The Illinois State Board of Education annually sponsors Those Who Excel to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the state’s public and nonpublic elementary and secondary schools. Alton School District staff members and a volunteer were recognized at the Oct. 17 banquet, including (from left) volunteer Susan Hatfield, early career educator Jordan Anderson; West Elementary Title 1 team members Carrie Schildroth, Julie Gallivan and Jan Wrischnik; certified support staff member Sonja Collins-Fordson, Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Spells, teacher Debra Hoefert and support staff member Bridget Macias.