A former Illinois Teacher of the Year returns to the classroom for a Dream Come TRUE experience filled with memories, inspiration, and the joy of learning. For 34 years, Sandee Sennstrom dedicated her life to helping children learn, grow, and believe in themselves. As a beloved educator and the 2004 Illinois Teacher of the Year, she inspired generations of students through her creativity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to education. When asked what first inspired her to become a teacher, Sandee recalls accompanying her mother, a social worker, to work as a child. While she admired her mother's dedication to helping others, Sandee always knew she wanted to teach. Bringing joy and energy into the classroom became a hallmark of her career, creating an environment where learning was both meaningful and fun. For her Dream Come TRUE, Sandee was given the opportunity to step back into a classroom once again. Before the special day began, residents and team members at Cedarhurst of Springfield gathered to celebrate her with a red-carpet sendoff complete with a balloon
arch, crown, sash, bouquet of flowers, and a limousine ride. She then traveled to Rochester to visit her sister's granddaughter's second-grade classroom, where she read to students and shared her love of learning. Cedarhurst also donated books and a gift card to the classroom teacher in honor of the occasion. Walking into the classroom brought back cherished memories. “I felt like I was back in my own classroom,” Sandee said. “The students were incredibly sweet and welcoming. I was genuinely happy and excited to be there, and I found myself not wanting the experience to end.” The most meaningful part of the day was spending time with the students, watching them engaged with the story and asking thoughtful questions. For Sandee, it was a reminder of why she loved teaching so much. Her advice to today's students is simple: ask questions, find trusted people who will listen, and always choose kindness. “You never truly know what someone else is going through,” she said. “Treating others with compassion can make a meaningful difference in their day.”
8 CEDARHURST SENIOR LIVING | SUMMER FLOURISH 2026
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