Mendota Teacher Honored By Illinois Education Association

SPRINGFIELD — Mendota eighth grade social studies teacher Sarah Henkel Gehant of Mendota Community Consolidated School District 289 was honored by the Illinois Education Association with the NEA Foundation Award for Teaching Excellence during the organization’s Representative Assembly. Henkel Gehant is a National Board Certified teacher who holds master’s degrees in history and natural science and is recognized for her work supporting both academic achievement and the social development of her students. Her classroom projects include research on local World War II fallen soldiers that has led to student interviews with veterans and public presentations. The assembly gathered about 1,200 delegates and guests from across the state. The Illinois Education Association represents about 135,000 members.