Longtime D202 Gym Teacher Named Educator Of The Year

PLAINFIELD, IL — A longtime Grand Prairie Elementary School physical education teacher has been recognized with a regional award.

Andrea "Andi" Paplaski-Grygiel, or "Queen P," as she is affectionately called, was named the 2026 Will County Educator of the Year by the Will County Regional Office of Education.

Candice Haymond, Paplaski-Grygiel's co-teacher, nominated her for the award, citing her dedication to students, ability to build long-lasting relationships and her commitment to lifelong learning, per a news release from Plainfield Community Consolidated School District 202.

"Focusing on the whole child, Andi collaborates with families to create fun, personalized incentives for students both inside and outside the gymnasium," Haymond wrote in her nomination letter, per the district. "By prioritizing a powerful sense of belonging for all students, Andi consistently brings a wealth of experience and a passion for continuous growth to her community."

Paplaski-Grygiel said the honor is not about her but the entire Grand Prairie physical education team, including Haymond, Matt Becker and retired teacher Barry Dean.

"I would be nothing without them, I am who I am because of them, and I love it," Paplaski-Grygiel said in a statement.

The 27-year veteran teacher is now working with second and third generations of students at Grand Prairie, one of District 202's original elementary schools.

Paplaski-Grygiel refers to her students as her "babies" and said one of her goals is to teach them how to love themselves and have self-esteem.

"My legacy will be my babies," she said.