The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has released the names of recipients of the 2025 Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Award Categories. These awards recognize educators who have gone above and beyond. There was extra excitement around SD113A as River Valley Third Grade Teacher Kim Darche was recognized with an Award of Excellence in the Classroom Teacher category.
The awards celebrate the dedication, innovation, and impact of talented professionals in schools across Illinois. ISBE presents awards in seven categories: classroom teachers, early career educators, school administrators, student support personnel, educational service personnel, community volunteers, and teams.
Darche has been part of the SD113A team since 2015, most recently serving as a third grade teacher and says that she loves the sense of community in the district.
“It is not everywhere you have the opportunity to hang out with 8-year-olds who still believe in the power of silliness, tell stories without fear, ask questions with genuine curiosity, and still see the good in people,” said Darche. “Also, they always laugh at my jokes!”
To receive the Award of Excellence, the most prestigious of the Those Who Excel honors, educators must have demonstrated a commitment to equity and to the success of all students. These dedicated professionals regularly collaborate with colleagues, students, and families to create positive school cultures while sharing a love of learning and a commitment to creating a sense of community that goes beyond the classroom.
“This recognition acknowledges that my commitment to public education and research-based practices in the classroom is not unnoticed,” said Darche. “The sense of fulfillment as I encourage students to grow in confidence over 'getting it right' is palpable within our classroom and I am proud of that.”
“We are so proud of Kim,” said Superintendent Dr. Courtney Orzel. “She is a shining example of what we mean when we talk about purpose and passion in our schools because she truly cares about each and every student. She is inspiring a love of learning and this recognition is well deserved!”
Visit ISBE's Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year webpage for more information about the awards
