Creative Teachers Champion Student Success In And Out Of The Classroom

Plainfield/Shorewood, Illinois — Back-to-school season brings a mix of excitement and nerves — for students, parents and staff alike. Thankfully, Plainfield/Shorewood is home to everyday school heroes who help make the transition smoother and the school year a little brighter.

From teachers and tutors to bus drivers, cafeteria staff, crossing guards and more, these caring individuals bring steady support and positivity to our schools. To recognize their many contributions — big and small — Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to salute the unsung heroes of back-to-school.

This submission comes from Natashia, who nominated Lisa and Nicki of The Goddard School Shorewood/Plainfield.

What is the school hero’s name?

Lisa and Nicki

Where does this school hero work?

The Goddard School Shorewood/Plainfield

Please describe why this individual is a hero at your school.

Teachers: Nikki and Lisa are the kindergarten, before/after and summer camp teachers. The energy and commitment they bring to the class makes parents feel safe knowing your child is being loved on while you're absent. They have a way of reaching the kids with gentle talks. The education program was continuous even with the summer and part-time schedules. These ladies condition the brain. They teach the kids how to cook. My 7-year-old knows who to make pesto because of them. The school has a garden that the kids maintain and pick the foods. They have all up-to-date equipment to enhance learning. This summer they taught hands-on with the kids how to make fruit ice cream, jam and pesto — things I don’t even know how to make. They instill confidence in the children. They just brought back the kindergarten program and I can’t wait to see how they build little minds and prepare them for the next journey. I can’t wait for next summer when my child can return for summer camp to get more recipes.

How do you know the school hero you’re nominating?

They are my child’s teachers.

What should your community know about this person?

Learning and fun can coexist because I have watched these ladies do it. Top-tier education program with an accredited kindergarten program inside this early education facility, plus life skills learning experiences between 5-8 years old. They are sculpting little minds and creating positive environments. My child went here for summer camp 2025. he learned how to prepare pesto, jam, fruit ice cream. She was in the basketball camp, cheerleading, soccer. The kids learn about caring for others and friends, how to help at home by setting placemats and table setting, life skills and survival during heat. Their presence helps parenting easier and even keeps me educated every day. It’s did you know, do you know how to mommy? And when you ask, well how do you know? Ms. Nikki and Ms. Lisa taught us today. I can’t wait until next summer to see what these two will have for summer camp.

What three words best describe the school hero?

Creative, Caring, Patient

If you know a school hero who deserves recognition, we’d love to hear from you! Simply answer a few questions, and we’ll take care of the rest.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.