Liberty Elementary School Teacher Recognized By ISBE

PLAINFIELD, IL — After observing one of third grade teacher Tracy Kieres’ Zoom sessions with her students in March, Liberty Elementary School Principal Michelle Imbordino was so impressed that she nominated Kieres for the Illinois State Board of Education’s 2021 Teacher of the Year award.

Kieres recently received an Award of Meritorious Service from ISBE.

Imbordino was particularly impressed with Kieres’ ability to connect with her students, even in a remote learning environment, Imbordino said.

"I really started to reflect on her throughout the whole year and how she always seems to go above and beyond for her students," Imbordino said.

Kieres had to submit three letters of recommendation and four essays explaining the type of teacher she is in a variety of categories as part of the nomination.

Part of her teaching philosophy is to teach the whole child and make sure all her students feel valued every day, Kieres said.

"I think we need to know who kids are as people and build a relationship with them first, and then from there they are open to learning,” she said. “It is very important to me to make connections with students and let them know they are valued."

Kieres has continued connecting with her students during remote learning by sending them post cards, having students give updates on what is happening in their lives and how they are feeling. She also gives up her free time before and after school and during her plan time to be available if students need to talk.

"Tracy gets to know all of her students on a personal level," Imbordino said.

"In the times when I have observed her instruction, it is highly apparent that she fully customizes her instruction to meet the needs of every learner in her classroom," Imbordino said. "She makes every student feel like they are the most important person in the room. She is genuine, and she truly gives it her all every day."

Although Kieres did not win Teacher of the Year, ISBE still recognized her as an outstanding classroom teacher and named her a recipient of the Meritorious Service award.

"I am over the moon excited to be recognized," Kieres said.