STILLMAN VALLEY – Bill Polasky is an institution at Stillman Valley High School.
His courses are viewed in many ways as academic rites of passage for Meridian students as he prides himself on challenging them to think and write beyond what many believe they are personally capable of academically. His efforts have been rewarded by being named a finalist for Illinois Teacher of the Year.
“We are all ecstatic that Bill has advanced to this level of the competition,” said Meridian superintendent, Dr. PJ Caposey. “I truly believe that he is worthy of this tremendous honor. Not only is he an outstanding teacher, but also an influential leader among his peers – both within Meridian and in the national landscape for U.S. history teachers. He truly is exemplary in many ways.”
Polasky commented on the honor as well.
"I find it to be a humbling and exciting honor all at once, as it never occurred to me starting out that recognition like this would come my way,” he said. “I've just tried to pursue my craft with passion, to do the best I could do and be the best I could be for my students, the community I serve, and the profession at-large, and it's been a rich, deeply fulfilling adventure for me these past 25 years."
“The Those Who Excel program honors and celebrates some of Illinois’ most exemplary teachers at every level,” said State Superintendent of Education Tony Smith, Ph.D. “Every student deserves to feel like they belong. Our 10 Teacher of the Year finalists are outstanding representatives of educators who continuously go above and beyond to make students feel well known and well cared for. Their level of commitment, their passion, and their dedication is evident in their strong relationships with students, colleagues, and families within their communities.”
A selection committee composed of administrators, teachers, educational service personnel, student support personnel, and past Illinois Teacher of the Year winners reviewed hundreds of Teacher of the Year nominations this year.
ISBE will announce the Illinois Teacher of the Year during the Those Who Excel banquet in October at the Bloomington-Normal Marriott Hotel and Conference Center in Normal. The Teacher of the Year will represent Illinois in various capacities at events and on committees throughout the country.
Meridian teacher, Teresa Eden, was a state finalist for this award last year. Bill and Teresa are the first finalists for this recognition in Meridian history.
