Charleston, IL-(Effingham Radio)- The Regional Office of Education #11 (ROE #11) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Recognition of Excellence Award. This annual honor celebrates outstanding education professionals across the region who demonstrate exceptional skill, unwavering dedication, and a remarkable ability to inspire students from all backgrounds and abilities.
Selected from a pool of nominations, these awardees have earned the deep respect of students, parents, colleagues, and communities through their outstanding leadership, innovative teaching, and meaningful involvement both inside and beyond the classroom. One recipient was chosen from each school district, recognizing their profound contributions to educational excellence and student success.
Nominations for the award were accepted through February 2026. A dedicated selection committee carefully reviewed each candidate, evaluating their professional accomplishments and their role as leaders and role models in their schools and communities.
Regional Superintendent Dr. Kyle Thompson praised the honorees, saying, “These remarkable educators remind us that great teaching goes far beyond imparting knowledge—it’s about igniting a spark of curiosity and fueling a lifelong love of learning. Their ability to connect with every student and help them reach their fullest potential is truly extraordinary.”
He added, “In a rapidly changing world, these dedicated professionals serve as steady guides for our students, proving that the heart of education beats strongest when driven by passion, purpose, and genuine care.”
The ROE #11 Recognition of Excellence Award highlights the superior talent and lasting impact of these educators. Their commitment not only fosters academic growth but also shapes stronger communities by inspiring the next generation to dream bigger and achieve more.
Congratulations to the following 2026 ROE #11 Recognition of Excellence Award Recipients:
- Arcola CUSD #306: Eric Butler
- Arthur CUSD #305: Hillary Chupp
- Bridges: Teresa Metzger
- Casey-Westfield CUSD #C-4: Brent Ritter
- Charleston CUSD #1: Tiffany Oakley
- Cowden-Herrick CUSD #3A: Angela Jefferies
- Cumberland CUSD #77: Todd Hall
- EIASE: Laura LaFrence
- Edgar County CUSD #6: Nicole Cox
- Kansas CUSD #3: Anne Happ
- Marshall CUSD #C-2: J.J. McFarland
- Martinsville CUSD #C-3: Lynn Smith
- Mattoon CUSD #2: Tracey Perry
- Mid-America Preparatory School: Samantha Allen
- Neoga CUSD #3: Amy Brown
- Oakland CUSD #5: Amanda Coffey
- Okaw Valley CUSD #302: Ronda Yantis
- Paris CUSD #4: Chrissy Carrell
- Paris Cooperative High School: Brett Block
- Shelbyville CUSD #4: Rebekah Drone
- Shiloh CUSD #1: Amy Nickell
- Stewardson-Strasburg CUSD #5A: Andria Verdeyen
- St. John’s Lutheran School: Brittney Johns
- St. Michael School: Becky Schumacher
- Sullivan CUSD #300: Tara Bates
- Tuscola CUSD #301: Mark Sweeney
- Trinity Lutheran School: Doreen Whybrew
- Villa Grove CUSD #302: Lauren Wendling
- Windsor CUSD #1: Kathy Newlin
ROE #11 Recognition of Excellence Award Recipients were presented a certificate and award (pictures included).
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 or by visiting www.roe11.org.
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