Brenda Yoho

Brenda, the youngest, grew up with parents who, despite being uneducated, provided her with love and everything she needed. Encouraged by her family, she became the first to attain not one but three college degrees, choosing a career in education. Married to her high school sweetheart, Brenda and her husband Zeke are proud parents to Sarah, a special education teacher, honored by son-in-law Alex and grateful grandparents to Aubrey, Abram, and Alden.

Brenda Yoho boasts a 25-year career in education, progressing from a Teaching Assistant to roles such as Teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal, and Director of Education. Her dedication extends beyond her community, contributing significantly to educational practices in Illinois at both local and state levels. Brenda is recognized for her leadership and passion for nurturing young minds, making her a respected figure in education.

Beyond administrative duties, Brenda actively coaches and mentors principals, sharing her wealth of experience. Her belief in education's transformative power drives her to ensure every child receives necessary support for success. Brenda prioritizes creating environments that emphasize well-being, advocating for 'Feeling Good' and 'Feeling Safe' as foundational for effective teaching and learning.

Her upcoming book, "Lead with Two Rules: Feeling Good & Feeling Safe," releasing on February 7th, 2024, offers a blueprint for fostering mental health, addressing trauma, and meeting social-emotional needs in schools. The book provides practical strategies for educators, administrators, and policymakers to create environments promoting academic success and teacher excellence.

Brenda Yoho's journey reflects her enduring commitment to education, compassion for children, and vision for empowering every student. Her impact transcends classrooms, leaving an indelible mark on the educational landscape in Illinois and beyond.