May 2026

Dear Lake County Community,

As we reflect on an incredible evening at our 5th Annual Educator of the Year Celebration,

I continue to be inspired by the passion, dedication, and heart of the educators and school personnel who serve students across Lake County each and every day.

This special edition newsletter highlights the unforgettable moments from the evening, recognizes this year’s outstanding award recipients, and celebrates the collective commitment to student success that exists throughout Lake County.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this event possible and, most importantly, thank you to the educators who continue to lead with compassion, excellence, and unwavering dedication to children.

Sincerely,

Dr. Michael Karner

Regional Superintendent of Schools

Lake County, Illinois

On May 6, the Lake County Regional Office of Education (ROE) hosted its 5th Annual Educator of the Year Awards, presented by the Lake County Regional Office of Education Foundation (LCROEF), bringing together nearly 1,000 educators, school staff, administrators, families, community leaders, and supporters to celebrate the individuals who make a lasting difference in our schools. The evening was filled with gratitude, celebration, and appreciation for the extraordinary individuals who dedicate their lives to supporting students each and every day.

From classroom teachers and support staff to administrators and service personnel, each honoree represents the very best of education and the profound impact that caring adults have on the lives of students. In this special edition newsletter, we are proud to recognize our 2026 Educator of the Year, Nic Schlichting of Lake Bluff School District 65, along with the outstanding recipients honored across each award category.

Congratulations as well to all of this year’s nominees, Guest of Honor recipients, and special recognition honorees whose dedication and service continue to make a difference in schools across Lake County.

To view the full list of honorees, click here

One of the highlights of the evening was the outstanding involvement of students from across Lake County. Barrington High School students Lynda Ma and Colin Starnes served as exceptional emcees, bringing professionalism, energy, and warmth to the celebration while helping guide the evening’s program.

Guests also enjoyed performances from the talented Barrington High School Jazz Band, whose performance set the tone for a memorable evening of celebration and recognition. The Lake County ROE also extends its appreciation to the Zion-Benton Township High School NJROTC for their participation and support in helping make the evening so memorable.

A Night of Celebration & Impact

The Educator of the Year Celebration also highlighted the Lake County Regional Office of Education Foundation’s continued commitment to supporting students, educators, and school communities across Lake County.

One of the evening’s special moments was the presentation of the Foundation Above and Beyond Award to Jen Rusynyk, recognizing her extraordinary generosity, volunteerism, and dedication to the Foundation’s mission of ensuring every student is ready to learn.

The Foundation also shared the impact of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Lake County and invited guests to honor educators through donations supporting early childhood literacy. Contributions made throughout the evening will help provide free, high-quality books to children across Lake County and foster a lifelong love of reading. Visit the LCROEF website.

Photo Credits: Janelle Rominski Photography