- Bailey Grigg – Mrs. Grigg creates an engaging and fair learning environment for her students. She establishes a positive rapport and shows interest in her student’s lives both in and out of the classroom. She works hard to help students become successful with their learning.
- Brooke Lewis – Mrs. Lewis is a wonderful 2nd grade teacher. She truly cares for her students both academically and personally. My child has grown so much in both reading and math and it’s because Mrs. Lewis takes pride in her teaching. She teaches how to be kind, to always try your best in everything that you do, and to always be respectful. We love Mrs. Lewis!
- Carol Seiler – Mrs. Seiler has been an amazing additional reading teacher to my child. Through her patience and knowledge my child has grown into a great reader! Thank you, Mrs. Seiler for always going the extra mile to help students become better readers!
- Joanne Snyder – Mrs. Snyder is a phenomenal teacher. She cares about each and every student in her class and she wants all of them to succeed and reach their full potential. The work she puts into her job shows through her students and there isn’t any teacher more deserving than Mrs. Snyder to be the teacher of the year.
- Linda Stearns – We have been incredibly blessed to have Mrs. Stearns teach two of our children, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award. Her impact on our family has been nothing short of life-changing. Our oldest struggled significantly with reading delays and often felt frustrated with school. As parents, we felt lost and unsure of how to help. But then, he had Mrs. Stearns. It was like magic. She created a classroom environment filled with structure, encouragement, and unwavering belief in her students. She set high but realistic expectations, meeting our son exactly where he was. For the first time, he felt seen and capable. Because of her, he didn’t just improve—he thrived. By the end of the year, he was reading above grade level and excelling in ways we never imagined. This year, our younger child is in her class, with different challenges and strengths. And once again, Mrs. Stearns has exceeded our expectations. She recognizes the unique needs of every student and brings out their best through patience, skill, and genuine love. I can’t put into words the power of her teaching. She doesn’t just teach academics—she instills confidence, resilience, and a love for learning. Every child deserves a teacher like Mrs. Stearns, and I only wish more families could experience her magic. She is the kind of educator who changes lives, and she absolutely deserves to be recognized for the incredible difference she makes.
- Lynn Rivas – When I think of the definition of a PreK teacher, I think of Mrs. Rivas! She is kind, compassionate and beyond patient. My child enjoys going to school to play and learn thanks to Mrs. Rivas’ caring attitude. She has also taught my child how to behave in a classroom setting and how to control his emotions. Academically my child has grown leaps and bounds! It has been amazing watching his growth. Mrs. Rivas’ provides a caring environment socially, emotionally and academically. It has been a blessing having her has my child’s teacher this year!
- Megan Vinson – Megan Vinson is an exceptional art teacher who consistently goes above and beyond to foster creativity and expression, make art fun, encourage good behavior, and open young minds. In an area with little exposure to diversity, in an era where assimilation into conventional norms and limitations is so often valued, Ms. Vinson has the students learning about and taking inspiration from eccentric surrealist artists like Salvador Dali, innovative storyteller-activists like Faith Ringgold, whimsical fantasy creators like Mary Blair and her iconic work for Disney’s “It’s a Small World,” and misunderstood genius Expressionists like Vincent Van Gogh. She promotes personal reflection, an appreciation for each child’s own unique identity, and artistic ownership by incorporating playful self-portraits into many projects and reinforces connectivity between all of the students in works that require each child to create one piece of a group collaboration. My kids are always very excited to tell about the projects they are working on in her classroom and delight in showing me their final product when finished. Ms. Vinson sends detailed, colorful monthly newsletters and Seesaw posts about what her students are studying with examples of their art. She maintains ongoing communication with parents to allow for participation in additional opportunities such preserving our children’s creations through Art to Remember. She also had the students take part in the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra’s “Picture the Music” contest. The students take pride in good listening skills and general behavior during her class via her “Secret Student” system, and I frequently observe children admiring her leopard mural on the wall inside the school entrance. Ms. Vinson absolutely radiates positivity, exemplifies what teaching and sharing art is all about, and reminds us why it’s so important for all students to have an art program at their school.
Children need heroes.
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2025 NOMINEES!
The list is in alphabetical order by school, then by the teacher's first name. Many teachers received more than one nomination. In some cases, we chose to reveal a summary of the nomination(s) they received. All nominees received a nomination certificate and a Teacher of the Year Cookie!
2025 NOMINEES
Alhambra Primary School- Alhambra, IL
Ben-Gil Elementary School- Gillespie, IL
- Alexandria Newton – Alex is one of those people that puts her students first! She is always excited to share what her students are doing! When it comes time for back to school she spends so much time prepping to make sure they have the best year!
- Cate Plovich – Mrs. Plovich is an exceptional teacher that puts her student’s first. She was a Teacher of the Year in the past and she deserves this award again!
- Darrick Orban – Mr. Orban deserves this award more than anyone! He is such a great teacher! I appreciate all he does for us each day!
- Kelly Stewart – I nominate Kelly for her tenure and discipline in educating our children and making each day an adventure.
- Mignon Biggs – Mrs. Biggs is new to the district and SMASE program (special education co-op) and teaches 2nd & 3rd grade. She has been nothing but wonderful to these kids. You can tell she truly loves to teach and cares so much for her students. My son has never loved a teacher so much and his reading and math skills have excelled so much this year. I hope she stays with this district a long time!
- Rachel Bethard – She is a caring and supportive teacher to all of her students. She goes that extra mile for her students! She deserves to be the next Teacher of the Year!
Bethalto East Primary School- Bethalto, IL
- Amanda Bartee – Amanda Bartee is a kindergarten teacher at Bethalto East. She is such a light for her kids each day. She sees each of their talents individually and sees where they each excel and keeps pushing them and also sees where each one needs extra time and gives them it. She is a wonderful teacher for our children this age.
- Brittany Supple – When I first relocated to Bethalto for my sophomore year of high school, I was referred to her for speech. She always made my Fridays by lighting up with a big smile and saying “I’m so proud of you!” in a very exciting tone! Now I’m doing great things as an adult thanks to her praises and advice she gave me as a student! Please bless her work as a speech teacher with this amazing nomination!
- Brooke Bekeske – I’ve heard a lot about her and it seems to me that she always has a heart of gold and definitely puts forth a lot of effort as a speech/language pathologist! Bless her work with this amazing nomination!
- Hannah Akers – Ms. Akers has made kindergarten incredibly fun for my little one. She has learned so much and is always so excited to go to school. Ms. Akers is a teacher that my daughter will remember for the rest of her life.
- Heather Vassos – My son loves being in Mrs. Vassos’ class! She makes learning fun and exciting while still challenging him!
- Leah Whitaker – My daughter has been in Mrs. Whitaker’s pre-k class for the past two school years and will be going into Kindergarten next school year. Mrs. Whitaker is THE BEST pre-k teacher any parent could hope for. My daughter is excited for school every single day and genuinely loves school. My daughter has blossomed as a student and peer through Mrs. Whitakers leadership and encouragement. I have no doubt she has been lead on a path where she will succeed in Kindergarten as well. She is prepared as she could ever be thanks to Mrs. Whitakers guidance. We are truly thankful to have such an extraordinary teacher for the past two years.
- Melissa Harrop – She is kind to the young students at the school. She treats people with kindness and deserves this award more than anyone!
- Melissa Middleton – She is a good teacher in and out of the classroom, while she has a full class to teach, she also is a great mom and mentor to her son, Camden. Camden is a Honor Roll student at Trimpe Middle School and also a multi-sport athlete. As you can see Mrs. Middleton is a great nominee because she is awesome all around and a very hard worker!
- Monica Barrows – My child is so anxious to learn, but because Mrs. Barrows natural ability to connect with her students, my child is excelling like never before. She deserves this award!
- Tammy Hyman – Tammy is the reason I became a teacher myself. She has dedicated her entire life to her students. When she’s not at school, teaching the youth of today, she’s at home preparing lessons to ensure the students get the most out of each valuable minute at school. She’s the epitome of the perfect teacher.
Bunker Hill High School- Bunker Hill, IL
- Amy Roller – Mrs. Amy Roller has been an amazing addition to the Bunker Hill High School Faculty and Staff! She teaches 9th and 11th grade English and continually challenges her students. Seeing the benefit of offering advanced courses, Mrs. Roller is also seeking a master’s degree with a vision of offering dual credit English courses in the near future. Thank you, Mrs. Roller, for challenging your students and being a positive influence at BHHS!
- Cynthia Albrecht-Tipler – She is the best math teacher at our school and my favorite teacher all together. She is the best at explaining math in a way that everyone understands as well as never discriminating against students who have a harder time learning. She is also a very sweet person altogether and is always bubbly.
- Doug Banwart – Mr. Banwart is such a blessing to Bunker Hill! Not only is he a teacher, he is a bus driver, and host for a foreign exchange student. He gives his all in the classroom and has such a positive impact on his students.
- Suzanne Spickerman – She helps every kid she comes in contact with, she goes above and beyond to help any family that is in need of help. She truly cares for her students. She deserves this award!
- Theresa Dissen – Mrs. Theresa Dissen is the school counselor at Bunker Hill High School, and she has made a significant impact in the lives of current BHHS students and alumni. Recently, she accompanied a group of senior students to Lewis & Clark Community College. Upon their return, students were complimenting her for her assistance in making the high school-to-college transition a smooth one. Also, BHHS alumni often contact Mrs. Dissen for career advice, recommendation letters, and to thank her for the help she provided while in high school. Thank you, Mrs. Dissen!
Carlinville High School - Carlinville, IL
- Jeff Hammann – Mr. Hammann is my FFA advisor and ag teacher. He is very sweet, caring, and silly. He makes us laugh every day from the random things he says. He makes sure your home life is well, and helps you if not. He pushes you to be your best version of yourself.
- Lane Harmon – He has done so much for Carlinville High School and the band program. We are so incredibly lucky to have Harmon here at CHS. He is such a lively teacher and always makes sure we do our work. He relates to us as students and is always making us laugh. I want to nominate him because he has done so much for CHS and CMS band programs. He deserves to have a great recognition as an amazing teacher to all of us.
Civic Memorial High School- Bethalto, IL
- Allyssa Kostyshock – Miss Kostyshock has been such an inspiration to my daughter. She has been so compassionate, friendly and always makes sure my daughter does her best.
- Angela Wood – Mrs. Wood is not any ordinary teacher. She is the Spanish teacher at CM, and she makes sure to go the extra mile every day in order to make sure the students are both learning and having fun. She makes every class engaging and educational. But, that isn’t what truly sets her apart. Her greatest strength is her connection with her students. She takes time to have relationships with everyone who enters her class, and ensures that they know they are safe and loved. She makes every student feel special and is a role model that people can both look up to and confide in. Mrs. Wood is the best!
- Anita Steinmann – She’s a counselor and is always very welcoming and definitely gave me strength to be a good man! Please nominate and bless her work!
- Ann Payne – She’s the office secretary and she always made me smile by being very kind and polite!
- Ashley Wallis – She helps us whenever we need it! She makes the classroom a perfect environment. She deserves this award because she is the best teacher!
- Baylee Ridings – She is kind and caring and takes great effort and concern in my child’s learning. She exemplifies leadership and what it means to guide our youth into adulthood.
- Bradley Gruen – Mr. Gruen works hard for his students to understand the material. He cares about us and our academics. He has a passion for what he teaches and strives to expand our knowledge on math. He is over qualified for his position, but stays because he wants to help us. He offers after school tutoring, in school help, and hints if we are struggling in class. Gruen wants us to understand and be able to utilize what we are learning in everyday situations. Plus, he sponsors many clubs for the betterment of our school. Overall, he is a passionate and helpful teacher.
- Bradley Phillips – He is a great math teacher that helps us whenever we need it! He makes math more understandable! He deserves to be the next Teacher of the Year!
- Brett Kalker – Brett has been an absolutely amazing teacher. You can tell he truly loves his job and is there for his students. He is a part of many different programs such as a coach for boys bowling, the sound board operator/ music man for assemblies and theater. As a coach he made the kids do an “application” not just try out. They had to talk with him but, talk about what they’ve accomplished. It made them uncomfortable, so when they have a job interview it might not be so bad.
- Brianne Jakes – I’ve had Mrs. Jakes the last two years in a row, and she has made such a big impact on how I view the world. Whether it’s during a lecture in class or a personal conversation, she has opened my eyes to so many different things. Not only is she an amazing teacher who always grades fairly and on time, she teaches lessons that actually say something to teenagers. She is extremely kind, welcoming, and caring towards all of her students. I always feel safe and comfortable in her classroom, and I strongly believe she deserves this award.
- Charles Baldwin – He is a great and understanding teacher. He goes above and beyond for his students! He greatly deserves this award!
- Charlie Brown – I am nominating this teacher because they are very helpful and encouraging. He inspired all of his students to try new things. He makes class so much fun!
- Clarissa Maag – Clarissa is such a great inspiration to my son. He comes home every day and explains how “Mrs. Maag makes math FUN!” He is excited to get his homework done and turned in on time. Clarissa is a treasure. She truly deserves this award.
- Clinton Walters – Mr. Walters is a wonderful teacher. He is always there to help a student out with what they need! He deserves to be the next Teacher of the Year!
- Dolores Smith – This particular educator watches the kids she teaches that struggle, whether it was inside or outside of school and helps them. In particular, me. When I was going through my issues, she helped me get on my feet and made sure I was okay every day. She did this for me as well as many other students. She is the best teacher!
- Jacob Book – Jake puts a lot of work into helping the kids. Not only does he teach, but he helps with the afterschool basketball program and helps oversee the E-Sports program. Even though he has a lot on his plate going on personally, he wanted to make sure that he didn’t miss any school. A lot of the boys at Civic Memorial look up to him. At their regional basketball game, I was there to personally see the light Jake brought to the team. They were down at half time, and when they came out of the locker room, Jake was jumping with the boys, giving them “knuckles” and letting them know they could come back. They did come back, but at last second, the other team score the final point. After the game, Jake was tearing up. He said that those boys worked so hard and they only deserve greatness. At that moment, I knew he needed to be nominated. He makes a difference at Civic Memorial.
- Jacob Carlson – I am nominating Mr. Carlson because he has prepped me to move forward into college with confidence in my writing. Mr. Carlson is genuinely one of the smartest people I’ve ever met and he brings his wisdom into the classroom daily. Mr. Carlson is funny and kind while also pushing us to be the best that we can be. I love being in his English 132 class!
- Jared Reynolds – He always insures everyone is doing their best and pushes them to grow. He deserves this award!
- Jeremy Christeson – Mr. Christeson was my son Scott’s shop teacher. Scott loved every single minute of being in his class. He said he learned so much about building, but he also learned a lot about life! He said Mr. Christeson also gave life lessons along with shop lessons! Scott looked forward to the class every single day!
- Julie Baker – Being the school psychologist, she always gave me great advice and always had a big smile and always lit up when I had something positive to say about myself! Her wisdom gave me strength to move forward and be a better person! Take some time and nominate her for this!!!!
- Katie Wooldridge – I was a special education student upon my arrival in Bethalto as a sophomore in high school. This lady, however helped me overcome my struggles my first year there and she always gave me tons of great advice! Take some time and nominate her for this because in my heart, she indeed deserves it more than anything!
- Mason Jerman – Mr. Mason is the absolute best!!! He is the assistant teacher for 3 of my classes and he is so helpful and smart. He deserves this award!
- Matthew Cahalin – Matthew Cahalin is just an awesome teacher overall. He’s very nice and he helps students out if they need it. I am very lucky to have him as my teacher! He deserves this award!
- Megan Govero – She’s the athletic secretary that always has a big smile and positive attitude every day! She definitely knows how to make my days greater! Please nominate her!
- Michael Parmentier – Parmentier is such an awesome and funny teacher. He’s always respectful to all of his students and motivates everyone to play the P.E. games. He makes P.E. enjoyable. With the amount of hard work, he puts in he definitely deserves the award.
- Michaela Cahalin – Mrs. Cahalin really deserves this reward. She is always there for her students and always giving them the help, they need. She has impacted me so much it is unbelievable. She has taught me so much since the beginning of the year. I went from not knowing how to hold the sticks to playing two-page long music. She always attends events like summer break band-camp, football games, and solo and ensembles. She never misses her students’ events. She deserves this reward and I could never find a better band teacher than her.
- Michelle Rogers – She is always kind and always makes sure kids understand what she is teaching. She deserves to be named the next Teacher of the Year!
- Mira Rust – Two years ago, I worked in the school’s cafe as a senior and she was our assistant manager. She was always great at handing down criticism and helping me improve! She deserves this award!
- Nancy Schaaf – Mrs. Schaaf is a great teacher. My son loves chatting with her. She makes my son go out of his comfort zone and try things that might scare him. She is a great teacher.
- Nicole Dodds Marconi – Nicole Marconi is single handedly shaping this generation by being a wise, smart, and helpful teacher in my life every day. She deserves this award!
- Rachael Varland – This teacher has changed my child’s outlook on life and school after he endured some very unfortunate life hurdles. She has repeatedly gone above and beyond assisting students who need it the most.
- Raigen Schwartz – She is a very nice teacher that I am always able to talk to. She’s also very creative when finding assignments to do and always makes the class very fun. She deserves to be named the next Teacher of the Year!
- Shanna Combes – Mrs. Combes is always so cheerful and ready to give my class her best self-every day. I appreciate all she does for us. She gives us a safe class room to come into and just relax from the troubles of other classes or just life outside of school. She makes me want to be there every day just so I can see her smile. Her smile is like happiness, once you see it you have to smile because it’s just so contagious.
- Shawn Callies – This teacher is an amazing Art teacher. He has been a teacher for many years. He has taught myself and now he is teaching my son. Mr. Callies deserves to be nominated. He takes his time to teach his students everything about Art.
- Trisha Diveley – She’s the registrar for the counseling office and every time I went in there, she would always be so welcoming and have a big smile! She also gave me some great advice after graduating and I couldn’t be more proud of that! So please take some time and nominate her!
- Jaren Linton – I am nominating Mr. Linton because he is an awesome teacher that makes learning in his class so much fun! He is always helpful as well if students have questions!
Gillespie High School- Gillespie, IL
- Korben Clark – Mr. Clark always made his classroom fun to go to by being positive and having a good attitude all of the time! He has definitely made a good impact on Gillespie High School!
Gillespie Middle School- Gillespie, IL
- Alexis Lupkey – I am choosing to nominate this teacher for Teacher of the Year because she is really nice and always helps me with my work. She deserves this award!
- Angie Clark – Mrs. Clark is being nominated for good character, always doing her job, and also being kind to all of her students. Great job Mrs. Clark! Keep up the good work!
- Benjamin McCullough – He is the best teacher around that is there for all of us! He deserves to be named the next Teacher of the Year!
- Bradley Taulbee – This teacher has made a huge difference in my daughter’s middle school time. He has taught her so much and is always there to support his students/help them in any way he can. He even gives up his own after school time to practice and help the kids grow. My Daughter loves band and music and this is one class she talks about almost every day. She is always learning something new from him. He deserves this award!
- Casey Edgerton – She is a great teacher that always helps us get our grades up if we need help. She is very understanding as well and overall, the best. She deserves this award.
- Chase Peterson – I’m nominating this teacher because he is very nice and one of my favorite teachers. He would help anyone in need and that is why I think he deserves this award!
- Chelsey Murphy – I am nominating this teacher because she is the best and always there for all of us! Please make her the next Teacher of the Year!
- Christina Blevins – She is a very good teacher that you can tell loves her job. She shines above the rest and deserves to be awarded for this!
- Jacob West – Mr. West is very funny, smart, and extremely athletic. I look forward to being around him each day. He deserves this award!
- Jarrod Herron – Mr. Herron is a good person. He never fails to make my class smile with just a little joke. He always is willing to help with any work you need help with. I think you should nominate Mr. Herron because he is genuinely a good teacher!
- Jessica Kelly – She is the best teacher around. I cannot think of a better teacher for this award!
- Judy Melchert – I am voting this teacher because she is so helpful to all of the kids in PE. She is very nice and is there to help someone if they don’t know how to do something. She is my favorite teacher and I want her to be happy all the time. I hope she gets this award because she deserves it!
- Kevin McNicholas – He is super helpful with everyone and super nice. I love the fact that he calls everyone “friend”. He deserves to be the next Teacher of the Year!
- Kim Henderson – She is the best teacher that helps us all learn each day. She truly cares about us all and deserves this award!
- Kyle Lamore – He is a super funny teacher that makes school and learning fun. He deserves this award!
- Matt Brawner – Mr. Brawner, my math teacher, makes a hard subject, the best. He is exceedingly funny and is absolutely amazing at his job. He has taught me almost everything I know about math up to this point. He gives us plenty of time on assignments to make sure I can settle down and answer each question thoroughly and concisely. I feel hyped to enter math class every single day solely because of how amazing a teacher Mr. Brawner is in every way. I enjoy learning in his class much more than any other teacher I have ever had, because of both his humor and teaching skills. I truly believe that Mr. Brawner must be nominated for 8th grade teacher of the year because of the vibe he brings everywhere, how he loves to joke around and engage in thoughtful, fun discussions, like basketball, literature, and the history of Gillespie.
- Michelle Bertetto – She is sweet, kind, and caring towards all of her students. She is the best teacher that deserves this award!
- Nate Henrichs – Mr. Henrichs is a great teacher in many ways. For example, he is very nice and assigns great learning assignments. We always talk sports after class or if we have a study hall that day. He also is a teacher that will help you understand something not matter if its homework, quiz, or test he will help you. These are the reasons why Mr. Henrichs deserves this best teacher award.
- Patrick McGinthy – Mr. McGinthy is the principal of school that makes his rules loud and clear. He is awesome and deserves this award!
- Rachelle Prough – I want to nominate Mrs. Prough she has been a great teacher and she is very kind. The CUSD 7 Community is very lucky to have her!
- Shanna Connor – She is honestly the most amazing teacher I have ever had. She is my favorite teacher and person I have ever met. She is so beautiful and she has changed my perspective on life. If anyone in the world deserves Teacher of the Year, it is her! I am in High School currently, but I will forever and always vote/nominate Mrs. Connor for Teacher of the Year!
- Shelsie Timmermier – I am nominating this teacher because she is overall a nice teacher! She has helped me in rough times and has help me get caught up when I was missing work. She is there for us and she deserves this award more than anyone!
- Stephanie Wilson – I am nominating Mrs. Wilson because she is always trying her best as a teacher and helping us students learn more and more each day. She also gives us great lessons and I look forward to her class each day. She deserves to be the next Teacher of the Year!
- Tammy Garde – Laboray – She is the best teacher that shows up for her students each day. I look forward to seeing her and she always brightens my day! She deserves this award more than anyone!
Hamel Elementary School- Hamel, IL
- Amy Goebel – Amy is empathetic, understanding, kind, thoughtful, and supportive. She genuinely cares for her students. She sees our child as a whole student and ensures all of his needs are met. Amy has been patient as our son experienced his first transition from being at home all of the time to going to preschool. She has helped him grow socially and academically. Amy taught our three-year-old all of his letters and sounds by the third quarter of the year! Amy has made a positive impact in our lives.
- Jennifer Davin – Mrs. Davin has been so helpful to my son this year. Not only has he struggled a bit with reading, but I was diagnosed with cancer late 2024. Mrs. Davin has been a big support to me and to my son with identify where the learning issues are and working with me to help him at home. Mrs. Davin is a caring teacher and wants the best for all her students.
- Kelly Ackerman – Mrs. Ackerman’s kindness and patience has made a difference in both our student and parents’ life. Her commitment to our child and navigating our situation has made a lasting impact on everyone. She deserves this award!
- Lee Horan – Mrs. Horan is such a wonderful teacher. She is so fun, bubbly, and so very patient with all of her students. She creates a fun learning day each day for her kindergarteners. My son absolutely loves his teacher and loves school because of Mrs. Horan. As a parent, I could have not asked for a better teacher to create a fun, safe, and positive learning environment for my son.
Head Start Illinois Valley/South Macoupin- Benld, IL
- Tina Fries – She deserves this award because she would do anything for the kids. She enjoys spending her time teaching the kids. She is an outgoing person and has a kind heart. She really does deserve this award.
Highland Elementary School- Highland, IL
- Billy Sullivan – I cannot express the gratitude and appreciation for my child having him as a teacher. He is patient, kind and sees the good qualities in each student. My child has really struggled, but Mr. Sullivan has been patient and understanding thought the entire school year, as well as helping guide my child though the difficulties of his learning abilities. I believe he sees each student and their strong points rather than weaknesses.
- Jane Plebanek – Mrs. Plebanek has helped my daughter make amazing strides in reading and math this school year, which are two subjects my daughter has struggled with for a few years. Mrs. Plebanek cares so much about her students and lives to see them grow and succeed!
- Kendall Detweiler – I am honored to nominate my son’s third-grade teacher, Mrs. Detweiler, for Teacher of the Year. From the very first day of school, she has gone above and beyond to create an environment where her students feel valued, supported, and excited to learn. My son absolutely loves being in her class, and it’s easy to see why. Mrs. Detweiler is not just a teacher—she is a mentor, a motivator, and a cheerleader for every child in her classroom. She approaches teaching with kindness and patience, always making sure her students feel understood and encouraged. Her enthusiasm is contagious, especially when it comes to the monthly challenges. She celebrates every small victory, making each child feel like their hard work truly matters. Her dedication doesn’t stop in the classroom. She is quick to communicate with parents, providing regular updates on student progress and reaching out whenever extra support is needed. This open communication fosters a strong partnership between home and school, ensuring that each child gets the best possible support in their learning journey. There aren’t enough words to describe all the incredible things Mrs. Detweiler does for her students, but one thing is certain—she makes a lasting impact. She inspires a love for learning, builds confidence, and creates a classroom filled with joy. Our family, along with so many others, is beyond grateful for her, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of the Teacher of the Year award.
Highland Middle School- Highland, IL
- Chris Hartlieb – He is such a funny, unique, and awesome teacher. He has been at Highland Middle School many years and is retiring this year. He deserves this award to show how appreciative all the students are of him. He is truly the best there is!
- Stephanie Cummings – Mrs. Cummings is an AMAZING teacher. She cares about the students but most important she makes school FUN!
Highland Primary School- Highland, IL
- Carol Smith – Mrs. Smith has dedicated additional time this year to help my 2nd grader get caught up on reading. My student struggled, but did not qualify 1st semester for any interventions. Mrs. Smith worked extra with her and she’s mostly caught up. My daughter does not like school, but she loves going to class with Mrs. Smith. We’ve seen marked improvements in our daughter’s attitude towards school, her confidence, and reading skills. Mrs. Smith has always taken the time to listen to my concerns about my student and works with us to accomplish her learning goals.
- Jennifer Box – Mrs. Box is incredible with her students. You can tell she truly enjoys her job and is a shining light in the classroom. She deserves this award!
- Katie Henricks – In a world where some children face the harsh reality of neglect at home, one extraordinary teacher shines like a beacon of hope. Dedicated and compassionate, this educator goes above and beyond to create a nurturing environment for students who often feel invisible. Understanding that not all kids receive the support they need from their parents, this teacher steps in as a mentor, advocate, and caregiver. Every day, they provide personalized academic assistance, ensuring that each child grasps the lessons and feels empowered to learn. With patience and kindness, they create engaging lessons that spark curiosity and foster a love for learning. Beyond academics, this teacher is a source of emotional support, listening to students’ concerns and providing encouragement when they feel overwhelmed. Their classroom is a safe haven, filled with laughter, creativity, and a sense of belonging. The teacher’s unwavering belief in their students inspires them to believe in themselves, motivating them to strive for excellence even when faced with adversity at home. By building strong relationships and fostering resilience, this educator not only helps improve academic performance but also instills life lessons that will carry well beyond the classroom. In a world that can often feel unkind, this remarkable teacher represents the transformative power of compassion, showing that a caring adult can make all the difference in a child’s life. For these students, they are not just a teacher; they are a guiding light, illuminating a path towards a brighter future.
Lincoln Middle School - Edwardsville, IL
- Edmund McDaniel – Mr. McDaniel is always supporting students and helping them in any way he can. He deserves to be named the next Teacher of the Year!
- Gayle Driscoll – She is always complimenting her students and telling them to have a good evening when the bell goes off. It is the little things that mean so much to us students. She is the best and deserves to be the next Teacher of the Year!
- Jennifer Breaux – I am nominating Mrs. Breaux because she is the sweetest person to walk the planet. She is always there for us and listens to our problems. If you need someone to talk to, she will always be there. Even when she is going through her own struggles, she always prioritizes her students over anything else! She lets you come in her room as a safe space where she never will judge you. She gives the best advice and lets you vent when you need to. She is overall the best teacher and I hope she wins this award!
- Kelly Schniers – I am nominating this teacher because she always helps me if I don’t understand something in math and she is always in a good mood. You can tell she loves us students and loves to come to school each day! She is the best!
- Kristin Towell – I am nominating this teacher because she makes class fun and I look forward to it each day. She is the best teacher that needs this recognition!
- Lisa Stark – She is the best teacher that will help a student out when they need anything. She puts her heart into her teaching and truly cares for her students. She deserves to be the next Teacher of the Year!
- Maggie Patton – I am nominating Mrs. Patton because she is very nice and makes learning the cello really fun and enjoyable! She makes us want to continue playing our instruments through middle school and into high school! She is always patient with us even when we are not hitting quite the right notes. She always makes sure to help us and our music always turns out great!
- Rachel Tucker – I am nominating Mrs. Tucker because she makes class enjoyable each day. I look forward to seeing her! She is the best and I hope she wins this award!
- Samuel Mead – He is a very caring and positive teacher. You can tell he is happy to be at school with us each day. I hope he is the next Teacher of the Year because he really deserves it!
- Tom O’Malley – I am nominating Mr. O’Malley because he is a kind and amazing person who no one could live without. I couldn’t imagine who I would be if he wasn’t here. Thank you so much for all you do!
Meadowbrook Intermediate School- Moro, IL
- Janice Fee – Janice Fee not only has my son now; she had another son of mine 2 years ago and taught me back in 5th grade as well. She is the reason I wanted to become a teacher. She makes learning fun and when times were tough at home, my safe place was her classroom. She is retiring this year, yet still has the fire of a new teacher. She attends not only present students’ activities, but past students including concerts, sports, dance ceremonies, and graduation. She is that golden teacher and person that everyone admires. She has impacted so many students and people. She is truly amazing.
- Julie Oller – She is an amazing teacher that has helped me through many tough times. I am very thankful for her. She deserves this award!
- Keegin Morgan – Mrs. Keegin is by far one of the best teachers I have ever had. Through Kindergarten-5th grade when I had her I was going through a lot, and she made sure to check in on me and help me get through all of it every single day. She has helped me in so many ways and she continues to show up for us even after we haven’t had her for 3+ years. She is the best and deserves this award!
- Laura Retzer – She’s a special ed bus driver for the district. I started greeting her one day when she drove kids from the high school and since then, she’s continued to put a smile on my face! Take some time and please bless her work in the district with this amazing nomination!
- Matthew Zimmer – Mr. Zimmer made a HUGE difference in my son not just academically, but he made him love school and want to be there. He was patient and kind and he still is. We saw him in public at Walmart and he treated my son with love and compassion and kindness even outside of school. Mr. Zimmer is an amazing teacher who deserves the best of everything in life and we should have more teacher strive to be like him.
- Michele Kirby – Mrs. Kirby is an awesome teacher. She is my favorite 5th grade teacher ever. She deserves to be the next Teacher of the Year!
- Rachel Catanzaro – She has helped me through many tough times. You can tell she truly cares about us as students. She deserves this award!
- Shelby Norris – As a graduate student of Bethalto, I would say this lady helped me tremendously during my time here! I struggled a lot my first year in the district but she helped get through it all with some simple conversations to eventually a big reward at the end of senior year! Please send her some strength and bless all her hard work with a nomination!
Mt. Olive Elementary School - Mt. Olive, IL
- Adam Schulte – Mr. Schulte deserves this award because of his hard work and because he makes students excited to come to school! He is the best!
- Breanna Seely – Ms. Seely has been the best addition to the Mt Olive school district. My son had her in her first year of teaching and she made everything so fun. She brings so many great ideas and fun activities to the classroom. Two years later my son still talks about her.
- Elizabeth Childers – Mrs. Childers goes above and beyond for her students and families on a daily basis. She loves her students as her own and deserves to be recognized for her hard work and dedication as a kindergarten teacher.
Mt. Olive High School - Mt. Olive, IL
- Daniel Lesko – I am nominating my husband Daniel Lesko for teacher of the year. My husband has been teaching with the Mt Olive school district for the past 3 years. He teaches mostly dual credit classes in English and literature, including distance learning with Raymond high school. Prior to that he worked at the college level for about 15 years. I am nominating him because I am so proud of how he has embraced this new role and the community he serves. His education philosophy focuses on teaching students to think critically and celebrate our differences so that we may learn from each other. He is involved in many extra circulars including yearbook club, journalism, and student council. When he saw a student interest for more diverse after school clubs, he started a Warhammer club and dungeons and dragons club. Over the holidays he volunteered his time and with the help of the students in student council, raised money for the Mt. Olive Care Center ringing bells throughout town. He continues to pursue further education so that the district may offer more dual credit classes. I’ve always known that he is a master of his craft, but I never realized the genuine care and compassion he had for the students themselves until he came to secondary ed. He strives to provide a safe and kind environment for students so that they may feel comfortable sharing their ideas, hopes and anxieties. I feel his students would agree that he is a teacher worth celebrating.
- Heather Spudich – This teacher, not only teaches a variety of complex Science classes (Chemistry, Physics, etc.), she also puts on the annual spring play, does photography for school events, and heads the yearbook committee. She also incorporates hands on lab activities into her curriculum. She finds time to juggle all of these accomplishments while also raising 4 kids herself! She’s a dedicated educator and an asset to our community and school!
- Mike Winsel – He is a wonderful teacher. He gives the students the skills they need to help them with college. He deserves to be the next Teacher of the Year!
N.O. Nelson Elementary School - Edwardsville, IL
- Kim Jones – She is the most patient teacher and helped advocate for my son who was diagnosed with ADHD while in her class. She communicated with me daily as we navigated the diagnoses and medication process. She helped our whole family during such a difficult time. She was so sympathetic and my son loves her. She is very knowledgeable in different teaching approaches for different personalities and learning styles. She truly loves her students.
- Tamara Johnson – I am honored to nominate Tamara Johnson for this prestigious award. Ms. Johnson ‘s dedication to teaching excellence and her unwavering commitment to her first-grade students make her truly deserving of this award. Ms. Johnson has an exceptional ability to inspire young learners, fostering both academic growth and a love for learning. Her students thrive under her guidance, benefiting from her engaging and innovative teaching methods. Beyond the classroom, she consistently goes above and beyond, contributing to the school community after hours. Whether supporting school events, mentoring students, or collaborating with colleagues, her dedication is evident in all she does. Nelson Elementary is stronger because of Ms. Johnson ‘s passion and dedication to her students. She is not just a teacher -she is a role model, and advocate for students, and a leader in the community. For these reasons, I wholeheartedly recommend Tamara Johnson for this prestigious award.
Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic School- Bethalto, IL
- Kirsten Carll – She is a great teacher that truly cares about her students. You can tell she loves coming to school! She deserves to be the next Teacher of the Year!
- Laura Wagner – She is so good and inspiring to every student. She encourages them to reach their full potential. She deserves this award more than anyone!
- Loftin Woodiel – Mr. Woodiel possesses an engaging classroom presence with a love for learning and teaching! His lessons guide the students helping them access complex concepts and make connections for life-long learning. He captures his students’ interest in real-world American History and International Geography, supplementing course materials with experiences from his many national and international travels and residencies. He brings American Literature into focus, applying and associating interpretations with real life scenarios. He fostered the Reader’s Theater for his students this year, challenging them as they conquered public speaking, communications and interpretive delivery. His words following the event showed that he truly believes in each one of the students. Most significantly, he meets the students where they are at academically and socially. He delivers from the point that the students will not care what he knows, until they know that he cares about them. His words of affirmation demonstrate that he believes in my child. Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” I can attest to this level of compassion, grace and tolerance in his instructional process and life. How? Because he is not only my child’s teacher, but when I was a girl, he was mine too!
Parkside Primary School- Bethalto, IL
- Breanna Elms – She is a great asset to the school. As a mom of a special needs child who needs extra assistance at school, she is always kind and patient with him and goes the extra mile to help him learn. School has previously been frustrating for him and this year I have seen him thrive and love going! He talks about her all the time. She takes pride in her job to help her students!
- Jenny Brefeld – Mrs. Brefeld goes above and beyond to make every child feel special and every family feel included. From VIP & Star student and parent read-alouds to text reminders, photos, and personalized learning, she creates a classroom where kids feel valued, engaged, and excited to learn!
- Nicole Doyle – Mrs. Doyle is so kind and creates such a fun learning environment for her students. You can tell she loves her students and they have a mutual respect for her. My son has had so many great things to say about her as his teacher this year!
Staunton Elementary School- Staunton, IL
- Amanda Moore – Mrs. Moore is the best kindergarten teacher. She cares so much about all of her students and shows that to them. My daughter loves coming to school every day because she knows she is safe and loved at school by her teacher. Not to mention that she makes learning so fun for them with her bubbly personality. My child loves coming home and telling me all the neat things she learned throughout the day. Staunton Schools are lucky to have her on their team!
- Brenda Horn – Mrs. Horn is an excellent preschool teacher! This year, the preschool program was awarded the Gold Circle of Quality which is the highest honor given by the Preschool for All grant. Mrs. Horn deserves to be honored for that and the education she provides to Staunton School’s youngest learners!
- Brianna Bohlen – Ms. Bohlen is truly one of a kind, and I can’t think of a more deserving person for Madison’s Teacher of the Year Award. She has an incredible way of making learning fun while also keeping her classroom structured and focused. My son, Asher, absolutely loves being in her class, and I’ve seen firsthand how much of an impact she has on her students. One day, I had the chance to observe some classes, and when I stepped into Ms. Bohlen’s room during a math lesson, I was blown away. Every single student—including my own—was completely engaged in the lesson. They were so focused that hardly anyone even noticed me walk in! That kind of attention and enthusiasm speaks volumes about the kind of teacher she is. She not only challenges her students academically but also gives them unconditional support. She truly cares about them as individuals, even showing up to their extracurricular activities to cheer them on. Ms. Bohlen is more than just a teacher—she’s a mentor, a cheerleader, and a role model. Our family is so grateful for her, and we can’t thank her enough for all she does!
- Catherine Embry – It is my pleasure to nominate Mrs. Embry for Madison’s Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Embry is an AMAZING teacher, and my family has had the good fortune of having her as our children’s teacher for the past four years. She and Mrs. Horn work very well together as they co-teach our preschoolers all day long, and she does a phenomenal job of modeling good behavior and respect, teaching and reaching a wide variety of skill levels in math and reading, and helping to keep some semblance of “organized chaos” (I can only assume) when the students need to be split into smaller groups for projects or activities. Something else that I have noticed is that Mrs. Embry and Mrs. Horn rarely take days off. They know the challenge a Pre-K class can be, and they make every effort to be there for their students. That is definitely something to be admired and not overlooked. Our preschoolers and their families are extremely fortunate to have such an outstanding Pre-K program. In fact, just this year, the program received the Gold Circle of Quality Award, which recognizes Pre-K programs that achieve and maintain high standards of excellence on all seventeen state-approved learning standards. Congratulations! Not bad for a program that continues to be grant-funded each year!
- Kendra Elliott – Elliott is an incredible teacher. My son, Rory, loves being in her class. He comes home from school excited to tell us about something new he learned or a fun project they did. Mrs. Elliott has a calm and loving way about her that makes the kids feel safe and encouraged.
Staunton High School- Staunton, IL
- Brad Fulk – He is an amazing educator and a very generous person. Just today, my entire class finished their three-page paper and he bought us all doughnuts! He is the best!
- Jessica Larsen – This teacher has given me an outstanding concept in every minute of her classes and she strives to give us the best education. She deserves to be the next Teacher of the Year!
- Kari Crask – She helps us a lot with our work and is very good at explaining things. She always brings us joy and has the best energy, so we look forward to going to her class. The subject she teaches is hard, but she always helps up through it in a way we understand. She is one of the best teachers I have ever had!
- Katherine Baima – Nominating Katie because as her fiancé, I see all the extra hours and personal money she spends on her students every year. She works on grading essays or research papers mostly on her personal time nights and weekends. When she isn’t doing those things, she is planning for literature projects for her students and purchasing props to act out plays all to make the learning more memorable. Her passion for her students learning is unrivaled. My only wish is that everyone could see her dedication to her students from the view I have. She is my favorite teacher, but her students are truly the lucky ones.
- Mason Schrage – Mr. Schrage has made me love history like never before. He kept me so interested in his class and he is amazing at what he does. He knows exactly how to handle a classroom full of high schoolers and when he talks, everyone listens to him. His style of teaching has taught me so much about the history of the United States. I look forward to having him each day and there is finally a point for coming to school each day. I want to nominate Mr. Schrage for Teacher of the Year because he deserves it!
- Matthew Larsen – I am nominating this teacher because of his patience. I am a student with a learning disability and Mr. Larsen has always handled my needs in an appropriate way. His patience and ability to understand and accommodate my needs has impressed me.
- Michele Wright – I am nominating Mrs. Wright because she is always there to help and she goes out of her way to keep us on track. She also always makes sure that we are understanding the work she gives us. She is the best teacher!
- Spencer Laughlin – Mr. Laughlin is the best teacher! He deserves to be recognized for all he does for us students each day!
- Steven Shor – He is a good teacher that cares greatly about what he teaches us. He uses his life story to help make lessons relatable. He may be one of my favorite teachers ever. His lessons will stick with me for the rest of my life.
- Tamra Johnston – 2026 will be the final year teaching for my wife. 36 years! Over the years she has taught many students. She is loved by many of her current and former students and deserves to be recognized as do all the wonderful teachers in our school system!
Staunton Junior High School- Staunton, IL
- Gina Cruthis – I served as the interim principal at Staunton Junior High and I met Gina Cruthis. She teaches special ed for our 6th grader. She is amazing with her students. She has tremendous patience and a carrying nature where the students feel loved and safe within her classroom. Gina has high expectations for her students and never settles for average. She believes her kids can and will succeed. We need more people like Gina in our educational system and this why I am nominating her for this award.
- Jennifer Kaffer – Mrs. Kaffer has been such an incredible person to my son and I. She has helped him through some of the hardest days and is such an asset to Staunton School. We both miss her so much during summer break. She is the best!
- Sarah Schulte – She is one of the greatest teachers I have ever had. She has always been there for me and she taught me lots of new things. I love her so much!
Trimpe Middle School- Bethalto, IL
- Allison Giacomini – She always has a smile on her face and a positive attitude! She is the best!
- April Wrenn – She is the best teacher that answers any questions we have. I hope she wins this award because she deserves it!
- Bailey Schmidt – She always has a smile on her face that no one can compete with! She is always so joyful and happy in the mornings. I know she works so hard for us and she is always positive even if she is having a bad day. She is a great teacher!
- Beth Schaft – I had her my first year in middle school and she made me have a passion for science. She knows how to make class fun while also still teaching us stuff. She always has a smile on her face and can easily put one on yours. She is one of my favorite teachers and I’m super sad that I can’t have her again, but I always try to talk to her whenever I get free time.
- Breanna Hamilton – She is super nice to her students and always stays after school to provide help. She is the best teacher that deserves this award!
- Brianna Wooley – Mrs. Wooley is very respectful and helpful to the kids in the school. She is the best teacher that deserves this award!
- Bruce Higgins – Mr. Higgins is very nice and funny. He is the best teacher all around! I appreciate all he does for us. He deserves this award!
- Cody Moore – Mr. Moore is an amazing and experienced teacher who always brightens my day. He has a friendly teaching style that makes everyone feel welcomed and safe. He is always keeping things in order. He understands that school can be hard and that managing grades can be difficult at times so he provides many opportunities for extra credit. He thinks that kids should strive to work hard and learn instead of only focusing on grades. He is a fun teacher and his classes always seems to fly by. Mr. Moore’s class is my favorite class of the day for a reason, he is kind, helpful, experienced, funny, and has an overall great teaching style.
- Dee Haar – I would like to nominate this teacher because she has been the best all year! I love that she takes the time to teach us the lessons and really cares about us. I appreciate her so much and will forever miss her when I move up to a different grade. She deserves this award!
- Delissa Jones – I am nominating Mrs. Jones because she is always there for me when I am anxious or struggling. I know I can always talk to her and feel safe with her. She is the best and deserves to be recognized!
- Derek Haar – Mr. Haar has been an amazing teacher throughout my time having him. He has gone out of his way to make the class educational, but also make a class a comedic scene every day. He is reasonable and realistic with how he teaches and will never tell a lie about any kind of test, assignment, or joke. He deserves to be recognized with this award!
- Jeff Ochs – I am nominating Mr. Ochs because he really makes class fun, but we also get all of our work done. He really relates things to life while teaching which is really important to me. I really like how he can be serious but he can also have a lot of fun with you.
- Jennifer Gowin – Mrs. Gowin helps us understand ELA while still having fun with us, which I think is really awesome for a teacher. She truly cares about us students and it shows! She is awesome!
- Kariann Wineland – Ms. Wineland has gone through losing many hard times this year, yet she still continues to have a smile on her face and makes children laugh with her sarcasm and humor. Ever since the first day of school she has been my favorite teacher, I look forward to going to her 2nd hour every day. She’s always so supportive and if you invite her to something she will make time to be there. That’s why Ms. Wineland is a great nominee.
- Kary Morgan – Kary Morgan is the best teacher I have ever had! In her class we are always laughing all while still learning a lot! She likes to know about us and what we did over the weekend. It is nice to get to talk to her on a personal level. She is always very nice if you don’t hear her question, she will repeat it without a problem or if you need help, she is always there for you. I really like her and will miss her next year. Her teaching gave me a new mindset on science and how things work. This is why I believe Kary Morgan deserves to be the next Teacher of the Year!
- Kori Budde – Mrs. Budde goes above and beyond not only for her students, but for any student she meets. She helps them each to meet educational, social, and personal goals. She makes connections with each one of them and becomes a safe place for them to go. Mrs. Budde is always willing to help out students and fellow staff members in any way she can. She truly cares for those around her. Mrs. Budde is a fantastic teacher!
- Lori Dozier – I am nominating Mrs. Lori Dozier because she is a wonderful teacher! She is great at making sure her students understand the math lesson before leaving her classroom. She cares about us and deserves this award!
- Lori Wuellner – She is an extremely nice person that is always willing to help out when you need help. She is always keeping the library so neat and is always in a great mood! She deserves to be recognized!
- Lucas Reincke – Mr. Reincke is very kind, thoughtful and caring. He wants all of his students to excel in social studies. He makes the material fun and challenging and always adds his little twist to it. He is overall the best teacher around that deserves this award!
- Lynda Marshall – Ms. Marshall has taught me so much with music. She’s the only director I’ve had that has actually taught me how to use my voice correctly. She makes me a stronger singer. She has pushed me to do my best and to try out for new things. Without her I wouldn’t be where I am today. I’ve created a bond with her that I wouldn’t want to change. She keeps me motivated!
- Madisyn Sheraka – Ms. Sheraka should win the Teacher of the Year award because she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every student succeeds. She creates an engaging and inclusive classroom environment where everyone feels valued and encouraged to participate. Her innovative teaching methods make learning enjoyable and effective, and she is always available to provide extra help and support when needed. Additionally, she fosters a sense of community and respect among students, making the classroom a positive and collaborative space. Her dedication and passion for teaching truly make a difference in the lives of their students.
- Maria Roach – I am nominating Mrs. Roach because she is always helping my peers and I with our classroom work. She always walks in the classroom with a smile and good attitude, even when the students aren’t respectful and kind. Mrs. Roach is always trying her best to keep us engaged in class work activities as well. She makes sure every student gets a chance to speak or answer questions and rewards those who put in the extra effort. She is the best and deserves this award more than anyone else!
- Christian Burnet – He is a great teacher that is there for all of his students! He deserves to be recognized with this amazing award!
- Megan Stewart – She is the best teacher! She always makes sure to do her best for us and explain things when we are confused. She is patient with us and deserves to be recognized as the next Teacher of the Year!
- Nancy Butterfield – I vote for Nancy Butterfield because she is such a hard worker and so nice to all of her students. She never gives up on us and puts her heart and soul into what she does! She is very understanding and deserves to be the next Teacher of the Year!
- Nikki Starks – She is the best teacher that always helps me when I have questions. She makes me feel better when I am down and I am so lucky to have her as my teacher this year. I will be so sad without her next year. Love you Ms. Starks!
- Peter Midgley – Mr. Midgley is a great teacher and student council advisor. He is always helping his students and helping form strong leaders. Mr. Midgley is a very giving person and takes on many new ideas and schools clubs for students to reach out.
- Rick Reinhart – I would like to nominate Mr. Reinhart because he is the best teacher! He inspires me to be a P.E. teacher every day of my life and helps me to improve in sports. He is the best!
- Sandy Erzen – She is currently the assistant principal for the middle school, but during her time as one for the high school, she always made my days with her positive attitude. She really helped me see the error of my ways back then. Please bless her work with this award!
- Sarah Andersen – She goes above and beyond for her students. She truly cares about them during and after school hours and always make sure they have the tools needed to be successful. As the lead teacher in Eagle Academy, Sarah is compassionate, experienced, and dedicated to making sure students succeed. Her dedication is seen in the leaps and bounds students make in gains while in her class and how proficient she is at communicating with them. She is a wonderfully capable individual who truly found her calling with teaching.
- Sarah Hughes – Ms. Hughes stepped up when a fellow math teacher was ill. She gave stability to the kids as the teacher declined and eventually passed. She took over as their main teacher and it was an immediate difference in grades for my son and other classmates. She has poured everything she has into these kids. Trimpe is so lucky to have her as a math teacher!
- Sarah Walker – She is so nice and sweet to her students! We are so lucky to have her. I will miss her so much when I am in high school. Thank you for all you do, Mrs. Walker!
- Suzie Moore – I want to nominate Mrs. Moore because she is so generous, caring, and thoughtful of others around her. She takes time out of her day to help other teachers around her, but most importantly her students. She works so hard for all of her students to be the best that they can be, so that is why I nominate Mrs. Moore.
- Terri Morgenroth – I have chosen Mrs. Morgenroth for multiple reasons. She is great at teaching because I understand everything, she teaches to us. Another reason is because she always has a smile on her face and puts one on mine also. She is just really kind and has a great attitude. Those are reasons why I have chosen my kind and beloved teacher Mrs. Morgenroth.
- Tiffany Perry – She made learning math much easier for me and many others. She also isn’t afraid to speak up when someone is doing something wrong. She always helps us if we need it and she deserves to be the next Teacher of the Year!
Wolf Ridge Elementary School- Bunker Hill, IL
- Dawn Gockel-Jones – Mrs. Gockel-Jones knows me better than almost anyone! She talks with me each day after school and always makes me feel so loved. She is funny and is always there for us! She deserves this award!
- Elora McLaughlin – Mrs. McLaughlin goes above and beyond to show her students and their families how much she cares for them. She has dedicated her life to her precious first graders for over thirty years! Her students are her love, her passion, and her heart. She spends countless hours outside of class time to plan engaging activities, reach out to families in need or come up with the next morale boosting activity for students and/or staff. She has also proudly led student council students and served as a Bunker Hill cheer coach for the majority of her professional life in our district. While this is Mrs. McLaughlin’s last year as a classroom teacher, her impact will be felt for so many more years to come. It would be amazing for her to receive this recognition in her final year before retirement. She will forever be remembered for her kindness, unconditional love, and her passion of the profession.
- Erin McAfee – Erin Mcafee is our reading and math intervention teacher. She works constantly to improve struggling students’ skills. She looks for new ways to teach these skills, and yet, relies on tried-and-true methodology. The kids look forward to the time they spend under her instruction, and are sad when they “graduate” from her class, after achieving grade level standards. She is an early greeter each day in the morning upon the kids’ arrival, as she welcomes each by name to start a new day at WolfRidge. She constantly helps other teachers implement strategies in their own classrooms to help improve instruction. She is a well-loved, team player by staff. She has a way of taking a problem; solving it, and never asking for praise for doing so. Erin should be the next Teacher of the Year!
- Faith Buerkett – Faith Buerkett is a rockstar in the classroom! As a first-year teacher, she demonstrates a natural ability to engage her kindergarten students and ensure each one of them feel part of a true classroom community. Faith has been a positive influence on our school, and we are lucky to have her at BH8.
- Joseph Manar – Mr. Manar has been a great influence on my child and definitely deserves to be nominated for this award! Thank you for all you do for my child and your students!
- Lori Schmidt – Mrs. Schmidt is very kind and welcoming to all of us in the classroom. You can tell she truly wants to be there for us! She is the best!
- Megan Murphy – Mrs. Murphy is one of the kindest and most understanding people I know. From the moment I entered her classroom for 6th-grade math, she welcomed each student with compassion. She has a fun way of teaching and connecting with every student, creating a lasting impact. She is one of the teachers I have missed dearly since transferring schools. I hope she gets nominated because she truly deserves this award.
- Raegan Holley – Ms. Holley is a first-year preschool teacher, but you would never know it. She shows positivity and passion for teaching our youngest students at Wolf Ridge. Ms. Holley never complains and is always willing to help in any way. In her inclusive preschool classroom, Ms. Holley promotes acceptance and values all of her students as if they were her own. She has a big heart for kids and it shows!
Woodland Elementary School - Edwardsville, IL
- Emily Kowalski – Ms. K reaches out directly to the parents with any concerns and always messages back instantly with solutions. She goes above and beyond with our son and is very patient with him, and she keeps his attention which is a huge task! Ms. K gives the kids as much outside time as possible, helps my son tremendously getting his energy out. She throws the best class parties and is always awarding their good behaviors. She is a breath of fresh air, making school the best place to learn and still fun like old times! I can’t say enough good things about her, but I love how I have her number if I ever need to reach out to her! Ms. K cares so much about her kids to make each school day special! We need more teachers like her!
- Lora Wagner – Mrs. Wagner is an exceptional teacher who strives to instill a sense of responsibility and accountability in her students. At the beginning of the school year, I noticed a major positive shift in my son’s attitude and behavior regarding homework, and I attribute this to Mrs. Wagner’s influence. She has developed an effective system using cards and check marks to hold students accountable for their behavior and completed work. They look forward to the end of the month reward “party” and understand that if they have incomplete work, they will be making it up at this time. These sound like simple things, but her teaching methods have made a huge difference in my son’s commitment to learning. In addition, Mrs. Wagner is consistent in her expectations for the students. She sets high expectations, and the students strive to meet them. Notably, Mrs. Wagner genuinely cares for her students and appreciates each of their unique abilities and interests. She knows my son’s career interests, hobbies, friends, and appreciates how his brain works. I expect she knows this about each of her students. Any time I have contacted her with a concern about my son, she has worked with us to help him address the issue. Mrs. Wagner is compassionate about teaching and utilizes effective strategies to instill a sense of responsibility and enthusiasm for learning in each of her students. It is evident that she is a true expert in her field, and we are grateful for our son’s experience with her as his 4th grade teacher. Mrs. Wagner is well deserving of this recognition. It is with great pleasure that I recommend her for the Madison Communications Teacher of the Year!
Worden Elementary School- Worden, IL
- Cari Feco – Mrs. Feco is an outstanding educator that goes above and beyond to unlock each student’s full potential. She meets the needs of all students. Mrs. Feco creates a positive learning environment where students feel welcome and comfortable to take risks in their educational journey. Mrs. Feco has made a difference in countless students’ lives. She deserves to be Teacher of the Year.
- Sarah Brown – Mrs. Brown has been a phenomenal teacher! She has gone above and beyond to assist all her students and especially my son to receive the best education possible to fit his unique needs. She is creative with her assignments. She is incredibly warm and loving to her students. She is encouraging and genuinely cares about them as people. She is a person who gives freely of herself to help others. Her students love her!
Zion Lutheran School- Bethalto, IL
- Amanda Densmore – I am thrilled to nominate Mrs. Densmore for this award. She is a kind and compassionate teacher who builds strong relationships with her students, creating a supportive and engaging learning environment. Her expertise in teaching is evident in the progress my daughter has made this year. Thanks to Mrs. Densmore’s encouragement and guidance, my daughter feels confident and well-prepared for middle school. Her dedication to her students’ success makes her truly deserving of this recognition.
- Autumn Reed – Autumn is incredible she is a preschool teacher and runs our SIPPS program for grade school students. She does it all with a smile and reassurance. Her tender and caring heart shines through to each and every student. She’s a great part of our team. In addition to teacher, mom, wife, and friend she is also a full-time student furthering her education. She’s gives teaching her absolute all and the growth we see in students each year is incredible.
- Holly Rupprecht – Holly Rupprecht is an exceptional Kindergarten teacher who continually seeks innovative ways to enhance learning at Zion Bethalto. Each year, she dedicates time to creating engaging, hands-on experiences—sometimes messy, but always memorable—for her students. For nine years, she has dreamed of building an outdoor classroom, and now that dream has finally become a reality! Her dedication, creativity, and passion make her a remarkable asset to Zion and a true blessing to her students.
- Jackie Lerner – Mrs. Lerner is a preschool teacher for three-year-olds at Zion Bethalto. On their first day of school, she warmly welcomes them with hugs, helping them feel safe and loved. She teaches them about Jesus, friendship, the ABCs, numbers, shapes, and so much more. Watching her interact with her young students is truly a blessing. Not everyone is suited for working with children in their first year of school, but Mrs. Lerner rises to the occasion every day. Her past and current students adore her and speak of her with fondness. By the time they move on to four-year-old preschool, they can spell their names, recognize shapes and colors, recite the days of the week, and most importantly, they take with them a love for learning.
- Jeanne Schultz – Mrs. Schultz is everything a teacher should be and more! She is patient, understanding, and caring. She truly gets to know her students and treats them with love and kindness. Her classroom is a welcoming environment that encourages students to try new things and explore new topics. Both of my children were lucky enough to have her and have learned so much from her. Mrs. Schultz leaves a lasting impression on her students as my daughter still gets excited to see her 3 years later!
- Katie Ray – She is an amazing preschool teacher! Extremely patient with her students and if they are anything like my child, they adore her!
- Megan Pfeiffer – Megan tirelessly goes above and beyond in serving her students. She stays after hours to help students with homework or those who have fallen behind with homework or those who need extra help to succeed. She also participates in extra-curricular activities that bring both fellow teachers and staff together to grow in community with one another. The best thing about her is the engagement level at which she interacts with students. I’ve seen students of all social levels have positive interactions with her including laughing, sharing stories, learning new things about each other, and working together to achieve a goal. This creates a safe community where students are accepted for who they are and are welcomed with a smile. It’s within this type of environment that students thrive academically, socially, and mentally.
- Sara Buckley – Sara Buckley is an amazing teacher. She is so kind and caring and really takes the time to listen to the kids. My child has said that she is their favorite teacher so far! My child really enjoys going to school every day because she makes learning so engaging. On top of all of that, Ms. Buckley has created a safe environment for all kids in her room. She is the best!
- Sarah Lorenz – I am honored to nominate Mrs. Lorenz for this award. She is an exceptional teacher who goes above and beyond to ensure that every student receives the support they need. Through her dedication and guidance, she fosters independence in her students, encouraging them to take ownership of their learning. My child has grown tremendously under her care and would not be thriving as he is without her unwavering support. Mrs. Lorenz’s passion for teaching and her ability to inspire confidence in her students make her truly deserving of this recognition.
- Sherry Brueck – My daughter has formed such a great bond with her! She’s wonderful with the kids! My daughter is always coming on telling me of all the things Mrs.B has taught her that day.
Zion Lutheran School- Staunton, IL
- Cheryl Best – Mrs. Best has taught my daughter so much this year in fourth grade. She does such a great job with the kids and is great about passing on information to the parents also. She deserves this award!
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