SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) announced four Unit 4 educators for Those Who Excel Awards. The awards celebrate the dedication, innovation, and impact of talented professionals in schools across Illinois.
“Illinois educators are changing lives every single day, and today we celebrate the very best among them," said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. “Our 2025 Those Who Excel awardees and Teacher of the Year Cohort exemplify excellence in teaching and leadership, ensuring their students feel supported, included, and inspired. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the 2025 Those Who Excel Awardees and Teacher of the Year finalists."
The Those Who Excel Awards recognize individuals and teams making a meaningful impact in Illinois schools. ISBE presents awards in seven categories: classroom teachers, early career educators (teachers with one to four years of experience), school administrators, student support personnel, educational service personnel, community volunteers, and teams.
Unit 4 educators who were honored:
Annadel Melendez (Social Worker; International Prep Academy) Award of Special Recognition Student Support Personnel
Jennifer Crowley (Office Manager; Garden Hills Academy) Award of Special Recognition Educational Service Personnel
Albulena “Abby” Emroski (Assistant Principal; Booker T. Washington STEM Academy) Award of Special Recognition
Dr. James Harden (Executive Director of Engagement & Social-Emotional Learning) Award of Special Recognition
Visit ISBE's Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year webpage for photos and bios of the 2025 Illinois Teachers of the Year Cohort along with more information about the awards.
(Photo L-R: Emroski, Crowley, Harden and Melendez)