The Ellen Eisele Memorial Fund was established in July 2020. The fund is the result of a collaborative effort of family, friends, and colleagues to honor the memory of longtime Sturgis Middle School math teacher, Ellen Eisele.

Ellen came to Sturgis in 1990, having taught in Chicago, Flint, and Leslie, Mich., before she settled here. A lifelong learner, she received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics from Michigan State University in 1984, and in 2003, she earned a Master’s degree from Western Michigan University in Mathematics Education. She was instrumental in piloting the Connected Mathematics Program, ensuring access to some of the finest teaching materials and professional development on the market. Due to this work, Sturgis was recognized in the published version of Connected Mathematics. Additionally, Ellen took part in the Woodrow Wilson National Leadership Program for two years and was the 2020 recipient of Sturgis’ John Oster Award for teaching. Ellen was a teacher at the Sturgis Middle School for 30 years. Ellen’s passion was teaching middle schoolers and finding math applications in everyday situations.

Ellen was known for her above-and-beyond commitment to teaching. She made herself available to students, parents, and staff before and after school almost every day. She encouraged students who needed additional support to come in after school. She was a long-time member of the Alpha Epsilon Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma and served as president twice. She was an active mentor teacher, department chair, and leader in the Sturgis Education Association and the National Education Association. She was an active member of Holy Angels Church and volunteered at Relay for Life for many years.

Ellen loved laughing and spending time with her family. She raised a small flock of chickens and shared their Green and White and brown eggs and delightful antics. She enjoyed Broadway musicals and good food. She was an active participant and Reader at Holy Angels Catholic Church in Sturgis.

Because Ellen recognized that teachers, especially those newer to the profession, could use financial support to build their classrooms and develop as teachers, the purpose of the Ellen Eisele Memorial Fund is to provide classroom grants in support of local teachers, especially those who are newer to the profession. Colleagues remembered Ellen as a dedicated instructor, hard worker, and friend. This fund is a lasting tribute to her commitment to education and her students.

Grant applications for the Ellen Eisele Memorial Fund are made available to teachers each year in the Fall. For questions about grant applications or funds, contact the Sturgis Area Community Foundation at sacf@sturgisfoundation.org.