Greenfield's Noelia Martinez-Voigt Is 2026 Illinois Outstanding Early Career Educator of the Year

GREENFIELD - Noelia Martinez-Voigt, an art teacher at Greenfield CUSD 10, has been named the 2026 Illinois Outstanding Early Career Educator of the Year, according to information released Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2026.

Greenfield CUSD 10 announced the honor in a message that congratulated Martinez-Voigt and said the recognition reflects her “dedication, passion, and outstanding impact on our students and school community.”

The Illinois State Board of Education recognizes one Outstanding Early Career Educator each year as part of its Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards. ISBE said the award honors “a teacher with fewer than five years of experience who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and impact.”

“I’m incredibly proud to congratulate the 2026 Those Who Excel awardees and Teacher of the Year Cohort, an outstanding group of leaders in education from up and down the state,” Gov. JB Pritzker said. “These honorees have dedicated themselves to inspiring our students, setting the next generation up for success, and working tirelessly to make their schools — and our state — a premier place for education.”

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ISBE listed the honoree as “Outstanding Early Career Educator of the Year – Noelia Martinez-Voigt, Art, Greenfield CUSD #10.”

ISBE said it received “a record number of nominations and applications” for the 2026 awards. A committee made up of “educators, administrators, educational service personnel, student support professionals, and past Illinois Teachers of the Year” reviewed applications and selected the honorees.

“Illinois’ educators are the heart of our schools and the foundation of our future,” Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton said. “The 2026 Those Who Excel awardees and Teacher of the Year Cohort exemplify the passion, leadership, and commitment it takes to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive. I am grateful for their service to schools, families, and communities across Illinois — congratulations to this year’s honorees.”

“Illinois educators show up for students every day with commitment, creativity, and care,” State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders said. “The 2026 Those Who Excel awardees and Teacher of the Year Cohort represent the very best of our profession. Their work strengthens school communities and helps ensure students feel supported, valued, and inspired. Congratulations to each of this year’s honorees — we are grateful for the difference you make in the lives of students across Illinois.”

The Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards recognize individuals making “a significant impact in Illinois schools,” ISBE said. The agency presents awards in six categories: classroom teachers; early career educators; school administrators; student support personnel; educational service personnel; and community volunteers.

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