District 47 Celebrates Fall Elevate Award Winners

District 47's Elevate program recognizes employees who uphold and exemplify the district's mission, vision, and core values and who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of students, schools, and the community. Nominees and winners are announced three times a year - fall, winter, and spring. For the fall Elevate Award, 8 winners were announced out of 26 nominations. District 47 would also like to thank all the businesses that have chosen to sponsor our Elevate program this year. Eight local sponsors award the winners with a gift card.

Elevate Award recipients will be recognized at the Board of Education meeting. Please take a moment to read more about our winners with a quote taken from their Elevate nomination.

Michelle Breutzmann, Kindergarten Teacher, North

“Mrs. Breutzmann went above and beyond for my son. She was so accommodating to his individual needs, & recognized when he was struggling & knew what to implement to help guide him. She was so communicative. At times I felt so needy, but she welcomed & supported us full heartedly. I believe the best way for my children to succeed is to be partnered with their teacher so we’re all on the same page & aware. Mrs. Breutzmann truly made such an important impact on my son & I will forever be grateful for that. I truly believe my son will never forget her."

Pamela Colson, First Grade Teacher, Coventry

"We transferred our son from private school to Coventry and were immediately met by Mrs Colson with open arms. She figured out my son right away and did everything in her power to help him. Every day after school she gave us an update in person and then followed up in Seesaw. She takes that extra step in everything she does. The days that were fantastic, she celebrated just as hard as we did."

Guadalupe Espinoza, Kindergarten Dual Language Teacher, North

"Ms. Espinoza noticed our little girl needs a little extra TLC and has communicated to my husband and I with professional, knowledgeable information and has really helped our daughter grow so much since the first week of school. She continues to work in ways that will help our daughter grow and learn what is needed of her as well throughout her learning career. Anytime Ms Espinoza could advocate and help, she has exceeded my expectations. She provides her with a safe space to work through her emotions and has helped get her engaged in the newer programs including learning about feelings. I have seen so much growth in my daughter and cannot thank her enough for her continued efforts."

Michael Lewis, Oasis Teacher, Hannah Beardsley

“Mr. Lewis has helped my daughter succeed with the transition to middle school. From the moment she entered his classroom he put her at ease and has set her up for success. She is fond of the way he doesn’t raise his voice- she feels safe in his classroom, he sets the stage for her to have a successful day each & every morning. His ability to communicate effectively when a concern arises is fabulous. My daughter has made a complete 180 degree turn this year in school and I know it is largely due in part to Mr. Lewis."

Katie Meyer, Speech Language Pathologist, Lundahl

“Katie truly exemplifies all of the district core values. She goes above and beyond daily for all students and for her colleagues. Katie is always positive. She is a great colleague to collaborate and problem solve with as she has so many innovative and out of the box ideas to help support each student's individual needs. I feel blessed to work alongside someone of Katie's caliber.”

Aaron Knoth, Director of SIS, CORE

"Aaron Knoth has started his second year as Student Information Director at School District 47. In this short time he has proven what an asset he is to this District; to parents, students and staff. His knowledge of technology, his compassion for others and his drive to succeed serves him well in this role. Aaron has shown patience, support, training and encouragement to his staff, making the Student Information Department a great place to work."

Lisa Schilling, Permanent Substitute, Indian Prairie

"Lisa exemplifies D47's core values, professionalism, and our motto at Indian Prairie that "kids come first". Lisa joined our staff this year as our building's permanent substitute. However, a few days before school started, the building still had a vacancy in our Cross Categorical self-contained classroom. Lisa was asked if she could sub in this classroom until a permanent special education teacher was secured. Lisa not only said yes, but she has embraced this role with passion and dedication."

Melissa Zilm, Reading Interventionist, Indian Prairie 

“Our family had the privilege of working with Mrs. Zilm beginning in the winter of last school year. She provided continuous check-ins and provided me with coaching and tips for when we were hitting roadblocks at home with my daughter’s reading. The impact she made is beyond any measurement a test could provide. She made my daughter excited to practice reading and my daughter would tell me every day that Mrs. Zilm was the best part of her day. Mrs. Zilm demonstrates the highest level of commitment, compassion, and collaboration. I can’t imagine a better teacher for my daughter and I truly believe she changed the trajectory of my daughter’s success in school.”