State’s Alternative Education School of the Year Awarded to Crooked Tree

Crooked Tree High School in Harbor Springs has been named the state’s Alternative Education School of the Year by the Michigan Alternative Education Organization (MAEO). The staff at Crooked Tree High School was honored with this prestigious award during the MAEO’s annual conference on May 2.

The school, which serves students within the Char-Em ISD, provides an alternative education setting for students who may not thrive in a traditional school environment. With an annual enrollment of 20 to 40 students, the school has been operated by the ISD since 1998.

Don Heinz, a teacher at Crooked Tree High School, expressed his gratitude for the award, stating, “To me, this award is about more than our achievements; it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to what is in the best interest of each student.” Heinz, who has been the school’s lead teacher for 20 years, received the MAEO Teacher of the Year recognition in 2018.

The school’s approach allows students to work at their own pace towards graduation credits online, with staff available to provide assistance. In addition to academic support, the school focuses on teaching life skills and exploring post-secondary career options with the help of community members and specialists.

Students at Crooked Tree High School also engage in community service activities, such as working with the Manna Food Project and participating in local outreach programs. The school’s commitment to providing a well-rounded education that includes both academic and life skills has earned them this prestigious recognition.