Valley View STEP Paraprofessional Nominated For National RISE Award

BOLINGBROOK, IL — VVSD Secondary Transition Experience Program Paraprofessional Jennifer Cooper of Valley View School District 365U and Tyonna Woodhouse of East St. Louis School District 189 will represent Illinois in the U.S. Department of Education’s prestigious RISE recognition program, according to a news release from VVSD.

The Illinois State Board of Education made the nominations for the 2026 Recognizing Inspiring School Employees Award. The RISE Award is a national recognition program that honors extraordinary classified school employees for their outstanding contributions to their school communities.

“Jennifer Cooper and Tyonna Woodhouse are powerful examples of how caring adults change students’ lives,” said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. “Their work reminds us that student success is built not only in classrooms, but also through the support, encouragement, and advocacy provided by dedicated school professionals. Illinois is proud to recognize their impact and to nominate them for this national honor.”

Jennifer Cooper, a job coach at VVSD’s STEP Campus, has spent more than 22 years helping transition-age students with disabilities build the skills needed for independence and success, the District said.

Known for her empathy, creativity, and leadership, Jennifer supports students in developing communication, professionalism, and daily living skills that prepare them for the workforce and adult life. She helped expand STEP’s student-run coffee shop program into a thriving multi-site initiative, creating authentic vocational learning opportunities while strengthening community partnerships, according to the District.

Jennifer also serves as an Equity Ambassador and Building Impact Team member, championing inclusivity and cultural understanding throughout her school community.

“Jennifer’s commitment to excellence, her innovative approach to student engagement, and her dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive school community make her a standout in her role,” said Valley View STEP Principal Marissa Trueblood-Seifert in her recommendation letter. “She continually goes above and beyond, offering her time, expertise, and support to students, colleagues, and families alike. Her work has had a profound and lasting impact on the lives of many students, helping them develop not only vocational skills but also confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging.”

ISBE selected the RISE Award nominees from top-scoring Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards recipients in the educational service personnel category. Classified employees include professionals in occupational specialties, such as paraprofessionals, clerical and administrative services, transportation services, food and nutrition services, custodial and maintenance services, security services, health and student services, technical services, and skilled trades.

The RISE Award is facilitated by the U.S. Department of Education, which typically announces the national honoree in the spring of each year.