The Early Learning Center is proud to celebrate Amy Streit, an ELC para educator who has been selected as a 2026 Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) Award of Special Recognition recipient.
Each year, the ISBE Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year program recognizes educators, administrators, school staff and volunteers who go above and beyond in their school communities. The Award of Special Recognition honors individuals who are valued members of their schools and are celebrated by colleagues, students, families, and administrators for the skills, passion, and dedication they bring to their work each day.
For those who know Ms. Amy, this recognition comes as no surprise.
At the ELC, Amy is known for her kindness, empathy, creativity, and unwavering commitment to the young learners she teaches. Whether she is engaging students in hands-on learning experiences or finding new ways to spark curiosity in our preschoolers, Amy brings energy and heart to everything she does. Her passion for learning is contagious, and her classroom reflects the joy and wonder that early childhood education is all about.
Amy is also known for going the extra mile… sometimes quite literally. She has a well-earned reputation at the Oak Lawn Public Library for checking out stacks of books to support the ELC’s units of study. In fact, colleagues joke that she regularly reaches her checkout limit as she searches for the perfect stories to bring our classroom topics to life. From insects and pets to buildings around the world, Amy ensures our students have meaningful connections to literature that deepen their learning and imagination.
Just as memorable as her dedication to teaching is the joy she brings to the staff around her. Amy has a knack for delivering a perfectly timed witty comment when you least expect it, bringing laughter to busy days and reminding us all not to take ourselves too seriously. Her sense of humor, positivity, and supportive spirit make her a cherished colleague and friend.
"Amy, you are amazing! Always smiling, always helping! One of my favorite things about you is how funny you are! You're so witty and come up with the cutest comments that never fail to make me smile. Thank you for shining bright each day!"
"Dedication, hard work and doing all the extra things makes Amy stand out from the rest!"
"Amy always goes above and beyond and doesn't think twice about helping others."
Amy will be recognized alongside other outstanding educators from across the state at a reception in Bloomington-Normal this May, where recipients will be honored for their contributions to education in Illinois. The ELC community could not be more proud to celebrate Amy and the impact she has on our students, our staff, and our school each day. Her passion for learning, love for children, and joyful spirit embody the very best of what it means to be an educator.
Congratulations, Ms. Amy! Your ELC family is always cheering you on!
