Bill Buttke Receives 2022 True Friends of Education Award

Bill Buttke has been selected as the 2022 recipient of the True Friends of Education Award. Buttke received his award at the Milbank School Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, November 15.  

The Milbank Education Association (MEA) sponsors the award annually in honor of American Education Week, which is being celebrated from November 13-19 this year. Josh Schmeichel, MEA president, who presented Buttke with his award, commented, “We couldn’t have picked a better person. Bill makes great connections with the kids and the staff. He is a substitute for our district almost every day.”

Superintendent Justin Downes commended Buttke for his efforts by saying, “Bill’s done a lot and has been here for us countless days and times as a sub, but even more important he is volunteering and there for the kids. When you take a tour through the school, you often see Bill in a breakout area working with our students. He donates so much time to the staff and the kids,” Downes added. “Most mornings Bill comes to school at 7 a.m. and he’s there to greet everyone.” 
On receiving his award, Buttke said, “I’m getting more out of it than the kids. Thank you very much. It means a lot.”

Photo: Schmeichel and Buttke