May Exceptional Educators: Honoring Dennyn Sandoval & Cheriese Gipson

Two teachers selected during Teacher Appreciation Week

At Giroux Pappas, we believe that educators are the heart of a strong community, shaping the future with every lesson, every act of care, and every word of encouragement. This month during Teacher Appreciation Week, we are thrilled to honor Dennyn Sandoval and Cheriese Gipson as our Exceptional Educators of May!

These two incredible teachers work side-by-side at Starfish Family Services – Cecil Early Childhood Education Center in Detroit, where they are making a lasting impact on the lives of young learners and their families. Their energy, commitment, and teamwork create a nurturing and empowering classroom environment where children can thrive, grow, and feel truly seen.

Why Dennyn and Cheriese Inspire Us

Ms. Sandoval and Ms. Gipson exemplify what it means to go “above and beyond.” As team teachers in an early education setting, they understand that the formative years of a child’s life are foundational. Through patience, creativity, and compassion, they help their students build not only academic skills but also confidence, emotional strength, and a love for learning.

Their approach is more than just education—it’s empowerment. Whether they’re supporting a child through a tough moment or celebrating a milestone, Dennyn and Cheriese bring passion and purpose to their work each and every day. It’s clear their classroom is a place where both children and families feel welcomed, supported, and encouraged.

About Starfish Family Services

Starfish Family Services is a true pillar of the community. For over 60 years, this Detroit-based nonprofit has been committed to strengthening families and helping children reach their full potential. Through early childhood education, behavioral health services, and family support programs, Starfish is breaking cycles of poverty and trauma—one family at a time.

This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the Head Start program, a national initiative that Starfish proudly supports. Head Start has played a vital role in providing children from underserved communities with access to high-quality early education, and organizations like Starfish continue to lead the way in ensuring every child gets a fair start in life.

You can learn more about their incredible work at www.starfishfamilyservices.org.

A Well-Deserved Congratulations

Please join us in celebrating Dennyn Sandoval and Cheriese Gipson—two truly exceptional educators whose devotion to early childhood education uplifts our entire community. We are honored to recognize their efforts and grateful for the positive difference they are making every day.

To Dennyn and Cheriese: thank you for everything you do. You embody the spirit of what it means to be an educator, and your students are lucky to have you in their corner.

Nominate an Exceptional Educator Today!

Do you know a teacher who goes above and beyond for their students? We’re always looking for the next amazing educator to honor! Submit your nomination for the Giroux Pappas Exceptional Educators program by completing this nominaton form Let’s give these incredible teachers the recognition they deserve!

For more information on the Exceptional Educator Award, visit https://www.greatmiattorneys.com/exceptional-educators/

Giroux Pappas created the Exceptional Educator Program and partners with WXYZ to gather nominations for educators in the area that go above and beyond for their students. Giroux Pappas launched the program in January 2022 to give back to the community it serves and has recognized and donated to a teacher each month since.

About Giroux Pappas Trial Attorneys

Giroux Pappas Trial Attorneys, P.C. , Michigan personal injury, trial law firm specializing in providing aggressive representation for clients in Ferndale, Farmington and throughout Michigan. They help those who have suffered a personal injury stemming from an auto, motorcycle, or trucking accident; medical malpractice, birth injury, civil rights, wrongful death or workplace issue fight for their legal rights. The Giroux Pappas Trial Attorneys have experience in over 120 trials and have recovered millions for their clients.