At the 2026 Excellence in Education ceremony, 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. Hosted annually by the DeKalb County Community Foundation and DeKalb County Regional Office of Education, this annual event celebrates local educators who exceed expectations and make meaningful differences in our schools.

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

Award recipients represent the Hiawatha, Hinckley-Big Rock, and Sycamore school districts. Over the past 27 years, the event has recognized 134 educators and distributed $134,000 in awards. Each recipient receives a $1,000 award, 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, Community Foundation Grants & Community Initiatives Director. “We’re proud to support this recognition program and highlight the positive difference educators make in our community.”

2026 Excellence in Education Awards Recipients: 

• Support Staff: Valtricia Sherwood, Head Custodian/Building Technician, Sycamore CUSD #427
• Pre-K – 5th Grade Teacher: Mallory Wassmann, Social Worker, Hinckley-Big Rock CUSD #429
• 6th – 8th Grade Teacher: Colleen Ford, Science Teacher, Hiawatha CUSD #426
• 9th – 12th Grade Teacher:  Ben Mueller, Math Teacher, Hinckley-Big Rock CUSD #429
• Administration: Justin Drennan, Dean of Students, Sycamore CUSD #427

“It is a privilege to celebrate educators who consistently exceed expectations,” said Carmen Siragusa, DeKalb County Regional Office of Education Assistant Superintendent. “Through our partnership with the Community Foundation, we are proud to highlight their commitment and the meaningful, lasting influence they have on students and schools throughout DeKalb County.”

Pictured above, 2026 Excellence in Education Award presenters and recipients from left: Jolene Willis (presenter), Valtricia Sherwood, Mallory Wassmann, Colleen Ford, Ben Mueller, Justin Drennan, Carmen Siragusa (presenter).