Crete-Monee High School (CMHS) Principal Lamont Holifield and teacher Sarah Valerio presented about the school’s Educators Rising program at the Illinois Education and Career Success Network Conference in Champaign, Illinois, on Tuesday, February 25.

Their session highlighted Crete-Monee’s efforts to inspire future educators and create new pathways for change, focusing on key recruitment strategies, innovative college and school partnerships, and how CMHS—a grades 9-12 institution serving over 1,450 students from four diverse communities—is contributing to a brighter educational future.

Principal Holifield discussed the program's origins, which began in 2021 when he assumed the role of Education for Employment (EFE) Director for the Career Prep Network, which serves the Career and Technical Education needs of four local districts—including CM 201-U. In this role, he helped secure a $300,000 grant to establish an Education Pathway across these districts over four years. Teacher Sarah Valerio also played an integral role in this initiative.

Key accomplishments of the Educators Rising program include:

• Launching an Educators Rising chapter at CMHS
• Partnering with Lewis University for dual-credit courses in Education and Classroom Technology
• Offering internships and observation opportunities at local schools
• Introducing a paid Summer Workplace Experience at elementary schools, where students earn $15/hour and receive credit for their high school Workplace Experience course

The program also prepares students for paraprofessional certification and offers incentives like student loan assistance and fellowships for those who commit to teaching in the Crete-Monee School District. Last year, two graduates received the prestigious Golden Apple Scholarship. Holifield emphasized the program's goal to increase enrollment in teacher preparation programs and foster alumni involvement as educators and leaders, with a focus on building a culturally responsive, innovative, and student-centered education system.

Edith Njuguna, Director of the Illinois Education and Career Success Network, praised Principal Holifield and Valerio’s dedication, saying, “It’s clear that Holifield and Valerio are very passionate about their work, and I enjoyed hearing their creative strategies to encourage students to pursue an education pathway. After the session, I heard from many attendees who found the session insightful, inspiring, and worthwhile.”

Crete-Monee’s Educators Rising program is the first fully functional program of its kind in the Chicago Southland. CMHS students have been selected as Illinois Delegates for the 2024 Educators Rising National Conference. Currently, 43 students are part of the Educators Rising Club, with 22 enrolled in Education courses. Holifield was also awarded the Educators Rising Champion Award, and Valerio has become a highly sought-after educator.

The program continues to grow, with the goal of empowering the next generation of educators and leaders.

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