Perez has devoted himself to his family, co-workers and community in an exemplary fashion, though most may be familiar with his work as a coach.

Meet Joshua Jahn. His wife and two small children were struck and killed by a drunk driver in 2008. He’s spent most of the past two decades speaking to DUI convicts and getting them to rethink their…

Applebee is retiring after 34 years at Seneca High School. In her final year, former students and colleagues are reflecting on how she transformed literature into lived experience – and created a classroom where every student felt…

After tearing her ACL in high school, Gina Martin decided she wanted to go into athletic training. For the past 26 years, Martin has helped La Salle-Peru athletes get on the field and recover from injuries.

A PE teacher who turned grief into a mental health movement. A school resource officer who never says he’s too busy. A Marine who’s always there. Meet the Illinois Valley’s reader-nominated 2026 Everyday Heroes.

For 68 years, Walker has been in Princeton Elementary School District 115 helping and guiding children in numerous ways.