Strategic Educator Recognition & Events Lead

Illinois Education Job Bank; Springfield, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 64,000 - 109,000; Full time

Job summary

The Illinois State Board of Education is seeking a Communications Specialist/Event Coordinator (Educator Recognition) to plan and execute the annual Teacher of the Year and Those Who Excel awards banquet and related recognitions across the state.

This role requires expert event planning, project management, and strong writing skills to draft nominations, coordinate vendors, volunteers, and partners, while balancing deadlines and resources across multiple initiatives.

Qualifications

• Two years of experience in large-scale event planning and project management.
• Knowledge of large-scale event planning and awards management.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders and meet deadlines.
• Experience with digital and print content creation.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute large-scale educator awards programs and events.
• Coordinate nominations, scoring, and selection for awards.
• Manage vendors, volunteers, and event logistics for the annual banquet.
• Support communications initiatives including talking points, newsletters, and social media.
• Travel to events as needed.

Skills

Event planning

Project management

Communication

Public relations

Content creation

Attention to detail

Organization

Team collaboration

Tools

Awards management software

Job description

The Illinois State Board of Education is seeking a Communications Specialist/Event Coordinator (Educator Recognition) to plan and execute the annual Teacher of the Year and Those Who Excel awards banquet and related recognitions across the state.

This role requires expert event planning, project management, and strong writing skills to draft nominations, coordinate vendors, volunteers, and partners, while balancing deadlines and resources across multiple initiatives.