Longtime Villa Park resident and Ardmore School teacher Carol Nowaczyk has been named one of nine finalists for the 2008-09 Illinois Teacher of the Year award, which is part of the state’s Those Who Excel program.

A colleague nominated her as the Villa Park Education Association Teacher of the Year for 2008-09 and she was selected by a panel of teachers as District 45 Teacher of the Year.

“I then submitted the required paperwork to the state for the Those Who Excel Award,” Nowaczyk said. “In late August, I found out that I had been awarded the Excellence Award, which placed as one of the nine state finalists.

“I was extremely surprised to discover that I had been named a finalist. I also was a bit anxious as I awaited my interview in Springfield. For about three weeks, I was not allowed to let anyone know that I had even been selected.”

The nominator’s recommendation said, “ She is constantly making students aware of what they are expected to learn and making the students responsible for learning. They are so proud of themselves.”

Nowaczyk echoes this by saying, “I am a firm believer in giving students some control over their learning.”

Nowaczyk has been a teacher for 24 years, with the past 14 being spent in District 45. Before being hired as a teacher at Ardmore, she was actively involved in the school as a volunteer in many capacities while her children attended the school. According to Nowaczyk, to foster lifelong learning, students must be taught to think in ways that are natural and meaningful to them.

“Developing a curriculum around the students’ needs and interests promotes the love of learning. It is my role to help the students discover learning, believe in themselves and appreciate their many talents. I believe each and every child has a gift that he or she brings to the classroom.”

Her principal at Ardmore, Michele Cummins, agrees with this philosophy, saying, “Carol Nowaczyk is a recognized leader within the school and the district for always putting children first and awakening in each child the joy of learning.”

This dedicated teacher can easily recall the moment she decided to become a teacher. At age 17, she was watching her little brother and sister play whiffle ball. A neighbor’s cousin, who was close in age to her siblings, came along. He had a physical disability that prevented him from walking steadily or speaking but his facial expression spoke volumes about his desire to join the game.

“I put the plastic bat in his arms and helped him swing the bat to hit his first ball ever. This achievement lit up his face but he never know how much light he brought to me. It was this moment that was etched on my heart and led me to become a teacher.”

Nowaczyk said she has seen the teaching profession evolve during her career.

“Over the last decade there have been many changes in teaching such as the use of technology as a tool. Also, there are computerized tests that break down students’ strengths and weaknesses. It is very helpful to have data and information so accessible. In this district, we are fortunate to be given the opportunity for professional training. Teachers now also collaborate more and work as a team to share ideas and craft interactive lessons.”

She also feels that, overall, students’ needs have remained the same over the years. They appreciate a nurturing and positive learning environment that includes distinct boundaries.

“All children want to feel successful and supported as they learn new concepts. Students that I have taught are energetic, enthusiastic and respectful. In my experience, the partnership between parent and teacher has actually gotten stronger.”

The 2008-09 Illinois Teacher of the Year will be announced Saturday, Oct. 18, and until then, Nowaczyk will do what she loves to do every school day — teach.

“It is an honor to represent District 45 and highlight all the hard work that our teachers do each day.”