Congratulations to River Trail 2nd/3rd grade teacher Rebecca Grazier who has been named the 2026 Far North Suburbs Regional Teacher of the Year by the Illinois State Board of Education!
Mrs. Grazier learned of the honor during a surprise video call last week from State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders, who personally shared the news of her recognition. Also present for the call were River Trail Principal Jennifer Glickley, River Trail Assistant Principal Lori Johnson and Superintendent Luis Correa.
The ISBE released the names of all the honorees from around the state this morning.
Mrs. Grazier has taught at River Trail for 12 years and serves as a member of the River Trail School Improvement Team, the district Language Arts Committee, and the district Portrait of a Graduate team. She also co-sponsors the River Trail Student Service Council.
River Trail Principal Jennifer Glickley said, “What sets Mrs. Grazier apart is not only her professional excellence but also her unwavering dedication to others. Colleagues often remark on her generosity of spirit, whether mentoring new teachers, sharing effective practices, or encouraging innovative approaches through Teacher Rounds; she builds others up and strengthens the culture of collaboration within the school. Her leadership does not come from a desire for recognition, but from an authentic commitment to ensuring every student and teacher succeeds.”
She added, “She is the teacher students remember for years, the one who made them believe in themselves and love learning. As is evidenced by former students sneaking down to her classroom every morning to hug her to start their day. Her example elevates not only our school but the profession as a whole.”
The Teacher of the Year award honors educators who have made significant contributions to the state's public and nonpublic elementary and secondary schools. A selection committee composed of individuals who represent a variety of educational organizations selected the honorees. Mrs. Grazier will be recognized, along with the rest of the state’s winners at an annual banquet in the Spring.
As the Far North Suburbs Regional Teacher of the year, Mrs. Grazier is one of the 14 members of the 2026 Illinois Teacher of the Year Cohort. Among this cohort, those with five or more years of teaching experience qualify as finalists for the Illinois State Teacher of the Year.