Stevenson teacher a finalist for state award

Laura Brandt Stoppek's teaching techniques aren't exactly brain surgery.

But Stevenson High School Advance Placement psychology students know she has a unique way of conveying how a brain functions with just an orange, gummy worms and jelly beans.

Perhaps it was her creativity that earned Brandt Stoppek a place among eight finalists for the 2007-08 Illinois Teacher of the Year award. She's one of three suburban educators tapped for the top honor.

Finalists announced Wednesday were chosen from nearly 170 nominees through the Illinois State Board of Education's "Those Who Excel" educator recognition program.

Brandt Stoppek teaches college-level psychology and American history at the Lincolnshire school. She's been teaching for 14 years, eight at Stevenson. She said she was shocked and humbled by her selection.

"I don't think this recognition changes the way I think about my teaching," the 35-year-old Mundelein resident said. "It's very nice and I'm honored. But at the same time, I look around every single day and am amazed by just what happens in classrooms all over."

She is the third Stevenson educator since 1999 to be a finalist for the state award, though the school never has won.

"Laura is an outstanding citizen, artisan and scholar," director of social studies John Bolger said. "Whether in the classroom or working with her colleagues, Laura represents the very best that Stevenson faculty is and can be."

Brandt Stoppek started a networking group for secondary school psychology teachers to share activities, lesson plans and ideas. She is the lead sponsor of Stevenson's Psychology Club.

Also in the running are Naperville Central High School's Patricia Adamatis, an adapted physical education teacher, and reading expert Renae Kraetsch of Hanover Park's Einstein Elementary School.

"What it all boils down to is how much they go above and beyond," said Ann Muraro of the Illinois State Board of Education. "For 365 days a year, they are out there and striving to help their kids learn in anyway they can."

A winner will be announced Oct. 13 in Decatur. The winner will represent Illinois at the NASA Space Camp in Huntsville, Ala., and in the National Teacher of the Year program.

The suburbs lay claim to other standout teachers.

In 2004, Elgin High School environmental science teacher Deb Perryman won the state's top teaching award. In 2003, Prospect High School's David Morrison received the honor for his work as band director. And in 2002, physics teacher Robert Grimm from Palatine's William Fremd High School got the accolade.