Kalamazoo Times

The Comstock School District celebrated Compass High School teacher Chris Coash for earning the Michigan Alternative Educational Organization’s (MAEO) Teacher of the Year award.

Coash, an educator with 27 years of experience, teaches at Comstock Compass High School, the alternative school in the area, offering hybrid class and credit recovery options, enabling students to earn their GED or graduate under various circumstances.

Superintendent Jeffrey Thoenes said at a recent board meeting that it was a “distinct pleasure and privilege to present” Coash with the 2023 Outstanding Teacher award, which is the top teacher's award presented by the MAEO.

“I've been in education, this is my 36th year, I've never been associated with someone named teacher of the year in any level. This is an extremely distinguished award and a privilege to have Chris here tonight,” he said.

Teachers and students credited Coash with an outstanding commitment to his students, their education and their well-being.

In his award dedication, fellow teacher Todd Ide called Coash a “positive force for both staff and students” in their alternative education setting.

Greta Munger shared her journey with Coash, who she said was her mentor and showed her how to help students discover a love and talent in music or creative writing through his engaging classroom.

Coash’s teaching methods were highlighted as textbook examples of how to be creative with the curriculum in an alternative setting.

Thoenes added that Coash “received his award at the Association conference, which was a week ago in Traverse City. So, we were thrilled that he was able to attend.” He also bestowed upon Coash “a number of places to display your pride in being a Colt,” giving him a T-shirt, car magnet, flag, and a number of other goodies with the school logo and mascot on them. Coash said he was thrilled with the gifts, thanking the board and community for all their support over his long tenure in Comstock.