Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 announces Dorris Intermediate School Assistant Principal Leah Davis was honored by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) through their Those Who Excel/Teacher of the Year program.  

The recognition was announced by ISBE on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.  Davis is being honored with the Award of Meritorious Service in the School Administrator category.

The Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year Awards recognize individuals making a significant impact in Illinois schools. ISBE presents awards in six categories: classroom teachers; early career educators (teachers with one to four years of experience); school administrators; student support personnel; educational service personnel; and community volunteers.

“Illinois educators show up for students every day with commitment, creativity and care,” said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. “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.”

Mrs. Davis was nominated by several of her CUSD 10 colleagues.  Their submissions talked about her leadership, professionalism, positive representation of the education field, innovative thinking, focus on students and families, and commitment to equity and success of all students.

Dorris Intermediate School Principal Kevin Strinaman wrote: 

“Prior to becoming an administrator, Mrs. Davis served as a 6th-grade general education teacher and a special education inclusion teacher. In that capacity, she became an expert at making all students feel welcomed and valued in the classroom. She also served on the district curriculum council, playing an integral role in the adoption of multiple district-wide curriculum resources. Her expertise in this area led her to become a school-based trainer, and it continues to inform her work as she evaluates language arts staff and engages in meaningful, performance-based conversations with teachers.

In addition, Mrs. Davis has been a driving force in strengthening our school’s family and community engagement efforts. When data from the 5Essentials Survey indicated that some families felt disconnected from the school, Mrs. Davis took action. She developed a monthly family engagement calendar, creating events that bring families into the building and helping DIS develop a more welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Our most recent survey results reflect significant improvement in how families view their partnership with the school.”

Collinsville CUSD 10 Director of Special Education Alison Underwood said:

“Mrs. Davis’s collaborative and caring leadership style has also been evident in her work with students and families. As the administrator responsible for all 6th-grade disciplinary matters, she approaches each situation as an opportunity to teach and guide students while maintaining firm expectations for behavior. Her ability to communicate with parents, often in challenging situations, is consistently professional, compassionate and solutions-focused. The way she handles these conversations reflects positively on both DIS and the education profession as a whole.

Through her daily actions, Ms. Davis models the best of what it means to be an educator and leader. She embodies integrity, compassion, and a tireless commitment to excellence, uplifting the image of the education profession in every interaction with students, staff and families. Ms. Davis's calm leadership, forward-thinking mindset and collaborative spirit make her an inspiration to all who have the privilege of working alongside her.”

Dorris Intermediate School Title I Teacher Corina Hamilton included:

Leah has a true passion for Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Her work in these areas has transformed the school climate, ensuring students, families and staff feel supported, valued and equipped with the skills they need to succeed academically and socially. She approaches challenges with a problem-solving mindset, always thinking outside the box to create effective and sustainable solutions. 

Equally important, Leah is deeply committed to supporting her colleagues. She fosters collaboration, provides encouragement and models fairness in every decision. Students know her as someone who is both consistent and compassionate, balancing high expectations with care and understanding. 

Leah Davis is a leader who brings vision, heart, and innovation to everything she does. Her passion for SEL and PBIS, combined with her problem-solving skills, organizational expertise, and unwavering support for staff and students, make her truly deserving of recognition as one of Illinois’ outstanding educators.”