St. Charles High School Teacher Named Educator Of The Year

ST. CHARLES, IL – Kyle Libberton, a history and psychology teacher from St. Charles East High School, was named the 2018 Kane County Educator of the Year. The Kane County Regional Office of Education held the 43rd Annual Educator of the Year Ceremony on May 4 at the Q Center in St. Charles. The event honored 41 distinguished educators that were nominated by local committees and are seen as having the respect and admiration of students, parents, co-workers, and community members, according to a news release.

They play active and useful roles in their communities and in their schools, often distinguishing themselves as leaders.

“Tonight, we celebrate the years of education, leadership, assistance, and inspiration in our schools and for our students,” Kane County Regional Superintendent Patricia Dal Santo said during the event. “We honor the hours spent dedicated to engaging students and inspiring the young minds of the future.”

Libberton said he is grateful for the award.

“I’m especially grateful because this award ultimately belongs to my students,” Libberton shared during his acceptance speech. “It recognizes all of the work done in our classrooms and drives home the fact that what each and every one of us does on a daily basis is meaningful.”

Other awards presented during the evening included:

• Regional Superintendent Award: Lisa Dandre, St. Charles East High School, District 303
• Private/Parochial Teacher Award: Peggy Veltri, Elgin Academy
• Educational Service Personnel Award: Brittany Anne Bailey-Cole, Geneva High School, District 304
• Student Support Personnel Award: Denise Nicole Michels, Harter Middle School, District 302
• Early Career Educator Award: Saul Olivas, Johnson Elementary, District 131
• Preschool Teacher of the Year: Karen Jane Nellis, Alice Gustafson Elementary, District 101
• Elementary School Teacher of the Year: Mary A. Fulin, Otter Creek Elementary, District U-46
• Middle School Teacher of the Year: Beth Anne Harner, Dundee Middle School, District 300
• High School Teacher of the Year: Susan Jayne Zagorski, Central High School, District 301
• School Administrator of the Year: Frederick R. Heid, School District 300

Photo caption: Kyle Libberton with Regional Superintendent Patricia Dal Santo/Photo credit: Kane County Regional Office of Education