Driven to Inspire

Educators make a difference in countless ways, whether they are teachers, school staff, psychologists, support staff, clerical team members, occupational therapists, nurses, technology specialists, bus drivers, or custodial staff. This award celebrates an outstanding individual in any role who has gone above and beyond to positively impact students, colleagues, and the school community.


Castle Auto Group is proud to honor the outstanding educators of Downers Grove School Districts 58 and 99 by naming one exceptional individual the Castle Educator of the Year, along with honorable mentions who exemplify dedication, passion, and excellence in service to students and schools.

Who Do You Nominate?

Scroll through the form below to submit your nomination. Submissions end December 4th.

Join Us at the Educator of the Year Announcement Ceremony

Castle Hyundai Downers GroveGenesis of Downers GroveCastle Mazda Downers GroveCastle Volkswagen of Downers Grove

SHOP EASY, DRIVE HAPPY!™

Eligibility & Nominations – Nominees must be currently employed as a teacher within the designated school districts. Nominations may be submitted by students, parents, colleagues or community members. Submission of a nomination does not guarantee selection as a finalist or winner.
Selection Process – Finalists and winners will be selected by a committee composed of representatives from the participating school districts and Castle Automotive Group. Decisions made by the selection committee are final and not subject to appeal.
Awards & Prizes – Winners will receive cash prizes and gift cards.
Use of Name & Likeness – By participating in the Program, nominees, finalists, and winners agree to allow Castle Automotive Group and its affiliates to use their name, image, and likeness for promotional and marketing purposes, including but not limited to social media, website content, press releases, and event materials, without additional compensation.
Liability & Release – By participating, nominees, finalists, and winners release and hold harmless Castle Automotive Group, its dealerships, employees, and affiliates from any claims, liabilities, or damages arising from participation in the Program, receipt of any prize, or use of promotional materials related to this programs.

The Castle Educator of the Year Program is sponsored by Castle Automotive Group and its participating dealerships, including Castle Downers Grove. The program is designed to recognize outstanding educators within Downers Grove School District 58 and Community High School District 99. Participation in the Program is subject to the following terms and conditions:

RULES & DISCLOSURES

1st Place
$2,000 
Cash

Award for the Castle Educator of the Year:

Join Us in recognizing and celebrating the extraordinary commitment of those who inspire and elevate the educational experience every day.

2nd Place
$750 Gift Card

3rd Place
$250 Gift Card

Nominees will receive further details prior to the ceremony, and each will be honored with a gift from Castle Downers Grove in recognition of their dedication to student success.

Join us for a community celebration honoring the teachers and school staff who make a difference for the students and schools. Castle will recognize the nominees, present honorable mentions, and announce the 2026 Castle Educator of the Year.

All nominated educators from Downers Grove School Districts 58 and 99, those who nominated them, their families, and fellow Downers Grove community members are encouraged to attend!

Wednesday, December 16th, 2026

from 4pm - 6pm

at Genesis of Downers Grove
Located at 2424 Ogden Avenue

See How Downers Grove Celebrated Last Year's Castle Educator of the Year

CELEBRATING OUR EDUCATORS

A Look Back at Last Year's Celebration

Last year, Castle Downers Grove came together with educators, families and members of the Downers Grove Community to recognize the people who make a lasting difference in our local schools. We are proud to continue that tradition in 2026.

This year, we look forward to welcoming another group of outstanding educators and school staff and celebrating the impact they make every day.