North Palos School District 117 is proud to announce that three of its dedicated staff members have been named recipients of the 2026 Those Who Excel Awards by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).
This year’s honorees represent the high standards of care and expertise found across the district’s schools. The 2026 NPD117 award winners are:
- Izah Othman (Dorn School) – Early Career Educator, Award of Meritorious Service
- Alice Alexander (Sorrick Elementary) – Student Support Personnel, Award of Special Recognition
- Lisa Janes (Glen Oaks School) – Classroom Teacher, Award of Special Recognition
These awards are the result of a competitive statewide selection process. Every application is scored by a review committee composed of ISBE staff, representatives from statewide education organizations, and a panel of current and past award winners.
To be selected, these educators had to demonstrate a level of work that serves as a model for others across Illinois. The categories highlight the different ways these awardees support the North Palos 117 community:
- Meritorious Service: Izah Othman received the Award of Meritorious Service, a distinction reserved for those who go "above and beyond" in service to their school. As an Early Career Educator at Dorn School, Izah is recognized as an exemplar of her profession and an integral member of the district whose accomplishments have already significantly uplifted the culture of learning.
- Special Recognition: Alice Alexander and Lisa Janes were honored with the Award of Special Recognition. This award celebrates educators who are valued members of their school community and have been specifically singled out by their colleagues, students, and families for the unique "skills, passions, and talents" they bring to Sorrick and Glen Oaks.
The Illinois State Board of Education will officially honor all awardees at the annual statewide banquet in the spring.
"We are incredibly proud of Alice, Lisa, and Izah," said Superintendent Dr. Christine Droba. "Their recognition by the Illinois State Board of Education confirms what our parents and students already know - that NPD117 is home to some of the most talented and dedicated professionals in the state."