Ms. Melissa Harris Receives Statewide Recognition

Ms. Melissa Harris, our Grade 5 Homeroom Teacher and Grades 3–8 Unit Leader, has received the Award of Special Recognition from the Illinois State Board of Education through its prestigious Those Who Excel program.

Each year, the Illinois State Board of Education honors outstanding educators across the state who demonstrate exceptional dedication, leadership, and service to their school communities. This spring, Ms. Harris will be formally recognized at the Those Who Excel banquet in April - a well-deserved celebration of her impact both inside and beyond the classroom.

A Teacher Who Inspires

For the past five years, Ms. Harris has been a faith-filled and devoted member of the SVF family. Her love of learning is evident in everything she does. In her Grade 5 classroom, she intentionally fosters creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and communication - equipping students with skills that will serve them far beyond elementary school.

More importantly, she builds meaningful relationships with her students. She sees them, challenges them, supports them, and encourages them to grow academically and personally. Her classroom is a place where curiosity is welcomed and confidence is nurtured.

Leadership Beyond the Classroom

Ms. Harris’s commitment to excellence extends far beyond Grade 5. As Unit Leader for Grades 3–8, she plays a key role in strengthening our academic program and supporting fellow educators. Through grant writing and enrichment initiatives, she continually seeks new opportunities to expand learning experiences for our students.

Her leadership reflects the heart of our mission - to form students intellectually, spiritually, and socially in a faith-centered environment.

A Blessing to Our Community

Recognition at the state level is a tremendous honor, but for those who know Ms. Harris, this achievement comes as no surprise. Her dedication, creativity, and servant leadership have long made a difference at SVF.

We are incredibly grateful for the passion and care she brings to our school each day. Please join us in congratulating Ms. Melissa Harris on this meaningful and well-deserved honor! We look forward to celebrating her in April and continuing to witness the lasting impact she makes on our students and school community.