For more than 30 years, First United Methodist Church has been a dedicated Adopt-A-School partner first with Irving School until its closure, and now with Lincoln K-8 School. We are thrilled to honor First United Methodist Church as our Hero for October. Throughout this partnership, the church has provided invaluable support to students by assisting with academic needs and after-school clubs. Additionally, they have shown unwavering support to the staff by organizing lunches, appreciation receptions, and various staff connection events. This long-standing commitment has fostered a strong sense of community and collaboration, greatly benefiting both the students and staff. The volunteers from First United Methodist are heroes for sure!

Whittier Primary School librarian Jennifer Brady is our Hero this month. Ms. Brady has spent a career instilling a love of creative writing for the Whittier students. Weaving lessons in prose and poetry, while working with the children to develop a love for storytelling and books, Ms. Brady inspires her students to dig deep and express their take on the world in writing.  She is such a kind and dedicated educator, a hero in the district for sure.

Mary Beth Cunningham is passionate about education, our students and Peoria Public Schools. She will call the PPS Foundation to help a student who needs assistance and truly cares for so many of our children. She is very active in her kids' schools. Thank you Mary Beth for everything you do for Peoria Public Schools.

Deb's work in supporting our scholarship distribution at Peoria High is so appreciated, but her support of the Peoria Public Schools Foundation is longstanding. She has been a valued volunteer for our events and activities for more than a decade. We are so grateful to her commitment to the students and our mission. Congratulations Deb!

Val truly defines the definition of hero by always giving her heart and leadership to provided amazing learning opportunities for the students of Glen Oak. She is a joy to collaborate with and is a huge support for our Glen Oak Horizons program. She is a driving force behind the remarkable educational experience for students each day at Glen Oak. Congratulations on being the March hero, Val!

Pat Rayford, or Miss Pat as she is affectionately known, has spent a career working as a One on One Support Aide for students who need additional personalized attention in the classroom. However, Miss Pat’s work goes well beyond as she is an active part of all the schools that she has worked in, helping students in the entire building meet & exceed expectations. She quietly works behind the scenes to make sure that students achieve success. She is an inspiration for her dedication to the educational experience for her students, as well as working to empower her students to excel. Thank you Miss Pat for all you do for the students in Peoria Public Schools.