401 Staff Honored by Illinois State Board

This article was created with support from Dave Porreca, Communications & Social Media Specialist.

Every year, educators from across Illinois are nominated for the Illinois State Board of Education’s “Those Who Excel” awards. This highly competitive program shines a light on educators who go the extra mile in their roles. In 2026, we’re proud to announce that five District 401 educators have been chosen!

This year, our staff is being honored for two types of awards:

Award of Meritorious Service

Those who earn the Award of Meritorious Service are staff members who go above and beyond in service to their school community. They are experienced educators who take on leadership roles and their accomplishments uplift the learning culture in their school. They are known as great examples and are integral members of their schools and districts.

Mark Laduzinsky - John Mills

Morgan Murphy - Elmwood

Derek Snitker - EPHS

Award of Special Recognition

Staff members who earn the Award of Special Recognition are valued educators recognized by colleagues, students, families, and administrators for the skills and talents they bring to their schools.

Tyeda Lester - Elmwood

Lisa Marsicano - EPHS

Awards are presented in six categories:

• Classroom teachers (teachers with 5-plus years of experience)
• Early career educators (teachers with 1-4 years of experience)
• School administrators
• Student support personnel
• Educational service personnel
• Community volunteers

For award categories, both Mark Laduzinsky and Morgan Murphy were recognized as Early Career Educators. Tyeda Lester, Lisa Marsicano, and Derek Snitker were recognized under the Classroom Teachers category. “I’m honored to be thought of in a positive way,” says Snitker. “It’s validating—you put in a lot of work, and it makes you feel like what you’re doing is important.”

For this process, educators must first be nominated by colleagues, administrators, students, or community members before applying. Once nominated, they complete an online application that includes a professional biography, resume, letters of recommendation, and essays. Applications are then reviewed by a committee, and award levels are determined based on each nominee’s contributions, leadership, and impact on their school community.

All awardees will be honored at the annual spring banquet in April. Congratulations to all who received awards, the district is grateful for your dedication!