Oakwood Art Teacher Honored As Early Professional Of The Year

LEMONT, IL — MacKenzie Pollastrini, the art teacher at Oakwood in Lemont, was selected as the 2021 Early Professional of the Year by the Illinois Art Education Association, according to a release from the association.

Every year, the association recognizes the top art, design and media educators for their excellence and service to the field, the association said. The committee found Pollastrini's professional performance, service, and leadership to be exemplary in every regard and selected her for this recognition, the association said.

Pollastrini teaches art and STEAM classes to students from early childhood through second grade at Oakwood. According to the news release, she has also been involved with hosting STEAM nights, art shows and an after school art club for first and second-graders.