The Michigan Council of Teachers of English (MCTE) has selected Eaton Regional Educational Service Agency (RESA) Literacy Consultant Jill Hoort as the 2026-27 recipient of the Ray H. Lawson Award.
Named in honor of beloved educator and past MCTE leader Ray Lawson, this award recognizes an individual whose distinguished career exemplifies lifelong dedication to English language arts instruction, mentorship, and advocacy. Hoort’s career in the classroom and her leadership with the Red Cedar Writing Project at Michigan State University, exemplify the criteria of the Lawson Award. She has served as a teacher, coach, mentor, leader, researcher, and collaborator through her many years in education.