Peggy Allan, Illinois State Teacher of the Year 1989

Practice

I have found a way to marry my commitment to excellence in practice with my desire to advocate for the profession in multiple ways.  For the past several years, I have been able to work in multiple districts, including East St. Louis, supporting teachers by sharing what I have learned over the years as a coach and mentor.

I have been an active member of the National Network of State Teachers of the Year organization in both its old and new iterations serving the organization as President, and now a member of the Board of Directors.

I have also been active in Advance Illinois, which was launched to bring together people—at every level and from every community across our state—who are interested in ensuring an excellent educational system for all Illinois students.

With colleagues, I helped to establish the Illinois Teacher Hall of Fame, a way to recognize excellence in teaching for numerous Illinois practitioners.

Throughout my work, I strive to use excellence in practice as a springboard to advancing teacher voice in policy decisions.

Dr. Peggy Allan is the 1989 Illinois State Teacher of the Year.  A dedicated teacher of  English/Language, Social Studies, Gifted Grade(s): 7-8 for  many years,  Dr. Allen is now working to support  teachers through coaching and mentoring.

She is a Milken Educator (1988) and was recognized by Learning Magazine with their Professional Best Award.

Dr. Allan holds a Bachelor’s degree from  Eastern Illinois University (1971), before going on to earn master’s and doctorate degrees at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.