October A+ Award: Ms. Gianni, Gombert Elementary

The Indian Prairie Educational Foundation (IPEF) and District 204 proudly honor Maria Cristina Gianni, a Kindergarten teacher at Gombert Elementary, with the October A+ Award. Watch the A+ Award video to see the team’s surprise visit to recognize Ms. Gianni for “Making a Difference in District 204”.

Ms. Gianni was nominated for the A+ Award by former Gombert Elementary student Bridget St. Clair. Bridget is currently part of the district’s Grow Your Own Teachers program and credits Ms. Gianni as being a guiding light and mentor to her over the last ten years.

Bridget stated, “When I think back to her classroom in first grade, the memories are vivid even after all these years. Walking into her room felt like stepping into a place where I belonged. Ms. Gianni always encouraged curiosity and kindness.” She went on to say that “What makes Ms. Gianni extraordinary is that her care and dedication did not stop when I left her class. She remained in my life, checking in on me, encouraging me, and reminding me that I was capable of more than I believed. She is a teacher who transforms lives, a mentor who continues to guide her students long after they leave her class, and a role model who inspires not only students but also future educators like me. Her legacy is measured not only in lessons taught but in lives changed. I am living proof of that.”

Thank you to A+ Award sponsor Western Governors University who once again is partnering with IPEF and District 204 to help recognize one staff member each month for making a difference for students. To celebrate these outstanding staff members, Western Governors University is generously donating $1,000 for each month’s winner to use in his or her school.

You can nominate a staff member by visiting A+ Award.