Congratulations to our own Mrs. Heil!
ISBE recognizes educators through Those Who Excel and Teacher of the Year Awards
From ISBE:
The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) today announced 14 Teacher of the Year Cohort members and recognized nearly 450 educators, administrators, and other school staff through its annual Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards. The awards spotlight individuals whose dedication, innovation, and leadership are making a meaningful difference for students and school communities across Illinois.
“I’m incredibly proud to congratulate the 2026 Those Who Excel awardees and Teacher of the Year Cohort, an outstanding group of leaders in education from up and down the state,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “These honorees have dedicated themselves to inspiring our students, setting the next generation up for success, and working tirelessly to make their schools — and our state — a premier place for education.”
“Illinois’ educators are the heart of our schools and the foundation of our future,” said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. “The 2026 Those Who Excel awardees and Teacher of the Year Cohort exemplify the passion, leadership, and commitment it takes to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive. I am grateful for their service to schools, families, and communities across Illinois — congratulations to this year’s honorees.”
Those Who Excel Awards are presented in six categories: classroom teachers, early career educators (1-4 years of teaching experience), school administrators, student support personnel, educational service personnel, and community volunteers.
Calhoun CUSD #40 Elementary Principal Mrs. Jean Heil was presented with the Award of Meritorious Service. Educators presented with the Award of Meritorious Service have gone above and beyond in service to their school communities. They are experienced educators who take on leadership opportunities and whose accomplishments uplift the culture of learning in their school. They stand as exemplars of their profession and have become integral members of their schools and districts.