DCDS Teacher Earns George Olmsted Jr. Class of 1924 Prize for Teaching Excellence

Williams College, a liberal arts institution located in Massachusetts, has awarded Detroit Country Day School (DCDS) Upper School social studies teacher Celeste Mahabir with the George Olmsted Jr. Class of 1924 Prize for Excellence in Secondary School Teaching.

Created to honor alumnus George Olmsted Jr., former president and chairman of the board of the S.D. Warren (Paper) Company, the teaching excellence award recognizes four deserving secondary school teachers each year who play influential roles in students lives. Mahabir was nominated for the award by one of her former students, Chris LeFlore ‘12.

“We are delighted that Celeste’s hard work and desire to educate young minds has been honored with this prestigious recognition,” said Glenn Shilling, DCDS headmaster. “By setting a strong example in the classroom, Celeste’s focus on academic excellence and hard work spearheading educational programs represents the type of educator we are grateful to have at Detroit Country Day School. Our entire community takes pride in her accomplishments.”

Mahabir received a check for $3,000 and an additional $5,000 was awarded to DCDS to help support and enhance educational programs. Mahabir was also recognized as a special guest of Williams College during commencement weekend, where she attended a luncheon, marched in the procession with the Dean of the College, and was awarded a certificate.

“Teaching is my passion and is something I genuinely enjoy waking up for every day,” said Mahabir. “To be recognized with the George Olmstead Jr. Award for something I love to do is such an honor and I am proud to not only be recognized, but have DCDS benefit from this accomplishment as well.”

Detroit Country Day School offers students from preschool through high school an exemplary education rooted in academic rigor and a commitment to the full development of each student’s potential. The school is an independent, coeducational, non-denominational, college preparatory school nationally recognized for excellence in academics, athletics and the fine and performing arts. Founded in 1914 by F. Alden Shaw, Detroit Country Day School today enrolls more than 1,500 students on four campuses located in Beverly Hills and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. For additional information, please visit www.dcds.edu.