The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools once again received several outstanding applications for our Illinois Rural Teacher of the Year Award, a recognition program now in its second year. The following three finalists are awarded the 2026 Teacher of Distinction title, and our winner will be selected from these outstanding educators. Thank you to everyone who submitted, and thank you to these rural educators for all they do. We look forward to announcing the 2026 Rural Teacher of the Year!
Spencer Cox – Lick Creek CCSD #16
Nominated by Jordan Suits, Administrator
For the past three years, I have had the privilege of working closely with Mr. Cox and witnessing firsthand the meaningful contributions he makes to both students and colleagues each day. With over 17 years in our district, he is one of our veteran educators, bringing a depth of experience, consistency, and leadership that positively impacts our entire school community. In the third-grade classroom, Mr. Cox consistently sets high expectations and provides support to students in reaching them, resulting in strong academic achievement across the board. What stands out most is his intentional use of classroom data. He is constantly reflecting, adjusting instruction, and ensuring every student receives the support they need to succeed. He is always willing to try something new if it means positive outcomes for his students. In addition, Mr. Cox is equally committed to challenging and extending learning for gifted students, making sure all learners are engaged and growing.
Beyond academics, this teacher has had a lasting impact on the overall climate of the classroom and school community. I have seen significant improvements in student behavior as a result of his proactive, relationship-centered approach. His classroom is a place where students feel supported, motivated, and genuinely enjoy learning. His natural sense of humor connects easily with students and colleagues alike, creating a positive and welcoming environment for everyone.
In our small district, Mr. Cox also goes above and beyond in building strong relationships with families. His strives to maintain consistent communication, encourage involvement, and is always present at school events and evening fundraisers. His commitment to being part of the school community does not go unnoticed as it strengthens trust and reinforces the connection between home and school.
In our rural area, where resources can be limited, Mr. Cox continues to find ways to create meaningful and engaging learning experiences for students. His dedication, professionalism, and positive presence make them an invaluable member of our staff. I am proud to have Mr. Cox as part of our school community, and I am confident in the lasting impact he has on our students, families, and colleagues.
Natalie Mahler – Earlville CUSD 9
Nominated by Jenny Wold, District Program Advisor
Natalie re-started the Ag Education program and FFA Chapter at Earlville High School in 2013. Starting a program is challenging enough, but she had to also grow interest in classes and participation in the FFA Chapter. She invested endless hours in developing engaging curriculum, building relationships with her students, and creating lab spaces that provides her students with invaluable opportunities. In addition to all of this, she got to know the local community and found ways that her program could make an impact. One example of a cool opportunity and way to support the community was through the establishment of the Earlville FFA flower shop. Earlville doesn’t have any place local (because of its rural location) to order flowers for events. Natalie’s students now run a fully operational flower for the school and community to order from – providing an affordable local option, learning opportunities for students, and funds to support students attending FFA events. This is just one example of Natalie’s impact. Natalie has also provide countless opportunities for FFA members – even making opportunities available to 7th and 8th graders. She’s had many students win awards for their involvement and even had a student go on to become a National FFA officer! I could provide countless other reasons to select Natalie as your Rural Teacher of the Year, but I will close with saying – Natalie has invested in her rural school. She has provided opportunities that literally wouldn’t have existed for Earlville students – helping them to find their place and passion in high school.
Jennifer Burdette – Spoon River Valley CUSD 4
Nominated by Chris Janssen, Superintendent
Jennifer Burdette is a passionate educator who works hard to create a student centered environment. Jennifer has been very instrumental in creating a building that values student voice. As a Civics and Social Studies teacher, she works hard to get the students to understand and appreciate not only the world directly around them, but also cultures different than their own. She has been a leader in the state when it comes to Civics education in working as a mentor to other teachers the the Illinois Civics Hub. She has also been a leader in the state when it comes to the democracy school efforts as she lead the High School through the process of becoming recognized as a Democracy School in 2022 and is currently leading the Junior High and Elementary through the same process to be recognized as well. Her dedication to giving her students the experiences beyond that of a typical rural school does not go unnoticed. She also helps elevate our education in other classrooms throughout our district by serving as a district educational coach and is willing to help other teachers elevate their skills to improve their classroom. She works hard to improve her own skills as well as those around her. In her efforts, she also works diligently to create students that not only know and understand the world around them and their own government, but also teaches them how to be critical thinkers capable of higher level thinking as well as productive citizens in their own communities. I highly recommend Jennifer Burdette for this award as I feel she truly exemplifies what an outstanding rural educator should aspire to be.