On the diocesan level this year, several people were recognized for their efforts in Catholic schools by Jean Johnson, superintendent of Catholic schools in the Springfield diocese. She nominated two principals and a parish priest for National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) awards for their accomplishments in education.

Ray Heilmann, principal of Quincy Notre Dame High School in Quincy was nominated for the NCEA Distinguished Principal Award at the high school level. Janet Bick, principal of St. Peter School in Quincy, was nominated for the NECA Distinguished Principal Award at the elementary level. Finally, Father David Zimmerman was nominated for the NCEA Distinguished Pastor Award. Father Zimmerman is pastor of St. Mary Parish in Paris.

Johnson personally delivered certificates of recognition to each of these individuals at school events.