Celebrating Women, Leadership, & My 100th Event!

March has been a month of celebrating women and leadership—two themes that have defined both my journey and the incredible experiences I've had this month as the 2024 Illinois Teacher of the Year. Fittingly, this month also marked a major milestone: my 100th event as the Illinois Teacher of the Year! From honoring women trailblazers in education to encouraging the next generation of educators, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with so many inspiring leaders. Here’s a look back at the powerful moments that shaped this month:

March 3, 2025 – Freeport School District

I was thrilled to return to Freeport to deliver a highly interactive, three-hour professional development session on Culturally Responsive Instruction. I worked with two schools to share strategies that increase student engagement in lessons. It was incredible to see educators collaborate and embrace new approaches to supporting their students.

March 4, 2025 – IL Treasurer’s Office Women’s History Month Celebration

In honor of Women’s History Month, I received the Outstanding Commitment to Education award from Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs. It was humbling to be recognized alongside an incredible group of women leaders. A highlight of the event was meeting Christina Kreil, a fellow teacher and member of the U.S. Women’s National Amputee Soccer Team, who was honored for Outstanding Achievement in Sportsmanship.

March 6, 2025 – Educators Rising Conference

I traveled to Illinois State University to speak with over 500 high school students preparing to become future teachers. Their passion and enthusiasm for the profession were contagious. I was especially inspired by the dedication of the teachers who brought them to the conference—it’s clear the future of education is in good hands!

March 7, 2025 – Lyons Township High School Student Conference

At the Amplify student conference, I hosted a mini World Café with Lyons Township students, where they shared stories about belonging in their schools. It was powerful to hear their experiences and to see them brainstorm thoughtful solutions to increase belonging in their schools.

March 8, 2025 – ILSTOY Brunch Banquet

Returning to Bloomington, I had the honor of meeting the 2025 Illinois Teacher of the Year finalists. We celebrated their achievements with inspiring speeches from Dr. Sanders, the State Superintendent, Dr. Isoye, Chair of the Illinois State Board of Education, and Dr. Jensen, the 2018 Illinois Teacher of the Year. I also had the chance to give a congratulatory speech, welcoming the new cohort to the ILSTOY family.

March 11, 2025 – Illinois Association of Regional State Superintendents

I traveled to Springfield to speak with Illinois’ regional superintendents about the work I’ve been doing across the state. It was a great opportunity to share insights and collaborate with leaders shaping education policy and practice.

March 11-12, 2025 – 100th Event: Women in Education Leadership and Learning Conference

My 100th event as Illinois Teacher of the Year! At a two-day conference in Bloomington, I shared my story of identity and my experiences as a woman and mother in educational leadership. We hosted our largest-ever Women only- World Café with 500 women leaders, centered on the theme “You Belong.” The highlight was naming the keepsake diamond—a powerful symbol of strength and resilience among women in leadership.

March 14, 2025 – Suburban Superintendents Association

I wrapped up the week in Oak Brook at a luncheon with suburban superintendents. After sharing my story and the work I’ve been doing, the superintendents engaged me with deep reflection questions about my year as Illinois Teacher of the Year. It was inspiring to exchange ideas with so many thoughtful leaders.

This month was a celebration of leadership and belonging, especially among women. Reaching my 100th event was a reminder of the incredible opportunities I’ve had to connect with educators and students across Illinois. I feel so lucky to have shared these moments with so many inspiring leaders—this journey continues to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.