The Plainfield District 202 Foundation for Excellence proudly announces that Amy Uribe, reading specialist at Grand Prairie Elementary School, is the 2025 Niehus Award honoree.
The Niehus Award honors a District 202 staff member who exemplifies the hallmark traits of service, dedication, and excellence that defined the legacy of the late Walter and Juanita Niehus.
“In a district filled with so many exceptional teachers and staff who are equally deserving of recognition, it is a privilege to be chosen for this honor,” Uribe said. 
Grand Prairie reading interventionist Mackenzie Kennedy nominated Uribe, and praised her unwavering commitment to students, colleagues, and the broader school community.
“Amy consistently goes above and beyond expectations,” Kennedy said. “Whether it is staying late to support a project, stepping in to help a colleague, or ensuring that every student has the resources they need to succeed, Amy always puts others first. Her dedication and heart make her an invaluable part of Grand Prairie and District 202.”
Uribe began her teaching career at Wesmere Elementary School in 2004, teaching first grade and then spending a decade teaching kindergarten. She later taught third grade at Grand Prairie before becoming a reading specialist in 2020. In 2025, she earned her Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) credentials after completing Take Flight training.
“As an elementary reading specialist, I believe every child can become a confident, joyful reader when provided with explicit instruction, targeted support, and opportunities to apply skills in meaningful ways,” she said. “My goal is for students to leave my care not only reading at grade level, but also seeing themselves as joyful, independent readers.”
Her personal experience as a struggling reader fuels her work.
“I became a teacher to give students the support I wish I had and to show them that with the right tools, they can succeed and even enjoy reading,” she said.
Beyond the classroom, Uribe has led numerous reading presentations, serves on the Guiding Coalition and Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) committees, and works closely with district leaders to strengthen literacy instruction.
Grand Prairie Principal Cherie Moss praised her impact.
“Amy is super special,” Moss said. “She puts students first in everything she does. Her caring heart shines through in all she undertakes, and she works tirelessly to help not just students, but staff as well.”
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Glenn Wood presented the award at the August 27, 2025, Board of Education meeting, noting Uribe’s 22 years of leadership in District 202.
“The Niehus Award is the most significant honor a staff member can receive,” Wood said.
Uribe’s consistent drive for excellence, coupled with her compassion and collaborative spirit, made her a standout choice for the 2025 Niehus Award.
“Helping students reach their full potential is one of the greatest joys of my work,” Uribe said. “I’m grateful to work alongside such dedicated colleagues at Grand Prairie and proud to be part of the District 202 community.”
About the Niehus Award
The Niehus Award, established in 1986, honors the legacies of former District 202 Superintendent of Schools Walter Niehus and his wife, respected former teacher Juanita Niehus.
The Plainfield School District Foundation for Excellence administers the award on behalf of the Niehus family.
About the Foundation
Since 1983 the Plainfield Foundation for Excellence has raised and contributed about $1.2 million to support District 202 students and staff through grants, scholarships, and special funding.
The Foundation also has supported special programs including a District Art Gallery and high school leadership programs.
For more information about the Plainfield Foundation for Excellence or to donate, please visit: www.d202foundation.org.