Peoria Public Schools District 150 teacher Katie Welch is in the running to be named Illinois’ Teacher of the Year for 2025.
Welch, who teaches seventh grade mathematics at Rolling Acres Middle School, was named the Illinois State Board of Education’s West Central Regional Teacher of the Year on Tuesday, placing her among the 13 finalists for the ISBE’s statewide award.
Welch, who has 15 years of classroom experience, is also the teacher of record for the Peoria Online Academy, teaching four core subjects to students who have chosen a virtual learning option.
ISBE received a record number of nominations for 2025, and honored more than 500 educators, administrators and other school staff for excellence in education.
“Illinois educators are changing lives every single day, and today we celebrate the very best among them,” State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders said in a media release.
“Our 2025 Those Who Excel awardees and Teacher of the Year Cohort exemplify excellence in teaching and leadership, ensuring their students feel supported, included, and inspired. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the 2025 Those Who Excel Awardees and Teacher of the Year finalists.”
Among the other finalists for the Teacher of the Year recognition is Stark County Elementary School’s Leslie Rennick, who was chosen as the Northwest Regional Teacher of the Year. Rennick is a special education teacher and the school’s Individualized Education Program case manager for students in Grades K-5. She has spent her entire 21-year career at Stark County Elementary.
Sanders will announce the winner of the state Teacher of the Year award later this spring. All awardees will be recognized honored during the annual ISBE banquet on May 17.
