LTHS D205 Honored With 10 Statewide Awards From ISBE

LOCKPORT, IL — Earlier this month, the Illinois State Board of Education announced the recipients of its 2026 Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards, and Lockport Township High School District 205 was represented with 10 statewide honors, the District shared in a news release.

These awards recognize Illinois educators and school professionals whose dedication, leadership and innovation make a meaningful difference for students and school communities across the state, the District said.

A banquet will be held in April for the winners. The 2026 Illinois Teacher of the Year will be announced later this spring by State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders.

LTHS' award recipients are:

Award of Meritorious Service

• School Administrator: Jeannette Castillo, Director of Public Relations
• Educational Service Personnel: Kathleen Murphy, Custodian Foreman

Award of Excellence

• School Administrator: Dr. Robert McBride, Superintendent
• Early Career Educator: Jean Garcera, Associate Director of Choral Activities and Director of LTHS Vocal Point A Cappella
• Student Support Personnel: Travanna Green, Dean of Students
• Classroom Teacher: Anne Lee, Department Chairperson of World Languages & Cultures
• Classroom Teacher: Kayla Marbach, Spanish Teacher
• Educational Service Personnel: Heather Rickerson, Paraprofessional

Award of Special Recognition

• School Administrator: Joshua Oster, Assistant Principal for Student Services
• Educational Service Personnel: Laura Williams, Paraprofessional