Shining Star 2026 Recipients

Across Champaign Unit 4 and Urbana School District 116, excellence shows up in countless ways every day and this year, it was reflected in dozens of heartfelt nominations submitted by grateful colleagues. From teachers and social workers to secretaries, bus drivers, and beyond, these nominations remind us that every role in our public schools matters deeply, and every individual plays a part in shaping student, teacher and staff success. The Champaign Urbana Schools Foundation is proud to honor this year’s Shining Star and Super Star awardees through its peer recognition awards. Shining Star Awards celebrate outstanding teachers and social workers whose dedication, innovation, and enthusiasm make a meaningful impact in the classroom, while Super Star Awards recognize the invaluable contributions of support staff and paraprofessionals who help our schools run and our students thrive.

Cheryl Morton, a dedicated special education teacher at Central High School, is known for her quiet but powerful impact on students and staff. With nearly 16 years of service, she advocates tirelessly for students with disabilities, supports colleagues, and ensures every child has what they need to succeed. From coordinating resources for families to offering small, meaningful acts of care, her influence is felt far beyond the classroom. Co-teacher and nominator, Cameron Pope, states “She goes out of her way to make our class and our school run, taking on extra assignments and roles where she is needed, and doing so with a warm, welcoming smile that make students feel at home and secure in any space she is.”

Ryan is a vital member of the Novak Academy faculty, recognized for his commitment to student success and leadership in creating a trauma-responsive learning environment. He consistently turns research into practical strategies, supports colleagues, and plays a key role in student-support systems through professional development, Response to Intervention (RTI) leadership, and weekly team meetings. By pairing high expectations with genuine care, Ryan helps students thrive academically and emotionally. Colleague Randi Wenzel notes, “His [Ryan’s] ability to balance rigorous academic expectations with empathetic, authentic relationship-building ensures that students feel both challenged and supported in reaching their full potential.”

Stacy Arie, ESL teacher and Multilingual Learners department chair at Centennial High School, is known for her tireless advocacy and behind-the-scenes leadership on behalf of students and staff. In addition to teaching and co-teaching, she dedicates extra time to tutoring, monitoring student progress, coordinating complex schedules, and ensuring multilingual learners have the support they need to succeed and graduate. A steady, humble leader, Stacy balances high expectations with deep care for her community. As a fellow ESL teacher, Katy Lohmeyer, shared, “She is always ready. always calm, always on point, and executes lessons that provide students with the best opportunities to use language in a variety of domains.”

Anna Blacker, instructional coach at South Side Elementary, is a driving force behind student success and staff support, known for her thoughtful leadership, unwavering dedication, and ability to turn ideas into lasting impact. From guiding teachers and mentoring colleagues to creating innovative partnerships, like hands-on learning experiences with the University of Illinois’ Beckman Institute, Anna consistently elevates both instruction and school culture. She builds meaningful relationships with every student and fosters a safe, engaging environment where all can thrive. Amy Lozar, art teacher at South Side states, ”She works tirelessly to provide our students and staff with unique, rewarding learning experiences, and is the best cheerleader every step of the way.”

Jess Ochoa, a first-grade dual language teacher, brings passion, innovation, and deep cultural responsiveness to her classroom, creating a space where every student feels seen, valued, and inspired to learn. She goes above and beyond to reflect her students’ identities—incorporating languages like Q’anjob’al, highlighting diverse role models, and designing meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity and confidence. Through strong relationships with students and families and a commitment to her own growth, Jess fosters a joyful, inclusive environment where students thrive. One of her numerous nominators, Angela Kleber, noted, “Ms. Ochoa is a bright light for her students and colleagues. Her excitement for learning and teaching is contagious.”

Lindsay Aikman goes above and beyond each day to empower her students at Centennial High School, fostering confidence, growth, and a love of learning. In the classroom, she makes reading engaging and provides meaningful feedback that helps students strengthen their English skills, while her work as an AVID teacher has opened doors for students through college applications, career connections, and even full scholarships. Beyond academics, Lindsay builds strong relationships across the school and plays a key role in growing the girls soccer program, inspiring student-athletes to believe in themselves. As her nominator, Meghan Siwecki stated, “She pushes students to their potential and they feel success.”

Jeff Fuller, a longtime adaptive P.E. teacher, is known as a true “best in the business,” combining skill, creativity, and patience to help students achieve what once felt impossible. Through engaging, thoughtfully adapted activities, he builds both confidence and ability—guiding students from hesitation to milestones like jumping high enough to touch the basketball rim. His lighthearted approach, paired with a strong sense of accountability, creates a safe and encouraging environment where students thrive. Colleague, Ashleigh Butler, stated, “He helps kids gain the skills and confidence to reach milestones they once thought they never could.”

Ms. Hernandez, a dedicated school social worker, is a driving force behind innovative, student-centered support at UHS. She created and secured funding for an in-house vocational program, including the Tiger Cart “store,” giving students in autism support and life skills classes meaningful, real-world experiences. Beyond her direct work with students, she supports teachers, advocates for Spanish-speaking students’ mental wellness, and leads family engagement efforts that strengthen the entire school community. Fellow social worker, Alicia Trezise, shared, “She is a colleague who we can truly rely on to support us as well as to provide leadership and support school-wide.”

Heather is an exceptional educator whose dedication, innovation, and belief in every student’s potential make a lasting impact both in and beyond the classroom. She creates engaging, real-world learning experiences that build critical thinking, collaboration, and confidence, while also supporting students through university partnerships, family engagement, and district leadership roles. Known for going above and beyond, often investing her own time and resources, Heather fosters strong relationships that ensure every student feels valued and supported. Heidi Hackett, Speech-Language Pathologist, nominated Heather and stated, “Their work consistently reflects a deep belief that every student can thrive when given the right support, encouragement, and opportunities.

All Shining Star recipients will receive a $250 cash award and a $250 CUSF grant for their classrooms in the upcoming fall.  Teachers will be recognized at the annual CUSF Spring Fling Teacher Appreciation Social at Riggs in Urbana.

The mission of the Champaign Urbana Schools Foundation is to invest in an equitable and empowered future for Champaign Urbana by strengthening the community’s commitment to our public schools, teachers, and students.