Since August 2021, Ms. Lehan has been a dedicated Spanish teacher at Geneva High School (GHS). Her passion for teaching stems from the enriching experiences she shares with her students.
In fact, her dedication will be recognized in the spring of 2025 as she is a nominee for the Kane County Regional Office of Education’s Educator of the Year award in the category of Classroom High School Teacher.
Each day, she finds inspiration in the curiosity, growth, and excitement of her students as they discover new concepts. Ms. Lehan takes great joy in witnessing her students’ appreciation for cultures, their ability to form meaningful connections, and their expanding understanding of the Spanish-speaking world.
“Seeing their perspectives broaden and their confidence grow motivates me every day,” she said. “Teaching Spanish is not just about language—it’s about fostering a deeper awareness of the world and helping students connect their own experiences to those of others, both in our own classroom and across cultures.”
Outside of school, Ms. Lehan enjoys traveling and spending quality time with her family, which includes her wonderful husband Jim, and their four children, who attend three different schools in Geneva. She often attends their athletic events, both at school and for local clubs.
She cherishes the life lessons they are learning through sports and the time they spend together. To unwind, she loves reading, visiting new places, and enjoying nature, especially mountains and beaches.
Ms. Lehan hopes that parents and the community recognize that teachers, staff, and administration in the district care deeply for their students—not just academically, but as individuals. “We are committed to fostering their emotional growth, encouraging a love of learning, and helping them develop the skills they need to succeed in life,” she said. “Our goal is to create a supportive environment where students feel valued, inspired, and empowered. We are honored to play a role in shaping their future and supporting them on their individual journeys.”
Ms. Lehan earned her undergraduate degree in secondary Spanish education at the University of Arizona and her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction at Northern Illinois University.