During her 15 years of teaching special education and 11 years at Champaign Central High School, Cheryl Morton has always made sure to create an environment in her classroom and her school that is conducive to her students’ and colleagues’ success.
“She goes out of her way to make our class and our school run, taking on extra assignments and roles where she is needed,” said Cameron Pope, her nominator for the Champaign-Urbana Schools Foundation Shining Star Award, “and doing so with a warm, welcoming smile that make students feel at home and secure in any space she is.”
I find my work important because ... I have the privilege and responsibility of impacting students’ daily lives and futures simultaneously. I get to help students become their best and most independent selves, whatever that looks like for them.
I became a teacher because ... I’m a textbook “eldest daughter” who always enjoyed school and learning, and I’m passionate about teaching life skills and critical thinking skills to students.
My favorite lesson that I teach is ... about modern politics, the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. I love breaking down technical language and concepts with students so that they understand the direct impact of our government on their lives, as well as the impact they themselves can have in our democracy.
My most fulfilling moments on the job are when ... students make connections from historical themes to their own lives, or complete a task they previously thought they couldn’t do.
I keep students engaged by ... building a classroom community and establishing a caring rapport with students.
Something else I’m passionate about is ... taking care of my house plants.
My favorite teacher and subject to study in school were ... My favorite teacher was my fifth-grade teacher at High Point Elementary School, Julie Malis. My favorite subject has always been social studies!
If I weren’t a teacher, I would be ... a curator in a museum.
I’m spending my summer ... with my family and reading books!
— ANTHONY ZILIS