Regional Office of Education 47

Lani Lawson's Teach- Train - Thrive Presented by : Illinois Elevating Special Educators Network June 6th in Macomb June 11th in Dixon June 25th in Peoria August 14th in Sterling @RegionalOffice47 #RegionalOffice47

Congratulations to Rock Falls High School student Israel Alvarado was featured in the Midwest Technical Institute welding competition video. He placed 13th out of Midwest region competition. @RegionalOffice47 #RegionalOffice47

CONGRATULATIONS to Mrs. Stacy Germann who is the 2024 Marigold Award Winner! Stacey is a reading interventionist at Fulton Elementary School and was nominated by Principal Jeffrey Hoese. I am honored and privileged to nominate Mrs. Stacy Germann for the ROE 47 Marigold Award in recognition of her exceptional contributions and leadership to our school community. Stacy currently serves as a reading interventionist at the Greatest Little Elementary School in the Universe (also known as Fulton Elementary School) and as the varsity volleyball coach at Fulton High School. Her 29-year career has made a lasting impact in our district as she devotes so much time, expertise, and energy to our students. Stacy is a devoted and passionate educator with a keen focus on early literacy. She works with students in our low reading rooms in both Kindergarten and first grade, provides tier 3 and tier 2 intervention support for students in grades K-2, and supports our highest need first graders as a certified and trained Reading Recovery teacher. Using student data, Stacy is vital to our school process in identifying students who need additional support and collaborates with colleagues in helping to meet those needs. To start the 23-24 school year, FES had an open interventionist position that needed to be filled for the entire first semester by a long-term substitute teacher. Putting students first, Stacy took it upon herself to handle the additional lesson planning, preparation, and organizing for the substitute which essentially doubled her own workload. She has also provided key mentorship to several new K-2 teachers throughout the year helping them with literacy strategies and planning. During the second semester, Stacy has provided additional mentorship and support to a Steamer alum who graduated college in December and is currently teaching abroad in Thailand. She has stayed in close contact with the alum, provided key mentorship, and sent her numerous literacy materials to help her be successful. It is amazing to see Stacy’s impact is not just restricted to our Steamer Nation community, but is international as well! In addition, Stacy is currently in the first year of the LETRS cohort offered through ROE 47. She has taken it upon herself to begin piloting many of the concepts and strategies she has learned in order to share her experiences with her colleagues. Her leadership has also led to meaningful collaboration with our Early Literacy Team as we look to restructure our curriculum and process with our early learners. Moreover, Stacy consistently makes positive contributions to our school climate and culture. Her enthusiasm, professionalism, and dedication to continuous improvement as well as her advocacy for students have had a profound impact on our students, staff, and families alike. Her ability to build strong relationships and create a welcoming and inclusive environment is truly commendable. I believe that Stacy Germann is highly deserving of the ROE 47 Marigold Award for her leadership qualities, positive impact on our school community, and outstanding performance of continually going above and beyond. She truly embodies the spirit of excellence and dedication that this award seeks to recognize. In this school year alone, she has coached a successful and busy varsity volleyball season, performed outstandingly in the classroom, mentored numerous new teachers, doubled her workload in assisting our long-term interventionist substitute, supported a Steamer alum teaching internationally, and done all of that while tackling the LETRS coursework. This may be her 29th year in education, but I would confidently say this is her finest year yet. Thank you for being a marigold in our schools! Congratulations!

Let's Feed the Children! @RegionalOffice47 #RegionalOffice47

Congratulations to all the Marigold Award Nominees and stay tuned to see our winner named! We are so excited to be announcing our 2024 Marigold Award Winner on Monday, May 13th !

Parents as Teachers had a great time at the YWCA's Cinco de Mayo Wellness Festival on Friday, May 3rd. @RegionalOffice47 #RegionalOffice47

CONGRATULATIONS to Jennifer Popejoy, who was nominated for the Marigold Award! Jennifer is a teacher at Riverdale was nominated by Catherine Workman. This was Jennie's first year teaching our Special Ed class. It was something expected and anticipated but a great challenge. Jennie started out nervous, unsure, and unprepared for the struggles she would face, including multiple times where she was short staffed and her paraprofessionals changed throughout the years. It has been a year where the needs of her students have been the highest we have seen. Rather than feel defeated each day, and just take on an attitude of "after this year I won't have to do this", Jennie has risen to the occasion. Jennie has formed beautiful relationships with her special students, found new ways to teach and reach each one. Jennie still has difficult days, such is the life of a teacher, but she has truly embraced this role and her students have made amazing progress under her guidance this year. She has let their victories, great or small, bring her joy. I am incredibly proud to be able to witness Jennie's transformation this year. An already fantastic teacher, became an outstanding one. Thank you for being a marigold in our schools!

CONGRATULATIONS to Diane Gould, who was nominated for the Marigold Award! Diane is a teacher at Washington Elementary School and was nominated by Ellen Johnson. I am writing this letter to enthusiastically recommend Diane Gould for the Marigold Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to education. Diane is a remarkable educator who has dedicated her career to fostering a positive learning environment and shaping the lives of countless students. She is completing her last year of teaching and will be going into her retirement era! Diane has dedicated many years to the field of education, and throughout her tenure, she has consistently demonstrated qualities that set her apart as an exceptional teacher. Her kindness is evident in every interaction, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere in her classroom. Students feel supported and valued under her guidance, which greatly contributes to their academic success and personal growth. One of Diane's most admirable traits is her unwavering dedication to her students' well- being and academic achievement. She goes above and beyond to ensure that each student receives the attention and support they need to thrive. Whether it's offering extra help during lunch breaks or providing encouraging words during challenging times, Diane consistently goes the extra mile for her students. Furthermore, Diane is a supportive colleague who actively collaborates with her peers to improve teaching practices and enhance the overall learning experience. Her willingness to share ideas, offer guidance, and lend a helping hand has had a positive impact on the entire school community. I am so sad that I have only been able to work with her for a short amount of time. As Diane embarks on the next chapter of her life in retirement, it is only fitting to recognize her outstanding contributions and legacy in education. She has left an indelible mark on her students, colleagues, and the school community as a whole. I wholeheartedly endorse Diane Gould for the Marigold Award and believe that she is more than deserving of this honor. Her kindness, dedication, and supportiveness have made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She is a true Marigold. Thank you for being a marigold in our schools!

CONGRATULATIONS to Missy Foster, who was nominated for the Marigold Award! Missy is at Challand Middle School and was nominated by Kevin Dunne . In her first year at Challand, Mrs. Foster has uplifted staff and students on a daily basis & brought positive energy to get students energized and jazzed to learn about ancient cultures. Mrs. Foster challenges students to problem solve, think critically, and develop a passion for learning. She works with all of her students so that they can be as successful as they can be and works with them to reflect on their learning and apply it to their lives. She makes content that may be difficult to understand or relate, apply to student's lives and makes things that are difficult seem attainable for all her students. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Foster gets to know her students and encourages them to be involved in sports, clubs, and activities. Mrs. Fosters helps run FCA, coaches tennis, assists at lunch duty, and attends sporting events. Mrs. Foster has been an absolute delight to work alongside and works every day to make learning accessible, engaging, and relatable for her students. Thank you for being a marigold in our schools!

CONGRATULATIONS to Maggie Block, who was nominated for the Marigold Award! Maggie is a teacher at Challand Middle School and was nominated by Kelsey Stringer. Maggie has made herself available to help me learn what I need in order to be comfortable and capable in my position at Sterling Public Schools. She is responsive no matter what time of day (or night) I approach her, and tries to make sure I have the tools I need to serve our students. I could recount numerous instances in which she has been able to offer direction to help me be more efficient and effective. She also offers support with the goal of making sure her colleagues are satisfied with their jobs on a personal level - caring about the person and not just the profession. Maggie always has a smile ready, and an open door as well. Whether it's a piece of chocolate or a funny story, she knows that we need something for our soul to help make the hard days bright. Her ability to be this person is possible in part because her years of experience have made her a capable teacher who has the job under control. It is clear she desires to secure the best possible outcomes for all students at Sterling Schools regardless of their ability or background. Her work is indicative of her belief that all students can learn, and she is willing to help equip her colleagues to contribute to this shared endeavor. Maggie values and has knowledge of multiple content areas across several grade levels. She is not only an invaluable resource, but wants each team member to succeed so students can receive a well- rounded education. Finally, in addition to being committed to her work, Maggie is even more dedicated to her family. Her love for them is so obviously the impetus behind her hard work. This is a source of inspiration, and I appreciate having a role model from which to gain perspective on navigating the balance between work and family. I appreciate and have benefited greatly, both personally and professionally, from having worked alongside someone with this experience. Thank you for being a marigold in our schools!

CONGRATULATIONS to Lacy Halverson, who was nominated for the Marigold Award! Lacy is a teacher at Challand Middle School and was nominated by Linda Brown. Lacy is extremely dedicated to her students. She has an upbeat, energetic personality that is contagious and brings laughter and positivity to her students on a daily basis. Lacy has an amazing memory and understands so much about her students beyond the classroom. I have witnessed her take a student from tears to laughter in seconds and the way she offers support to those struggling is really amazing to behold. She goes to great lengths to make sure her students have all the tools and support they need to succeed. When other teachers or students are in need of assistance Lacy does not hesitate to jump in and help. Challand is a better place for having Lacy Halverson as a teacher. Thank you for being a marigold in our schools!

CONGRATULATIONS to Jessica, who was nominated for the Marigold Award! Jessica is a teacher at Washington School and was nominated by Krissy Schneider and Liz Engstrom. This has been a new year of being able to work with Jessica. She truly is the perfect example of what a Marigold should be. She is willing to go above and beyond to support the needs of not only the students but staff as well. She is a shoulder to cry and a safe place to problem solve together. Jessica thinks of the collect of the class needs as well as the what works best for an individual. Jessica helps bring the positive environment up in the school, and she gives people a boost when needed. She is a ray of light and brings joy to others. She has helped not only me but others blossom and reach their best potential this year. Thank you for being a marigold in our schools!

CONGRATULATIONS to Scott Rogers, who was nominated for the Marigold Award! Scott is a teacher at Rock Falls Middle School and was nominated by Alyssa Kruger. Scott is an incredible educator who puts in over time to make meaningful experiences for his students and build lasting relationships with them. You can clearly see his impact through the revolving door of students from previous years coming back to visit him on a regular basis. These students look up to Scott and still cherish the bond he created with them as 7th graders because he's proven to care about them as a student AND a person. He makes kids feel seen, heard, and loved and he always has an open mind and a servant’s attitude toward even the most challenging of situations. He invests in the fine details of each students’ life and every year students adore him and look forward to the time they get to spend in his classroom. As a Social Studies teacher, he works to make history come alive for students and makes it relevant to their lives today. He works with members of our community to give real world learning experiences for kids such as civil war reenactments, meeting with political leaders, and field trips to the capitol. Not only does he strive to support and nurture the whole student; he does all that he can to encourage and support his fellow educators. Scott is a selfless friend who leads the 7th grade team while already having leadership roles on the school lighthouse team, as head track coach, cardio club leader, and athletic director. Though he wears so many hats, he still puts the needs of others at the forefront and works tirelessly to make everyone else's job easier. Scott is a one of a kind teacher! Thank you for being a marigold in our schools!

CONGRATULATIONS to Chris Lantz, who was nominated for the Marigold Award! Chris is a teacher at Merrill School in Rock Falls and was nominated by Kristi Chavira. Mrs. Lantz teaches with the goal of supporting all learners to love not just their education, but also themselves. Every year she gains a new set of students and sees them through an empathetic lens of "How can I help them grow as people first and then learners?" Her instruction is built around her deep knowledge of her students and their individual needs. Her students are not just told they are capable of great things, they too believe it and strive to achieve it! She cares about her students and knows the importance of creating a lasting impression upon them. She recognizes and appreciates the need to build a strong relationship with her students, their families, and her colleagues. Mrs. Lantz is reflective in her teaching, and encourages reflection in her students also. She teaches students first how to read. Then, she teaches them how to understand what they have read. Mrs. Lantz taught Title 1/Reading Recovery for 8 years. She uses that knowledge to help her colleagues in all areas of Reading Instruction. I am the Reading Interventionist in our building, and she has given me unlimited amount of support and encouragement. Mrs. Lantz works beside her colleagues to maintain what is best for her students, as well as their students. Her students make gains beyond expectations through her continued shared knowledge and her ability to uncover what her students need the most. Mrs. Lantz communicates her students' learning with an end goal in mind. She models for the students what being a good person is and how they should behave. If she sees a student is struggling with the barriers outside of the classroom, she will be the first one to look for ways to help them and their families. Countless times, she has purchased things for her students to give them extra support when their family may be struggling. Mrs. Lantz, no doubt, will continue to teach her students about the many important aspects of life. They will gain self improvement in not only their academics, but also mentally and emotionally. She is an amazing supporter for students, their families, and her colleagues. Thank you for being a marigold in our schools!

CONGRATULATIONS to Kristi Chavira , who was nominated for the Marigold Award! Kristi is a teacher at Merrill School in Rock Falls and was nominated by Jenna Dempsey. Near the start of my teaching career, I was blessed to be able to teach alongside Jen Banks. In addition to teaching with Jen, I had the opportunity to teach one of her children in kindergarten that year. Jen was not only a colleague, but a friend and a supporter of me both professionally and personally. Having known Jen, I personally felt the love, support, and genuine care that she imparted on everyone she worked with. Kristi Chavira is someone who also exudes the love, support, and genuine care of those with whom she works with. When I transitioned into the math intervention position in 2020, Kristi helped me with what was needed as an interventionist. She encouraged me to allow myself to try new methods, to trust myself to take risks, and to teach in ways that best meet the needs of our students. She continues to be a second set of eyes on schedules and helps me make it work when I want to squeeze in “just one more group”. Kristi is someone I can go to for advice and to run ideas past on ways to best meet the needs of our students. She offers patience and compassion to her students and is always working to help each of her groups to be the best they can be. Kristi will often take students extra times to work on specific skills to better themselves as readers. Her problem-solving skills in many areas of teaching help to fulfill and enrich the lives of everyone she works with. Overall, I cannot think of a better person who represents a marigold at Merrill Elementary than Kristi Chavira. She truly has bloomed where she was planted and enriches the lives of those around her. Thank you for being a marigold in our schools!

CONGRATULATIONS to Rebecca Temple, who was nominated for the Marigold Award! Rebeca is a teacher at Bi-County and was nominated by Alissa Kirchner. Rebecca Temple is a shining example of marigold that brings joy to her coworkers, students, and community. During her employment with Bi-County Special Education Cooperative, Rebecca has served as a special education teacher within Life Skills classrooms and currently holds the title of Itinerant Orthopedic Impairment Teacher. As an Itinerant OI Teacher, she travels throughout the county, servicing students ages preschool through 22 years, in multiple school districts. Rebecca leads with a calm heart that seeks out the best in every individual that she encounters. Her encouragement is quiet but strong. She knows just the right amount of silly and fun to engage a hesitant student. Her knowledge of assistive technology is expansive to help her students participate academically and socially in ways that they would not be able to otherwise. Her creative problem-solving skills allowed a teenager with limited motor control access a communication device for the first time, using a stylus hot glued to a baseball hat. Although many of the students on her caseload have mild to severe physical disabilities, Rebecca sees no limits to their abilities. It is impossible to work alongside Rebecca and not share her enthusiasm and excitement for even the smallest victories. When tragedy struck her Life Skills classroom in 2020 with the unexpected passing of a student, Rebecca and her students collected plastic bottle caps to make recycled plastic benches in his memory at Northside and Southside Elementary Schools. Despite her own grief, she worked to honor her student in a tangible way his classmates would understand and allowed them to have a part in that process. Within the community, Rebecca also serves as Den Leader for Cub Scouts, combining her passion for teaching with her love for homesteading. She embodies the values she teaches her scouts: she is trustworthy, courteous, helpful, thrifty, and loyal. Each year the scouts make pinewood derby cars and enter it in a race. This February, Rebecca invited the entire Scout Pack 321 to her home workshop to carve their pinewood derby cars. I have been told by other Den Leaders that Rebecca’s scouts absolutely adore her. When I read the characteristics of a marigold—nurturing, supportive, mood-boosting, and community-minded—Rebecca Temple fits each one. I am so grateful that I was “planted” near her and hope that others will also recognize the service she provides to our schools and community. Thank you for being a marigold in our schools!

CONGRATULATIONS to Amanda Abbott, who was nominated for the Marigold Award! Amanda is a teacher at Erie Elementary School and was nominated by Rose Morine. Amanda welcomes kids and staff daily. If students/staff need a caring and kind ear, she is there. Always encourages, always empathetic. It takes a special person to do that. Amanda gears her social/emotional lesson towards teachers’ curriculum and will change focus on a moment’s notice if asked. She coaches biddy basketball and is otherwise active in the community. She truly encourages and supports everyone in the district. Her compassion and stamina are endless. She also helped out at the high school this year when the high school counselor was out on leave. Amanda will do home visits and helps screen preschool students to ensure they are where they will ‘bloom. Thank you for being a marigold in our schools!

CONGRATULATIONS to Emily Grady, who was nominated for the Marigold Award! Emily is a 5th grade teacher at Tampico Elementary School and was nominated by Tori Franks. Mrs. Grady is one of the kindest people I have ever met. I had the honor of student teaching under her. She has an amazing rapport with her students. Every one of them seems to adore her. The knowledge I gained in my short time in her classroom was worth more than its weight in gold. I felt ready to take on my classroom after having taught under her. If a student was struggling she made it her top priority to help them. She is a truly deserving person for this award. Thank you for being a marigold in our schools!

CONGRATULATIONS to Kara Wisdom, who was nominated for the Marigold Award! Kara is a teacher at Erie Elementary School and was nominated by Kali Livengood & Rose Morine. Mrs. Wisdom is the heart of Erie Elementary. Whether she is cheering on the pre school kids when they come to school in the morning, or hugging the "grown up" fourth graders, all kids are welcomed by her. From spelling tests to book reports to math times tables every effort is cheered and praised. Science activities are fantastic learning opportunities and the kids look forward to her lessons. She is the first one to cheer on staff, and the biggest support when they need uplifting. She has endless energy that can motivate the most reluctant learner. Her love for learning and teaching and getting kids to grow is among the best there is in this profession. Thank you for being a marigold in our schools!

CONGRATULATIONS to Ashley Heun, who was nominated for the Marigold Award! Ashley is a 3rd grade teacher at Unity Christian School and was nominated by Jessica Hollewell. Ashley Heun actually serves our K-6th grade students, plus any that come to her, as our resource teacher. Her personality is warm and loving which makes her a favorite to many. Ashely's love for the students shows in how they blossom working with her in the resource room. She believes in their abilities and that they are able to succeed which gives the students the confidence to do such. Ashley is always positive, and she is always looking for new ideas to use and works alongside her students to show community and learning. She is truly a blessing to not only her students but also our faculty, staff, and entire community. Thank you for being a marigold in our schools!