This year marks the 17th year that Madison Communications has sponsored the Teacher of the Year Awards contest. Madison has proudly contributed over $19,000 to local area schools through this program.

The Teacher of the Year program annually presents an award to three teachers. Teachers employed at school districts within Madison's service areas are eligible to be nominated for this award. The contest takes place from March 1 to May 2 and is divided into the nomination and voting phase. During the month of March Madison received a total of 140 nominations and during the month of April, they received over 12,000 votes.

The 2022 Teacher of the Year winners are Beth Langendorf from Worden Elementary School, Kristin Reed from Highland Middle School, and Rosemary Dorsey from Our Lady Queen of Peace School in Bethalto. One nomination for Mrs. Langendorf stated, "She is calm and patient with her students. She takes the extra time and steps to help them succeed." Mrs. Reed was complimented by a student who said, "Mrs. Reed is so inspiring. She does her best to make every student feel welcome and happy. She has overcome so many things and powered through." The nominations for Mrs. Dorsey complimented her dedication to her students. One parent said, "Mrs. Dorsey goes above and beyond with all of her students truly empowering them to be amazing young adults. Her dedication to their education is admirable."

Each winner received $500 to go toward future student advancement projects, a $100 donation to the club or sport of their choice, a personalized Teacher of the Year plaque, and a classroom pizza party hosted by the Madison marketing team.

Madison congratulates all of the teachers who were nominated by area students, parents, and administrators for the impact they have on the students each day.