The Indian Prairie Educational Foundation and District 204 honored Carolyn Hesselink, a 4th grade teacher at White Eagle Elementary School, as an A+ Award recipient.
You can watch the A+ Award team’s surprise classroom visit to recognize Hesselink for "Making a Difference" at A+ Award video.
Hesselink was nominated by White Eagle parent Shelley Thompson and her daughter Lily. Thompson described Hesselink as an "amazing teacher" who is dedicated to knowing each and every student.
As a student in Hesselink's class, Lily was struggling with math. Her mom recalls, "Lily's confidence was low and she was convinced she would never learn." Thompson credits the teacher for turning around her daughter's attitude. "Math became something she actually looked forward to,” Thompson said.
Her mom also credits Hesselink for helping Lily grow and excel in areas outside of academics. “She is no longer the shy and timid girl she once was.”
Thompson said she could not think of a better way to thank Hesselink for all she has done for her daughter.
Teaching is a second career for Hesselink. After working in the field of graphic design, she went back to school to become an educator. She is in her fourth year of teaching at White Eagle.
Hesselink recognizes the importance of academics, but also prides herself on her students' emotional well-being. "My classroom is an extension of home. I want them to feel safe and secure and happy. I want them to want to come to school."
Wells Fargo Advisors have partnered with IPEF and District 204 to help recognize one staff member each month for making a difference for students. To celebrate these outstanding staff members, Wells Fargo Advisors are donating $500 for the staff member to use in his or her school.
To nominate a staff member who is making a difference, visit A+ Award.![]()
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You can watch the A+ Award team’s surprise classroom visit to recognize Hesselink for "Making a Difference" at A+ Award video.
Hesselink was nominated by White Eagle parent Shelley Thompson and her daughter Lily. Thompson described Hesselink as an "amazing teacher" who is dedicated to knowing each and every student.
As a student in Hesselink's class, Lily was struggling with math. Her mom recalls, "Lily's confidence was low and she was convinced she would never learn." Thompson credits the teacher for turning around her daughter's attitude. "Math became something she actually looked forward to,” Thompson said.
Her mom also credits Hesselink for helping Lily grow and excel in areas outside of academics. “She is no longer the shy and timid girl she once was.”
Thompson said she could not think of a better way to thank Hesselink for all she has done for her daughter.
Teaching is a second career for Hesselink. After working in the field of graphic design, she went back to school to become an educator. She is in her fourth year of teaching at White Eagle.
Hesselink recognizes the importance of academics, but also prides herself on her students' emotional well-being. "My classroom is an extension of home. I want them to feel safe and secure and happy. I want them to want to come to school."
Wells Fargo Advisors have partnered with IPEF and District 204 to help recognize one staff member each month for making a difference for students. To celebrate these outstanding staff members, Wells Fargo Advisors are donating $500 for the staff member to use in his or her school.
To nominate a staff member who is making a difference, visit A+ Award.