All the educational professionals that were nominated play an active and useful role in their communities as well as in the schools, and often distinguish themselves as leaders.
Their most important quality these people share is their ability to inspire the love of learning in students of all backgrounds and abilities.

Listed below are the educational professionals that were won in their respected categories at Educator of the Year:

• Educator of the Year: Jillian Yaggie, Kaneland John Shields Elementary, District 302
• Regional Superintendent Award: Juan Figueroa, Elgin High School, District U-46
• Early Career Educator Award: Danielle Sheppard, St. Charles North High School, District 303
• Elementary/Early Childhood Teacher: Barbara Spence, Grace McWayne Elementary, District 101
• Middle School Teacher: Suzanne Satterfield, Harter Middle School, District 302
• High School Teacher: Patricia Sampson, West Aurora High School, District 129
• Educational Service Personnel Award: Thomas Poulin, St. Charles North High School, District 303
• Student Support Personnel Award: Tracy Warwick, Fred Rogers Magnet Academy, District 131
• School Administrator: Dr. Sarah Mumm, Kaneland School District, District 302

Regional Superintendent Patricia Dal Santo commented on the Educator of the Year experience saying, “This is a night we celebrate the years of education, leadership, assistance, and inspiration in our schools and for our students. We honor the hours spent, by all educational professionals, dedicated to engaging students and inspiring young minds of the future.”

After thanking so many people who have inspired and influenced Yaggie’s educational career Jillian commented “I like to thank my students; they make every day a better day. I lead, all my student’s, with love. If I can give them all a safe space – this is what I want to do for them.”