Chicago Bears honor Camelot Schools teacher as “Hero in the Classroom”

(Des Plaines, IL – September 23, 2011)

Crystal Lanski, a lifestyles teacher at the Camelot Therapeutic Day School in Des Plaines was recognized for her outstanding teaching skills by being selected as a “Symetra Hero in the Classroom.”

In a surprise assembly on September 13, Lanski was recognized in front of her students and peers by members of the Chicago Bears organization. She was awarded a $1,000 donation for classroom books and supplies for her school. She also received tickets to the Sunday, Sept. 25 Bears game against the Green Bay Packers, where she will be acknowledged during on-field presentations at Soldier Field.

“Crystal would be a terrific teacher in any setting, but it’s the remarkable job she does at Camelot that sets her apart,” said co-worker Cindy Krosta, who nominated Lanksi for the award.

“Crystal’s classroom has eight high school students who have various abilities along the Autism spectrum. Her patience, perseverance and dedication to her class are unsurpassed. She takes on every challenge with hope, ideas and creativity – she has developed a wealth of curriculum tailored to meet the specialized needs of each student,” added Krosta.

Lanski is one of 16 K-12 teachers in the Chicago area honored for educational excellence during the 2011 NFL season.

Camelot Therapeutic Day Schools provide academic instruction and therapy for youth ages 3 to 21, who have been unable to succeed in a public school setting due to the severity of their disabilities. Camelot’s program is highly individualized for each student based upon the student’s unique needs. Camelot operates five therapeutic day schools in Illinois, working in conjunction with local school districts to provide specialized services