
Charleston, IL-(Effingham Radio)- The Regional Office of Education #11 (ROE #11) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Recognition of Excellence Award, honoring outstanding education professionals who exemplify skill, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to inspiring students across the region. Selected from a pool of exceptional nominees, these awardees have earned the respect and admiration of students, parents, and colleagues alike through their leadership, community involvement, and extraordinary ability to ignite a passion for learning in students of all backgrounds and abilities.
Nominations for the prestigious award were accepted through February 2025, with each candidate reviewed by a dedicated committee. One professional per school district was chosen to receive this distinguished honor, recognizing their vital contributions to both their schools and communities. The recipients stand out not only for their professional excellence but also for their active and meaningful roles beyond the classroom, often serving as leaders and role models.
Regional Superintendent Dr. Kyle Thompson praised the awardees, stating, “These remarkable individuals remind us that education is not just about imparting knowledge—it’s about lighting a spark that fuels curiosity and growth. Their ability to connect with students and inspire them to reach their fullest potential is nothing short of extraordinary.” He added, “In a world that constantly changes, these educators are the steady hands guiding our future, showing us that the heart of learning beats strongest when it’s driven by passion and purpose.”
The ROE #11 Recognition of Excellence Award celebrates these education professionals for their superior talent in fostering a love of learning and their profound impact on the lives of students and their communities.
Congratulations to the following 2025 ROE #11 Recognition of Excellence Award Recipients:
- Arcola CUSD #306: Aimee Lugo
- Arthur CUSD #305: Jennifer Schrock
- Bridges: Blair Dosch
- Casey-Westfield CUSD #C-4: Betsy Collins
- Central A&M CUSD #21: Kelly Lamb
- Charleston CUSD #1: Kelly Bacon
- Cowden-Herrick CUSD #3A: Jaclyn Golding
- Cumberland CUSD #77: Todd Butler
- EIASE: Kim Harden
- Edgar County CUSD #6: Kelsey Potter
- Kansas CUSD #3: Lindsay Shawver
- Marshall CUSD #C-2: Tina Grooms
- Martinsville CUSD #C-3: Bethani Conzen
- Mattoon CUSD #2: Tammy Tippit
- Mid-America Preparatory School: Erin Lowry
- Neoga CUSD #3: Maureen Letizia
- Oakland CUSD #5: Kevin Fleckenstein
- Okaw Valley CUSD #302: Heidi Vander Burgh
- Paris CUSD #4: Kirstin Mills
- Paris Cooperative High School: Matthew Wilkie
- Paris Union #95: Kourtney Southworth
- Shelbyville CUSD #4: Kirstin Bennett
- Shiloh CUSD #1: Alyson Barry
- Stewardson-Strasburg CUSD #5A: Penny Hill
- St. John’s Lutheran School: Rachel Warfel
- St. Michael School: Jenni Dittamore
- Sullivan CUSD #300: Poppy Ann Graham
- Tuscola CUSD #301: Lacy Diaz
- Trinity Lutheran School: Jonathan Gurgel
- Villa Grove CUSD #302: Sarah Leith
- Windsor CUSD #1: Pam Storm
ROE #11 Recognition of Excellence Award Recipients were presented a certificate and award (pictured above).
The Regional Office of Education #11 comprises 25 public schools, 4 non-public schools, and other associated regional education programs that together enroll approximately 20,000 students across more than 3,500 square miles of East Central Illinois. ROE #11 is located at 730 7th Street, Charleston, IL 61920. Contact the office by calling 217-348-0151, visiting roe11.org, or connecting on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn.







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