Lauren Brazel, a teacher at Tinley Park High School near Chicago, has won the Grand Prize in the Heroes of the Classroom program by Kleenex®. This national teacher recognition program celebrates K-12 teachers for their hard work and dedication to students. Ms. Brazel was chosen from 10 finalists from schools across the country.
As the Grand Prize winner, Ms. Brazel will receive a $5,000 check, while her school will also receive a $5,000 check and a one-year supply of Kleenex Brand Tissue. The total value of the Grand Prize is $11,000. With 19 years of teaching experience, Ms. Brazel has spent the last nine years as a special education teacher. She focuses on ensuring that every student feels valued and acknowledged for their efforts both inside and outside the classroom.
Tinley Park High School principal Dr. Theresa Nolan nominated Ms. Brazel for the award, highlighting her care, compassion, and commitment to her students’ academic growth. The Grand Prize winner was selected through a public vote from the top 10 First Prize winners, who each received a $1,000 Costco Shop card, and their schools received a $1,000 check. Nominators of the First Prize winners also received a $1,000 Costco Shop card. Nominations for the program were submitted by educators, parents, and school staff members.
The Heroes of the Classroom program is run in partnership with Campus Multimedia, a school communication and marketing company that works with national brands to administer such recognition programs. Kimberly-Clark, the parent company of Kleenex®, is known for its trusted brands like Huggies, Scott, and Kotex. The company prioritizes sustainable practices to support the environment and communities while ensuring business success for years to come. Kimberly-Clark has been recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for six consecutive years and as one of Fortune’s Most Innovative Companies in America in 2024.
Campus Multimedia is dedicated to supporting K-12 schools and improving the lives of school communities through brand partnerships. The company’s programs aim to build trust in school marketing and engage the educational ecosystem ethically. With a vast network of school relationships, Campus Multimedia provides resources, revenue, and recognition tools to schools while helping brands establish meaningful connections with communities.
To learn more about these programs and initiatives, visit the Kimberly-Clark and Campus Multimedia websites. Stay updated on the latest news and innovations in education by following these organizations on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
