Troy 30-C staff member honored with ISBE Award of Special Recognition

Theresa Oberding, instructional coach at William B. Orenic Intermediate School, has received the “Those who Excel” Award of Special Recognition in the category of Student Support Personnel from the Illinois State Board of Education.

The esteemed award honors Illinois educators for their extraordinary contributions to education across the state.

W.B.O. Sixth-grade Principal Kelly Landers said Oberding is an instructional coach for both fifth- and sixth-grades. Before serving as a coach, she taught sixth-grade social studies and fourth- and fifth-grades at Troy Community School District 30-C.

"We are so fortunate to have Theresa here with us at W.B.O.,” Landers said. “She is so knowledgeable in the area of instruction, students, and in her current role as an instructional coach. She works tirelessly to help better our school, and we are extremely grateful for her dedication."

"Theresa is an exceptional educator,” W.B.O. Fifth-grade Principal Brooke Allen said. “From the moment the day begins until the bell rings at the end of the day, she is engaged in meaningful work alongside building administrators, staff members, and students in her role as instructional coach."

In a statement released by the ISBE, Governor JB Pritzker said he was “thrilled to recognize teachers alongside librarians, custodians, volunteers, and other support personnel who all contribute to our students’ wellbeing. Just like Illinois as a whole, it takes many skills and roles to keep a school running and to build the next generation of outstanding Illinoisans.”

“I am humbled by the nomination,” Oberding said, “and I am very appreciative.”

William B. Orenic Intermediate School is a Troy Community School District 30-C school.