Congratulations to our inaugural 2026 Distinctive Schools Teacher of the Year Award recipient, Jessica Martorano, 7th and 8th grade English Language Arts (ELA) teacher at Chicago International Charter School (CICS) Irving Park, managed by Distinctive Schools!
Our network-wide honor recognizes educators who demonstrate exceptional instructional practice, foster joyful and inclusive classroom cultures, drive student growth, and exhibit visionary leadership within their school community. Out of more than 20 peer- and leader-nominated candidates across Distinctive Schools, Ms. Martorano was selected following a rigorous review of student achievement data, staff nominations, and family testimonials.
"Ms. Martorano brings the Distinctive Schools mission and vision to life in her classroom every day," said Mary Beck, President & CEO of Distinctive Schools. "She holds unapologetically high expectations for her students while providing the personalized support they need to be successful in ELA and in life. Year after year, her students deliver outstanding growth and proficiency, with 69% of her students achieving ELA proficiency on the Illinois Assessment of Readiness (IAR), far outpacing state and regional averages. We are so proud to celebrate her leadership and impact."
Criteria for Teacher of the Year consideration came from five key components: Exceptional Instructional Practice, Commitment to ALL Learners, Student Experience & Classroom Culture, Reflective Practice & Growth Mindset, and Leadership & Contribution to the Adult Community. Ms. Martorano’s classroom at CICS Irving Park is widely known for its high student engagement, student-led discussions, and culture of long-term ambition.
"When middle schoolers know their teacher respects their potential and refuses to let them settle, they rise to the occasion," shared JW Kuebler, Principal of CICS Irving Park. "Ms. Martorano provides the steady guidance and intellectual challenge our students need to discover their own voices. She treats her students, families, and colleagues as partners, finding new and innovative ways to push everyone’s thinking, no matter who they are. She has been a trusted mentor to new staff and constantly looks for opportunities to better her own craft. We are thrilled to celebrate her in this honor."
The Teacher of the Year award was officially presented to Ms. Martorano during our annual all-staff kickoff event on Friday, August 14, 2026. Congratulations, Ms. Martorano! We are so proud of you!
