN, Mich. -- The Michigan Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) announced Buchanan Elementary Physical Education Teacher Jessica Maurer as Michigan's 2023 Elementary Physical Educator of the Year.

Maurer was recognized for her overall commitment to physical education and, more specifically, for bringing engaging and exciting activities to Buchanan's Ottawa and Moccasin elementary schools for students ranging from kindergarteners to fourth graders.

According to Buchanan Community Schools officials, Maurer has sought numerous grant opportunities to provide students with unique experiences and some of her accomplishments include receiving grants for rock climbing walls in both elementary buildings, the “All Kids Bike” program for kindergarteners, and roller skating for 2nd-4th grades.

Additionally, each year Maurer organizes the Kids Heart Challenge at Moccasin where students learn about heart-healthy choices. During the 2022-23 school year, that program raised over $3,400 for the American Heart Association.

Buchanan Community Schools Superintendent Patricia Robinson, Ottawa Elementary Principal Stacey Denison, and Moccasin Elementary Principal Michael Babcock unanimously agree, "We are proud to have Mrs. Maurer as a beacon of inspiration, shaping the future of physical education and well-being in our schools."

"Her unwavering commitment to excellence, innovative teaching methods, and dedication to the 'All Kids Bike' program exemplify her passion for fostering a healthy and active lifestyle among our students. Her recognition by SHAPE Michigan is a testament to the impact she has made, and we celebrate this well-deserved achievement with immense pride and gratitude."

Maurer has her Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Physical Education K-12 and a minor in Elementary Education with an Early Childhood endorsement and has been teaching for Buchanan Community Schools since August of 2014.

Since 2019 she has been nominated by her students and coworkers five times for the Buchanan Community Schools' Buck Staff Recognition Award, and in 2017 she was nominated for SHAPE Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year.

She was also one of SHAPE Michigan's featured teachers in May of 2021.

Maurer was presented her 2023 award at the SHAPE Michigan's Professional Recognition Reception in Lansing in November.