Educator and Student Awards
Excellence In Education Awards Banquet
Each May, the Regional Office of Education sponsors the Excellence in Education Awards Banquet. School faculty, staff, and board members present awards in five categories: Educator's, Support Staff, Retiring Educators, Retiring Support Staff, and Board Service. Award recipients are selected according to locally developed criteria. Each year roughly 175 awards are presented.
Educator of the Year Award
In conjunction with the Excellence in Education banquet, each year beginning in 1998, the Regional Office of Education has recognized one individual as the La Salle County Educator of the Year. The local nominating committees are required to submit on behalf of the nominee a brief biographical sketch, a list of contributions made to area schools and the local community, professional contributions to education, and statements from fellow teachers, administrators, students, or citizens of their community. A committee from the La Salle County Retired Teachers' Association selects the Teacher of the Year.
Student Excellence Award
Each month from September through May, the Regional Office of Education, in cooperation with the County Board, recognizes students from two schools chosen on a rotating basis, with the Student Excellence Award. Students are selected by the schools based on the following criteria: the selected student must have demonstrated and/or contributed community service in their respective school district; the selected student should portray an image of social and civic responsibility within their school community, and the selected student should possess an attitude conducive for a good work ethic and representative of an image the school district finds commendable. The student, parents, and administrators from the school are invited to the monthly county board meeting, where the student is presented with a plaque, and information about that student is read to all in attendance at the County Board meeting.
25-26 School year
May
Aniya Lumpkins
Aniya Lumpkins is a senior at LaSalle-Peru Township High School. She is the daughter of Ava Lumpkins.
Aniya is a high honor roll student who has participated in cheerleading, track, and CAVS Day for four years, and served as cheer captain for two years.
Aniya is a High Scholarship Legion recipient, AP Scholar, and High Scholarship recipient. She served on the Student Board for two years, Student Council and Link Crew for three years, and works as a barista.
Interim Superintendent Ingrid Cushing said, “Aniya excels in the classroom and beyond. Not only is she successful at what she does, she is a respectful and hardworking student, who is a positive role model to all.”
After graduation, Aniya plans to attend Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville to major in either engineering or to pursue a career as a nurse anesthetist.
On behalf of the LaSalle County Board, congratulations to Aniya for being named as this month’s Student Excellence award winner.
Rylin Morey
Rylin Morey is an eighth-grade student at Marseilles Elementary School. Her parents are Trent and Julie Morey.
Rylin is a high honor roll student who participates in volleyball and student council.
Morey was the recipient of the GRIT award, which recognizes character and determination. Morey also is a member of the Adagio Dance competition team, as well as a dance instructor.
Morey plans to attend college to pursue a career that allows her to help others, such as nursing or cosmetology.
On behalf of the La Salle County Board, congratulations to Rylin for being named as this month’s Student Excellence award winner.
April
Elly Thompson
Elly Thompson is an eighth grade student at Seneca Grade School. Her parents are Erik and Janet Thompson.
Elly is a high honor roll student who has participated in basketball, volleyball, cross country, track, student council, Scholastic Bowl, chorus, band, math team, and science club. Elly has also been named student of the month.
She has participated in 4-H Club, community garden, village park board activities and participates in upcycling.
Elly was nominated for her community involvement, positive attitude and strong work ethic.
Principal Shane Severson said, “Elly is a very hard worker who is always well prepared. She works well with her classmates and has a positive attitude. She always gives her best effort in whatever she is doing."
After high school, Ellie plans to attend college to pursue a career as a teacher.
On behalf of the LaSalle County Board, congratulations to Elly for being named as this month’s Student Excellence award winner.
Gracie Botts
Gracie Botts is a senior at Mendota Township High School. She is the daughter of Amber Krager and Eddie Botts.
Gracie is a high honor roll student who has been very active in the fine arts group during her career as an MHS student. She serves as vice president of the band and president of choir. She also is active in other extracurricular activities, as she has been a member of the tennis and bowling teams as well as the MHS Scholastic Bowl team where she served as captain.
Gracie was awarded third place in English in the Academic Challenge competition and has achieved the honor of All State for Concert Choir. She is active in the Illinois Music Educator Association jazz division and received a first place award in charcoal drawing at the Three Rivers Athletic Conference Art Festival.
Gracie is an active member of the community as she has volunteered her time with worthy causes, such as Feed My Starving Children, as well as playing in the Memorial Day service band. Gracie recently furthered her civic involvement by participating as an election judge in the recent primary elections in Illinois.
After high school, Gracie plans to attend Illinois Wesleyan University to study English and music.
On behalf of the LaSalle County Board, congratulations to Gracie for being named as this month’s Student Excellence award winner.
February
Paizleigh Whittaker
Paizleigh Whittaker is an eighth-grade student at Earlville Junior High School. Her parents are Bob and Andrea Whittaker.
Paizleigh is a high honor roll student who has been named student of the month twice. She is involved in student council, golf, volleyball, basketball, and softball.
Paizleigh has been named student of the month twice, and was nominated and chosen by the Kids Golf Foundation of Illinois to participate in its mentorship golf program at Rich Harvest Farms.
In her spare time, she plays golf at the Earlville Country Club and is involved in LYFT, her church's youth group.
According to her teachers, "Paizleigh demonstrates strong leadership skills. She consistently volunteers to assist when needed and serves as a positive role model for her peers. She takes responsibility for her academic performance and behavior, and she actively encourages and supports her classmates during group projects and class assignments."
Paizleigh will graduate from Earlville High School in 2030, and plans to pursue cosmetology school or play golf in college and earn a degree in business.
On behalf of the LaSalle County Board, congratulations to Paizleigh for being named as this month’s Student Excellence award winner.
Shelby Garbacz
Shelby Garbacz is a senior at Earlville High School. Her parents are Aurelia and Jason Auter and Tim Garbacz.
Shelby is a high honor roll student who is the FFA Section 7 President, FFA Chapter President and Reporter, a member of Student Council, History Club, National Honor Society, cheer, softball, and band, as well as volleyball for two years.
She was named Earlville High School Student of the Month in October, American Legion Auxiliary Illini Girls State 2025, Earlville FFA Most Active Member Award, and Earlville Most Improved Player in Softball 2023.
Shelby’s teachers say she is an excellent verbal communicator. During the Sandwich Fair, she confidently spoke on the Noon Show with Max Armstrong, which aired live on radio stations.
“Shelby also is able to run proper parliamentary procedure during FFA meetings with no hesitation as members state the various motions; she is able to communicate back to them what is to happen next. She has represented the chapter in the extemporaneous speech contest by writing a six-minute speech in 30 minutes before presenting it to the judges."
In her spare time, Shelby babysits and is involved in the AG Literacy Barn and Feed My Starving Children.
After graduation, Shelby plans to attend a four-university to study environmental policy followed by law school.
On behalf of the LaSalle County Board, congratulations to Shelby for being named as this month’s Student Excellence award winner.
January
Julie Chaudhari
Julie Chaudhari is a senior at Streator Township High School. Her parents are Mahesh and Bhavnaben Chaudhari. Julie is a high honor roll student and ranks #2 in her class with a grade point average of 4.42.
She has been named Student of the Month six times in the areas of English, Math, Science, Social Studies and Accounting. She also is an Illinois State Scholar.
Julie is involved in Key Club, Snowball, Senior Class, tennis, Bulldog Buddies, soccer, National Honor Society, and Math Team. She also has volunteered to ring bells for the Salvation Army.
Her teachers said the following:
“Julie is constantly the highest scoring student in my college algebra class. In addition to that, she helps others when they are stuck.”
“Julie is an absolutely brilliant student, with an unmatched love for learning and knack for perfection. Julie also has an infectious positive attitude, and a great work ethic.”
“Julie is always prepared. She goes above and beyond with everything she has done in my classes the last two years. She is curious and always asking questions. I can count on her to participate and add terrific insight to any class discussion. She is definitely one of the best and brightest students I have had during my teaching career.”
“She is dedicated to her studies. She is taking AP Physics as an independent study, so that she can also take her accelerated math class. Given the rigor of the course, that takes real dedication to one's studies. Even working on her own, she does meticulous work and asks well thought out questions that show a deeper understanding of the content.”
After graduating in May, Julie plans on attending a four-year college or university to study pharmacy.
On behalf of the LaSalle County Board, congratulations to Julie for being named as this month’s Student Excellence award winner.
November
Macey Kinney
Macey Kinney is a senior at Leland Community Unit District. Her parents are Al and Marcy Kinney.
Macey has participated in volleyball and basketball throughout her high school career, and served as team captain her junior and senior years. Macey also spent her freshman and sophomore years playing on the softball team. Macey has proven to be a leader on those teams through her positive attitude and dedication toward her teammates. Her ability to connect with her classmates and her work ethic help to bring out the most in her teammates.
Outside of school, Macey is an active member of her school’s youth group, and has also volunteered many times at Leland community events. A high honor roll student, Macey has proven to be an excellent student. She is on pace to receive her high school diploma from Leland as well as her associate’s degree from Waubonsee Community College in May. She plans to attend Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing, where she will receive her bachelor’s in nursing in two years.
She has taken a proactive approach to her education that has set her up for success in her future endeavors. She has always pushed herself and had the ability to make the most of any opportunity.
According to Macey’s teachers:
“Macey is a quiet leader who leads by example in everything she does. Her work ethos is unmatched. Because of that, she has gained the respect of her peers. Macy’s kindness, collaborative spirit, and dedication have not only fostered a positive environment but also inspired others.”
On behalf of the LaSalle County Board, congratulations to Macey for being named as this month’s Student Excellence award winner.
Blake Wesson
Blake Wesson is in eighth grade at Leland Community Unit District. His parents are Doug and Heather Wesson.
Blake is an active member of the school’s Lighthouse Team, where he plays an important role in supporting the continued development of Leland’s positive school culture and climate. Throughout his middle school years, Blake has also been a dedicated member of the junior high soccer and track teams, consistently demonstrating teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
Over the years, Blake has been recognized as a Leland Leader for his kindness, helpfulness, and strong sense of responsibility. He is always willing to lend a hand to fellow students and staff members alike, setting an example of respect and compassion for others. Academically, Blake has maintained high honor roll status throughout junior high, reflecting his strong work ethic and dedication to learning.
Outside of school, Blake continues to show responsibility and leadership. He frequently babysits his younger siblings and has worked at the café at the summer campground his family visits, gaining valuable real-world experience.
Looking ahead, Blake has set ambitious goals for his future. He plans to maintain a 4.0 GPA in high school and work diligently toward his dream of attending the U.S. Air Force Academy, where he hopes to serve his country as a fighter jet pilot.
Blake truly exemplifies what it means to be a Leland Leader — responsible, kind, hardworking, and dedicated to excellence in all he does.
On behalf of the LaSalle County Board, congratulations to Blake for being named as this month’s Student Excellence award winner.
October
Owen Supan
Owen Supan is in eighth grade at Tonica Grade School. His parents are Adam and Karen
Supan.
Owen is an honor roll student involved in Boy Scouts and has been named student of the
month. He is particularly interested in science and competed at the regional level of the science
fair at the NIU campus in Rockford.
In his spare time, Owen helps his grandfather with yardwork and farming, and volunteers at his
school.
In the future, Owen plans to work in the science field, possibly having to do with building.
Tracy Malcolm, Tonica Grade School principal, said Owen works hard in his classes, and is
genuinely kind to all people around him. He is a pleasure to have in class and an excellent role
model.
On behalf of the LaSalle County Board, congratulations to Owen for being named as this
month’s Student Excellence award winner.
Serenity Guzman
Serenity Guzman is a senior at Marquette Academy in Ottawa. Her parents are Krystal and
John Guzman.
Serenity is a high honor roll student who is involved in prom committee, Key Club, fine arts,
senior retreat leader, Crazy Cru leader and media manager, cheer captain, Illinois Articulation
Initiative program, two years of cheer, two years of softball, and Phi Theta Kappa at IVCC. Her
achievements include the National Honor Society, two-time recipient of the Universal
Cheerleaders Association All American, and the Cheerleading Coach’s Award.
Serenity has also volunteered her time as a third- and fourth-grade religious education teacher,
altar server and lector at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, and for the Vacation Bible
School. She also works for Primary Market and Fresh Prints, and as a dog walker.
Marquette Academy Principal Brooke Rick said Serenity is an exceptional student who
consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence in all she does.
She is a high achiever academically and is deeply involved in her school, parish and community.
Her dedication, leadership, and genuine desire to make a positive impact set her apart as a role
model among her peers.
After graduation, Serenity plans to major in biology to earn her prerequisites for medical school
in hopes of specializing in pediatrics.
On behalf of the LaSalle County Board, congratulations to Serenity for being named as this
month’s Student Excellence award winner.
Previous Years
24-25 School Year
Weston Mix - Deer Park School
Weston Mix is an eighth grade student at Deer Park School in Ottawa. He is the son of Terry and Lucy Mix.
Weston was chosen for his strong work ethic, dedication, and friendliness. He has participated in baseball, basketball, academic team, and track. He can be observed many days at recess practicing on his own trying to get better at his craft. At practices, Weston is one of the first people to help setup equipment and is always asking how he can help. During the school day, he is extremely helpful to the staff, setting up the winter program, bingo night, and other activities...
Maddie Salz - Shepherd Middle School
Maddie Salz is an eighth grade student at Shepherd Middle School in Ottawa. She is the daughter of Josh and Alyssa Salz. Maddie was a member of choir in seventh grade, has been a member of the track team, and danced on the Poms team both years at Shepherd. She also has earned her Purple Cord by completing 159 hours of community service while enrolled in seventh and eighth grade.
Maddie is active in the community. She regularly volunteers to support the McKinley PTO, her church, and the horse stable. She also participates in dance, tumbling at Illinois Valley Gymnastics Academy, and horseback riding....
Ashley Nave - Waltham Elementary School
Ashley Nave is an eighth grade student at Waltham Elementary School. She is the daughter of Johnie and Nida Nave, of Utica, and Emelyn Pang, of LaSalle.
Ashley is a high honor roll student who has maintained a 4.0+ GPA throughout her junior high years. Currently dually enrolled in Algebra at LaSalle-Peru High School, Ashley consistently challenges herself with advanced coursework.
Ashley also is an active participant in school and community activities. She is involved in volleyball and Scholastic Bowl and earned a State History Fair award for her seventh grade project. Ashley volunteers in the Utica area, helps with her family’s small business, and participates in Waltham’s Creativity Ink activities.
Waltham Principal Melanie Lukacsy said Ashley is being recognized for her positive attitude and willingness to help others. She has received the Spotlight Student award every year since kindergarten. Her teachers consistently commend her for her work ethic, kindness, and respectful demeanor. She is known for her willingness to assist classmates and teachers and for engaging in thoughtful discussions.
Ashley plans to attend LaSalle-Peru High School in the fall and will pursue a career in nuclear engineering.
On behalf of the LaSalle County Board, congratulations to Ashley for being named as this month’s Student Excellence award winner.
Camryn Chase - Lincoln Junior High LaSalle
Camryn Chase
Lincoln Junior High, LaSalle Jon Fox, Principal
Camyn Chase is an eighth-grade student at Lincoln Junior High in LaSalle. Her parents are Larry and Valerie Chase.
Camyn is a high honor roll student who is involved in girls basketball, volleyball, cheerleading, and peer partners. She also was named Student of the Month in 2024.
After eighth-grade graduation, Camryn is moving to Florida and will attend high school in Port Royal.
On behalf of the LaSalle County Board, congratulations to Camryn for being named as this month’s Student Excellence award winner.
Lily Mertel - Lostant Grade School
Lily Mertel, a seventh-grade student at Lostant Elementary, is recognized for her dedication to learning, perseverance, and strong work ethic. She is a high honor roll student with numerous accolades, including Student of the Quarter and Top AR Reader. Lily participates in activities like Girls Softball, Volleyball, Scholastic Bowl, and Student Council, and is a member of the IV Lady Cavs travel team. Beyond academics, she is involved in her family’s farming business, gaining hands-on experience in every stage of the sweet corn process. Lily’s kindness, enthusiasm, and commitment make her an inspiring role model. The LaSalle County Board congratulates Lily for receiving the Student Excellence award.
23-24 School Year
Alexzander Houk
Teachers report Alexzander is a great student who is teachable, funny, and responsible. He works hard and is not afraid to ask questions. He has a strong work ethic, is open to being challenged, and has a quick witted sense of humor. Alexzander demonstrates exceptional academic expertise, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service.
Alexzander is the son of Jeffrey and Anne Houk.
Maxine Bland
Maxine’s teachers say that, “Maxine deserves recognition for her exceptional qualities and contributions to our community. Maxine's kindness, collaborative spirit, and work ethic have not only fostered a positive environment, but also inspired her peers. Her proactive approach to learning, coupled with her willingness to advocate for herself and others, sets a shining example for all.”
Maxine is the daughter of Chris and Mallory Bland.
Ty Carls
Regional Office of Education #35 Assistant Regional Superintendent Ryan Myers recognizes Ty Carls as a Student Excellence Award winner at the LaSalle County Board meeting Thursday, April 11.
Ty Carls, an eighth grader at Peru Catholic, is the son of Dale and Jessica Carls.
Addison Urbanski
Regional Office of Education #35 Assistant Regional Superintendent Ryan Myers recognizes Addison Urbanksi as a Student Excellence Award winner at the LaSalle County Board meeting Thursday, April 11.
Addison Urbanski, a senior at La Salle-Peru Township High School, is the daughter of Mike and Laura Urbanski.