Lake County Gazette

On Tuesday, February 18th, the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) announced over 500 Illinoisans honored for their contributions to education through its annual Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards. The awards celebrate classroom teachers, administrators, teams, volunteers, and school support personnel who have made lasting impacts on students, families, and fellow educators in their communities.

“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. ”

Mokena School District 159 has six award recipients. Selected awardees received recognition at one of three levels:

The Award of Excellence honors educators committed to equity and student success who collaborate with colleagues, students, and families to create positive school cultures.

The Award of Meritorious Service recognizes experienced educators who take on leadership opportunities and uplift their school’s culture.

The Award of Special Recognition acknowledges valued members recognized by peers for their skills and talents.

Kathy Arduino, First Grade Teacher at Mokena Elementary School, received an Award of Special Recognition-Classroom Teacher. She plays a pivotal role in creating a culture of respect and inclusivity within her school community. Arduino also organizes community service initiatives like Veterans Day Assemblies and fundraising efforts for Honor Flight Chicago.

Sharon Horvath, Fifth Grade Teacher at Mokena Intermediate School, was awarded an Award of Special Recognition-Classroom Teacher. Her leadership within her grade level is noteworthy as she helped implement the ELA curriculum while mentoring new staff.

Dr. Kristin Johnson, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, received an Award of Excellence-Administrator. Her innovative approach has led to measurable improvements in student achievement across various grade levels.

Dr. Jessica Lucas-Nihei, School Psychologist at Mokena Elementary School, earned an Award of Meritorious Service-School Support Personnel for her work fostering a collaborative environment that enhances school culture.

Stacie Kittler, Social Worker at Mokena Elementary School., received an Award o f Excellence-School Support Personnel for her inclusive leadership style and commitment to advocating for all students'' needs.

Craig Martinus., Eighth Grade English-Language Arts Teacher., received an Awar d o f Special Recognition-Classroom Teach er . Under his leadership., there ha s bee n significant student growth i n writin g skill s .

Mokena SD 159 Superintendent Steve Stein said,” It is a great honor to have si x outstandin g Mokena Schoo l Distric t staf f member s wh o hav e bee n honore d amon g th e Illinoi s Stat e Boar d o f Educatio n’ s Thos e Wh o Exce l Awar d! ”

Mokena’s award winners will be honored at the 51st Annual Those Who Excel & Teacher o f th e Yea r Banque t o n Ma y17t h .

More information on these awards can be found here.