EAST ST. LOUIS - Tyonna Woodhouse, a Homeless, Attendance and Truancy Officer at James Avant Elementary in East St. Louis School District 189, has been nominated by the Illinois State Board of Education as one of two Illinois nominees for the national 2026 Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award.
The nomination, announced recently, highlights Woodhouse’s leadership in addressing chronic absenteeism and boosting student engagement at James Avant Elementary.
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The RISE Awards, which include several categories such as the U.S. Department of Education’s Recognizing Inspiring School Employees Award, honor rising talent and impactful contributions in education and other fields.
Woodhouse has implemented comprehensive attendance strategies, conducted home visits, and connected families with essential resources such as housing and food to support student success.
Woodhouse's efforts have earned her recognition as a trusted advocate within the district.
"Under her leadership, James Avant Elementary has seen significant reductions in chronic absenteeism and increases in student engagement," the Illinois State Board of Education said in a statement. "She develops and implements comprehensive attendance strategies, conducts home visits, and connects families with housing, food, and community resources to support student success. Her compassion and proactive approach have made her a trusted advocate for students and families across the district."
Woodhouse is pictured above alongside James Avant Principal Roshonda Harriel and East St. Louis School District Superintendent Arthur Culver, who join in congratulating her on this statewide recognition.
