The Foundation for Springfield Public Schools is thrilled to honor our 2026 award recipients at the upcoming Celebrate SPS Banquet, hosted by CoxHealth on April 29th. While the evening features a full spectrum of excellence—including the district’s announcement of the Teacher, Rookie, and Counselor of the Year—the Foundation is proud to spotlight the specific partners and educators who drive our mission forward.
Our most prestigious awards recognize long-standing commitment to our schools and the community:
Advocates for Education: Peter Lai & Jackie Fu 
The Foundation for Springfield Public Schools is proud to honor Peter Lai and Jackie Fu as the 2026 Advocates for Education. Their enduring commitment to the district—ranging from Peter’s steady Board leadership during the pandemic to Jackie’s decade of classroom volunteerism—exemplifies true service. Through the establishment of the 來福 (Lái Fú) Fund for Phelps, they have created a sustainable endowment that ensures future gifted students have the resources to flourish and lead.
In their own words: “We believe strongly in supporting public education because it is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen a community and create opportunity for every child. Springfield Public Schools played a meaningful role in our family—our children were taught in SPS classrooms by dedicated teachers who challenged them, supported them, and helped shape who they are today. Public schools bring together students from all backgrounds and give them the foundation to learn, grow, and lead. We are grateful for the impact SPS has had on our family, and we are proud to support the educators and programs that invest every day in the future of our community.”
Corporate Partner of the Year: Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce
The Foundation for Springfield Public Schools is honored to name the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce our Corporate Partner of the Year. For decades, the Chamber has championed the vital link between the classroom and a vibrant economy. From co-founding the Teacher Appreciation Banquet to bridging the gap between education and industry through internships and career fairs, their leadership fosters a robust talent pipeline and ensures our students are connected to real-world pathways for success.
The Chamber shares: “We believe public education is one of the most powerful drivers of economic growth and community vitality. By supporting Springfield Public Schools, we are investing in the future of our workforce and the continued success of our region.”
While all of our nominees have made an incredible impact, the final winners for the following awards will be revealed live at the banquet:
Linda Luke Librarian of the Year 
The Linda Luke Librarian of the Year Award celebrates a district librarian who demonstrates exceptional dedication to student success. Established as a permanent fund at FSPS, the award honors the memory of Linda Luke, a librarian renowned for her excellence and her mantra: “Librarians are teachers, too!” We recognize this year’s nominees for carrying forward Linda’s enduring passion for education.
Turner Reading Teacher of the Year
The Turner Family of Springfield established the Turner Reading Award to honor teachers who go above and beyond in the field of reading education.
While fundamental skills are the bedrock, this fund—managed by the Foundation—specifically celebrates teachers who go above and beyond to ignite a lifelong passion for literacy. By recognizing those who make reading a transformative experience, the Turner Family ensures that a love of learning remains a cornerstone of our community’s classrooms.
Join Us on April 29th as we celebrate these Foundation honorees and reveal our winners alongside the district’s top educators. It is a night to recognize the collective impact of those who invest in the future of our community. Help us Celebrate SPS with a donation at www.supportsps.org/celebratesps.