February 2026

Dear Lake County Community,

As we move through the heart of a long winter, we are encouraged by the signs that spring is just around the corner. At the Lake County Regional Office of Education, the months ahead promise to be both busy and exciting as we support students, educators, and school leaders during a season filled with learning, collaboration, and celebration.

In the coming weeks, we look forward to connecting with educators during our Countywide Institute Day on February 13, cheering on students as Spelling Bee competitions begin, and engaging in important conversations at our School Safety Conference. We are also already preparing for one of our most meaningful celebrations of the year—the Educator of the Year Awards in May—when we honor the outstanding individuals who make a lasting impact in our schools.

Thank you for your continued partnership and dedication to education in Lake County. We look forward to a productive and rewarding spring ahead.

Sincerely,

Dr. Michael Karner

Regional Superintendent of Schools

Lake County, Illinois

As we transition into our new ROE building, we want to ensure our partners and community members know where to go for services. Our Vernon Hills (West) office will remain open for all front-facing services, including Safe School, Educator Licensure, Fingerprinting, Bus Driver Training, GED, and Work Permits, until further notice. The Lake Forest (East) location will primarily be used for Professional Development at this time. Unless your event or appointment specifically lists Lake Forest, all services will take place at the Vernon Hills location.

The Lake County Division of Transportation is launching its first Student Advisory Council for the Long Range Transportation Plan, Envision 2050, and is inviting high school teachers and administrators to nominate students or share this opportunity. This council allows students provide input to county planners, learn how transportation decisions are made, and develop civic engagement skills. Click here for more information

 [Register here]

Dolly Parton Imagination Library provides FREE books to Lake County residents (birth to 5) 

All Lake County families can now enroll in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, thanks to the Lake County Regional Office of Education Foundation (LCROEF). This cherished program delivers free, high-quality books each month to children from birth to age five, regardless of income.

Enroll a child here.

The Lake County Educator of the Year Awards celebrate the extraordinary educators who make a lasting difference in the lives of students every day. Now in its fifth year, this annual event honors outstanding teachers, administrators, and support staff whose dedication, leadership, and passion strengthen schools and communities across Lake County.

Presented by the LCROE Foundation, the Educator of the Year Banquet brings together educators, families, and community partners to recognize excellence in education and reflect on the collective impact of those who go above and beyond to support student success. School districts are encouraged to participate by submitting nominations by March 20th, 2026. Visit our website for details.

February 27-28, 2026– Save the Date for Illinois Teacher Leadership Summit 2026!

The summit will be held February 27-28th, 2026, at the Holiday Inn in Normal, IL. Registration has begun and you can get an early bird special rate here. 

SAVE THE DATE

Educators Rising Annual Conference

Thursday, April 9, 2026

Don't miss the opportunity to plan for your future as an educator while networking with leaders in education and fellow high school students from across the state! Middle/High School Students and their current educators can receive professional development from engaging experts. Attend the Future Educator Resource fair to visit with educational institutions from across Illinois. Take advantage of optional activities such as skills-attainment competitions and campus tours.

For more information, email educatorsrising@ieanea.org or call (815)713-4788.

Save the Date

Whitney M. Young Jr. Awards Breakfast

Friday, April 24, 2026 | 7:30–9:00 a.m.

Chevy Chase Country Club, Wheeling

Join Scouting America Northeast Illinois Council for this annual breakfast honoring individuals and organizations making a difference in the lives of youth. Proceeds support the Discover Scouts Outreach Program, serving more than 300 youth in Waukegan and Zion at no cost to families.

Nominations are now open for the Elbert K. Fretwell Outstanding Educator Award.

Deadline: February 15, 2026

Questions? Contact Rebecca Minsley at rebecca.minsley@scouting.org

or 847-527-9634.

Important Changes to Reciprocity

Effective January 1, 2026, Illinois will continue to offer reciprocity for all endorsements listed on a valid, comparable out-of-state license; however, ALL applicants must also successfully pass the applicable Illinois

content area test(s) to qualify. (Register here: ILTS​.) (This requirement is effective January 1, 2026, and applies to all applications received on or after this date.)

Professional Development Audit

ISBE does conduct random professional development audits each year. You must keep your evidence of completion forms for professional development completed for a period of six years. You will need these forms to comply with an audit. An audit request will be sent to your last known email address. It is important to keep your contact information up to date. If you do not comply with an audit request, or you do not meet

requirements for professional development, ISBE will move your license to lapsed status until you meet

compliance.

Email Address

Your email address is used for important ISBE communications such as notice of renewal, and audit notification. It is also used for password retrieval. It is highly recommended that you use your personal email in place of your district email to ensure that you do not miss any important communications should you break service with your school district and no

longer have access to your email.