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“A shining example.” “A diligent worker.” “Extraordinarily ambitious.” These are among the many praises heaped upon young recipients of the 30th Annual School Citizen of the Year (SCOTY) Awards, organized by West40 and held on March 19 at West Leyden High School. West40 recognized 142 students from across West Cook County school districts for demonstrating exceptional character in their everyday actions. While academic achievement and participation in activities are considere

West40 congratulates Dr. Nick Polyak, superintendent of Leyden High School District 212, for being named the 2026 Illinois Superintendent of the Year by an independent panel commissioned by the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA). According to the IASA, nominees are judge d on the following criteria: academic achievement, preparing students for the future, social-emotional support, teaching and instruction and leadership. “Dr. Polyak’s recognition as the 2026