JCHS Teacher Dale West Honored at ISBE Those Who Excel Banquet

Joliet Central High School teacher Dale West received an Award of Merit in the category of Early Career Educator at the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) Those Who Excel Awards Banquet in Normal, IL on Oct. 17.

West was one of 250 outstanding educators across Illinois receiving an award. Local school district leaders and members of school communities nominate candidates for recognition. A committee of peers, organized through the ISBE, chooses the award winners. The committee represents statewide education organizations and includes former award winners.

“These educators have distinguished themselves for their exceptional work in their respective fiends,” said Cinda Klickna, Illinois Education Association President. “These award recipients represent true excellence and their students are indeed lucky to have them in their lives.”

West is in his fifth year at Central as a Career and Technical Education teacher in the STEM Academy. He is a graduate of Eastern Illinois University, has an Associate in Applied Science from Moraine Valley Community College and is currently pursuing his Master of Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Digital Learning from the American College of Education. At JTHS, he is a member of the Instructional Leadership Team, the School Walkthrough Team and he has facilitated school technology summer boot camp along with blended learning professional development sessions for staff.

“During my time at Joliet Central, I am most proud of the authentic learning experiences I am able to provide my students,” said West. “Through community partnerships I have been able to give my students real life problems to help them become college and career ready.”

Photo Identification: Dale West and his wife Sheila.