Middle School: ISBE Announces the 2023 Those Who Excel Award Winners
Published by Ms. VerVynck on Feb 03, 2023

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has honored 490 Illinoisans for their extraordinary contributions to education across the state through its annual Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards. This year two of those awardees come from District 106.

Highlands' own, Mrs. Lauren Fountas, received an award of Meritorious Service in the category for Educational Support Personnel.

And, Mr. Stetson Steele, received an award of Special Recognition in the category for Admin.

The annual Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards celebrate incredible classroom teachers, administrators, teams, volunteers, and school support personnel who have made lasting impacts on the students, families, and fellow educators in their school communities. ISBE will celebrate the awardees at a banquet on April 29.
 
"Illinois educators get up every day and perform one of the most difficult jobs in our state—and these excellent teachers, volunteers, and administrators honored by ISBE went above and beyond that already exceptional call to serve," said Governor JB Pritzker. "I'm thrilled to recognize teachers alongside librarians, custodians, volunteers, and other support personnel who all contribute to our students' wellbeing. Just like Illinois as a whole, it takes many skills and roles to keep a school running and to build the next generation of outstanding Illinoisans. Congratulations to today's honorees and on behalf of the State of Illinois, thank you for your service."
 
The Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards recognize the people who make education in Illinois so incredible.  Please help us in celebrating Mrs. Fountas and Mr. Steele!  Congratulations to them both!  There are no two people more deserving of this honor.