SVSU honors Freeland teacher

August 19, 2026

SVSU honors Freeland teacher

Harold W. Peterson Award honors elementary, secondary teachers for excellence in teaching

As Saginaw Valley State University teacher educator students gathered to learn about their upcoming student teaching positions, one veteran educator was honored for her remarkable impact on students. Tricia Cripe, a third-grade teacher at Freeland Elementary School, is the 2026 recipient of SVSU's Harold W. Peterson Award, which annually honors an elementary or secondary teacher who best exemplifies the spirit and goals of the teaching profession. In addition to a recognition plaque, Cripe received a $500 award, and another $500 award was given to Freeland Elementary.

The award was presented during SVSU's student teacher orientation on August 10.

Cripe was nominated for the award by a student teacher who worked in her classroom. The nominator wrote: "My host teacher, Mrs. Cripe, exemplifies excellence in teaching in every possible way. Having had the privilege of being both her third-grade student and her student teacher, I've been able to see her impact from multiple perspectives, and it is nothing short of remarkable. Mrs. Cripe is the kindest teacher I have ever met, consistently creating a classroom environment rooted in warmth, safety, and genuine care. She goes to great lengths to ensure every student succeeds, meeting each learner where they are and guiding them forward with patience and intentionality."

The Harold W. Peterson Award was established in 1985 with a gift from Dr. H. W. Peterson, the founding dean of the SVSU College of Education. Peterson served as dean from 1968-1982 and continued as a faculty member until his retirement in 1985. The award is intended to honor an elementary or secondary teacher for excellence in teaching who is currently employed in Bay, Midland, Saginaw or Tuscola counties and who best exemplifies the spirit and goals of the award.