State Rep. Elizabeth ‘Lisa’ Hernandez, D-Cicero, announced open nominations for the Illinois State Board of Education’s Thomas Lay Burrough award, celebrating dedicated and changemaking school board members in our communities. “As someone who worked in Cicero’s public schools, I know firsthand the role and power school board members have in positively impacting the education of our youth: their work is truly invaluable,” Hernandez  said. “Our state and local partnership continues to be strong as we move education policy in a forward thinking direction. If you know a member who has gone above and beyond to lift up students, then nominate them for this award. Educators, staff and school board members deserve all the recognition we can give them for a job well done.” The Thomas Lay Burroughs Award is open to outstanding members of local Illinois school boards for success in creating a better, more equitable and achievement-oriented educational environment at the local level. First beginning in 1991, the award is presented to nominees at a November before a conference of their peers. Nominations for the Thomas Lay Burroughs Award close Friday, October 18, 2024.  For more information on nomination criteria, history and application information, visit the ISBE’s website.