LOVES PARK, Ill. (WTVO) — Erikka Coletta, a librarian and interventionist at Maple Elementary School, has been named the 2026 'Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom' Teacher of the Year.

Coletta's innovative teaching methods, which include hands-on activities, help students understand the connection between agriculture and their everyday lives. Her efforts have earned her this prestigious recognition.

The Harlem School District highlighted Coletta's unique approach to education, emphasizing how her lessons integrate agricultural concepts into the curriculum.

Coletta will be formally recognized at the annual State Farm Bureau meeting in Chicago. This event will celebrate her achievements and contributions to agricultural education.

In addition to her state-level recognition, Coletta wil

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