MOUNT VERNON — Bethel Grade School in Mt. Vernon was excited Tuesday to recognize one of their own for being named Teacher of the Year for Southern Illinois.

First Grade teacher, Mrs. Beth Matthews has been named the 2024 Southern Regional Teacher of the Year in Illinois.

Matthews represents the southern 40 counties in Illinois as the teacher of the year and is now a finalist for Illinois Teacher of the Year to be announced in April.

State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders surprised Matthews with the news during Zoom call.

Behel honored Matthews and her recognition during an assembly Tuesday, saying the Teacher of the Year award is an incredible honor for her and they are so very proud of the work, dedication, and love that she brings to her classroom each day.