Illinois Teacher Of The Year Distinction Awarded To Naperville Central's Seth Brady

NAPERVILLE, IL — Naperville Central social studies teacher Seth Brady has been chosen as Teacher of the Year by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).

Brady, who was named Regional Teacher of the Year in February, was recognized for his emphasis on "inclusion, inquiry, and student agency," per a news release from ISBE.

The statement went on,

"He equips young people with the tools to understand complex global and local issues and to take informed action that strengthens their communities. His students have helped author, inform, and inspire multiple pieces of Illinois legislation, including laws related to climate education, media literacy, opioid antagonist access, maternal health equity, allergy education, and fentanyl awareness. He has also secured numerous grants that support global learning, restorative justice initiatives, bicultural education, and inquiry‑based professional development."

Brady has been teaching at Naperville Central since 2004. Before that, he earned a bachelor's degree in anthropology and philosopy and a masters degree in kinesiology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Brady's roster of classes includes Anthropology, Peace Studies, World Religions and World Cultures.

In addition to coursework, Brady has earned grants for initiatives in bicultural education, restorative justice, professional development and global learning.

Brady has helped his students write and rally for legislation supporting media literacy, access to opioid antagonists, equity in maternal health care and more.

He also works as the Illinois Global Scholar program's project director.

Naperville Community Unit School District 203 praised Brady in their announcement of his selection as Teacher of the Year.

District 203 superintendent Dan Bridges said,

"Seth doesn’t just teach history; he helps students see how they can make history. His commitment to inquiry and equity has empowered our students to become global citizens and has truly changed the trajectory of education across our state.”

Jackie Thornton, principal of Naperville Central, made a statement commending how Brady embraces "the gift of wonder" in his classes. Thronton said,

"Seth transforms his classroom into a space where expertise is shared and students design the questions that drive their learning. Whether they are supporting global entrepreneurs or proposing real-world legislative solutions, Seth challenges us all to think bigger about what is possible in education. We are incredibly proud to call him a Redhawk.”

With the Teacher of the Year Award, Brady will be granted a year-long sabbatical. He'll also compete in the National Teacher of the Year this July.

Brady's Illinois Teacher of the Year cohort included 13 finalists for the coveted award.