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Congratulations to the four Joliet Public Schools District 86 teachers who were named 2023 Joliet Area Great Teachers by the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Overall, 22 local teachers were recognized at a banquet at the Jacob Henry Mansion Estate. The teachers were nominated by students, parents, colleagues, administrators, or community members.

This year's District 86 winning teachers were (front row, from left to right) Julie Bark, Special Education Teacher: Pershing Elementary; Catherine Kopka, Seventh Grade English Language Arts Teacher, Hufford Junior High; Erin McDonough, Sixth Grade English as a Second Language Resource Teacher, Gompers Junior High; and Mary Jane Worsley, Kindergarten Teacher, Lynne Thigpen Elementary.

"It is such a wonderful opportunity to recognize great teachers in the Joliet area," said Joliet Public Schools District 86 Superintendent Dr. Theresa Rouse. "I am especially proud of our District 86 teachers who were honored."

Combined, these teachers have been in education serving students and families for over 61 years. The teachers will also be recognized at the Joliet Public Schools District 86 Board of School Inspectors meeting in March.