Pontiac Times

Board members and officials from South Lyon Community Schools recognized the support person of the year during their May 2 board meeting.

Tyler Willemse was honored for his efforts and actions as a building engineer and maintenance worker at South Lyon High School. 

“I personally, as a board member and a parent, want to say thank you for everything that you've done up at the high school,” board member Jennifer Urtel said. “It's very much appreciated. The kids love you, the parents love you, and the booster clubs love you.”

South Lyon High School Principal Jim Brennan offered high praise of Willemse in a speech to the board and attendees. "He's kind of already the rock of our building," Brennan said. "I would argue Tyler's the most probably the most recognizable person in our building, far more than myself in terms of who people know.” 

He added Willemse is eager to help other schools within the district when problems arise or during a renovation.

One speaker recalled the time a few stools were needed in a classroom so that students could reach all areas of the whiteboard. Over the weekend, Willemse created and placed perfectly constructed stools painted blue and gold for the school colors. 

Urtel said Willemse is indispensable to the district.

“I'm sure he does everything for everybody else, but if we need an extra table, he's Johnny on the spot. 'Tyler on the spot' comes on and asks us to make sure we have everything that we need,” Urtel said. “When we used to do the strike dinners in the commons, you know, he'd come in and sit and have dinner with us. And, you know, the kids just love Tyler.”

Board member Patrick Maguire reiterated what Willemse means to the district: “Just to add, I know we were at the school when you received the award initially and your humility is impressive above and beyond, obviously the kind of person you are, the quality of work that you do and how much we rely on you.”