At an April 9, 2025, ceremony, the DeKalb County Community Foundation and DeKalb County Regional Office of Education celebrated local educators during the annual Excellence in Education Awards reception. At the event, colleagues and students recognized teachers, administrators, and support staff who have inspired students to love learning and play an active role in their schools and communities in DeKalb County.

The annual awards are made possible through the generosity of Yvonne Johnson (1930-2023).

The recipients were from Hiawatha, Sycamore, Sandwich, and Genoa-Kingston school districts. Over the past 26 years, the event has recognized 129 educators and distributed $129,000 in awards. Winners receive a check for $1,000, an engraved clock, and a copy of ‘Lifelong Learner,’ a book on the life and legacy of Yvonne Johnson. Support for the awards comes through an endowed Fund at the Community Foundation created by retired Sycamore elementary school teacher Yvonne Johnson, who passed away in May 2023.

“Celebrating exceptional educators is a meaningful way to honor Yvonne’s legacy,” said Jolene Willis, Grants & Community Initiatives Director at the DeKalb County Community Foundation. “We’re proud to support this recognition program and highlight the positive difference educators make in our community.”

2025 Excellence in Education Awards Recipients: 

• Pre-K – 5th Grade Teacher: Natalie Wylde, 3rd Grade Teacher, Genoa-Kingston CUSD #424
• 6th – 8th Grade Teacher: Elizabeth Peterson, 8th Grade Math & Science Teacher, Sycamore CUSD #427
• 9th – 12th Grade Teacher: Kristin Hill, Physical Education Teacher, Sycamore CUSD #427
• Support Staff: Julie Thompson, Head Secretary, Sandwich High School, Sandwich CUSD #430
• Administration: Jared Poynter, Superintendent, Hiawatha CUSD #426

“It’s an honor to recognize educators who go above and beyond each day,” said Regional Superintendent Amanda Christensen. “Partnering with the Community Foundation allows us to shine a light on their dedication and the lasting impact they have on students and schools across DeKalb County.”

Pictured above, 2025 Excellence in Education Award presenters and recipients from left: Jolene Willis (presenter), Natalie Wylde, Kristin Hill, Jared Poynter, Julie Thompson, Elizabeth Peterson, Amanda Christensen (presenter)