The Examiner U-46 News Feed

Dist. U-46 teachers, staffer given awards recognition

By Seth Hancock
  The Board of Education in School District U-46 recognized 13 staff members at its meeting on Monday, March 11.
  Included was Aimee Legatzke, teacher at South Elgin’s Fox Meadow Elementary School, who was selected as a finalist in the 2024 Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching as well as 12 staff members who were awarded by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).
  Legatzke was one of 30 prekindergarten through third grade teachers to be named a finalist by Golden Apple. Each finalist receives a $5,000 cash award, a spring sabbatical and becomes Fellows of the Golden Apple Academy of Educators.
  A press release from Golden Apple states that award is to “honor outstanding teachers for having lasting, positive effects on students’ lives and school communities. Teacher finalists demonstrate -- in their teaching and results -- significant, positive impact on their students’ growth and learning.”
  “These finalists have shown outstanding commitment and made a positive impact on students’ growth and learning, significantly contributing to their academic and personal development,” said Alan Mather, president of Golden Apple. “We are proud to honor these educators, acknowledging their crucial role in shaping the future of education and inspiring the next generation.”
  The 12 ISBE awardees were selected as part of the “Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year program to honor educators who have made significant contributions to our state's public and nonpublic elementary and secondary schools,” the ISBE website states.
  There were seven Award of Meritorious Service recipients: Valerie Albuck (Tefft Middle School teacher), Kristen Allanson (Bartlett High School teacher), Gerardo Barrio (Streamwood High School teacher), Haleigh Eller (Centennial Elementary School teacher), Matt Erbach (South Elgin High School teacher), Erin Gamble (Specialized Student Services teacher) and Mary Mangione (Dream Academy principal).
  There were four Award of Excellence recipients: Alicia Choi (Dream Academy teacher), Marie McKee (Dream Academy social worker), Shannon Pennington (Dream Academy teacher) and Yusra Said (Dream Academy teacher).
  There was one Award of Special Recognition recipient: Jennifer Delgado (McKinley Elementary School social worker).