Celebrating Excellence: Chicago-Area Educators Recognized for Teaching Impact

In a powerful reminder of the vital role teachers play in shaping futures, the Illinois State Board of Education and the Golden Apple Foundation have honored several outstanding educators for their exceptional contributions to student learning and community building.​

At the center of this recognition is Víctor Gómez, a chemistry teacher at East Leyden High School in Franklin Park, who was named Illinois’ 2025 Teacher of the Year. Gómez has gone beyond the classroom, pioneering the school's first bilingual program and creating a bilingual chemistry course to ensure language isn’t a barrier to science education. He also co-founded the school’s mariachi band, giving students an outlet for cultural expression, and mentors future bilingual educators.​

Gómez’s story reflects a larger movement across the state to elevate educators who are not only excellent in pedagogy but also deeply invested in equity, culture, and student empowerment.​

The Golden Apple Foundation also recognized 11 high school teachers and two school leaders across Illinois with its prestigious award. Each recipient will receive a $5,000 prize and a spring sabbatical at Northwestern University. These awards spotlight the passion and commitment that drive educational excellence across diverse communities.​

This year’s honorees represent a variety of disciplines and school environments, from STEM to the arts, from urban districts to suburban and rural schools. Their collective efforts underscore how innovative and inclusive teaching practices can reshape student outcomes and strengthen school communities.​

At a time when teacher shortages and educational challenges are making headlines, stories like these offer a hopeful counter-narrative. They show what’s possible when educators are supported, celebrated, and given the space to lead.​

For the full list of awardees and more on this celebration of teaching excellence, visit WBEZ’s full article: WBEZ.​