Celebrating a Rockford Teacher Whose Compassion Shines in the Toughest of Classrooms

In a world where patience is a superpower, one teacher stands out for his incredible dedication to his students at the Juvenile Detention Center.

97ZOK Teacher of the Week

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Congratulations to George Johnson from the Winnebago County Juvenile Detention Center in Rockford, Illinois

Becky Gocken nominated George, she writes,

I am nominating my coworker, George Johnson, for 97ZOK’s Teacher of the Week award because of the incredible dedication, patience, and compassion he brings to his classroom every day. Teaching inside the Winnebago County Juvenile Detention Center is not an easy job—it requires not only subject knowledge, but also empathy, resilience, and the ability to connect with students who are often facing tremendous personal challenges.

George goes above and beyond to meet each student where they are, academically and emotionally. He creates lessons that are engaging and meaningful, helping students see that their education can open doors to a brighter future. He doesn’t just teach content; he teaches life skills, self-confidence, and the belief that change is possible.

His calm demeanor and sense of humor make him approachable, even for students who are initially reluctant to trust teachers or authority figures. George takes the time to listen to his students, encouraging them to set goals and take ownership of their learning. Many students have said they feel truly “seen” for the first time in his classroom.

George Johnson exemplifies what it means to be a teacher who makes a difference. He inspires hope, models respect, and shows his students that they matter. For these reasons, I believe he is more than deserving of the Teacher of the Week recognition.

It does take a very special human being to teach in this environment, and the JDC is lucky to have found the right soul for the job. Listen to our conversation with George, below.

George Johnson from the Winnebago County Juvenile Detention Center in Rockford, IL by Steve Shannon

As Teacher of the Week, George was surprised with a cake from Nothing Bundt Cakes, money to spend at WM Day Spa Salon, and lunch courtesy of Redd Insurance Group.

You can nominate your favorite teacher HERE. Click HERE to see past Teachers of the Week.