Difference Maker: Cynthia Roller Outstanding Educator In 2025 With Emerson Accolade

EAST ST. LOUIS - Cynthia Roller, a seventh and eighth-grade English language arts teacher at Wyvetter Younge School of Excellence in East St. Louis School District 189, has been named an honoree for Emerson’s 2025 Excellence in Teaching Awards. The recognition highlights her dedication and commitment to student learning.

The announcement was made by the East St. Louis School District, which praised Roller for her passion and educational excellence. “Ms. Roller is a shining example of educational excellence, dedication, and passion for her students,” the district said in a statement.

The Emerson award honors teachers who demonstrate outstanding commitment to their students and communities. The Emerson award recipients are selected by the chief administrators of their school district or employing educational institutions. The employing educational institution has to be located in the St. Louis metropolitan area, which includes Madison County, Jersey County, St. Clair County, and Monroe County in Illinois, plus counties in Missouri near St. Louis.

Roller’s role at Wyvetter Younge School of Excellence positions her as a key educator within the district.

East St. Louis School District 189 expressed pride in Roller’s achievement and thanked her for her ongoing inspiration to students and colleagues alike.

"We’re so proud to recognize her outstanding commitment to learning and the East St. Louis School District community," the East St. Louis School District said. "Congratulations, Ms. Roller — and thank you for inspiring excellence every day!"

A photograph accompanying the announcement shows Roller surrounded by her students.

If you have a Difference Makers idea, e-mail news@riverbender.com with a photograph and information or text (618) 623-5930.

Suggest a correction Prefer RiverBender on Google

Copyright 2026 Riverbender.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

More like this:

Kim Jones-Riley Recognized For Leadership At Gordon Bush Center

Apr 15, 2026

Counselor Lashaunda Ross Earns State Excellence Award

Feb 16, 2026

East St. Louis School District 189 Credit Upgrade to Save Taxpayers About $900,000

Apr 10, 2026

East St Louis Teacher Wins Illinois Education Award

Feb 16, 2026

East St. Louis Teacher Named Finalist for Golden Apple Award

Feb 25, 2026

 

• Most Popular

Wood River Man Charged With Escaping Custody, Striking Macoupin County Deputy

EF-0 Tornado Confirmed Near Marine In Madison County; EF-1 and EF-2 Tornadoes Also Identified In Metro East

St. Clair County Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty To Filing Hundreds Of False Tax Returns, Resulting In Over $600,000 In Loss

• Top Stories

Minor Flood Warning Issued for Mississippi River at Alton and Grafton

EF-0 Tornado Confirmed Near Marine In Madison County; EF-1 and EF-2 Tornadoes Also Identified In Metro East

Alton Wrestler Ethan Kennedy Claims Adidas Nationals Title

• Most Recent

May Day’s Many Meanings: From Flower Festivals to Labor Protests

May 1 in History: EU Expansion, Labor Activism and the Opening of the Empire State Building

This weekend's Weather: Cool start, warmer finish