District 230 was recognized with a total of four Those Who Excel Awards -  one Award of Excellence and three for Special Recognition. Staff members from Victor J. Andrew High School will receive awards in the Classroom Teacher, Early Career Educator, Educational Service Personnel, and Support Personnel categories. Recipients will receive their awards at the annual Illinois State Board of Education Awards ceremony for the work they do to support and positively impact the students at Andrew High School.

 According to the Illinois State Board of Education, the annual "Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards" celebrate incredible classroom teachers, administrators, teams, volunteers, and school support personnel who have made lasting impacts on the students, families, and fellow educators in their school communities. 

Award of Excellence, Classroom Teacher: Barbara Sopiarz
Barb Spoiarz teaches in the Victor J. Andrew High School Science Department. She consistently utilizes student-centered instruction that promotes student ownership in their learning. Barb provides support for all levels of students, building their confidence and capacity while inspiring curiosity. A trailblazer in advancing inquiry-based work through our Professional Learning Communities, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to purposeful, sustainable professional learning across District 230. Her efforts have been instrumental in embedding high-leverage instructional practices that positively impact both teaching and student learning. Barb's impact on the Andrew community extends beyond the classroom. As a student council advisor, she dedicates countless hours to helping build student leadership and capacity for collaboration. Her work influences the community at large and develops the next generation of leaders and culture-builders.

Award of Special Recognition, Early Career Educator: Joshua Niego
An invaluable and impactful asset to the Victor J. Andrew Business Department, Niego’s dedication to professional growth is evident through consistent engagement in his Professional Learning Community (PLC). He is not a passive participant; he regularly contributes insightful, evidence-based ideas and actively collaborates with his colleagues to solve instructional challenges One of his most notable and defining qualities is his commitment to reflective practice. He consistently analyzes his instructional methods and student performance data to identify growth opportunities. An exceptional and collaborative team player, he readily adapts to the department's evolving needs, whether it's covering a class, taking on an extra committee, or overhauling a curriculum unit. He willingly and seamlessly collaborates with others, consistently demonstrating a positive, flexible, and solution-oriented attitude.

Award of Special Recognition, Student Support Personnel: John Tadla
Tadla has set the benchmark for what it means to be an inspired School Counselor and a steadfast student advocate. He is committed to supporting every student with their personal journey, regardless of their path. His students and their parents seek him out for direction and sage advice. His ability to connect with students is further illustrated by his commitment to athletics and clubs, as he has been a coach and sponsor throughout his career, fostering supportive bonds on and off the field and in arenas throughout the building and beyond. Tadla built Andrew’s annual Career Day, runs AP exams, is the NCAA expert, and has worked on countless committees and projects. He does all of this with a contagious positive attitude that keeps people on pace and in good spirits. Beyond his direct professional duties, he has fundamentally shaped the culture of our school and continues to support an environment of care, school pride, and family.  

Award of Special Recognition Educational Service Personnel: Cinnamon Morse-Sneade
As Andrew’s Head Cook for more than two decades, Morse-Sneade exemplifies leadership, compassion, and professionalism. Her deep understanding of nutrition, food safety, and large-scale kitchen operations is evident in how flawlessly she manages a complex, fast-paced cafeteria environment. She routinely trains new staff, models best practices, and ensures that every meal meets both state nutritional guidelines and her own high standard of quality. She is open to feedback from students and staff alike and is reflective in her leadership, consistently demonstrating meticulous attention to detail. She greets students by name, notices when someone may need additional support, and takes pride in ensuring that every student, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to a healthy, nourishing meal. She views her role as essential to student well-being, often saying, “You can’t learn if you’re hungry.” Her commitment to our students is lived daily.