K-12 Excellence Spotlight: Lenore Ashby, Kara Hight, and Michelle Hunsaker
Recognized for making a meaningful difference in Vienna, Illinois
Helping students succeed goes beyond lessons, assignments, and the walls of a classroom.
For special education teachers Lenore Ashby, Kara Hight and Michelle Hunsaker at Vienna High School in Vienna, Illinois, it’s all part of helping their students move forward.
“Their impact with students who have everyday struggles is huge,” said Principal John Giffin. “They will help a student get a driver’s license, a job, or even find a car for a student. They go above and beyond for every student they have.”
Ashby, Hight, and Hunsaker see the potential in every student and recognize that success doesn't look the same for everyone. “They fight for every gain made with a student,” said Principal Giffin.
This education team makes seemingly insurmountable tasks appear effortless.
They have their students’ backs in every way possible. Advocating for curriculum. Finding extra time to work one-on-one with a student. Getting a student through the school doors. Behind all these efforts are demanding caseloads and countless hours that students and families may never see.
“I know there’s blood, sweat and tears, but they don’t complain,” he said. “They love those kids, and they’re making miracles happen every day.”
The work has added meaning as the school reflects on the 50-year legacy of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The landmark federal special education law ensures students with disabilities have access to a public education that meets their individual needs.
Fifty years later, that promise lives on through these three selfless educators. They see students not just for the challenges they face, but for the futures they can build.
For Giffin, the reason they continue giving so much of themselves is simple.
“They go above and beyond because they genuinely love their students,” he said. “When we say we love all of our students, from the impact that I see every day in those classrooms, I know that’s true.”
Watch Lenore, Kara, and Michelle’s recognition video, submitted by Giffin.
Know someone making a difference in your district?
The Sourcewell K-12 Excellence Spotlight celebrates the people who uplift their school communities. These individuals strengthen schools and help students succeed in ways that don’t often make headlines but always make an impact.
From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to back offices, you can nominate anyone who helps your school thrive. Nominations are open year-round.
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