UCS teacher earns statewide theater teacher of the year honors

Stevenson High School theatre teacher Mark Johnson has been named the Michigan Theatre Teacher of the Year.

Johnson earned the Bog Koger Theatre Teacher of the Year Award from the Michigan Interscholastic Forensic Association.

The award is presented annually by MIFA members to a Michigan theatre teacher based on innovation, commitment and contributions to the profession.

"Mark is a fantastic director who shares his talent and expertise, motivating students to grow in their craft," said Jon Becker, Executive Director of MIFA. "He is truly an asset for Stevenson High School, our organization and the high school speech community."

The award was presented at MIFA's annual statewide one-act play tournament on February 22 in Grand Rapids.

Becker noted that Johnson is involved with MIFA's Executive Board, and this year was instrumental in introducing a Studio Productions event at the competition.

The productions award was more focused on the craft of acting, and "created opportunities for hundreds more students to be involved in high school theater across the state," Becker said.

Johnson has led the Titan Theatre for the past three years. Prior to that, Johnson oversaw the MIFA program at West Bloomfield.

Stevenson students have a long track record of success at the annual MIFA tournament, last year capturing the state championship with their production of Noises Off.