State Board, IEA and IFT recognize more than 20 educators for their outstanding performance in specific content areas

 Award recognition luncheon features teachers from across the state

 

Springfield, IL – The Illinois State Board of Education, along with the Illinois Education Association and the Illinois Federation of Teachers, honored 22 teachers from across the state for their outstanding achievement in a variety of subject areas during a luncheon Thursday at the Executive Mansion in Springfield. The educators were chosen as the best in their field of expertise during the 2010-11 school year by their respective professional education organizations.

“Most of us have memories of an extraordinary teacher who made a difference in our lives,” said State Superintendent of Education Christopher A. Koch. “They were most likely people whose concern for us, passion and expertise motivated us to learn and excel and we were never quite the same. It is exactly those types of teachers who we are honoring here today and who have made an impact on countless of their own students in the past year and for years to come.”

Thursday’s event was the first Exemplary Teacher Recognition Award Luncheon.

“We are proud to recognize these outstanding teachers and we know there are many, many great teachers throughout the state,’’ said IEA President-elect Cinda Klickna. “This is just one way that we can honor the work educators provide everyday to make sure students are engaged and learning.’’

Each fall, the ISBE names one teacher of the year and recognizes more than 150 educators nominated by their own district or members of their communities for outstanding service. Alton High School English and journalism teacher Annice Brave was named the Illinois Teacher of the Year last fall and was one of four finalists for the National Teacher of the Year. Thursday’s event honored those cited by their peers and professional leaders.

“These top teachers have been honored by various professional organizations for their excellence in the classroom,’’ said IFT President Dan Montgomery. “Illinois has some of the best and brightest teachers in every field and today we’re taking time to honor the incredible work they do to prepare our future leaders.”

The following teachers were recognized at Thursday’s luncheon: