Giroux Pappas Law recognizes a dedicated Michigan educator whose commitment to students, colleagues, and her school community extends far beyond the classroom.
At Giroux Pappas Law, we believe exceptional educators do more than deliver lessons. They recognize the potential in every student, create opportunites for learning and help build stronger school communities.
Janelle Mireles, our October 2026 Exceptional Educator lives these qualities through her daily commitement and dedication to teaching, mentoring and her focusing on her students every day.
Making Every Student Feel Included
As a freshman biology and AP Biology teacher, Ms. Mireles challenges her students with engaging, rigorous instruction while providing the encouragement and support they need to succeed.
“During a recent classroom visit, I watched her translate key concepts into Spanish on the spot for a Spanish-speaking student. This is just one of many examples of her commitment to ensuring every student can participate and succeed.” wrote her nominator.
It was a simple but powerful demonstration of her teaching philosophy: every student deserves the opportunity to understand, participate and succeed. Her nominator described her approach as balancing care for students with high expectations and accountability, creating a classroom where students are both challenged and supported.
Committed to Her School Community Both Inside and Outside the Classroom
Mrs. Mireles’ contributions reach well beyond her own classroom and students. She regularly uses her prep time to mentor and support fellow teachers, helping to strengthen instruction throughout the school. She also leads student council and our teacher mentor program. She helps organize and run school dances and attend after school athletic events.
“Year after year, Mrs. Mireles strengthens our school through her teaching, leadership, and dedication.” said, her nominator.
Celebrating Michigan’s Exceptional Educators
Giroux Pappas Law established its Exceptional Educators program in 2022 to recognize Michigan teachers who go above and beyond for their students and schools. Teachers in communities across metro Detroit have been recognized including: Romulus, Detroit, Chesterfield, Highland Park, Wayne-Westland, Plymouth-Canton, Pontiac, Farmington, Taylor, Birmingham, New Haven, Ann Arbor, Avondale, West Bloomfield and more.
How to Nominate a Teacher Today
Nominations are accepted year round. Our search for outstanding educatores in our community doesn’t stop. If you know a teacher, paraprofessional, school administrator who goes above and beyond for their students and school community, we encourage you to nominate them. We look forward to celebrating more incredible educators this school year.
