Naperville Social Studies Educator Named Illinois' 2026 Teacher of the Year

Seth Brady surprised with prestigious honor for his work creating diverse and inclusive learning environments.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:34pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a school supply item repeated in a grid, capturing the celebratory energy of an educator's achievement.A surprise celebration honors an Illinois educator's commitment to global learning and inclusive teaching.Naperville Today

Seth Brady, a social studies teacher at Naperville Central High School since 2004, was named the 2026 Illinois Teacher of the Year during a surprise ceremony on Thursday. Brady was recognized for his efforts to foster diverse and inclusive classrooms, as well as his contributions to social studies education at the state and national levels.

Why it matters

The Illinois Teacher of the Year award highlights exceptional educators who go above and beyond to inspire students and make a positive impact on their communities. Brady's recognition underscores Naperville Central's commitment to global education and preparing students to be active, engaged citizens.

The details

Brady, who has taught at Naperville Central since 2004, was surprised during a ceremony where he was pulled out of a classroom and led to a room full of students, teachers, and state education leaders who greeted him with applause and cheers. He was recognized for creating diverse and inclusive learning environments, as well as his work as the project director of the Illinois Global Scholar Program, a statewide initiative he helped design to expand global education opportunities for students.

  • On Thursday, April 16, 2026, Brady was officially named the 2026 Illinois Teacher of the Year.
  • Brady will begin a state-funded sabbatical in July 2026.

The players

Seth Brady

A social studies teacher at Naperville Central High School since 2004 who was named the 2026 Illinois Teacher of the Year.

Ellen Small

A senior at Naperville Central High School who gave a heartfelt speech about Brady's impact as a teacher.

Randy Smith

A social studies teacher at Naperville Central High School who nominated Brady for the award and co-founded the Illinois Global Scholar Program with him.

Jackie Thornton

The principal of Naperville Central High School.

Allison Domanis-Brady

Seth Brady's wife.

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What they’re saying

“I think we only become who we are by the people that surround us. My soul was pulled towards helping young people understand one another, not just in their own communities, but worldwide.”

— Seth Brady

“He absolutely makes sure that every single student in that classroom feels seen, heard and valued, and that care completely transforms the way he teaches.”

— Ellen Small, Student

“School is meant to empower students to be active in their society, to be continued hungry learners, and to make change for good, and he does it better than anybody I've ever seen.”

— Randy Smith, Social Studies Teacher

“He's the hardest working person I know. We are so proud of him.”

— Allison Domanis-Brady, Seth Brady's Wife

What’s next

Brady will represent Illinois in the National Teacher of the Year program.

The takeaway

Seth Brady's recognition as the 2026 Illinois Teacher of the Year highlights Naperville Central High School's commitment to global education and preparing students to be engaged, empowered citizens who can make a positive difference in their communities and the world.