ISBE Announces 2026 RISE Award Nominees Honoring Outstanding School Support Professionals

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) announced today that two outstanding classified school employees, Jennifer Cooper of Valley View School District 365U and Tyonna Woodhouse of East St. Louis School District 189, have been selected as Illinois' nominees for the 2026 Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award. The RISE Award is a national recognition program that honors extraordinary classified school employees for their outstanding contributions to their school communities.

"Jennifer Cooper and Tyonna Woodhouse are powerful examples of how caring adults change students' lives," said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. "Their work reminds us that student success is built not only in classrooms, but also through the support, encouragement, and advocacy provided by dedicated school professionals. Illinois is proud to recognize their impact and to nominate them for this national honor."

Jennifer Cooper, a job coach in the Secondary Transition Experience Program (STEP) at Valley View School District 365U, has spent more than 22 years helping transition-age students with disabilities build the skills needed for independence and success. Known for her empathy, creativity, and leadership, Jennifer supports students in developing communication, professionalism, and daily living skills that prepare them for the workforce and adult life. She helped expand her district's student-run coffee shop program into a thriving multi-site initiative, creating authentic vocational learning opportunities while strengthening community partnerships. Jennifer also serves as an Equity Ambassador and Building Impact Team member, championing inclusivity and cultural understanding throughout her school community.

"Jennifer's commitment to excellence, her innovative approach to student engagement, and her dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive school community make her a standout in her role," said Valley View STEP Principal Marissa Trueblood-Seifert in her recommendation letter. "She continually goes above and beyond, offering her time, expertise, and support to students, colleagues, and families alike. Her work has had a profound and lasting impact on the lives of many students, helping them develop not only vocational skills but also confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging."

Tyonna Woodhouse, a Homeless, Attendance, and Truancy (HAT) Officer at James Avant Elementary School in East St. Louis School District 189, is recognized for her commitment to improving student attendance and addressing barriers to learning. Under her leadership, James Avant has seen significant reductions in chronic absenteeism and increases in student engagement. Tyonna develops and implements comprehensive attendance strategies, conducts home visits, and connects families with housing, food, and community resources to support student success. Her compassion and proactive approach have made her a trusted advocate for students and families across the district.

"Tyonna Woodhouse has been an integral part of our school community, serving as our Homeless, Attendance, and Truancy Officer with unparalleled dedication and compassion," said former principal of James Avant Elementary Quanshanda Nicholson in her letter of recommendation. "Her contributions have helped foster a culture of accountability and care, ensuring every student feels seen and valued."

ISBE selected the RISE Award nominees from top-scoring Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards recipients in the educational service personnel category. Classified employees include professionals in occupational specialties, such as paraprofessionals, clerical and administrative services, transportation services, food and nutrition services, custodial and maintenance services, security services, health and student services, technical services, and skilled trades.

The RISE Award is facilitated by the U.S. Department of Education, which typically announces the national honoree in the spring of each year.

For more information about the RISE Award and ISBE's recognition programs, visit ISBE's Educator Recognition Opportunities webpage​.