Sarah Valerio, a teacher at Crete-Monee High School, has been named one of 30 finalists for the 2025 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching. This prestigious recognition follows a rigorous selection process that reviewed more than 470 nominations from 9th—through 12th-grade teachers across Illinois.

Valerio has been a dedicated Crete-Monee School District staff member for 21 years. She teaches Educational Pathway Dual Credit courses for grades 10-12 and AP U.S. History. Valerio also helped develop the Crete-Monee High School Education Pathway in collaboration with Principal Lamont Holifield, a program designed to inspire students to pursue careers in teaching.

“Ms. Valerio embodies the qualities of an exceptional educator,” said Holifield. “She teaches not for recognition but because she truly understands the profound impact education can have on her students' lives, providing them with skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom. Teaching is not just her career—it's her calling, her life’s mission. Her passion for her work shines in everything she does.”

Superintendent Dr. Kara Coglianese praised Valerio’s dedication. “We are incredibly fortunate to have such a passionate and committed educator. We are proud to recognize Sarah as an outstanding member of our district."

Valerio expressed gratitude for the honor, stating, “Education has always been my passion, and this recognition reinforces my commitment to lifelong learning and making a difference,” she said. “One of my main goals is to inspire and encourage students to enter the field of education. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Golden Apple, my administrators, colleagues, students, and my family, who have always supported me.”

The Golden Apple Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to preparing, honoring, and mentoring educators who advance student educational opportunities, will announce the award recipients this spring. Winners will receive a $5,000 cash award, a spring sabbatical at Northwestern University, and induction into the Golden Apple Academy of Educators, a community of educators who support teacher preparation through the Golden Apple Scholars and Accelerators programs—initiatives aimed at addressing Illinois’ teacher shortage.

To view the complete list of finalists for the 2025 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching, visit https://www.goldenapple.org/golden-apple-awards-finalists-2025.