IL Schools are United in Our Search for Belonging

September has started as a month filled with meaningful connections and inspiring conversations as I traveled across Illinois in my role as the 2024 Illinois Teacher of the Year. From high schools to universities, I had the opportunity to meet with educators, future teachers, and school leaders to discuss one of the most important elements of education—belonging.

Lyons Township High School District 204 Feeder School Building Belonging Event

LYONS TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL 9/4 – I had the privilege of sharing my personal story of belonging at Lyons Township High School and its feeder districts. This special event fostered deep connections with each other as we discussed ways to support our school improvement plans (SIPs) by connecting over shared personal stories of belonging.

 Eastern Illinois University 9/9 – I toured the beautiful campus of Eastern Illinois University and spoke with Education students. During my presentations, I was honored to recognize two future teacher leaders from Kappa Delta Pi, who are already making strides in their journey toward teacher leadership.

Kappa Delta Pi Student Leadership Team - Eastern Illinois University

Granite City School District & Southern Regional Illinois Federation of Teachers 9/12 – I traveled to Granite City and visited several schools, and recognized seven educators who are creating inclusive and belonging-centered classrooms. The day culminated in a World Café with Southern Region Illinois Federation of Teachers Union leaders, where we shared a meal and powerful dialogue. Thank you to IFT leader Chuck Noud for showing me around!

Surprise Recognition for Mr. Dettmers at Grigsby School Granite City School District

LYONS TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL 9/13 – Back at Lyons Township High School, I spent the day participating in PD during your planning period. These restorative dialogue circles were facilitated by  Dr. Rowe the Director of Equity and Belonging and included passionate teachers from across the district. Together, we exchanged stories of belonging and explored culturally responsive teaching strategies to better serve our students.

September 17 – In Springfield, I presented at the Illinois Association of Title Directors. We engaged in a World Café focused on creating belonging in our schools, connecting leaders from districts across the entire state- large and small, urban and rural. The shared goal of fostering belonging united us all, despite the differences in the districts we serve.

These experiences have deepened my understanding of the power of connection and dialogue in fostering a sense of belonging for educators and students alike. As I continue this journey, I am more committed than ever to building inclusive, responsive, and supportive educational spaces across Illinois.