Lake County Gazette

Each year, Collinsville Community Unit School District 10 recognizes staff members for their dedication through the Superintendent's Quality and Excellence Award. The awards are given in three categories: K-6 Certified Staff, 7-12 Certified Staff, and Non-Certified Staff. Recipients are selected by Superintendent Dr. Brad Skertich from nominations submitted by district staff.

The 2025 award recipients were honored during a staff assembly at Collinsville High School on the first day of staff attendance for the new school year.

Lindsey Forth, a special education teacher at Twin Echo Elementary, was recognized in the K-6 Certified Staff category. According to her nomination, "Lindsey Forth has built an exceptional rapport with students through her thoughtful, student-centered approach and unwavering commitment to their well-being. Her classroom is more than just a place of learning—it’s a safe, calming space where students feel seen, valued, and supported. She consistently places student needs at the forefront of her work, approaching each task with integrity, diligence, and a deep sense of responsibility. She also goes above and beyond by preparing individualized tool kits, ensuring each student has the specific materials they need to succeed.

Her commitment to confidentiality is unwavering, and she is always kind, respectful, and professional in her interactions with students, staff, and families. Lindsey is a go-to resource when teachers face challenges—whether with difficult behavior or a student performing below grade level. She takes time to gather relevant information and offers thoughtful, research-based suggestions.

She follows the district curriculum with fidelity, while thoughtfully supplementing it to ensure all students can access and engage with the material. When additional support is needed, she finds or even creates her own high-quality resources—many of which she generously shares with general education teachers to promote consistency and collaboration across classrooms.

Lindsey consistently goes above and beyond the expectations of her role, demonstrating extraordinary dedication to both her students and their families. One remarkable example of this commitment is her willingness to tutor students—her own

and others—throughout the summer, entirely free of charge. Whether through her time, her expertise, or her personal care, she continually demonstrates a level of dedication that sets her apart. Her actions reflect a deep commitment to equity,

access, and the long-term success of every student she serves."

Brian Glanville received recognition as an ELL teacher at Collinsville High School in the 7-12 Certified Staff category. His nomination stated: "Brian’s rapport with students is nothing short of exceptional. He goes beyond academics by attending to their overall well-being, offering support for both schoolwork and personal challenges at home. He understands the culture of his students, and it shows in their interactions. His words of wisdom and guidance often becomes turning points in their lives. Mr. Glanville offers his authentic self and serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment for his immigrant students.

Among his peers Brian is a source of steady support and often much-needed laughter. Colleagues regularly turn to him for advice collaboration and encouragement. He brings both strategic thinking and practical experience to the table helping shape a more inclusive and supportive school environment Through his guidance and example he has showed me the kind of educator I aspire to be offering a valuable model for my teaching philosophy and practice

Brian consistently demonstrates a high degree of professionalism He consistently goes above and beyond in his role He exemplifies the very best of what it means to be an educator His impact is felt not just through test scores or lesson plans but in the confidence of this students When it comes to education he is knowledgeable well-prepared

and approaches his responsibilities with dedication

and competence Brian gives his time generously always focused on what will make

the biggest difference

Brian demonstrates a commitment

to assisting high school students in various aspects

of their lives His support extends

to a wide range

of critical needs from complex situations such as interactions with immigration authorities

to fundamental requirements like acquiring school supplies highlighting his comprehensive

and invaluable assistance

to the student population His student wrote 'He was always there He encouraged me checked in on me,

and reminded me that I could make it,

and because

of Mr Glanville I did not give up.'"

Jane Vlasak was recognized as secretary at Collinsville Area Vocational Center (CAVC) in the Non-Certified Staff category: "Jane has built a warm and welcoming rapport with students making her a favorite friendly face in the building Her office is a frequent stop for students who pop in just to say hi or share about their day reflecting the trust

and connection she's cultivated with them throughout their time at CAVC

Jane maintains strong professional rapport with peers serving as vital link between CAVC various district departments Her reliability attention detail clear communication make trusted respected colleague across district

Jane demonstrates exceptional professionalism role CAVC Secretary She consistently arrives early ensure day starts smoothly always prepared handle situations independently when unavailable Her ability manage day-to-day responsibilities responds calmly under pressure supports staff plays crucial role maintaining efficient operation building Jane's dedication reliability make indispensable part CAVC team

Jane also plays key role organizing staff appreciation events throughout year coordinating breakfasts lunches help foster positive workplace culture Whether supporting students lifting up staff keeping building running smoothly Jane steady hand helps keep CAVC moving forward."

Collinsville Community Unit School District 10 covers Madison County and St. Clair County schools including Twin Echo Elementary School where Lindsey Forth teaches; Collinsville High School where Brian Glanville works; along with other schools listed on its profile (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). The district employs over 400 teachers earning an average salary exceeding $60K according to state data (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/), serving diverse populations: about 56 percent White students; 14 percent Black; 24 percent Hispanic; less than one percent Asian (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). In fiscal year 2020 expenditures per pupil reached nearly $17K totaling over $104 million (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/).