Five distinguished alumni are returning to their roots, rejoining their alma mater as teachers. Their return is a testament to the profound impact their educational journey had on them and their commitment to nurturing the next generation. Here’s a look at these remarkable individuals (L-R):

Kaitlyn Murphy, '20
Kaitlyn Murphy joins Monee Elementary as a first grade teacher, having studied at Prairie State College before graduating from Governors State University in Spring 2024. Her passion for working with children began during high school at KACC, and even the pandemic couldn't deter her. Excited to offer her students a similar nurturing experience, Kaitlyn is dedicated to shaping their growth and is inspired by the staff and administration who influenced her. Her ultimate goal is to build strong, confident individuals in her classroom.

Kailyn Kissee, '19
Kailyn Kissee joins Crete Elementary as a Kindergarten Teacher. After graduating from CMHS, Kailyn pursued an education degree at Eastern Illinois University. This past spring, during her student teaching, she was thrilled to receive an offer to teach kindergarten, which she accepted without hesitation. Kailyn is especially excited and grateful for the chance to return to the community that gave her so much. She finds it deeply rewarding to come full circle and contribute in such a meaningful way. Kailyn extends her heartfelt thanks to her family, friends, and mentors for their steadfast support throughout her journey and is eager to see what her first year of teaching will bring as she contributes to the vibrant community that helped shape her.

Shania Jolly, '17
Shania Jolly joins Bridges as an English Teacher. After earning her degree from North Carolina A&T State University, she returned to Illinois, where she explored various job opportunities before joining us. Reflecting on her middle school years, she realized that education was a leading career choice for her, alongside other passions she still holds. Shania is enthusiastic about seeing how the district’s culture has developed and looks forward to connecting with fellow alumni.

Jennifer Smith, '03
Jennifer Smith joins Coretta Scott King Magnet School and Talala Elementary as a special education resource teacher. With 14 years of teaching experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge to our team. Jennifer has been married to Steve for 16 years, who also works for CM 201-U in maintenance. They have two daughters, Addison and Amelia, who are students at CM 201-U. In her free time, Jennifer loves baking and tackling jigsaw puzzles. She is thrilled to return to Talala Elementary, the school she attended as a child, and fondly remembers her time there with her classmates. To this day, she and her classmates proudly refer to themselves as Talala kids.

Tara Pugh, '92
Tara Pugh joins Talala Elementary as a fourth-grade teacher. With a strong commitment to community service, Tara has held various community-focused roles throughout her career. Prior to joining the 'U', she spent 20 years in healthcare and owned a boutique bakery, Tara's SophistiCakes, serving the metropolitan Chicago area and Northwestern Indiana. In 2011, Tara began teaching workforce development courses at Prairie State College. She became a full-time real estate broker, helping people achieve their dreams of homeownership. Tara holds degrees from Roosevelt University, Liberty University, and Robert Morris University. She is in the Golden Apple Accelerator Program pursuing an MAT in Elementary Education at Northern Illinois University, with an expected graduation in June 2025. Tara is married with two adult daughters, and her husband is also an alumnus of Crete-Monee. She is thrilled to give back to the community that has supported her and finds this opportunity gratifying.

These five alumni embody the values instilled in them during their time at Crete-Monee. Their return is a celebration of their achievements and a valuable opportunity for current students to learn from those who once walked the same halls. As they embark on this new chapter, their stories remind us of the lasting impact that a strong educational foundation can have on one’s life and career.