Retiring Mount Prospect teacher receives award from Chick-fil-A

A longtime teacher in River Trails School District 26 has received the Teacher of the Community Award by Chick-fil-A Mount Prospect.

Rose Jakosalem, a multilingual teacher at Euclid Elementary School, who has taught District 26 students for 34 years, recently was handed the award as she prepared to retire at the end of the school year.

Students and staff received a surprise visit from Chick-fil-A Mount Prospect team members and the familiar Chick-fil-A cow.

Along with the award, Jakosalem was presented with a specialized gift basket from the restaurant to celebrate her decades of impact.

Karen Daly, principal of Euclid Elementary, spoke warmly of Jakosalem’s legacy within the halls of the school.

“Mrs. Jakosalem has dedicated her heart to children and families in the Euclid School community for decades,” she said. “She has taught multiple generations of Mount Prospect families while contributing her own expertise and support to fellow teachers. We are all better people and professionals because of our connection to Mrs. Jakosalem.”

The award is part of an initiative by Chick-fil-A Mount Prospect to recognize educators who go above and beyond for their neighbors.

“Teachers like Mrs. Jakosalem are the heart of this community, and it’s incredibly meaningful to celebrate someone who has shaped the lives of so many children in our community,” said Adam Martin, owner-operator of Chick-fil-A Mount Prospect.

“Her impact goes far beyond the classroom, and we’re grateful for the role she’s played in helping students and families thrive.”