Announcement of the Judith A. Bernoteit Memorial Scholarship in Elementary Education

The legacy of Judith (Judy) Bernoteit, a beloved elementary school teacher, lives on through a new scholarship created in her honor. The Judith A. Bernoteit Memorial Scholarship in Elementary Education was established by her nephew, Bob, and his wife, Stephanie, to support future elementary teachers at Illinois State University.

Judy, known to her students as “Miss B,” dedicated 45 years to teaching in Plainfield School District 202, primarily focusing on first grade. She was described as a teacher who created a warm and engaging learning environment, with high expectations for all her students. Judy went above and beyond for her students, making quilts for them and even having in-classroom lunches to make them feel special.

Her impact extended beyond the classroom, as she supported aspiring and new teachers through mentorship. Many of her former students went on to become colleagues at Crystal Lawns School, where she taught. Judy’s dedication to her students and colleagues was recognized when the street in front of the school was named “Miss B Street” upon her retirement in 2013.

The scholarship, created in her memory, aims to support future elementary teachers who demonstrate the same level of dedication and excellence that Judy exemplified throughout her career. Her family hopes that this scholarship will honor her legacy and inspire future educators to make a positive impact in the lives of their students.

For more information on this scholarship and other opportunities, students can search the Scholarship Finder at Illinois State University.