NW Illinois News

State Representative Bradley J. Fritts has named Ben Snow, a middle school social studies teacher at Challand Middle School in Sterling, as the 2023-2024 Educator of the Year. This new annual award seeks to recognize exceptional teachers nominated by local school districts.

"After careful consideration of all nominees, Mr. Snow stood out for his remarkable dedication, innovation, and mentorship in his role as a middle school social studies teacher," said Rep. Fritts. "I am grateful for Mr. Snow’s commitment to education and his positive influence on our students and community."

Rep. Fritts emphasized the importance of recognizing educators amid the current negative climate surrounding public education. "There are so many excellent teachers within our communities who give their all to enriching the education of their students," he stated.

In other news, Rep. Fritts recently completed his 2024 Summer Tour across District 74, making 42 stops that included traveling office hours, coffee & conversation events, and local business tours.

"My main priority as a State Representative is to advocate for the people I represent," said Rep. Fritts. "From business owners to community leaders to educators and everyone in between, I am proud to have spent my summer engaging with the incredible people who make up this district."

Rep. Fritts also announced an upcoming Household Hazardous Waste Collection Drive scheduled for October 26th at Sauk Valley Community College in Dixon. The event is organized in collaboration with House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, Sauk Valley Community College, and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA).

"I encourage residents to come out and utilize this free service that will make our community safer!" said Rep. Fritts.

Additionally, Rep. Fritts shared updates from various community outreach activities he participated in over recent months:

- He visited ADM campus in Clinton, Iowa.

- Attended a legislative breakfast hosted by Lee County Farm Bureau.

- Stopped by Sterling Fire Department to discuss recruitment and retention issues.

- Hosted a Hunter Safety Course led by Sergeant John Kaltenbach.

- Spoke at Patriot Day Commemoration at Steward Elementary School.

- Witnessed Big Boy 4014 steam locomotive's visit to Sterling.

- Attended an ice cream social hosted by Heritage Square in Dixon.

- Participated in a groundbreaking ceremony for a new water tower and well in Village of Lee.

- Attended United Way of Whiteside County's annual community awards ceremony.

- Celebrated Grit & Grace Fitness's grand opening in Dixon.

For more information about these events or to contact Rep. Fritts' office, constituents can visit his website or follow him on Facebook.

###