A Unit 5 teacher has been named the region's Teacher of the Year.
Don Whitman teaches technology and engineering at Normal Community High School. He's worked for the district for 27 years, with courses focused on power technology, electronics, welding and woodworking.
In a press release, Unit 5 said Whitman believes in a "hands-on, minds-on approach to learning, immersing students in authentic STEM challenges that require critical thinking, collaboration and perseverance."
The Illinois State Board of Education selects one teacher annually from East Central Illinois, awarding excellence in classroom impact, leadership and service in Illinois schools and communities.
Whitman is among a cohort of 14 teachers across the state who are now eligible for the 2026 Illinois Teacher of the Year award. That prize will be announced later this spring.
Whitman studied industrial technology education at Illinois State University, where he also earned a Masters degree in Industrial Training and Development. He is a National Board Certified Professional Teacher and has taught college courses at Illinois State and Heartland Community College.
A committed classic car enthusiast, Whitman is currently restoring a 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass S and enjoys sharing his passion for hands-on work with his wife and three sons.
Whitman will be honored at the state's Those Who Excel and Teacher of the Year banquet on April 18.
