Each year, the Champaign Urbana Schools Foundation honors an educator who exemplifies the very best of teaching, leadership, and service. This year, we are thrilled to celebrate Kayla Leitschuh, School Librarian at Franklin STEAM Academy, as the 2026 Mann‑Hankel Teaching Excellence Award recipient!
Kayla embodies all the Teacher of Excellence Traits—Dedication, Integrity, Commitment to every student, Service, and Excellence.
As Franklin’s librarian, Kayla teaches every single student during all three years of middle school. Her colleagues describe her impact as profound and far‑reaching. One nominator shared, “Wherever students are at in their personal lives and adolescent journeys, Kayla makes a sincere effort to curate a collection of books that reflect and honor students’ lived experiences.”
Her library is a true safe haven. Students say she creates a space where everyone feels welcome, respected, and heard. Another nominator wrote, “Uniquely scaffolded lessons and activities are a core aspect of Kayla’s library, making sure that an accessible and equal opportunity education is provided to all users within the school.”
Kayla’s work goes far beyond bookshelves. She leads Franklin’s Family & Community Engagement efforts, organizes Literacy Night, coordinates volunteer projects, and builds schoolwide experiences that strengthen community. She is a champion for literacy, equity, and belonging.
Speaking of her students, Kayla says, “I get to see them grow and develop and change into the little future humans they’re going to be. It’s super exciting.”
Congratulations, Kayla! Your dedication, compassion, and commitment to every student make Franklin—and our entire community—stronger. We are grateful for all you do to shape this future generation of leaders and scholars.
