Lockport Township High School Foundation Recognizes Math Teacher, Bus Driver

LOCKPORT, IL — Lockport Township High School District 205 has announced this year’s recipients of two prestigious awards presented by the LTHS 205 Foundation: the William and Mildred Jackson Teacher Recognition Award and the Golden Key Award.

The District said LTHS teacher Chelsey Wajchert was selected as this year’s recipient of the William and Mildred Jackson Teacher Recognition Award. Additionally, for the second consecutive year, the LTHS 205 Foundation awarded the Golden Key Award to John Stenburg, a bus driver, in recognition of his daily commitment and dedication to LTHS.

Chelsey Wajchert, a math teacher with 11 years of service at LTHS, was honored with the 2025 William and Mildred Jackson Teacher Recognition Award. The District said this award celebrates educators who demonstrate excellence in both the art and science of teaching. Sponsored by LTHS alumni Robert Carr and Jill Jackson Carr through the Give Something Back Foundation, the award honors Jill’s late parents—William Jackson, a former LTHS science teacher and coach (1958–1982), and Mildred Jackson, who provided music lessons to children in the Lockport community.

“To the students who nominated me, thank you. Your energy, curiosity, and dedication are what make teaching such a joy. I feel so lucky to be part of your journey, and even more grateful that you've been part of mine. As teachers, we pour so much of ourselves into our classrooms, trying to create an environment that resonates with students and allows them to thrive. My goal has always been for my kids to feel welcomed, cared for, and supported. To be myself in the classroom and for students to recognize everything I’m trying to bring to the table - that is the ultimate gift,” said Wajchert upon receiving the award.

Wajchert was surprised with the award by her students on May 29 during the district’s end-of-year staff meeting. The award includes a certificate and cash prize, with recipients selected by a committee of administrators, teachers and students, according to the District.

Stenburg, a dedicated bus driver in the Transportation Department, was named the 2025 Golden Key Award recipient. This award recognizes support staff who go above and beyond in service to the LTHS community, the District said. The Golden Key Award was presented by students who nominated him at the same end-of-year meeting, where those who nominated him read aloud heartfelt statements describing his remarkable kindness, unwavering dedication and the genuine care he consistently demonstrates toward his bus riders.

"As a board, our purpose is rooted in a commitment to support the heart of our schools and the local community. We are committed to investing in the people and ideas that shape a brighter future for LTHS 205 District," said Jonathan Darin, LTHS 205 Foundation Board President. "Our board members always love being able to award staff. The William and Mildred Jackson Teacher Recognition Award is always a big one for our board, as the winner is nominated by their students and/or peers. We are super excited for this year's winners!"