During a recent government meeting, the board unanimously approved a motion to recognize Lauren Prozzle, a teacher at Tinley Park High School, for her outstanding achievement as the grand prize winner of the National Heroes of the Classroom Program. This prestigious award, presented by Kleenex, honors exceptional educators across the United States for their dedication and resilience in teaching.

Prozzle was selected from a pool of ten finalists representing various states, including California, Florida, and New Jersey. As part of her recognition, she will receive a $5,000 cash prize, and Tinley Park High School will also benefit from a $5,000 grant along with a year’s supply of Kleenex tissues.

With 19 years of teaching experience, Prozzle has spent the last nine years as a special education teacher, where she has made a significant impact on her students. Her commitment to fostering academic growth and setting high expectations was highlighted by her colleagues, who praised her ability to support students with diverse learning challenges.

In a heartfelt tribute, a fellow educator described Prozzle as a \"rock star\" in the classroom, emphasizing her dedication not only to her students but also to her family. Prozzle is a mother of three, including a medically fragile child, and her ability to balance her professional and personal responsibilities was recognized as a testament to her character.

The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude towards the community of Tinley Park for their support in helping Prozzle achieve this honor, showcasing the collaborative spirit that defines the village.