Champaign Unit 4 School District is proud to announce that Kevin Farrell, a School Psychologist with Unit 4, has been named the Illinois School Psychologists Association (ISPA) Practitioner of the Year.
The Practitioner of the Year Award is ISPA’s highest honor for practicing school psychologists and recognizes the most outstanding school psychologist in the state of Illinois. Farrell was nominated for the award by colleagues Daniel Nock, principal at Carrie Busey Elementary School, and Jacquelyn Teague, Special Education Administrator for Unit 4.
In her nomination letter, Teague praised Farrell’s unwavering commitment to students and schools across the district, noting that he “acts as an advocate, mentor, and leader who consistently models integrity, compassion, and professionalism in all aspects of his work.” She highlighted his expertise in data-driven decision-making, collaboration, and culturally responsive practices, as well as his leadership on building-level and district-level Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) teams.
Farrell is also recognized for his work supporting students’ academic growth, social-emotional learning, and mental health. He plays a key role in prevention and crisis intervention efforts and serves on the district’s Crisis Team, supporting students from early childhood through the Young Adult Program. His approach emphasizes strong partnerships among schools, families, and the broader community.
“Kevin consistently goes above and beyond for students and colleagues,” said Nock. “His dedication, leadership, and ability to bring people together around student success truly set him apart.”
The Champaign Unit 4 School District congratulates Kevin Farrell on this well-deserved recognition and appreciates his continued commitment to supporting students and strengthening school communities across the district.