Grayslake Central teacher honored:

Steve Reitman’s passion for teaching American history and special education, and his dedication to students and faculty at Grayslake Central High School, led to a recent recognition from the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Reitman was named the VFW’s 2013-14 Citizen Education Teacher of the Year at the local district level, Grayslake High School District 127 said in a news release. Reitman is known for creating meaningful, authentic ways for students to know more about the United States, officials said. He’s been lauded by students for helping them to understand the material, often by taking time from his personal schedule, officials said. Teachers who promote civic responsibility and patriotism, as well as America’s history, traditions and institutions, are prime candidates for the VFW award. Reitman helps to organize the school’s annual Veterans Day assembly.