The students of Kreitner Elementary School, gathered for their sunrise assembly Friday morning, were treated to a special surprise.

Kreitner Elementary School teacher Lori Billy, the Collinsville Unit 10 November Teacher of the Month, displays her award, which was presented by its sponsor, Rick Kincheloe of Edward Jones (left). Kreitner Principal Todd Pettit is pictured on the right / Photo by Roger Starkey

After leading students and teachers in the Pledge of Allegiance and the Kreitner Pledge, Principal Todd Pettit welcomed Rick Kincheloe of Edward Jones to the stage. When Kincheloe announced that 2nd grade teacher Lori Billy was the Collinsville Unit 10 November Teacher of the Month, the students all applauded as Billy hung her head in surprise and made her way to the stage.

Billy, the Collinsville High School girls’ basketball coach, accepted the award in true coach fashion.

“This isn’t about me, it’s about all of us here at Kreitner,” Billy said, before backing away from the microphone.

Pettit was less reserved in his praise for Billy, who serves on the school’s Leadership Team and the Positive Behavior and Character Education Committee.

“She is dedicated to her student’s success, always eager to utilize new educational strategies and technologies to enhance her teaching practice, improving her students learning and academic growth,” Pettit said.