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Outstanding Young Alumni

2026 Awardee

Emilee Baldwin

Emilee Baldwin 

Emilee Baldwin '19 earned a bachelor's degree in middle level education from Illinois State and a master's degree in dual language and English language learners.

She is a sixth-grade science teacher at Friendship Junior High in Des Plaines, where she emphasizes inquiry-based instruction, hands-on learning, and ensuring all students feel valued and supported.

Emilee began her teaching career as a Fulbright English teaching assistant in A Coruña, Spain, fostering language development and cultural exchange among secondary students.

She has served on the district science curriculum committee, creating resources for standards-based, student-driven curriculum, and on the Scheduling Committee during the transition to a nine-period schedule. She also serves on her school's Climate and Culture Team, cultivating an environment of belonging and engagement.

She coaches cross country and track and field, having coached hundreds of runners to achieve their best and foster a love of running.

Her honors include the Fulbright Award, the Golden Apple Foundation's Crystal Apple Award, and Teacher of the Month recognition.

Past Recipients

 

2025

  • Annie Burke
  • Jessica Ochoa

2024

  • Cody Pullium
  • Brittany Wiggins

2023

  • Daniel Jackson

2022

  • Andrea P. Dinaro Brosseau

2021

  • Karyn Baldwin
  • Daniel Frederking
  • Brandon Thornton

2019

  • Billy Martinez
  • Rachel McGuire

2017

  • Rebecca (Gilbert) Gonzalez
  • Rae Hughart
  • Ashley Wolinksi-Norton

2016

  • Heather Costner
  • Kristin Richey

2014

  • Peter Richey

2013

  • Rebecca Mullen