At Macomb Montessori Academy, learning does not begin when a teacher starts instruction. It begins the moment a student walks through the door.
The environment matters.
For the past four years, one of the people quietly shaping that experience every single day has been someone many students know by name, even if his work often happens behind the scenes: Mr. Steel.
If there is an environmental problem in the building, chances are you will hear students calling, “Mr. Steel!”
This year, Mr. Steel was recognized with an Unsung Hero Award given by Lake Superior State University, recognizing the meaningful role he plays in supporting students, staff, and the overall school experience through the care and attention he brings to the environment each day.
His role goes far beyond maintenance. One of the foundational beliefs of Montessori philosophy is that the environment matters. A well-prepared space helps students feel safe, focused, and ready to grow. Mr. Steel plays an important role in creating that experience at MMA, ensuring students enter a school that is welcoming, cared for, and ready to support learning each day.
As school leaders focus on instruction and student growth, Mr. Steel takes ownership of the physical environment so staff can focus on what matters most: teaching and learning.
“You don’t want people to have to worry about it,” he shared. “It just needs to be done.”
That mindset has become essential at MMA, especially as the academy continues to grow and evolve. This summer, one of the biggest projects underway is preparing a new multi-purpose space designed to better serve students and families. The space will support school assemblies that strengthen community and host family events throughout the year.
Mr. Steel has also helped guide students in designing new furniture and supplies for the building, giving them ownership in shaping their school environment.
When asked why he does what he does, his answer was simple.
“I do what I do for the kids. Kids need safe and clean spaces to be productive. A good environment for learning is the goal.”
And when asked his favorite part about MMA?
“Teamwork,” he said. “It’s fluid. We depend on one another and trust one another.”
That spirit of teamwork is something school leader Shanina Draughn sees every day.
“Mr. Steel’s care for our students and school community is felt in everything he does,” shared Shanina. “He helps create an environment where students can learn, grow, and feel supported. His work often happens behind the scenes, but the impact is visible everywhere.”
At MMA, education is about more than academics. It is about creating an environment where students can grow. Sometimes, the people making the biggest difference are the ones working quietly in the background, preparing the space for possibility.
Thank you, Mr. Steel, for all you do for our students, staff, and school community.