District 99 Teachers Earn Outstanding Educator Awards

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Two Community High School District 99 teachers have earned the University of Chicago Outstanding Educator Award. Karen Spahr-Thomas of Downers Grove North High School and Trevor Parker of Downers Grove South High School were nominated by University of Chicago freshmen for the prestigious award.

Spahr-Thomas and Parker were chosen from among thousands of nominations by students recognizing teachers who had a positive impact on their lives, according to a news release.

“Ms. Spahr-Thomas and Mr. Parker are more than deserving of this prestigious award,” District 99 Superintendent Dr. Hank Thiele said in a news release. Thiele added, “Both go above and beyond to ensure each student is on the path to success not only in high school but in their future. Being nominated by their former students is a true testament to their role as an educator.”